Dennis B. O'Brien Elementary School

A great staff! Very committed to ensuring students have a great educational experience. Two thumbs up.
--Submitted by a teacher

My son has had very difficult to manage ADHD; I give his teachers a LOT of credit for being able to think outside the box to provide a positive academic environment for him. The teachers have the ability to make the necessary modifications to the way they teach, and I love the open communication.
--Submitted by a parent

There has been a big change to the school a new Principal will start the school year and there is now a play ground Two one in the front and one in the rear of the school there was security for the school but they lost that due to budget cuts the staff is great and helpful with the parents and children alot of the older postings have been outdated now with all the changes taking place

As a room parent at DBO, I must say that we have no control over who may come into the classroom. I also agree that if you want to see any change, attend the PTA meetings, or, if that is not possible, contact them. They can't help if they don't know our concerns!
--Submitted by a parent

Any parent who has concerns about the quality of their child's school should be attending the PTA meetings to state their issues and work on resolving them. As someone who attends most of the DBO PTA meetings, I can tell you that the teachers and students do really care. If you are so concerned about there not being a playground, then vote on the budget and work on getting new playground equiptment (which by the way was only on hold until they knew what was going to happen with the expansion). I too am frustrated by the room mother's communication, and as a working mother am at their mercy. I have been turned down for field trips and participation in special days almost as a punishment for not being able to be involved more regularly. But, unfortunately, I think this happens in all schools and is a problem with society, not DBO.
--Submitted by a parent

There is no playground for the older children (1-5) to play on. They have to 'hang out' on a black top. This school practices group punishment. One child misbehaves, the rest of the class loses recess also. Most teachers are cold and unyielding. I have listened to several speak much too harshly to a child for very minor infractions. Too much attitude among the staff and WAY too many videos watched during acedemic time. A documentary on MLK or US judicial system is acceptable. The Lion King and Jimmy Neutron Movie are not. The librarian frequently shows Reading Rainbow videos to the younger students after they have checked out their weekly book. What happened to reading a book to the children? Difficult for parents to participate in school with parties, activities, field trips. Designated 'Room Parents' don't provide information or opportunities for other parents to help.
--Submitted by a parent

Good school due to the great staff. They actually care for the children's development as well as thier well being. The building appears somewhat under funded though. I would definatly recommend this school.
--Submitted by a parent

This school has been a big disappointment. The Principal lacks leadership and discipline qualities which reflects in the teacher's attitudes. The inmates are running the asylum not only in this school but the entire district.
--Submitted by a parent