Tanglewood Elementary School

This is a wonderful school that truly cares about children. We have had nothing but a postive experience. The staff always goes the extra mile for every child. I have seen them spend long hours working with a child in need, and also those that need extra enrichment! The parents are always welcome and encouraged to come up to the school to help in the classroom. The Principal is wonderful, she greets the students and parents by name every morning. I have always felt at home when I step in the door! I am not sure where the parent that made a comment in June of 2003 is coming from. I have to wonder if she or he had some issuses concering attendance, the school is required to take action according to state law. Aren't we all just looking out for what is best for all children. If parents won't do it, I thank the schools for making parents accountable for their childs attendance! Let's not bash a school that cares about every child's future! Thank you Tanglewood for providing a wonderful learning enviroment for my children!
--Submitted by a parent

I just read the comments from a parent regarding dr. appointments & such. My daughter has had several appointments, has come in late, I've had to pick her up early before, and the school has never once treated me disrespectfully, or questioned my intentions as a parent. I'm sure they have to question 'some' that perhaps are abusing the system, and perhaps causing difficulty for their own child. Our family has had nothing but the finest experiences at this A+ school. I have a kindergartner getting ready to start & I would think of no other school than this one to put him in.
--Submitted by a parent

The Teacher's at Tanglewood are not as open as other schools in the Derby District to allowing Parent participation in the classrooms. The 'leadership' portrays the idea that working on fundraising with the Parent And Teacher's Association(PAT) is sufficient intrusion from Parents. Woe to the parent who decides to take his/her child for an appointment during school hours, without first making it clear to the school the exact nature of the appointment, and having it approved. While on the surface this may appear harmless or protective, it can be quite disturbing to a parent when the 'leadership' decides the Doctor's appt. should have been scheduled after hours and telephones the parent to inform them of the 'school's' decision. (This happened to more than one set of Parents during the 2002-2003 School Year.) My overall impression of this school PRIOR to my child attending, was a great one. After having experienced the environment with my child, I believe the 'leadership' to be quite controlling of and condescending towards parents as a group. The 'leadership' seems to have the idea that Parents are not capable of making quality decisions for their own children. Yes, we strive to develop schools with Teachers and Principals who care about the children they teach, however, this school has crossed the line.