Elon Park Elementary School

We love Elon Park. The Teachers have been so wonderful and my daughter loves going to school.
—Submitted by a parent

This school may have good test scores, but it also has unhappy teachers. I know some of them personally and some admit they hate going to work. The leadership is very weak, some teachers are treated better than others, and cliques are everywhere. If this is the sort of environment our children are seeing, who knows what may rub off on them.

I totally agree with previous reviewer on bullying. My son is in 5th grade and absolutely no help from teacher. One of the 5th grade teacher makes most of her decisions based on your race, skin color. We regret coming to this school.
—Submitted by a parent

This school shows the utmost insensitivity. In this cliquish environment, mothers who wish to volunteer are turned away if siblings are with them. Teachers are unaware or choose to ignore bullying (student scapegoating one child in the class - calling names and threatening if s/he tells). No response from "counselor" or principal when approached about this. New students have no where to turn for help with a transition (so crucial at this age). Teachers are insensitive and uncaring - giving "awards", then not taking the time explain how students can be successful. This school may turn a child who formerly loved school and spends her/his time writing books, and learning about history and current events, into someone who loathes school. When a child cries daily after school, something is wrong. The job of the teacher is to help students feel capable so that they in turn will be successful. Clearly not happening at Elon Park. Attempts to go to upper administration are futile. No permanent superintendent is in place to handle concerns or to supervise this principal, who clearly has no interest in the welfare of students. Next stop: school board. Doubtful they'll care.

Overall this is a great school. Academically the level is very high and very strict regarding behavior. The school is a part of CMS and therefore some students may get lost in the beaurocratic large school district. As many schools in NC there are several rules regardless if they work for the kids or not school districts enforce them. Parents have to fight for for the services for their kids and continuously challenge school administration. Coming from Merrick NY I was very surprised at educational standards being so much higher but saw difference from more nurturing and kid friendly district in long Island NY.
—Submitted by a parent

I completed my student teaching experience at Elon Park and I absolutely enjoyed it. The administrative staffs were so cooperative and welcoming. Most of the teachers and support staffs that I got to know and worked with were warm and friendly. The best part of my experience was working with an extraordinary first grade teacher, whose love for her students, passion for teaching, unique ways of classroom management, creative lessons and etc. set nothing but good examples for me as a future teacher. I loved every single day that I was at Elon Park and hereby I thank the amazing staffs for giving me the opportunity to learn the best things.
—Submitted by a teacher

This is a great school with wonderful teachers and a great staff. I always see the principal. Maybe he read the comment before and started showing up more because he was at every ceremony and school activity. His concern for student safety is remarkable. A great principal and superb teachers and a friendly staff. I have no complaints about our school.
—Submitted by a parent

Great school! Teachers seem to enjoy the children and care for them. I have two boy who love it!
—Submitted by a parent

We were pleased with my son's first year at Elon Park. Most of the teachers are very friendly and well educated. I was pleased with my son's academic progress and he had a wonderful kindergarten teacher. The principal, however, does not seem to be involved in much of anything concerning the students. He was not at any award ceremonies my family attended. He's not visible in the halls during the day or outside in the mornings and afternoons as students are coming and leaving. I was quite disappointed with the administration this year. I gave the school a high rating though because it is a good school with mostly wonderful teachers who seem to really care for the kids.
—Submitted by a parent

Excellent 1st year at Elon Park.
—Submitted by a parent