John Van Lindley Elementary School

We were not heard as parents there either. They pretended to help but we barely saw improvements. The principal (Ms. Conaway) ignored our requests. We took both our children out and they are now in private school. I must say it was okay for one of the children, but just okay. They are both now in 3rd grade and still struggling to understand what they read. We do practice daily. We had to go over every homework with the children, often times having to explain things from the beginning. After a full day of work that became very frustrating. A few of the teachers there are very good, very committed. However, it's really a matter of luck if your child will have them or not because parents can't choose anything at Lindley. Too bad now we are spending more than we can afford to make sure they have a good education.
--Submitted by a parent

I was shocked by the scathing review written by an obviously bitter parent. While Merrie Conaway is not the most outstanding principal in the world, to blame her for a child being emotionally damaged is irrational. The teachers with whom I have come in contact at Lindley are caring and qualified and the student body is racially and socioeconomically diverse. My children have shared classrooms with children of wealthy professionals, as well as "poor" immigrants new to this country, which has deepened both their compassion for others as well as their drive to succeed. Extra help is readily offerred to those who need it, while extra challenges are available to those who seek them. For those who take responsibility for their own children's emotional well-being, want them to master academics, and learn to succeed in many circumstances, rather than only those that cater to them, Lindley is a good choice.
--Submitted by a parent

We have spent almost three years at this school and I have never seen so much emotional abuse and irresponsible leadership in my entire life. The principal doesn't care about the childen, she cares about everything "appearing" great, while the teacher's have free reign over treating students and guilting them at will. I still cannot understand, even after hearing similar stories from other parents, how this school still is ran by whom it is and how it receives great ratings. I am moving to make sure my youngest daughter never steps foot in this school.
--Submitted by a parent

I feel my children are safe and cared about at Lindley Elementary. Every teacher my fourth grader has had has really been involved with us. I can't wait to send my five year old to kindergarten.
--Submitted by a parent