Greenbrier Elementary School

When we moved to the area all we heard about was how great this school is. I haven't been impressed. My son was made to feel like he was stupid because he could not keep up with the other kids when it came to the monotonous way they teach math. They time the kids EVERY day for a minute in addition and subtraction and if they don't get the appropriate number they are labelled the stupid kid. I would not want to learn this way and I can't believe so many parents applaud this kind of teaching. This is a very affluent area and many mothers do not work and have time to volunteer a lot. I respect that but I heard teachers mention to those moms that they are raising the kids for those of us that work. I was appalled by that statement. Many of the school activities, PTO, volunteer opportunities are only during the day or immediately after school. It doesn't allow for the working parents to be involved. Much of the information that is given out is only given to the parents that volunteer. Sometimes I feel like I'm in a black hole when receiving information.
—Submitted by a parent

BOOOOOO! We received zero communication from this school despite trying to be involved and volunteering! It seemed as though everything was last minute! The curriculum is focused solely on testing and not learning in my opinion! Our class had a few behavior challenged children who disrupted their classes daily... nothing was done with them. My child was sick everyday from NOT wanting to go to school! The parents and teachers do not speak in the hallways or carpool and it is as if they have smelled something foul or just plain hate life. VERY SAD. We have since moved to a private school and I now have a child who is challenged and loves going to school every single day!
—Submitted by a parent

Nothing is exceptional about this school. This school performs well but is located in an affluent community with high parent involvement.This school makes little effort to provide enrichment programs. Research the other Columbia county elementary schools prior to moving to this district. You will find that the teacher expectations are much higher. Columbia county provides accelerated math and reading programs, extra curricular dance, bricks for the mind, foreign language and many other creative opportunities for learning, but not at Greenbrier Elementary. This school puts all efforts towards "meeting expectations" in standardized state tests. If you have a child that struggles to learn than this school offers a slower pace and increased opportunities for repetition.
—Submitted by a parent

We love, love, love Greenbrier! There are so many ways for parents to be involved and we are ALWAYS welcomed! The principal, Dr. Holton, is very involved with the students in a positive way. Teachers are very approachable. Great school!
—Submitted by a parent

Based on my 3 years of exprience:Very little communication from teachrs, even when children are seriously underperforming (an i volunteered in class one day each week every year). Emphisis on testing overshadows the children's need for instruction. Poor performers do not recieve enough attention (only more tests to see if they are improving). Over achievers (gifted) are not challanged and bored. Any contact with the teacher must be initiated by you unless it is related to behavior. Also I see parents who want to be involved, but are unable to find a way to be useful.
—Submitted by a parent

I have to say this school is exceptional. We have moved often, and this school made not only but my son, but my family feel like we had been here forever. The best part though was that within days of my son transferring in the new school year of 2009-2010, we were contacted my his speech teacher, the nurse, etc. for information. I couldnt get over how organized the patrols and the car loop drop off was. Mrs. Bush-Miller was exceptional and the principal had great leadership but was ALWAYS in the school. She didnt lead from the office, she lead by her actions and was involved and seen EVERYWHERE! This was pleasing because the kids interacted with her not just on bad situations. On normal everyday stuff. As a parent, This school is exceptional. Art, PE and Music were such delights to the kids. My son LOVED it and so did we as parents. Great PTA and parents too. Where parents just want their kids to do well and have fun at the same time. If you want your child to be challenged, be in a safe and fun environment, with great opportunity, Greenbrier is the place!
—Submitted by a parent

This school is wonderful and I have never felt I couldn't go to the teacher or principal if I had a problem. They want to work with parents and students to make sure our children receive the very best education. Couldn't be happier with it.
—Submitted by a parent

We have been at Greenbrier Elem for 3 years. I have a 3rd grader and a 1st grader. Our experiences with this school have been wonderful. All of the staff, from the teachers and para-pros to the office staff have been kind and attentive and caring. My children have blossomed and are excelling in all subjects. They have the most efficient drop-off/pick-up for car-riders. It is so stress-free. I highly recommend this school for your children.
—Submitted by a parent

Low parental involvement due to administration and teachers not allowing it. Don't expect to receive a parent/teacher conference if your child is an average or above student. The school is very behind the times-they are still on a paper/manual lunch ticket system. Insufficient Library and Computer lab. Needs new faces and fresh ideas. Little diversity. Kids transferring to other schools are at least one grade behind. My children have been very bored and are not challenged. They are still being taught things they learned three years ago in their old school. PTO means well but the parents have never experienced other schools and think they are doing very well and are used to doing things as they always have. If you must move to this area, consider Steven's Creek and River Ridge.
—Submitted by a parent

We have a five yr old and a nine yr old going to Greenbrier and they really love their school. Greenbrier has done a wonderful job with my son who is in 4th grade. His confidence has gone to another level. The teachers are really great at getting the parents involved and keeping us informed on what is going on with our child and around the school. I know Greenbrier is an excellent school and I commend the teacher for a job well done.
—Submitted by a parent