Okte Elementary School

Great programs, caring teachers and staff, great use of resources
—Submitted by a parent

it's smaller and feels like a neighborhood school. the teachers know all the kids and there's a wonderful caring vibe. both my children had IEPs and the staff at this staff were so amazing at helping them succeed!
—Submitted by a parent

My son went there. It is like one of the old time school houses. The techers know all the kids and really care for them.
—Submitted by a parent

Because it's not on the Shen main campus, Okte has more of a neighborhood school feel to it. And the Okte community is great.
—Submitted by a parent

Okte is a very good school. One thing I like is that it is more of a neighborhood school, and it's located off the huge Shen Campus. I like the focus on academics, and I would have to say that my child is doing much better than I ever imagined. However, it doesn't seem to be a very warm or nuturing place, but the kids are getting a good education. I guess no school is completely perfect.
—Submitted by a parent

I completely understand enforcing proper case usage. However, when taking a test, although a child spells the word correctly, it is unfathomable that the entire word will be marked incorrect if the word is spelled with the wrong case. Can't we give the students a little bit more confidence by giving them partial credit for spelling the word correctly? I thought building confidence and nurturing students was an important moral code of the school. Additionally, there are some teachers who are obviously 'tired' and should consider retirement, especially when the demeanor is negative and is easily read by not only the students, but parent volunteers as well. I believe that if a child's and teacher's personalities does not mesh, it is much more harmful to the student to be forced to stay in that class than to transfer the child to another teacher.
—Submitted by a parent

This is a school focused on bringing all children to a mediocre level and passing the tests. If one's kid is average, he/she will sail through. If one's kid ahead of the curve, he/she is kept back till everybody catches up. There is relatively little concern about little acts of aggression. I would avoid the school if I could.
—Submitted by a parent

First grade teacher, Mrs. Willams is worth moving to Clifton Park and having your children attend this school. I am in awe!
—Submitted by a parent

I have 2 children at this school.Both have minor learning issues. the staff has been wonderful in taking the time to diagnosis and form a plan of action to keep the kids on tract. Lots of positive reinforcement to given to all children. the staff makes a point to learn all the children names. Multilple programs are offered to reach out to all levels of learning if not in class than afterschool .
—Submitted by a parent

My child was not challenged although we tried to work with with the teacher and then the principal. My daughter was not allowed to read books she had already read and was capable of reading. The teacher made a statement that books such as Harry Potter would not be allowed because they were above grade level. The principal supported the teacher. The teacher ripped up homework if the name was missing. Some teachers are good in the school but some are horrible. The principle has lack of better judgement. Poor ability grouping, if any.
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter attended kindergarten and 1st grade here. The school is absolutely wonderful. I love the staff. My daughter's 1st grade teacher is exceptional! Mrs. Williams has many fun learning techniques that keep the children motivated and eager to learn. She challenges them and teaches them respect and responsibilty. She also encourages parent involvement in her classroom and works with the other 1st grade classrooms to hold recitals and plays to allow the children to show off their talents. My daugher loves her.
—Submitted by Sapna Patel, a parent

This school finds each child's need and works with them to keep them on track. The staff is friendly. the environment is welcoming. I have been surprised by a few staff member whom I had brief encounters with that later remembered me by name or my child's name. Parents are welcomed and encouraged in the class room.
—Submitted by a parent

We absolutely love this school. The learning environment is wonderful and everyone elicits such welcoming happy attitudes.
—Submitted by a parent