Wild Horse Elementary School

As a parent of a 5th and 1st grader I can honestly say that Wild Horse is a phenomenal place to learn and grow. From catering to individual learning styles to serving in the community, we couldn't be happier with the teachers our children have had in the classroom and in specials. The new principal truly 'gets' and cares about the kids, family and his staff...and truly encourages parent involvement. The 'vibe' at WH is a wonderful blessing and we are thankful for all the Staff and Teachers there who dedicate their lives to our children.
—Submitted by a parent

We moved to the district because Rockwood had a great reputation, but I wish we had done more homework. Rockwood has the second highest tax rate (2012) of the "premier" schools in the area, but ranks after Brentwood, Clayton, Kirkwood, Lindbergh, Ladue, Parkway and Webster Groves in per student spending, average teacher salary and average class size. There are 23 students in my child's kindergarten class with no aide. Added to that, Rockwood is one of only four districts in Missouri where parents still have to pay for full-time kindergarten. The new principal does seem to be engaged with the children, but I would agree with the posters below that the attitude is that the teachers can do no wrong and if there is an issue, it has to be the kid's/parent's fault. I also think there should be more emphasis in the classroom on encouragement and pointing out the positive, rather than emphasizing the negative. Maybe that is what's required to maintain control when the class size is so large. Suffice it to say, so far, we're really disappointed. Positives: Would agree with the comments about the music and art teachers, and the Adventure Club staff - they at least are great.
—Submitted by a parent

I agree with the positing regarding the lazy leadership. It's sad, but the principal was promoted in the school district. Also, since the teachers union is so powerful, it is very difficult for a parent to express any issues with the teaching staff. The principal at the time , who has been promoted, did not assist us when my child's teacher was extremely "negative" with our child and other children. This teacher has many complaints (kids coming home crying, etc..) . We also moved our kids out of this school.
—Submitted by a parent

No action on bullying, lazy leadership. I agree that the music teacher is great, and would add that the art teacher and Adventure Club staff are wonderful. That said, the school failed to address a bullying issue other than to run from responsibility and attempting to redefine the word bullying to justify their lack of effort. After working on this for months with them we finally pulled our kids out. They also lost our child for part of a day and did not notify us, nor did they offer any apologies or take action once we notified them of same. They promote themselves as "the best" and as such fail to acknowledge or learn from faults. If you do not mind working around a lazy, self-congratulatory leadership it is otherwise a decent school, and if Rockwood fixed the leadership issue this could easily be a three or four star school.
—Submitted by a parent

The music teacher alone would warrant 5 stars-- but everyone here is top notch. The dedication never ends when the school day is over.
—Submitted by a parent

This school has been wonderful to me and my children! They care about the childrens education and #1 on parent contact. The teachers are great we've been here since k both of my child attend this school if you are looking for a great school Wild Horse Elementary is it!
—Submitted by a parent

Wildhorse has an amazing principle that has surrounded herself with a great team of teachers. They are innovate in trying new approaches to learning. the special services that are provided to the students that need them are great.
—Submitted by a parent

has wonderful programs music and special ed . staff excellent and find joy in their job.

I believe the school is a great school not because of the principal. I think her leadership is bad. I have seen her in action and she does'nt for the students only results.
—Submitted by a parent

I love this school! My kids get more attention because smaller classes and the teachers are all so caring and they really work with my kids and focus on any areas they may need help on.
—Submitted by a parent

What an awesome school. Parents are welcomed at any time and the staff could not be more helpful and friendly. The curriculum is top rate. We love this school and so do all our neighbors.
—Submitted by a parent

Our child has been attending Wildhorse for 4 years and has had an incredible experience since kindergarden. Two district Teachers of the Year, excellent test scores and enrollment in the districts Center for Creative learning (Talented and Gifted program). She does math a full year ahead of her class and is reading at the 6th grade level. Her teachers have been kind, caring and attentive. They encourage classroom participation so truly what we as parents put into the program we get out again. There has been a total shakeup of the senior staff including principle, vice-principal and secretarial staff. The PTO is strong and encourages parent participation. All in all an enthusiastic endorsement for the school.
—Submitted by a parent