Poe Elementary Classical School

Poe is a level 1 school that still remains in the top 5 schools in Chicago. My experience with the primary teachers has been nothing but positive. This is my son's 2nd year and the communication between parent and teacher has build a wonderful partnership in the journey of learning for my son. When it comes to the teachers, I would defend them all day long.
—Submitted by a parent

Ian's a parent of a kindergartener, I'm very impressed with Poe with the principal at Poe. The kindergarten teacher, Ms. Jackson, is wonderful for my high spirited (and intelligent) son. She keeps him challenged and encourages his best behavior. I love that she keeps the lines of communication open with the parents. I could have my son test to go to Keller, but I really have no plans to move him. I'm looking forward to a good 7 years at Poe. From the two LSC meetings that I've been to, I do have concerns with the local school council leadership, but I'm sure it will be fine.
—Submitted by a parent

This school used to be great now it is good because our new principal has let go the greatest art teacher ever dr. brown-hicks and the greatest music teacher ever mr elmore has retired and the greatest kindergarten teacher has left

This school is excellent. Mrs. Haynes, the kindergarten teacher is great. The principal and vice-principal are very approachable, upbeat and seem to take care of business. The kids seem pretty well mannered and are not out of control. My child loves the school. She just completed kindergarten and has already started learning her multiplication tables. I was in 3rd grade before I learned them. This is a great school for us parents to partner with to make sure our kids get an excellent education.
—Submitted by a parent

Unfortunately I have to disagree with all of the reviews. My experience has been just the opposite. For 2 years in a row my child's teachers have refused to give advance notice of tests, have not returned homework or test results and put the majority of the grades in the online grade book just days before progress reports or report cards were to come out. Additionally, they essentially drop the entire cirriculum when the kids get back from Christmas break until they take the ISATs in March/April. After 6 months of being in school they completed 2 chapters in science and 1 chapter in social studies. How can you just not teach these subjects? I do believe the principal has leadership skills but she is retiring. I suspect she was the glue that kept this school together. If the next principal is weak, I guarantee the ISAT test scores will drop.
—Submitted by a parent

The is an all-star school. I wish more children could have this experience. The teachers actually teach and not just push worksheets in front of the children. The key building blocks for the elementary years success are stressed. Parent involvement is excellent. I would like more after school programs for the kids. The principal is very involved and communication is excellent.
—Submitted by a parent

I think this is a wonderful school. It has really put my daughter on a path to success. It is a loving and caring environment that makes the children want to learn. My daughter is into dance and cheerleading and I just wish they had more extracurricular activities for the girls in the school. The parent involvement is great.
—Submitted by a parent

I am happy with this school so much so that, I brought my son back and am hoping to get another in. The principal is very caring and open. The chldren want to attend and they are very proud of their school. Keep up the good work. I wish they would extend to 8th grade.
—Submitted by a parent

This school is a dream come true. The students are supported by a strong family particpation. The staff is dedicated, highly qualified and talented. The Art, Music,and Spanish classes would rival any five star school. The students are engaged learners that are being prepared in developing critical thinking skills. All of these values are supported by a Principal and Vice-Principal with a vision, mission,and commitment for the students,teachers and the excellent staff.
—Submitted by a teacher

This is a small school (K-6). One class for each grade. Discipline is in place and very effective. Children are taught critical thinking. If not already reading and writing, kindergartners will be by the end of the school year. In fact, they will be able to write a short story. They are taught modern handwriting. There is much homework, all around. The office staff is very friendly and helpful. The teachers are also friendly and helpful and encourage parent involvement and participation. The school teaches spanish for foreign language to all students. Music is also taught at each level. 3rd-6th can learn to play an instrument. 4th-6th graders participate in the chorus. The chorus travels to sing out-of-state each year. This is a family oriented school. This school strives for excellence.
—Submitted by a parent