McAlpine Elementary School

Two years in McAlpine so far an it's been a great experience. The teachers are dedicated and really care. Principle Saxton is a very involved, energetic leader who is able to connect with the children. Communication with parents is good and parents are greatly encouraged to get involved in a variety of ways.
—Submitted by a parent

FIRST IMPRESSIONS: I am a grandfather of a child entering kindergarten at McAlpine. Based on a very well organized and comprehensive "Beginner's Day" presentation by teachers, staff and PTA, I am impressed and confident that the next 6 years of schooling for my granddaughter will be and enjoyable and productive experience for her. I am particularly impressed by the competency and caring of the principal, Ernest Saxton, the three kindergarten teachers who are returning this coming school-year, and the active involvement of the PTA. I'll check-in at the end of the year to give you feedback on how the kindergarten experience turned out...
—Submitted by a parent

Five years at McAlpine Elementary has been very good. the principal had good ideas of renovating the 1984 building, and the teacher history there is very good.. Some of Americas best teachers were there. Nice staff, and very good technology. 5 stars!

I just finished my first year as a McAlpine parent and it has been wonderful. I think sometimes the negative reviews come from a bad experience or a parent being either too demanding or taking something personally. Our child's teacher has been amazing and the leadership including Principal Saxton has been phenomenal. Interestingly, it's the parents that complain that also are least involved in the school. If you don't like something, get involved and don't hide behind online posts. This is a terrific school and a great sign that public education is alive and well.
—Submitted by a parent

We are thrilled with our experience at this school. A new principal two years ago brought many new ideas and a new energy to the school. While many people don't like change, the fact is that the new principal has implemented many wonderful programs: from character education to launching a first-of-its-kind Journalism Club run by students to creating a hands-on outdoor science garden. The principal gives teachers the flexibility they need to teach students any way they see fit in order to get the job done, and is focused on making sure that ALL students learn.
—Submitted by a parent

Every teacher that each of my children have had at McAlpine have been excellent. We love McAlpine not only for its quality education but its hometown feel.
—Submitted by a parent

School going downhill, good teachers leaving and a very poor principal is not a good combination. I had the exact experience as previous reviewer where I felt my child should be held back and the principal will not allow him to. Even the teachers, specialist and doctors agreed he should not advance. This principal could care less about the best interest of the students. He is disconnected and is just trying to advance his career. He doesn't even know most kids names. IMO a big phony...Pathetic!
—Submitted by a parent

I gave a 3 star rating for a few reasons. The school itself is nice, McAlpine really does have amazing teachers. I have only come across one teacher that was so BAD, but she has since left on her own. No one is going to love what every teacher does and that's fine. However the leadership/Principal is most times very arrogant and rude. He feels only his opinion is the correct one and puts a good front. Wait until you need to speak with him about ANY issues. You'll see true colors. I really dislike the way McAlpine has changed over the recent years...It's sad. The teachers work hard but it doesnt seem to be good enough for the principal
—Submitted by a parent

So angry at Principal Ernest Saxton right now. I have been a parent of 2 children to go here over the past 7 years. My daughter excelled and so we had no issues. My son has struggled for 4 years and now when we would like to hold him back, he said it wasn't up to his parents, but up to the principal and he said no. He doesn't even know who my son is!! My son is dyslexic and always the smallest kid in the class. He wouldn't even allow me a retention meeting that I requested. NOT HAPPY!!
—Submitted by a parent

We had ups and downs with this school. The first year we loved it with a teacher that challenged the kids and kept them ALL learning. Then we had a horrendous year with a teacher that shouldn't be teaching young kids. Then we had another wonderful year. This year they did away with the TD catalyst program and the kids aren't being challenged. I am very disappointed in that since our magnet option is Barringer. With 3 kids in this school, I am only hoping that my kids will be prepared to enter junior high. I had to homeschool a bit just to ensure that myself since they are now so negative about challenging kids and having the TD catalyst class. They are only concerned with bringing up the kids that are struggling to keep up their overall score.
—Submitted by a parent

