Holly Springs Elementary School

Small school feel, they do a tremendous amount for the kids. Always have family activities throughout the year. We know everyone in the office by first name. They are all extremely nice and will go out of their way to ensure the kids are learning in a safe environment.
—Submitted by a parent

This is the third elementary school my son has attended and so I am definitely speaking from experience when I say that this is by far the best elementary school in our area. The Principal, Mr. Harris runs a very tight ship and that carries down to all areas - including the car pool line. I have to completely disagree with the post below because HSES' car pool line is extremely efficient and sets the tone for how the school handles every aspect of the school day. Mr. Harris was involved in my son's academic progress and failures and never missed an opportunity to provide motivation and support to both of us. The teachers in turn follow this same philosophy and were clearly invested in trying to help my son reach his full learning potential. Thank you all for a truly wonderful 5th grade year.
—Submitted by a parent

They do a lot that doesn't make sense. The car pool is a mess, all the do is constantly wave at everyone to pull up even when the cars are stopped and you cant pull up. When at the cross walk to let a child pass the teacher who is suppose to be the crossing guard is waving me to pull forward anyway. I stop at cross walks on school grounds, they can get over it. If the staff was a little less concerned about waving everyone forward, and actually just unload/load the kids in front of them things would move faster. I tried walk to get her on nice days, but I am not allowed since she is not in the "walk zone" even though we live .4 miles from the school. If we want to walk we have to send a note that day in the morning or call the school, I cant just decide to walk because it is nice. Then they want to check my ID, but not in the carpool. I think a kidnapper would drive before they walk One day a month my child has a day to bring snacks to the whole class, I put them in her book bag, but her teacher does not think to look there and instead sends a note home saying we forgot. She is in Kindergarden, so I she doesn't remember. Now I have to make sure she tells them to look in her bag.
—Submitted by a parent

WOW! What a wonderful school. New asst Principal is o.k. This school is loaded with great teachers. Like Ms. M. in 1st, Ms. P. in 2nd, and Mr. T. in 3rd. Overall, great school.
—Submitted by a parent

We moved from NYC to Holly Springs Elem. mid-year in Kindergarten and I was worried what might happen to my child's education when moving south. Well, it has been amazing. My son has thrived in this school and his teachers and all the Specials they have are 100x better than what we had experienced in NY. I am proud to be part of this school.
—Submitted by a parent

The teachers are the best!!
—Submitted by a parent

Wonderful principal and new assistant principal... and the teachers are first rate! There are very few that could be considered 'average'. This school suffers mostly because of the Wake County School board, in my opinion... and we've been there for 5 years and have served as PTA chairs and volunteers from day 1. Like all Wake County schools, the school's hands are tied by the incomprehensible school board, by not being allowed or able to discipline appropriately and by never having enough money in the budget. Overall, this school is a GEM for Holly Springs - far better than any in the area, with the best teachers and staff around.
—Submitted by a parent

My son is in 1st grade and so far he has had one great teacher and one average. Overall the school does very well in keeping kids safe. I think the principal is great but have to admit that I am not too happy with the vice principal. I believe that the academics are tough but not too overwhelming. Wish there was more help for those students that are lagging behind but are not failing. I carpool because I think the transportation could use improvement. Also should let a wider area walk to school (very limited). Worried about the switch to year round though. Do not know how the transition will go the first year. I like the fact that parents can be involved as much or as little as they want without pressure. Wish they had a volunteer program to watch infants like some other local schools.
—Submitted by a parent

One Great teacher and one below average teacher. Principal and Assistant Principal seem disjoined and staff does there on thing.
—Submitted by a parent

What the asst. principal lacks the principal makes up for. My child had one outstanding teacher and one below average teacher. I encourage parents to be involved with activities so you can have a close relationship with staff. My son did feel safe at school.
—Submitted by a parent