Ivy Creek Elementary School

My child attended this school K-5. She was involved in activities and clubs every year. She did everything from sports, arts, music, and math club. She always felt safe and comfortable at this school. She is a good student without discipline problems so I never really got to know the principal or office staff. I volunteered at the school several times each and there always several parents at every event.
—Submitted by a parent

This school absolutely horrible! My family moved to GA one year ago and enrolled our 1st grade daughter in ICE...from day 1 we've had nothing but setbacks, disappointments and sheer ignorance from this institution. My daughter was enrolled in private school in our previous state and we decided to take a chance on public schools based on our realtor's recommendation. The staff here for the most part are incompetent; half of them are not trained in the subject area that they are required to teach (i.e. math). The teachers here do not send home agendas therefore as parents we have no idea what our children are learning on a daliy basis, so how can we assist them at home? The teachers send home subpar homework assignments, yet test the kids on completely different subject material(it would be nice to send home relevant homework). The teachers that we've been so unfortunate to have teach our child are completely clueless as educators and need to find new professions. It is now clearly evident why the state of Georgia ranks so low in comparison to the other states when it comes to public school education. Needless to say we will be returning to private schooling and I urge others to also
—Submitted by a parent

The front office staff most definitely needs a class in social skills. People should be greeted and welcomed and asked how they can be helped. There are some very good teachers at the school but there are also some subpar ones that need to move on to a different profession. The young school counselor needs to do her job and make herself available when needed - not seek out issues that do not exist. The school also needs to have more activities for the younger children. 99% of the after school clubs are for 4th and 5th graders and children want to be involved in music and sports much younger than that. Needs an anti-bullying program. Needs a sports program instead of the existing PE class that most kids seem to dislike.
—Submitted by a parent

Ivy Creek has a very strong student leadership component that teaches children how to think and solve problems, challenge themselves to continuously improve and grow and be the best person they can be. The staff are very supportive of each other and most of the teachers are fabulous. The after school and before school clubs and supports offered are amazing and serve all student needs. Ivy Creek strives to remediate and enrich all students going above and beyond just a "adequate yearly progress". My children love Ivy Creek and so do I! I would move to remain here.
—Submitted by a parent

Not impressed at all! Who is the principal? I have never seen her and my children have been at the school since the beginning of the school year. We came from another school just down the road and this school has been nothing but a major disappointment!! Front office staff are rude, administration is subpar and are very snotty. The only positive is 1 of my children have a great teacher the other teacher again is subpar. We will not be returning to ICE even if it means shelling out big bucks for a private school. ICE has been a major disappointment!!!
—Submitted by a parent

From everything I have seen ICES is a great elementary school. I go to have lunch at times with my child, holidays, or school programs and I have never left there upset about anything I have experienced. I leave feeling thankful that my child is in a great school. Every teacher may not be a 'star' teacher but I have always been pleased with the teachers I have to deal with and they take the time to explain things to me about my child. The principle may not be standing in the front office or walking the halls - because she is running a school full of kids. I'm sure her paperwork has grown over the years the same as in any business. I'm sure a few parents have complaints because all children are not the same. Some don't like school, some are not taught respect and manners at home, some don't receive the help with schoolwork that they need at home. Kids are kids and that is just a fact. Parents can get upset when a kid does what kids do about school...complain. My experience: Front office is helpful and friendly along with teachers. If someone doesn't have a smile, well, maybe they have lost a loved one or their spouce has lost their job. I fell blessed with ICES!!!
—Submitted by a parent

Not impressed! We just moved here 2months ago and purposely picked this area to live because of the schools and how "great" they are. They treat new students like cattle. They do not give new kids the opportunity to visit the school and teacher before attending. You are to bring them in, register them, and they take them to their classroom. The front office staff is uninviting and of no assistance. They wouldn't dare get uo out of their chair to assist. The teacher was not compassionate and quite inappropriate to an intimadating situation my 8 yr. old was in. She apologized, but made excuses. I get no updates and do not even know what my child is learning. I never know anything about her assignments and had to email the teacher to ask about due dates, yet, we are suppose to purchase assignment books. I've had no notification of a parent/teacher conference which I would assume was last month. Neither myself nor my husband feel comfortable walking into that school. My daughter doesn't say much, but does not want to go there. We are quickly trying to find another school. Good test scores don't mean a "great" school.
—Submitted by a parent

my experience with Ivy creek has been a complete night mare! the principal and vice principle have no concern with any thing but test scores and the kids that excel! my son has been bullied in that school since we moved here in 2007 not much was done about it seems to me they wanted it to be brushed under the carpet. vice principle is an interrogator and should be working in a jail not with elementary students! this year i have finally had it and have got the professional support i need to pursue making sure this stops! all though my son is moving on to middle school they have not seen the last of me! If any thing it well save the next victim from the emotional stress my son has had to go through!
—Submitted by a parent

I love ices. My son started pre k here and did great, then i sent him to a new pre k that i thought would be better and regretted it. Now he is back for kindergarden and its even better! I love this school and words cannot describe how wonderful mrs durbin is. I love it. My husband is driving 2 hrs to get to work because i don't want to lose this school.
—Submitted by a parent

