Bohumil Shimek Elementary School

Shimek was the top rated elementary school in Iowa City---25 years ago. When we moved to the Shimek area, we expected the best. In the Kindergarten class that was true. Now that our child is in second grade, Shimek has lost its shine. Bulling runs rampet right in front of the teacher. Class work looks like they are still in Kindergarten But, worst of all, the teachers we have had so far, except for Kindergarten, do not impress us as being motivated to teach. They rely on assessments, other testing, etc. Real teaching is not only about testing.
--Submitted by a parent

Our children have attended Shimek Elementary for the past 4 years and we couldn't be more pleased with their educational experience! Everything from the lovely wooded setting to the caring and competent staff is first rate. Our children have enjoyed the academic enrichment programming as well as band, orchestra and a full array of extracirricular experiences including chess club and foreign language studies. All of this and more is available in a smaller and personal setting which makes Shimek a wonderful place to learn and grow!
--Submitted by a parent

Shimek has the reputation for being one of the top schools in the IC district, because of its test scores and its small size. After having our child there for one year (3rd grade), we can honestly say it's overrated. Teachers are driven to maintain the school's academic reputation, yet do not create an environment where children can truly learn. Children who physically or socially bully others, whether in the classroom or on the playground are not adequately disciplined. The children of the upper middle class get away with too much including race- and gender- motivated abuse. The principal's 'conflict resolution' approach, in which bully and victim are put together to air their views, *does not* work. If you want your child to learn, put him or her in a school that follows through on the district's 'zero tolerance' policy regarding bullying. Happily, our child is transferring to another school.
--Submitted by a parent

Shimek is the best Elememtary school in this district. It is a small school, so students recieve more teacher interaction. The staff and teachers, take the time to meet your needs and concerns. They have a great after-school program, that has thier own band and includes students. they have been known to play out in the community. That is a great program, get kids motovated.
--Submitted by a parent

Shimek has been wonderful for my blind daughter. They have gone out of their way to help us get the materials that she needs in braille. I am looking forward to my youngest going to shimek, I can't say enough about this school other then the staff, teachers, and Dr. Towers are wonderful. Even the after school program has started the After School Specials Band, with all students who sing and or play instruments. They are awesome! Thank you so much.....
--Submitted by a parent

This has been a very good school for our whole family! we love it!
--Submitted by a parent

We love Shimek - from its beautiful setting in the woods, its cozy building, to its supportive staff and parents - we can't imagine a better place for our child to begin his schooling. We can write teachers and staff about questions or concerns, and they respond promptly and professionally. Its relatively small size also helps make it a very special school - for example, the principal and staff seem to know all the kids' names. We feel very lucky to have our child at Shimek.
--Submitted by a parent

Shimek is not just a school, it's a small family of wonderful professionals and caring parents. The office staff is second to none, and the principal, Dr. Towers is extremely personable. He has made our family feel so welcome and is hands on in every faction of the school operation. Expect to see him outside in the morning greeting kids, available in the office, and monitoring traffic in the afternoons. An alpha teacher, Ms. White, has also made our experience worthwhile thus far. Her dedication in the classroom is admirable and her planning and activities are inclusive of all subject areas.
--Submitted by a parent