South Park Elementary Center

We are new to this side of the country and although I feel that academically, the school is great and my child learned many new things, I think that the distict and a great portion of this area has forgotten that they are children who should be given the allowance of playtime beyond their 1 recess a day. In my own experience as a teacher, my students always did better with a few little breaks. I also believe that schools should be helping my child grow in all areas, socially, physically, and mentally. I also don't like how I have very little access to MY child. I would love to be more active in his school and know the parents of the other students but it is near impossible to do much of anything. In a new community it would be nice to actually feel like you fit in and I know my child did not for the majority of the year. Childhood is short, would it be so bad to let them be little and enjoy it?
--Submitted by a parent

I have 3 children in this school and believe it has been wonderful in their development. We had lived in a district with supposedly great ratings and my oldest never thrived or did as well as he does here. The teachers are completely warm and really seem to care about the children as if they were their own. They don't just push them through. The teachers, nurse, office personnel, etc. really seem to get to know each and every child. To me that's more than just a school, it's an extended family.
--Submitted by a parent

The parents who offer poor ratings of this wonderful school must not be aware of how hard the staff at SPEC work. I have been at the school well past school hours only to see a parking lot full of teachers still in their classrooms trying to prepare an environment that is both nurturing and academic. My daughter has had an amazing experience at the school over the past 2 years and there is nothing I would change about it. If you take on a positive role as a parent and not expect a teacher or school to raise your child for you, you will be very impressed with this facility. I would suggest South Park School District to anyone who was interested in moving to the South Hills.
--Submitted by a parent

I've had 2 children in this school district for 6 years. This year my husband & I made the decision to take both children out. I feel the teaching is sub-par, at best. I understand the 'awe' that parents are in when they see the beautiful new facilities their children will attend, however, a shiny new building does not equal quality equcation. When my children enrolled in their new schools we were told they are already 14-18 months behind, academically . As college educated professional parents, it is our job to ensure our children have every opportunity to become successful adults. Parents who rave South Park is fantastic need to do their research and realize the only thing the new schools have done is raise already high taxes. We have moved to a district that also has new schools (and high taxes) so money is not the basis of my review.
--Submitted by a parent

I have 2 children in this school. I am very pleased and confident that they are in good hands. They have had such wonderful teachers for the most part. The principal is the icing on the cake. He is wonderful. I have seen nothing but positive changes since he has been a part of the 'team'. All of the staff seem to have been positively affected by his leadership. I feel lucky to have my children in this environment all day. Good job!!
--Submitted by a parent

My child is in Kindergarten this year. Everyone has been welcoming and helpful. The teacher are remarkable and they really care about the kids. It is a shame to see negative parents bring down the score on such a great school.
--Submitted by a parent

The new Autistic classroom has been a wonderful addition to the school. My son has done extremely well and the teacher is top notch.
--Submitted by a parent

The office staff are not pleasant very often if at all. The children with any kind of special needs will be pushed through the cracks unless you are very vigilant as parents. Please do not depend on the school to make all of the decisions for your child.
--Submitted by a parent

The emotional needs of the children are sorely ovelooked! The school is run like a military establishment. If you are looking for a carinmg environment, look elsewhere!
--Submitted by a parent

The facilities are wonderful. And while there are a good number of great teachers, you have to be careful of whose classroom your child is in every year. There is also a lack of opportunities for parental involvement! Aside from the teaching staff, the office workers and administration could use great improvement in making a more kid friendly, warm, welcoming environment.
--Submitted by a parent