I have nothing but wonderful things to say about this school. The staff and teachers are absolutely wonderful. They have always been very polite, helpful, eager to assist and answer questions, among others. In the 2009-2010 year, my 3 kids were enrolled from K-3. This was my fourth year at Ivy Creek. Thanks to the teachers and staff, my children have a love for learning and enjoyed going to school each day. They have all received wonderful grades and I attribute that to their teachers who truly cared about them. I'm sad to leave this summer due to relocation but I wanted to take this moment to write this review to let other parents know how great I think this school.
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter just completed her second year at Ivy Creek ES, and I could not be happier! Her teacher this year, Mrs. Jones, was wonderful - keeping parents involved and updated daily and weekly; her interactions with the children; allowing parents in the room on a daily basis to help with whatever needed to be done. The PTA is wonderful and very present in all that happens around the school. Having been involved with the PTA the last two years, I can say that I have never seen a group of parents more dedicated than those at Ivy Creek ES!! Unfortunately, we will be moving out of state this summer. If I could take ICES with us when we move, I would definately do that!! A wonderful school, dedicated teachers, and a wonderful front office staff that will be missed!!
—Submitted by a parent

There are some wonderful teachers at this school. But I've experience one that is terrible so far. The principal lacks personality and she doesn't return phone calls. She doesn't seem to be concerned about your child well being. I though that was a part of her job!. I left several messages for her so I could tell her my concerns. She never called me back. I went to the school to speak to her and the front desk told me she wasn't there. Two minutes later she walked right past me. Then they wouldn't let me speak to her. I've called the school board and I hope they will do something about this.
—Submitted by a parent

Ivy Creek is a wonderful school. I have been nothing but pleased with the experiences I have had with everyone I have come in contact with. Every staff member is warm and friendly, and you can't pass through the halls without someone greeting you. The school goes above and beyond to provide creative and fun activities in addition to an exceptional learning environment. The school is impeccably clean and organized. The teachers are wonderful and caring and focused on helping each child to succeed. I feel so fortunate that my children have the opportunity to learn here. Everyone at this school cares about its students and I have no doubt that children leave its doors well prepared for their future.
—Submitted by a parent

I love my daughters teacher and think her class is excellent, the front office staff is terrible. I have been lied to about my daughters vaccinations and verbally disrespected when I presented them proof of their mistake, watched crossing attendants send cars through crosswalks with people walking and laughing about it and had terrible experiences with the persons who answer the phone. Registration was very inefficient and poorly run then repeated again a week before school started. It is always disappointing when you are treated so poorly and told 'that is just the way it is' when you dare to challenge the process. We as parents the attitude of the staff has not infected the will of the teachers.
—Submitted by a parent

Great school, like the other reviews said principal is not visible, but teachers are ok , I've been pleased with them, school has lots of free clubs for after and before school. I'm sad that I have to move for any new parent looking for a great school this one meet and exceed expectations, the PTA is great always. and fundraisers like the boosterton are a great alternative to sell candies like other school.
—Submitted by a parent

The teachers are well trained and working for and with the children to help them excell. The school has many, many free clubs and very inexpensive after school help for those who are struggling or want to get ahead. The PTA is very active and the numerous volunteers in the building daily are amazing! Even our bus driver goes above and beyond. We are very happy with Ivy Creek!
—Submitted by a parent

I have three children that attend Ivy Creek Elementary, and we have been very pleased with the quality of education that they are receiving. Of course there are some teachers that are exceptional and others that are not quite as good, but I believe that you will find that in any school. The teachers have always communicated will with me as a parent about the progress of my children, and they have been willing to address any concerns about my children and their education. The staff and leadership (including the principal) have always been available when we have had a need for their assistance. I have enjoyed my experience with Ivy Creek, and my children have as well.
—Submitted by a parent

This is an extraordinary school with top drawer management. I have worked with this Principal and can attest to the highest integrity and single minded attention to creating a superior learning environment for children. She is a true professional.
—Submitted by a teacher

I don't have many good things to say about this school other than the fact that my daughter had a Superb kindergarten teacher........I find the Principal and assistant principle's are very quick to judgement and did not do my child any favors! She was grilled almost every day over her living situation and you just don't do that to a little 6 year old girl! She switched to grade one and her teacher lacked the personality that my child needed to learn and stay focused, she came home telling me she was Bored every day.. so it is like drawing straws you never know what you are going to get! Some members who are Low on the totem pole as far as faculty goes are great...the higher up they get ....the more unapproachable and pompous they are! Parents Beware!
—Submitted by a parent

Ivy Creek Elementary is a wonderful school. We relocated in 2003 (their charter year) and have been thoroughly impressed by the staff, including but not limited to Admin, Office, Teaching, Cafeteria and even Custodial. Everyone at the school takes an interest in the children and we feel blessed to have found such a wonderful environment for our children. In response to the previous review against the Principal, all I can say is that we are very pleased with what she is accomplishing at Ivy Creek. With Assistant Principals and Counselors very visible within the school, the Principal is free to do what she does best and what her job requires. With enrollment at 1200+ students, it takes a very strong person to run things behind the scenes. Again, we are very pleased with the school and staff she's brought together since it opened in 2003. Hope you'll join us!
—Submitted by a parent