Chickering

One principal left after a long tenure and the current one was a bad fit. It happens everywhere. I am involved in many school projects and consider Chickering a wonderful, vibrant community. The teachers are extremely professional, hard-working, and best-of-class. This is my opinion based on observation and conversations with teachers in the middle school and in neighboring towns.
--Submitted by a parent

Having sent 3 children through Chickering Elementary, I have nothing but the most positive things to say about the school Teachers and Administration are excellent and the overall academic experience is comprehensive. The classes are engaged in learning at all times. Kids at this school want and love to go to school. The community is involved and happy to participate. Nothing but excellent, fine education at this school. Kudos to Dover!
--Submitted by a parent

Chickering is not perfect, but I believe that it is a great school with dedicated and hard working classroom teachers, specialists in art, music and PE, and an amazing involved parent community. My children have thrived there and my only complaint is that not enough enrichment is provided to those students who can handle an extra challenge.
--Submitted by a parent

I'm bemused by anyone that would give this school a good rating. The school has had 2 principals leave in the past few years. The teachers are mediocre and there is absolutely no sense of community. I have older kids who have attended various other schools in the area and Chickering by far is my greatest disappointment. The MCAS scores are low. Teachers don't do weekly spelling tests and vocabulary (Wordly Wise) has been eliminated from the curriculum. Instead of sticking with the core nuts and bolts and grammar school, the school is constantly changing programs and trying to learn how to teach the new gimmicky curriculum it just purchase for big $$. So so disappointing. Don't assume that if you live in Dover that the school is good. Even with a new principal next year, it will take years to turn the school around at the rate it's going.
--Submitted by a parent