Olde Providence Elementary School

This school is the worst! My son was so far behind I decided to withdraw him and homeschool. We eventually put him in a private school where they are trying to "catch him up". The teachers at OP have a nasty attitude of "us vs. the parents and students" which is something you see a lot of in CMS. They blame the parents for everything and are never held accountable for their own failures as teachers. Our public school system is so sad. Kids deserve better!
--Submitted by a parent

We too had to withdraw our child form this school due to the poor learning conditions that we experienced. The administration is dishonest, horrible and quite unwilling to work with you. Who knew when we bought into this district that it would be the worst mistake we ever made. STEER CLEAR OF OP! NOT the place to be!
--Submitted by a parent

My twins have been at this school since kindergarten and are now entering their final year. I think this is a very good school for advanced learners. My kids have been challenged in the advanced math and writing classes, and as a part of the talent development program. The physical education teacher is amazing and makes sure that the kids have a healthy balance of education and physical exercise while still having fun. She is amazingly dedicated to these kids. There is also a very healthy diversity of race, religion and culture to be found at this school. The parents are very heavily involved which I think is key to making this a top notch school. As a single mom I am very greatful to all of the moms who are able to dedicate so much time to the school and kids.
--Submitted by a parent

I have one in OP and one who is now in 6th grade after finishing at OP...I have nothing but good things to say about the school...I love the special attention that is given to the younger kids and the activities for the older ones. I think the teachers are doing a great job and look forward to the final years I have at OP..
--Submitted by a parent

Typical of CMS in general, there is a culture of dishonesty among administrators and office staff are frequently rude. PTA is hardworking, but money could be spent more wisely. Volunteers are very welcome. Most teachers are great as are the kids. Parents range from 25 % overachievers to 75% apathetic. 'Special Subjects' each day get the kids excited to go. Differing levels of teaching is good but acknowledges that some kids are left behind early in school.
--Submitted by a parent

Teachers talk down to parents and are not open to communications that they do not initiate
--Submitted by a parent

As a parent of an OP student, I agree with staff that young siblings should not be able to attend in class events. I have seen parents and been guilty of not watching younger siblings as they wonder around the class. This is a law suit waiting to happen. I also have had a student that had learning differences, and he was not labeled as 'AD/HD' and just passed off. The staff really did try and make a difference. It sounds to me that the prior parent was disgruntled with Olde Providence for reasons .
--Submitted by a parent

I agree 'downward spiral' for OP. At OP, you used to be able to bring siblings to school when you were a volunteer (becuase they actually welcomed any volunteer with open arms); teachers here used to not be condescending to parents; they used to be in better contact; and used to care if a child was falling behind, not just label them as AD/HD and pass them off. Custodial & Cafeteria staff is wonderful & has remained positive, always smiling, always have something nice to say; Overall, the morale at OP has dramatically reduced over the years..what happened, OP?? Not returning......
--Submitted by a parent

I have two children who attend OP and have been actively involved in the school for years. This is an excellent school. The staff is highly trained, the administrative competent and responsive and the principals are of the highest quality. I can't imagine wanting or needing anything from an elementary school not present here. The principal has a open door policy for parents and expects teachers to model the same attitude. The PTA and SLT are among the best and most active in the county. At Olde Providence you get a 'private' quality education at a public school. We at OP hope to keep our uncrowded, responsive, academically challenging, warm and open school a unspoiled jewel in the CMS crown.
--Submitted by a parent

We have two children enrolled at Olde Providence and are active in class-specific volunteering as well as the PTA. From the principal to the Custodial Staff, everyone that I and my wife have encountered exude professional proficiency and enthusiasm. It is no wonder that this is a feeder into one of the nations top performing High Schools.
--Submitted by Casey Shannon, a parent