This school puts an emphasis on reading and makes learning pleasant and comfortable. The rewards system is fair and motivating. The teachers are committed and put in more time than they are required. They do their jobs because when my children come home with assignments...its hardly work because they know their stuff! Communication with the teachers comes with great ease for me. I have two little ones going there and not one complaint. If anyone has a complaint the problem is more than likely the parent and not the school!
—Submitted by a parent
Awesome teachers, awesome auxillarry staff, awesome kids, very involved parents! We love the music program!
—Submitted by a parent
The office staff can be rude and unprofessional. There are some good teachers there. However, not all of the teachers give a good representation of the so positively highly rated school. The principal appears to be kind, welcoming and caring, but she is the complete opposite. Be aware!
—Submitted by a parent
As a parent of a child at woodvale you hear you can't see your child in class because we " protect the teachers instructional time" The school is not open and loving like you are saying. I have children in two other schools in the parish and woodvale is be far the worst with wanting parents on campus and involved. That comes from the top Ms. Sanklin who is there only for one reason and it is not because she is the best pricipal
—Submitted by a parent
The teachers treat the kids as intelligent adults in the making. Still fun for them without talking down to them, they are letting the minds expand without pre-programming them to think a certain way. If only all elementary schools thought so highly of their students...
I have taught at several schools in my teaching career, and Woodvale is by far the BEST school in town. The climate is very loving and nurturing. Everything we do is in the interest of the children. I see many parents don't like PBS on this site, but why don't you come by and see it in action. I assure you - none of our students get random infractions for no good reason. They are definitely NOT afraid to tie their shoes. This is just not accurate. If you would have seen the school climate before and after this was implemented, you would be astonished. I only have two students in my class who ever even got an infraction this year. We warn and re-teach expectations daily. It truly is a positive thing. BTW, we give "eagle wings" and not candy for good behavior daily.
—Submitted by a teacher
The students are amazing and the teachers are top notch.
—Submitted by a teacher
Awesome teachers, awesome auxillarry staff, awesome kids, very involved parents!! It's ALL good!
—Submitted by a parent
The relationship between the teachers, parents and students feels like family. Everyone gives 100% to make it a warm learning environment.
—Submitted by a parent
Having been a student at Woodvale myself many years ago, one child successfully gone through already, and having another currently there, and thus far being successful himself, is one reason that Woodvale is a great school. Its greatness is not because of the school s building and teachers alone; it is also the parental involvement as well. It is the conglomerate of teachers and parents, et al, working side-by-side, and as well behind the scenes that makes Woodvale the successful school that it is. The teachers know the importance of parental involvement in a child s life, and such is reflected here at Woodvale.
—Submitted by a parent
Awesome school! Faculty/staff some of the best. The education that my child is receiving is second to none and I appreciate every person at the school that has had a hand in helping to educate my child. The only flaw that I find with the school is their use(or should I say abuse) of PBS. I feel to believe that the the issuance of minor infractions to students has gotten out of hand. It makes me wonder if the faculty has a quota to meet on handing out infractions. My child is afraid to step out of the line to tie his shoe in fear that he will receive an infraction for not being safe or responsible. I know we need rules and consequences for safety. I just want to suggest that you evaluate the situation to see if a warning will suffice before handing the students an infraction slip.
—Submitted by a parent
this is the best school in lafayette parish Mrs. Shanklin and Mrs lemaire have the best team . they make you feel so welcomed .when we moved and i had to move my kids i cried .we love them and miss them lots
—Submitted by a parent
We were careful to research schools before we moved into Lafayette and choose Woodvale based on all the excellent reviews. I think my children are getting a good education but I am unhappy with the PBS discipline system. The school feels somewhat military in it's approach to discipline and handing out candy left and right is not how to teach intrinsic motivation.
—Submitted by a parent
We LOVE this school! We have children in both the gifted program and special needs program and we feel they are getting exactly the attention they need for their specific needs. The teachers are fantastic!!
—Submitted by a parent
Woodvale is an awesome school. There is amazing parent involvement, dedicated teachers, and a safe, warm environment. Lots of high expectations for all children!
—Submitted by a parent
My kids went to Woodvale and did very well I as soo hurt when we moved out of the parish to another district. Best education for FREE! And Mrs. Lee 1st grade was an awesome teacher who we missed dearly. However the whole staff there awesome and really want to see children succeed.
—Submitted by a parent
My [child] went to a local private school for 3 years and we switched him to Woodvale. I admit, we were frightened to make such a big switch, from Catholic to public, but, we have been overwhelmed with the superb quality of the education, the administration, the students, and the other parents. The vast majority of the parents are college educated, involved parents and above all, they are nice people. Not preaching what to do, but, actually doing it, without judgment of others. My child has made many new friends of strong moral fiber and she has learned more of 'religion in action' than she ever saw at her old school. We no longer have children wanting to be her friend just because we have money or we are politically active. Friendships are based on character, not money. The education is astonishingly above the private, and for FREE!
—Submitted by a parent
After a lot of research, we chose this school as our choice when we moved into Lafayette! I have nothing bot great, wonderful things to say about the office staff, the Librarians, the teachers, and the parental support of this school! Hands down, the choice is Woodvale! Look at the test scores and there is your Proof! Good job Woodvale faculty and staff, and parents!
—Submitted by Daigle Family, a parent
I am absolutely satisfied with the educational standard offered by Woodvale elementary school.The teachers are exceptional.
—Submitted by Veronica Adoun, a parent
This has to be the best staffed school in this parish...I would not even chance my grandchild having to go to another school...everyone is caring and concerned. The parental support at this school is excellent.
—Submitted by a parent
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