Disston Hamilton School

I agree with these reviews. i myself am a student at Disston Elementary. The students are disrespectful tot eh teachers, staff, and their peers. Everyone's cussing and always wants to fight someone and the staff mostly just goes along with it. Some people are saying, "The parents should do it, the parents, the parents," I disagree, the parents don't care. The school is absolutely atrocious and someone needs to bring order to the school. I wish I could go back to my previously attended school which has a higher-curriculum with teachers, staff, and students more dedicated to their work.

its ok in school but some how its a weird school.but i love every bit of it.
--Submitted by a student

Teachers and staff are good but the horrid behavior and actions of the students that attend this school makes it a nightmare. My child has improved educationally but has socially declined since transferring to Disston. There needs to be continuous strides to improve the behavior of the students and parent involvement.
--Submitted by a parent

I am very impressed with Disston. The Kindergarten Teacher that my son has is to be commended. Mrs. Lehermann is very dedicated to taking care of my son. He is very challenging, but she never gives up. I am also impressed with the principal as well. I think that my son is getting a great education.
--Submitted by a parent

I totatly disagree with the postings on this site. I think Roberta Besden is one of the best principals I have ever come across and I have come across many. The parental involvement is almost nonexistant. I am an involved parent and have 3 children at this school and have been very happy. Yes some of the children are out of control but that is the parents fault..not the teachers. Parents must realize that school is a place to learn and that comes from home. Ms. Kelly,Ms. Bromley,Ms.Barcus,Ms.schloss, the Vice Principle is excellent as well. Mrs. Besden..another great(principle)Gym Teacher...great! I can go on and on. I attend all the home and school meetings and I am one of about 5 so all the parents who are unhappy why not come to a home and school meeting and lets make a difference for the better. Only we can change the system! Thanks!
--Submitted by a parent

This school is bad and good. Some teachers are bad and some are good. The principal is sweet and kind but some teachers think they own everything.
--Submitted by a parent

The teachers, particularly those who taught my son in the lower grades, are very dedicated. It seems that there is a problem with disciplining disruptive students, though, especially those in the upper grades.
--Submitted by a parent

This school is lacking, every thing. My 12 yr. was falling behind, the teacher was more annoyed than helpful, my daughter withdrew all together. The teacher waited way months before contacting me, only after a lesson was way beyond a 5th grader grasp was incomplete. The principle was unreachable until I brought in a lawyer. the vice principle is more than distracted during at least seven conversation. Distracted by the chaos of fighting students daily. the school had no helpful hints.
--Submitted by now homeschooling, a parent

The administration needs improvement. There needs to be disipline in this school. The students are disrespectfull. Some of the staff are very rude. There are a few very good teachers there, that have been there for years, these teachers honestly care about the kids and thats why they have stayed for so long, if your child is fortunate enough to get one of these teachers then you are very lucky. My child will not be returning next year. I have found a much better school.
--Submitted by Concerned Mom, a parent

We had an bullying incident with my 11 year old and I must say that the situation was handled immediately and to mine and my daughter's satisfaction. She has 2 more years there and she loves it now! She has excelled in class and extra curricular activities as well as became a member of the Disston Dragons. All in all I'd say they are making a turn for the better.
--Submitted by a parent