Springfield Elementary School

It should be known that Springfield elementary is not equipt to handle children wtih learning differences. Their approach to specialized instruction is like a boxed lunch. It is a one size fits all mentality. If you are not within the larger than usual gifted population -take a look at the national average, (it kind of dilutes the purpose of gifted and talented) be prepared to have your child feel inadequate. They are incredibly strict to the point were it inhibits creativity and critical thinking. It is a shame that this has been our experience that has been echoed from not only me, but many other parents that do not write on this site. Think long and hard before you consider this school. We are putting both of our children in private school even though it is a financial stretch. That is how intolerable it is for our family and the erosion of our children's love of learning. The bottom line, this school is not well rounded from our perspecitive. your experience may be completely different if your child's ability to score well on the PASS makes them look like a GREAT SCHOOL for funding and reputation that does not tell the whole story.
--Submitted by a parent

I have 3 kids in Ft Mill, District 4. My youngest started Kindergarten at Springfield and is now in 4th grade. I have always found her teachers to be well-trained and compassionate. Her teachers keep her engaged and push her to be her best, academically AND socially. Children are tested to national standards and expected to be responsible for their own behavior. Kids have plenty of opportunities for civic involvement. Never heard of bullying at SFES, but communication skills are learned largely at home!
--Submitted by a parent

Many rude teachers at Springfield that do not seem to care about teaching. The school is not responsive to bully problems. Teachers put children in charge to monitor their classrooms. Springfield is a disappointing school in an area with a reputation of good schools. It should be known that there are some bad apples in this barrel

Springfield is a great school within the Fort Mill District. The staff are truly caring and wonderful and love their job. The school is maintained very well and is always finding ways to improve itself. The only complaint I have found and have heard from many others is the PTA. Apparently the reigning president who has somehow managed to get herself elected every year(most believe by unscrupulous means) is awful and bitter. Because of this the PTA there is very unwelcoming and it is very difficult to get involved as a parent. She has managed to surround herself with like minded people who won't even give newcomers so much as a 'hello' when they try to join. Every parent I have met is counting the days till her reign of terror is over.
--Submitted by a parent

My children have always attended a private christian academy until this year. We were all a bit nervous about switching over to the public school system but heard how amazing it was here. I would like to say the Admin, staff, & teachers at Springfield Elementary have been so Professional, kind hearted and so very very helpful to my family making this transition. My children love their new teachers and new friends. We are all very excited about this new school year and anxious to see what great things unfold! Thank you very much for making this a wonderful new experience for our family! =)
--Submitted by a parent

This school is amazing! We moved in from Germany a week before school started - and our 6year old son was not able to speak English. They gave him such a great support, everyday extra lessons in English and tons of encouragement and patience! Now, 6 month later, he speaks in whole sentences, is reading and writing very well! This school has a lot of related arts, as sport, arts, spanish, computer education, library, and music. You must see the library! And last but not least: this school has such a warmhearted surrounding! You can feel, that the whole staff believes in the children and everyone there has the best in mind for the kids.
--Submitted by a parent

This school is amazing! When we moved in from Germany, just a week before school started, our 6years old son was not able to speak English. But they gave him such a GREAT SUPPORT! Everyday extra lessons in English and tons of encouragement and patience! Now, 6 month later, our son speaks in whole sentences, is reading and writing very well! This school has a lot of related arts, as PE,Arts,Spanish,Computer Education, Library, and Music. You must see the library!!! Our son loves to be there and reading books! And last but not least: this school has such a warmhearted surrounding! You can feel that the whole staff believes in the children and everyone there has the best in mind for the kids. Parents have the possibility to work with the teacher or the PTA.
--Submitted by Sabine Boeker, a parent

A fantastic school with lots of enthusiastic and helpful teachers.
--Submitted by a parent