Piney Orchard Elementary School

Too big, almost 30 in a first grade class is too many. Teachers are not approachable, not warm and fuzzy like primary teachers should be. I do not consider this what an elementary school should be. A math worksheet once a week and spelling word practice is what HW consists of. What happened to games for remediation, reading, writing, etc. Children struggling. misbehaving, being disrespectful is the norm not the exception to the rule. PTA struggles to get support, may not even have a PTA next year due to no involvement. Went off of the reviews and moved to the area surrounding the school specifically so that my child could attend. Could not be more disappointed.
—Submitted by a parent

The reviews need to be updated. Class size is well over 30 students per teacher. No teachers assistants in the classes. Unless your child is outgoing they are completely overlooked and graded average. The teachers in the rotating classes or "specials" do not even know most of the students names, but provide grades. The school needs to significantly decrease class sizes.
—Submitted by a parent

My daughters LOVE going to school everyday because of the teachers and staff at POES. The teachers are quick to respond and really care about the success of my girls. Great school and proud to live in Piney Orchard.
—Submitted by a parent

My son and daughter attending this school for the past 3 years. They love it more than home. Both of them love their teachers. Once when we were just discussing moving out of this area, my son was crying. When I asked him why, he replied he does not want to leave his school and his teacher. Teachers response any of parents question is super fast and their really act quickly on your concern. I would rate more than 5 stars if there were :)
—Submitted by a parent

My family just moved to the area. So we weren't sure what to expect when it came down to the school my son was going to attend. To my surprise, my son loves the school. His grades have gone up, he participates and socializes with other kids in school. His teacher is absolutely amazing and the principal is awesome. They truly care about the kids education. The parent/teacher communicaton is great. We really lucked out in finding this school. I look forward to enrolling my younger son next year. I highly recommend this school to anyone.
—Submitted by a parent

Piney Orchard is a wonderful school. My son is now and fifth grade. All the teachers quickly respond to you when you have a question or a concern. They truly seem to want the best for the kids. The band instructor is awesome! The school offers afterschool activities including a Stock Market Club among others. My son has enjoyed this school. I agree that it is a topnotch school! Thank you teachers and staff!
—Submitted by a parent

i love this school!! my son loves this school!! thanks teachers!!!
—Submitted by a parent

We are new to this community and really researched schools in this area before moving here. We called and dropped by unannounced and had positive experiences each time. Now that our son is in school, we feel comfortable recommending POES to others. The teachers and staff are terrific and we feel our son is learning and socializing quite nicely. Top notch school!
—Submitted by a parent

This is the best school a parent could ask for!!! Unfortunately my family is being transfered out of the state. I am so sad that my children have to leave this school - the teachers and staff are always helpful and keep you informed. The music program is out of this world! We will miss POE tremendously:(
—Submitted by a parent

Piney Orchard, is agreat school, with a great staff. Also the after school program is WONDERFUL and has a great staff. We started with one child in the program and we are now on our thrid and they all love the program. Way too go. Thanks
—Submitted by a parent

My sons love this school, even when dealing with problems the staff is always helpful and considerate. It's also nice that it's right in our neighborhood!!
—Submitted by a parent

I went to this school for pretty much my whole elementary experience, i can personally say that those were probably the best years of my life. Everyone was just absolutely incredible, and if i could change anything about it, i wouldn't! i went to that school the very first day it opened, and after a few years, it is still a fantastic school...i highly recommend it!!!
—Submitted by Chelsea, a former student

Wonderful experience! It has a great music program with band and choir. The principal is very focused and proactive. The car line is rough. I am so glad we moved to this school. Safety is a high priority and they tackle it well. The field trips are expensive but very good.
—Submitted by a parent

My son has gone to Piney Orchard since Kindergarten. His kindergarten teacher was a wonderful, gentle, and caring teacher which is just what he needed to begin his transition into school. He did have the first grade class that had four teachers. The children were familiar with each of the teachers before they took over the class. I do not feel it affected his academics at all. He does very well. The teachers and guidance counselor have made looked after my son in all aspects of his life in which I am truly thankful.
—Submitted by a parent

I have been so happy with Piney Orchard Elementary. The teachers go above and beyond in everything they do. My son's teacher, Mrs. Richards, not only wants to make sure all her children succeed in their academics, but takes the time to work on behavior. All of my experiences with this school have been fantastic. We moved hear because of all the great things we heard about this school and the community surrounding it.
—Submitted by Jen, a parent

Piney Orchard is the only school my son has attended, but I could not be happier. My son knows most of the staff and loves everyone there that even though he is in second grade, he still stops by and says hello to his kindergarten teacher. The staff is very interested in having the children succeed and go out of their way to communicate with me. It is a wonderful environment.
—Submitted by a parent

I have not seen a real sense of community here at POES. The office staff have not been helpful or friendly. Great teachers, however one first grade classroom has had FOUR different teachers just this school year. People claim to move here for the school, I certainly will not base my decision on staying or leaving for this school.
—Submitted by a parent

Active pta, new principal with some 'different' philosophies from what parents are used to , but great teachers
—Submitted by a parent

Great School, my children have attended this school for 2 years, the teachers are excellent, school is clean, orderly and focused on the creating the best learning environment for the children. PTA is very involved and provides excellent support for the students, teachers and school. Great Principal and staff. Music program is very good.
—Submitted by a parent

We recently moved to Piney Orchard from Ft. Meade housing and the kids just love it here. The curriculum seems to be more advanced than others in the state.
—Submitted by a parent