Rashkis Elementary School

I have to agree somewhat with the previous posts. It does seem to be all about test scores and when teachers do creative and fun things they seem to get pinched by the administration. The administration is very weak and distant. They seem to have almost no people skills and from the staff members I've talked to, morale is at an all time low. It's such a shame because I think we have some really strong teachers and parents.
—Submitted by a parent

As a student at Rashkis, I have had a bad experience. The principal was awful (at least the previous one, now they have a new principal which I don't know what she's like since I left this school). Anyway, all the previous principal cared about was scores so she doubled up your math and reading and that's why we were Honor school of excellence all the time. There was too much preparation for testing starting from January. The 4th grade teacher that I had used a lot of worksheets and taught only to the average student. ALso there is a huge problem with bullying as kids are rich and snobby and do not get into trouble for bullying. There a lot of cliques with parents as everyone knows each other. Rashis is not a good school if you do not fit perfectly into one of their cliques.

The parent that posted May 28, 2011 described an experience that I am having right now with my child. The assessment is SLOW, and the above average student suffers. However, I am holding out judgement right now because I've just had a meeting with the brand new principal, and she seemed receptive, and, I am hoping, may be able to help to improve the situation at Rashkis for the above average students. However, it has been very discouraging to me so far.
—Submitted by a parent

Looks are deceiving - looks great from the outside, but it is in need of help on the inside. I have had 2 children attend this school - it's been very difficult for them due to the bullying that is rampant. There is inadequate leadership from teachers and (former) principal re this issue. Scores are everything and they will go to ANY length to ensure those scores, as PRESTIGE is more important than raising well rounded children. They double up the daily math and reading time to reach those high scores, yet social studies and science are given short shrift, except in 5th grade. Teacher's jobs depend on these scores and some will go to all lengths (not all ethical) to keep theirs. I never fully understood what teaching to the test fully meant until we came to this school. Nonetheless, they did NOT make AYP in 2011. As for gifted education, the whole school is all about saving money, and teaching to the average student. Stay away from this school if you need special education unless you have an attorney - go to Seawell instead. There are better schools out there - don't let the scores fool you as they did me. The school culture is the real problem.
—Submitted by a parent

It's a very nice building, and probably a good school for a student at or below grade level progress. If your child's progress is well above average, the school is not very supportive nor well run to handle those students. Assessment is slow, and there isn't much meaningful education available for kids well above average progress -- it's left to the teacher's abilities, time, and inclination. There's little support for advanced learners. The focus seems to be heavily on just passing the end of grade tests.
—Submitted by a parent

Nice, spacious, clean and safe. The faculty and staff care deeply about the student. Great leadership. Teachers challenge each student to his/her fullest potential. Hardworking teachers. Vibrant PTA and a very diverse school.
—Submitted by a parent

The family spirit and inclusive environment make this a hugely successful school.
—Submitted by a teacher

This is be far the best elementary school in chapel hill area. The student population is excellent with diversity. This is the newest element school in the area with nice environment and facility. The principal has great leadership and the teachers are well qualified and love kids. I have both my kids in the school, and couldn't be happier.
—Submitted by a parent

This is second year of my 2nd grade son, and I deeply appreciate the systematic organization of the Rashkis Elementary school. The principal's leadership looks excellent and the teachers' ability is very high.
—Submitted by a parent