Harlan Elementary School

I am a parent who places a very strong emphasis on academics. When I hear parents remark, "oh, it's just kindergarten", it makes me cringe. I moved to the district for the schools, and I was on the verge on sending my child to one of many prestigious private schools in the area. I m glad I changed my mind. My son just completed extended-day kindergarten at Harlan, and I am very pleased with the quality of his teacher, organization, caring for the children, exposure to technology, and strong weight on academics. I believe his teacher prepared the entire class to almost a second grade level! Even more, the principal (Ms. Thompson) is simply wonderful. She is accessible, witty, caring, loves the children, balanced, and fair. The librarian (Ms. Stayer) is also phenomenal. Additionally, although there is little diversity at the school, Harlan is the only elementary school in the district that has its own African-American Family Network subsidiary (from the district-wide organization), so the parents are highly involved, as well as a Diversity Committee. The only concern I have with Harlan is the level of involvement of parents in the PTA. Thus, do yourself a favor and check out Harlan.
—Submitted by a parent

Amazing school! We have been in this neighborhood and have children attending Harlan since 1995. The shift of philosophy that occurred in 2005 has brought this school to new heights. Each child is treated with great care. The teachers and each staff member facilitates ongoing communication with parents and one another to be sure each child gains a positive school experience. Yay to Harlan! We love you dearly!
—Submitted by a parent

Fantastic teachers and small class size
—Submitted by a parent

Harlan is an amazing school with terrific teachers and a huge amount of parent and community support!
—Submitted by a parent

Parents and Staff pull together to help all the children!!
—Submitted by a parent

Not only does Harlan have an outstanding teaching and administrative team, the Harlan community is incredibly warm and supportive. It is an amazing place and blessing for my children to have an opportunity to be part of such an excellent learning environment with caring people!
—Submitted by a parent

The community is warm, educating, safe, and fantatic.
—Submitted by a parent

It is a great school with involvement from all stakeholders.
—Submitted by a parent

13 years there with three children - awesome!
—Submitted by a parent

The teachers really care about the kids. The parents are very involved in the school.
—Submitted by a parent

Great teachers, great support staff. Parents are dedicated and the kids are the #1 concern.
—Submitted by a parent

They really make an effort to help the students when they need it.
—Submitted by a parent

The support from teachers, parents and community form together and make students their #1 priority.
—Submitted by a parent

Harlan has great teachers and phenomenal parental support
—Submitted by a parent

We just moved here and everyone has made the transition for my children and myself so easy!!
—Submitted by a parent

lan is a welcomoing homey plkace wheren our kids feel safe and loved by those who teach them!
—Submitted by a parent

The best staff and terrific envolvement with the students. My kid loves dchooll
—Submitted by a parent

Our school is full of wonderful, caring, and extraordinary people- parents, teachers and staff alike- who make up a very supportive and enriching community for our children.
—Submitted by a parent

The teachers and pricnipal always place the kids needs first--before poltics.
—Submitted by a parent

Harlan is the type of school where the teachers and staff lead by example - they care about each and every child, regardless of whether they are former students. It is a warm, nurturing environment that is difficult to leave at the end of 5th grade! -Heidi Geissbuhler
—Submitted by a parent