A.L. Smith School

This school, academically, was a solid school and the teachers were overall committed and did a good job. However, the principal RULES with an iron fist...she is not liked by many of the teachers a lot of parents. The average PTO meeting when we were there in 2007 had 10-15 people in attendance. Parents had given up, knowing that the principal was not a huge fan of parental involvement. There are no 'elective' classes....no technology, no Spanish, no art, very little P.E., etc. It is all academic with little fun. My son had 27 students in his 1st grade class, and he cried all the time. We have since moved, along with many other families that year, to a private school. My son LOVES school and actually looks forward to the holidays ending so he can go back!
--Submitted by a parent

My children went to A.L. Smith and now my grandchildren attend. A.L. Smith should be commended for it's hometown attitude. The ladies that work in the office always remember names and faces. The teachers that my kids have been taught by always take a personal interest in each student. Ms. Leggett has helped me in many situations and always takes time to listen to my concerns. And last but certainly not least is the lunch room attendents . They know my kids by name.
--Submitted by a parent

All three of my children have attended AL Smith school. The teachers are wonderful, with very few exceptions. Principals have changed over the years and the current one has been the most troublesome, but it seems that a female principal always has a rough row to hoe. As usual, there are some parents that are more involved and seem to 'run things' but this is likely simply because they are more available (don't work outside the home) which is not a bad thing. We moved from Highland Elementary in 1992 and haven't regretted it for even a minutes.
--Submitted by a parent

I gotta say this school is very strict. It's a lot of homework that these kids have to do every day. My daughter sits there for at least an hour every day. I don't know what to think about this school, but suddenly my daughter who always had an A average in all the schools she attended, fell to a D average...
--Submitted by a parent

I have moved around alot and this school would have to make my top two. Great teachers and principal.I highly advise this school to anyone.
--Submitted by a parent

I have moved, but this school was very good, many very good teachers. The Principal is very good and very active. this school is the best public school in the parish.
--Submitted by a parent

My kids have done extremely well. My special needs child has received an excellent education from extremely qualified teachers. The faculty and staff are always very helpful, attentive, and responsive to the few questions and concerns that I have had.
--Submitted by a parent

I would not recommend this school at all! There is NO support from the principal. As a parent I do not feel like I can be involved at all! The PTO is a disorganized JOKE. I will not send my child back.
--Submitted by a parent

A. L. Smith is one of the finest schools around. My children have been at A. L. Smith for the last 3 years and my youngest has 3 more to go. They truly love the school, the teachers and the administration. The principal is very caring, loving and concerned about the welfare of the students and the staff. The teachers are exceptional! The scores and ratings are fantastic. If you have a chance to be a part of this school---don't miss it!
--Submitted by Terri McHenry, a parent

I have never had a problem at this school. The staff and teachers are the best around and really care about the children's education. I feel my son is getting the best education available.
--Submitted by Ellie Young, a parent