Highland Park Elementary School

This school touts its International Baccalaureate program, but few teachers are practicing it. Inquiry based learning is not evident in the classroom, there is chalk & talk, but little hands on learning besides residencies. Creativity is stifled and viewed as studio arts rather than applied to everyday learning and critical thinking. Math is not a focus, only reading. There seems to be a lack of collaboration between teachers. There are several older teachers who are "old school." Most teachers appear disgruntled. The principal seems to have no time for parents and their concerns. School hallways are quiet and doors closed. I rarely see students engaged in their learning or see the joy of learning. This school has feminized education, there is only 1 male teacher and 1 male specialist. Active boys are not championed at this school, but treated as a problem. Gifted boy learners are not championed. In terms of a global perspective, the student body is diverse, but there is a lack of cultural diversity and sensitivity with the staff. There are no celebrations for African, African American or Hmong holidays and these groups make up a majority of the population.
--Submitted by a parent

The intentions are good, a few teachers are spectacular, but as a whole the school misses the mark on valuing academics. The big all school events - the carnival, the rhymic movement program -- are fine, but there are few parallels that promote classroom achievement. The reward for particpating in the read-a-thon was a "no homework pass." ???? really?
--Submitted by a parent

Perhaps, this school should consider limiting classes to kindergarten thru second grade. After second grade the quality declines significantly. Perhaps, because there is little support for the average learner. My experience this year is beyond disappointing.
--Submitted by a parent

I went to highland park elemantry And it was wonderful my duaghter loves it! she just loves there park and her friends there
--Submitted by a parent

woo woo woo woo woo woo woo woo woo woo woow woo woo woo woow w w w w w w w w l o o o o o o o l ww ww ww ww w w w w w w

Its our community....I love it that the 5th grade teachers made it a priority to know my kids in kindergarten.
--Submitted by a parent

International Baccalaureate school. Embraces and celebrates cultural diversity!

There is a wonderful team of dedicated, caring and innovative teachers and staff.

What a great environment for my daughter!. This school is dynamic, parent involvement is fantastic and my daughter is challenged every day. Her self esteem blooms every day. I love the atmosphere just walking in the door.
--Submitted by a parent

I have had children at Highland Park Elementary continuously for the past 14 years. I have found the quality of the administration, staff, and parents to be extremely high. The curriculum has always been first-rate. For me the proof lies in the outcome. My children have done well as they have moved on to junior high, high school, and college.
--Submitted by Ron Weisman, a parent