Dewey Elementary School

My step-son came to live with us this summer, and I'm so glad our house happens to be zoned for Dewey! All the staff, including the new principal, seem very engaged in meeting the needs of the children. His teacher promptly answeres e-mails and is very approachable. My boy's classroom has laptops for all the kids to use, the PTA is VERY involved (they even have a Compost Committee!), and they use positive recognition (Tiger Tickets) to reward the good behavior, instead of constanty drawing attention to poor behavior. This school seems very progressive, even in their methods of teaching. I really like that all the teachers can post the homework assignements on-line. There is also a new Multi Purpose Room that was built this past summer. Too bad this school wasn't around when I was a kid!
--Submitted by a parent

We moved to Evanston three years ago and particularly wanted our children to attend Dewey School. We have not been disappointed. All of our children have had fantastic teachers that are caring and energetic. They really have gone the extra mile. We also love the parent community at Dewey. The parents at this school are highly involved and deeply care about education. There is a brand new principal this year as well he is great with parents and students. We couldn't have asked for a better school.
--Submitted by a parent

The way this principal treats people is unprofessional and outrageous. (I wish others would not excuse his behavior.) He seems to be all about tooting his own horn (knack for hiring talent?). This is hardly the best school in Evanston.
--Submitted by a teacher

Our two kids attend Dewey. Lots of weird policies-- like on cold or wet days, they are forced to watch TV as "indoor recess". They never get to meet their teacher before the first day of school. Not to mention that the sun rises and sets with "tiger tickets" which is their only means of dealing with behavior. I feel bad for the kids that need any kind of pro social opportunities--it's just not allowed here.
--Submitted by a parent

Dewey is a world-class school: smart kids, talented teachers, and a principal with a knack for hiring talent. Unquestionably the best school in Evanston, by far.
--Submitted by a parent

We are not happy with the school at all. Our child's teacher is not helpful and neither is the front office staff. They should remember why they are there...
--Submitted by a parent

My child attends Dewey and I love the Principal. He cares a great deal about the children, their eduction and well being. I think he is great. I can understand how a parent would think he is not opened minded, but he actually is - when it comes to his students well being or his teachers. I love this school!
--Submitted by a parent

very difficult school culture-seem to be all about the test scores--in countless ways, as a whole, they don't seem very informed about child development--
--Submitted by a parent

The principal has been here for a very long time. While dedicated, he's not the most open person and the school is not the most progressive. I wish he would move on, and give the chance for some fresh air to come into the school. And while not inspiring, my kids do, at least, feel safe going to school there.
--Submitted by a parent

My children attend Dewey and we've had constant struggles. I find they focus on test scores, and not the whole child. The staff (esp Principal) come across as hostile to others/outside opinions and POVs. We're looking forwad to our home selling so that we can send our kids to a different school...
--Submitted by a parent