The Heiskell School

Overall excellent academics. This year the school started offering Mandarin which I thought was a fantastic addition and competitive with some of the top local private institution. I will have to say that this school borders legalism and often left my child scared to death to make a mistake. They punish the children for every little thing. My child is very compliant and extremely studious so there is no need for the extreme discipline. I can appreciate the fact that the school offers structure and I am sure upon repeat offenses some the consequences are warranted, but not upon every occurence. While the emphasis on academics is important, so is having a well rounded child(ren) who is not afraid to make mistakes. This school is not parent friendly. STAY OUT! is the message that comes across loud and clear. Heiskell could use a little more grace and practice more of what they preach from the bible.
—Submitted by a parent

We love the Heiskell school! My boys are thriving there. The teachers are able to focus on their growth and learning because they don't put up with non sense. Every child needs to learn how to respect others and listen. I'm thrilled that they will be able to function in society and not think the world is about them!
—Submitted by a parent

The academics at The Heiskell school are very good and the children are sweet, friendly kids. The school leadership treats parents as if they are the enemy and students are not respected. My kindergartener was left in timeout, the lights turned out and the class went for a class photo. She did not say anything as they were leaving for fear of more trouble if she talked in the time out chair. When the class returned she was crying and was told to get in line because they had to go take the picture again. Apologies were not offered to our daughter or to us. The leadership only wanted to discuss our daughters actions and had no time to discuss the teachers actions.
—Submitted by a parent

Like most schools, a school is only as good as the fit with the child who attends it. Thatb being said, while the Heiskell School does have some good qualities (ex. small class sizes, Christian education), it is truly not the school for everyone. As a parent, my greatest complaint about the school is its absolute disdain for any type of parental input. I really think they subscribe to a theory that parents entrust their children to the school (with parents of course paying for the education), but ultimately, it's the school's way or no way. There was always an air of defensiveness when a parent asked any type of question relating to their child's progress or regarding anything school related. While my child did learn some good skills at the school, her confidence and spirit were well on the way to being broken, due to the schools "crime and punishment' demeanor with children. I think that the school can be a good fit, depending on the temperament of both child and parents. It definitely was not the fit for our family and we are happily at another local independent school.
—Submitted by a parent

A number of Heiskell graduates continue their secondary education with great success at the best schools in Atlanta and at top boarding schools. Heisell prepares students for the next level.

The Heiskell School is such a rare find! Our two children have grown so much academically and spiritually because we have found a school that we have partnered with to "Train up" our children in what matters most. Academically they are challenged and Spiritually they are nurtured by the wonderful teachers and staff. We are blessed to be a part of the School Family!
—Submitted by a parent

The Heiskell School is a wonderful school. Both of my daughters started The Heiskell School when they were 3 years old. I am so grateful to The Heiskell School for a multitude of reasons. I am most grateful that my girls are learning The Gospel everyday and in everything they do. The teachers are always loving! My 5th grader loves all of her teachers so much that she has a picture of every one of her teachers since she was 3 years old at home on her desk. Both of my girls have grown so much spiritually and academically since they started school. I am often surprised at how mature they are in comparison to other children their same age.
—Submitted by a parent

My child has learn so much from attending this school. She learned to read and write before her friends in our neighborhood who attend other schools.
—Submitted by a parent

Great school for academics and even better for structure and learning about Christianity. The family atmosphere makes the children feel special.

I am a former Heiskell School student now headed for Jr.High. For me it was NOT a nurturing or for that matter loving place. Often times there were very apparent signs of teachers favoring one student over another, which made me feel terrible and misunderstood. The teachers are overly strict and more then often on the computers doing personal tasks than teaching. The end of the year programs are terrible and often times they refuse to turn on the air in the gym. Their "Great Performances" are the not GREAT at all! They never let other children have their shining moments it's the same kids with all of the solos and leading lines every year! My own parents didn't even know that I had such a great singing voice until I left. The music program is very strict with no learning of other types of music other than Christain. I am so happy that I'm out of that enviorment!

Great school for parents who want a Christian education that challenges academically and teaches character at the same time. The schools accepts parent involvement to an amazing degree with lots of family days, prayer meetings, and invitations to spend time with your child in the classroom. My child carries her lunch so I am not familiar with dining issues. Yes. The school is not focused upon teaching the parent. I've never been offered a Coke.
—Submitted by a parent

Children are the people who attend schools and who most benefit from the school's "product", but the parents are the customers. That is particularly the case at a private school where business principals must be applied or failure will ensue. The Heiskell School could be a great school. But it has lost touch with the customer. Perhaps it has never been very in touch with parents. Unfortunately, Heiskell staff feel the customer is better seen and not heard. They appear to have little or no intention of engaging the parents in any meaningful way. This is a very insular place. Very sad, indeed.
—Submitted by a parent

A wonderful strong Christian school. The Heiskell School teaches the children about the love of Jesus Christ everyday. My children memorize bible verses weekly, and love reading the bible. The teachers are very loving and caring.
—Submitted by a parent

We have been thrilled with the Heiskell School. Our daughter has not been bullied, has been taught exceptionally well and has actually been learning new and challenging things, something not encountered at her last school where she was just bored. It reminds me of schools from when I was a kid and the teachers do not take the nonsense that is permitted at so many other schools these days. We have been very pleased with this school and the people there.
—Submitted by a parent

I have two daughters who have graduated from the Heiskell school and one still in attendance. The Heiskell school played a big part in their outstanding academic and character growth. It's the best investment we ever made for our children.
—Submitted by a parent

The most exelent scoop could ever go to my child has no more bullys and getting a good education I love the Heiskell school
—Submitted by a parent

As a parent, I was hesitant to send my children to any school. I was teaching them Christian principles in their daily lives and planned to incorporate that into my Home Schooling Education for them through High School. I made this decision because I did not want my children to fall through the cracks academically or spiritually. When a friend recommended I look into The Heiskell School, I was skeptical. After my first tour there, I was absolutely amazed with the school, their vision, the faculty, etc. My children are in their second year there, and thriving academically, spiritually, and socially. The Heiskell School has exceeded my expectations. We find the Heiskell experience to be so valuable, we continue to commute there from an hour away.
—Submitted by a parent

My two daughters have attended the Heiskell School for the last three years. We love it!! The teachers are committed to molding and shaping minds and hearts for Christ. If you are looking for a Christ centered education the Heiskell School is the place to be!!
—Submitted by a parent

My son attended the Heiskell for the past 11 years. We were thrilled with the education he received there. The teachers are loving, committed Christians and every aspect of the school is covered in prayer! The school has a wonderful reputation for high academics and just celebrated 60 years of educating children for Christ!
—Submitted by a parent

Our child has attended the school since kindergarten. It is similar to the way schools were run generations ago. The school is based mainly on christian theology. They are strict and children/teachers must adhere to the policy. Academics are above average and the classes have a small student to teacher ratio. The Heiskell School does not have the modern tools that many schools currently provide. Extra curricular activities are at a minimum and children are expected to follow rules of conduct that can at times, cause self-esteem issues. We have noticed a recent drop in quality and generally, communication to the parent has not been their strong suite.
—Submitted by a parent