Seminole Elementary School

My son started this school this year in kindergarten. I was very nervous about the transition from preschool to regular school. The teachers were very nice with helping him and taking their time with him. The school is very professional and the curriculum is great. He is so happy every morning when getting ready for school. The only issue I have as an involved parent with my child education is the open door policy for parents. My first child I could visit when I wanted and they always made me feel welcome to come peek at him or have breakfast/lunch with him sometimes. Seminole tell all parents to be off campus at 8:00am. Even the first week of school. Just not inviting for parents but other than that they are great.
—Submitted by a parent

My son and I attended the October Family Writing Night. WOW! Great job teachers for presenting this writing workshop in such a FUN way. My son learned a lot about elaboration and how to make his writing better. He was initially not excited about going because writing has never been a favorite subject for him. The teacher who worked with my son did an outstanding job and made a big impact. Thank you Seminole Elementary Teachers. You are awesome!
—Submitted by a parent

We are looking forward to the beginning of another great school year at Seminole. We appreciate all the teachers and staff for all of their hard work. We also respect the difficult job that school administrators have today. Seminole's do an excellent job of leading our school. I know that everyday my child is safe, happy, and learing. Go Eagles!
—Submitted by a parent

To the 04/17/10 post: not spreading sour grapes....expressing my opinion here like everyone else, which as far as i knew was still allowed. I don't discount the teachers, aides, custodians, cafeteria staff or PTA, they have all been excellent. What I do not like is the "The Captain",as she has dubbed herself treating families like second class citizens if they don't conform to her mold. She has taught her office staff her ill-mannered ways and believe it or not it does trickle down to our children....regardless of the A rating.
—Submitted by a parent

What a wonderful school! My child loves it! The teachers are very dedicated and everyone is so helpful. The administrators have taken time to speak with me personally on multiple occasions. They always seem to have time for me. It is a beautiful school in a beautiful neighborhood, but it is much more than looks. They care about kids and their education. You couldn't do any better.
—Submitted by a parent

My review would be much higher if it weren't for the administration. I never had a problem with *teachers* - they were dedicated, communicated well, but I did not feel invited to participate as a parent - the administration seemed over-controlling of PTA goals. I liked that it was a small school for my child's sake, and my child enjoyed being there. And to the 10/7/10 poster, don't dictate what other people can express, please. Some things need to be aired.
—Submitted by a parent

The comment from a teacher dated 10-06-09 is exactly what you'd expect a teacher at Seminole to say....they are all under the control of the principal. My child has been enrolled for 4 years and if it weren't for the fact that all of his friends are there and that we have had great experiences with the teachers we would choose another school. The principal is out of control and her office staff is put out if you ask or need anything. They pride themselves on being a family....so dysfunctional is the norm now?
—Submitted by a parent

So far, so good. I've homeschooled, and had kids in charter, private, and magnet schools so am experienced with different settings. I was uncertain about putting kindergartener into public school but student has learned to read at what I'd guess to be about a 3rd grade level, do addition and subtraction, they have done science experiments and do get P.E. at least once a week. Student says she enjoys school. Teacher answers email quickly, and keeps me advised of any behavior issues. It's easy to get someone in the office to answer the phone, it's not so big that it's too bureaucratic. Good mix of kids. Will have to wait and see if it becomes all about the FCAT in the 'real' grades, but so far, so good.
—Submitted by a parent

Seminole Elementary is a great school where teachers, faculty, & staff pour their hearts into every student. Where students are encouraged and challenged to achieve excellence!
—Submitted by a teacher

We're an 'A' school, where awesome students, faculty, and staff are 'WILD ABOUT LEARNING.'
—Submitted by a teacher

This school is great! I do not agree with the parent who stated the school was 'going down the tubes'. My child is in 3rd grade, and my child was not only completely prepared for the FCAT, but he also learned many lessons to help him through life. My child loves his teaccher and was sad to go onto the 4th grade because his teacher made learning fun and exciting.
—Submitted by a parent

I have pulled both of my kids out of this school. It's going down the tubes due to the fact that the teachers do not teach they instruct in order to pass the FCAT. The principal needs a Dale Carnegie class pronto. Leadership and creative problem-solving skills are severly lacking. It is a shame. In 2005-2007, the school was a leader in academics especially for kids with disabilities.
—Submitted by a parent

I think Seminole is a great family oriented school. The staff knows all children and parents, as well the parents know all the staff. Transport my children 8 miles to go to this great school.
—Submitted by a parent

Seminole is a good school doing the best they can with what they have. They would be a great school if they had a 'real' gym or P.E. program. Enrichment opportunities for the kids are lacking. It is a safe school, 'most' of the teachers are responsive and caring. They do their best to work with children at all levels. I am content so far.
—Submitted by a parent

I placed my son at this school after talking with other parents about the school. I have no regrets about his placement and his retention this year has far exceeded his prior years of education. I have found that if you ever have a question or need assistance, you just ask. If you are considering this school, I recommend it.
—Submitted by a parent

The teachers, principals, and staff are wonderful. It is a warm and friendly environment.
—Submitted by a parent

My son has been going to this school for 2 years & it has been the WORST 2 years of my life. I agree with the other parent who stated that teachers do not keep in contact with parents. I have gone through that with 4 different teachers at this school & the principal's answer to everything is moving the child out of the class rather then fixing the problem 4 different teachers and not one of them has filled out one page of the agenda.
—Submitted by Francesca, a parent

I love this school. I walk into the office at Seminole and there are smiles all over and everyone is always so friendly and helpful. The school itself is clean and colorful. My daughter says 'I love this school, even the lunches are good'. Academic programs are also really great. They are always learning in fun ways and hand on. The teachers really do care and they have a fun and creative way of teaching. Thank you to everyone who is part of Seminloe Heights Elementary! This has been the best year so far!
—Submitted by Emily, a parent

Seminole Elementary is a great place for any child to attend! We have many programs designed to meet the needs of our students. Most importantly, our school is filled with teachers who are creative and highly qualified to meet the needs of any child who comes through our door. We offer art, music, and physical education. We have a primary and intermediate chorus group which performs two shows a year. While I am a teacher at this school, I am also a parent of children who attend this school. And with confidence I can say that my kids' needs are being met.
—Submitted by a teacher

Principal doesn't support teachers. The building and grounds need to be taken care of in the summer months so they don't have to move children out of their classrooms for weeks at a time. Roof repair, Mold etc. New teachers need better mentoring from exp. teachers.
—Submitted by a parent