This school changed principals 3 times while my children attended. Each prinipal was more apathetic and non-responsive than the last. I had chosen this school during the short time when CMS allowed school choice. I switched back to my homeschool Smithfield when my younger son was entering 3rd grade (2009-2010). What a difference! Wish I had sent them both to Smithfield from the beginning. If your child is average you will do fine at McAlpine. If they are more advanced and need to be challenged, forget McAlpine. Also, leadership is unresponsive, uncaring and often rude. Hopefully things have changed in the last year but I can tell you that from K-2, my son was absolutely NOT challenged.
—Submitted by a parent

McAlpine is a great school. This is my first year there as a parent and I can't say enough positive things about the school. My child loves school and it makes me happy knowing that she jumps out of bed every day and can't wait to get to class to see her friends and her teacher. The school is made for kids. I love it.
—Submitted by a parent

I thought McAlpine's curriculum night was very informative. It was different than in the pass and I think the teachers were well prepared. The teachers really care about the students.
—Submitted by a parent

This school is the kind you want your elementary child to walk into every day !! The leadership is strong, the Principal is organized, open, friendly and listens and most of all puts the children's needs first. The atmosphere is warm and friendly like a little family, and the teacher's are excellent, many are board certified or working toward it. The teacher's really get to know the child as a whole and help with indiviudal personal success. Very strong parental involvement and PTA. Teacher's had a comprehensive and enriching CE course teaching them how to challenge the students by thinking critically, giving them more skills & tools. Academically challanging, celebrates personal and school successes when one achieves we all achieve ! I know my children are at the right school and wholeheartedly agree with the previous review. McAlpine is special and your child will be nurtured, challanged, prepared and motivated !!
—Submitted by a parent

I cannot sing the praises of this school loudly enough! the teachers and administrators genuinely care about all children here. As a former elementary school teacher, I have to admit that I was looking for something...Anything to be amiss. Would my child be challenged? Would his intellect and creativity be fostered? Yes! I am beyond impressed at every turn. Mcalpine is a special place where your child will be nurtured, challenged, prepared, and motivated.
—Submitted by a parent

McAlpine is a wonderful school. The new staff has brought great things to the school and it is stronger than it has ever been. We love it here.
—Submitted by a parent

I love McAlpine Elementary School. There has been a great turn around at the school and it has been for the BETTER. We wouldn't want to go anywhere else.
—Submitted by a parent

Obliviously some of the negative comments made previously are from parents who do not know sound educational practices when they see them. ALL children are challenged and given the opportunity to grow and learn in a fun environment at McAlpine - not just the 'smart' kids. My neighbors complain about the way their children spend their recess and lunch time - IT IS SCHOOL! They can play and talk to their friends all afternoon at home. I am glad that my child's teacher in the field with her class playing games as a class. And lunch time- if we really want our children to compete globally, we should be discussing how can we get more READING, MATH and SCIENCE time, not when can the kids talk to each other. I am proud of the direction my daughter's school is moving in! Keep up the good work, McAlpine!
—Submitted by a parent

I have a third and second grader at McAlpine. Although we did loose a lot of teachers last year, it has been for the better. The staff is fresh and open to creative teaching. For example, the librarian had a pumpkin decorating contest where each class dressed a pumpkin as a book character and the children had to write clues to help the other children figure out who the book character. There has been lots of emphasis on science this year while maintaining a strong focus on math and literacy. The children are grouped by ability which has helped meet the needs of my children. The principals door is always open and the office staff makes you feel welcomed. Parents are very involved and their assistance is welcomed by the teachers. I have been extremely pleased with McAlpine.
—Submitted by a parent

I love this school. We are slated to rezone next year and I have the option to stay because of a rising 5th grader. We are definately leaning to staying at such a great place. We truly feel at home here and love the families and the teachers and the staff. I am impressed with my children's teachers and the level of education they are receiving. the teachers are zoned in on my child's needs and abilities and place them where they get the most for thier level. I have 3 children currently at this school and cannot say enough great things about it.
—Submitted by a parent