Esther F. Garrison School of Visual and Performing Arts

Don't be turned off by the '1' ranking. This website for some reason has not updated its rankings (which are primarily based on standardized testing) even though new 2011 CRCT scores came out this past summer. Garrison is currently in its 2nd year after being completely revamped (including new leadership, arts program, etc..). Last year was the first year since the changes had been implemented and the CRCT scores were as high (any in most cases higher) as any public elementary/middle school in the county. The atmosphere is positive; it is clear from walking around the beautiful school that the students seem happy to be there. PTA meetings are standing room only; the principle seems focused and ambitious. This is our first year at Garrison and so far so good - my child is thriving. Our teacher is organized, encouraging, and takes the time to make the classroom experience special and creative. The standards in our classroom are high. I'm sure the school is not perfect (what school is?), but Garrison seems to have a good thing going and we consider ourselves lucky to have gotten in. Anyone considering public schools in Chatham county should seriously consider Garrison.
--Submitted by a parent