W A Bess Elementary School

I am more disappointed this year than ever, My child is fifth grade and you would think the parents would be wanted & needed to help as much as you can, not limit the help only by the grade parent, The teachers are the most rudest no personality , I acyually have a issue with one teacher that I should had taken to the principle , Parents want to be involved , Teachers has there own little click...And another thing all this school ever wants is money, money, MONEY, What are they doing with the money? They justify what they do , but no actuall proof......
—Submitted by a parent

I would not recomend this school to anyone. The teachers and principle continued to harass my children and make them feel very unimportant. This school Is not family friendly.
—Submitted by a parent

I am forced to give this school 1 star. It deserves zero stars. We are working parents and attend as many events as possible. The teachers seem nice but teach our kids nothing, and do not treat all children equal.
—Submitted by a parent

Excellent School! The teachers and principal are fantastic. There is also a great after school program close by in Carolina Galaxy. I would say this is the best school in Gaston County!
—Submitted by a parent

I am sad to say after 8 years of sending my girls to this school this is the last year I will get to have my children attend this school I still remember my oldest daughters first day she was scared to death but her teachers were so nice but straight to the point of what she was there for just put our minds to rest about any concerns we had a great start I think even though we have had some issues with some teachers all of the teachers that my oldest daughter had helped us to raise an A honor roll,AIG, beta club,bible club,battle of the books club child out of a very shy little girl and for that I am very grateful to tim and his entire staff but mostly my daughter that I am very proud of she loves this school and so do I God Bless
—Submitted by a parent

I was appalled to read such stellar reviews of W.A.Bess. I had heard this was a great school, and had my son attend kindergarten there. It was the worst mistake of my life, thus far. I am a former teacher, and have lived in many different parts of the U.S. My son's self-esteem plummeted; his individuality and creativity were stifled; he began to have behavior problems. All of the childrens' work looks exactly the same. The teacher, although nice, did not teach my son anything he didn't already know when he started the year. If you want to give a school here the title, 'School of Excellence'...go to Gaston Day School!
—Submitted by a parent

Definitely an above average school. My son has been there since Kindergarten and will be attending 2nd grade this fall. The teachers are excellent and the school gets good marks for achievement from the State and Federal govt. My only complaint is security could be better and safety during drop off and pick up of your child. The parking lot is a free for all and getting into the parking lot is a accident waiting to happen.
—Submitted by a parent

Wonderful school! I had children there for 9 years; the youngest finished 5th grade there last spring. We miss Bess terribly. My children recieved a top notch education there, and were always loved and encouraged by wonderful teachers and adminstration. The programs there challenge gifted students and also help those who struggle work to their ability. There is a lot of parent involvement and they do a great job raising money to purchase extra computers, books, sports equipment, and other things to provide the teachers and students with the extras that make a big difference in the quality of education offered. The principal and his staff are always available to address any concerns. Communication from the school to the parents is great.
—Submitted by a parent

I am very pleased with this school. We moved here in June, so my child started 5th grade at Bess. New school, new challenges, new friends, and her teachers have helped her transition beautifully. She is encouraged in her strengths, like reading, and supported in subjects that present more challenges, such as math. The school deserves the awards and recognition they have been accorded. I'd rate this school at the top of the class!
—Submitted by a parent

Excellent school of the highest degree. Teachers and staff are courteous and helpful when dealing with children who need extra help or more incentive to do their best. School consistently meets and exceeds all of my expectations for my children.
—Submitted by a parent