Alice Drive Elementary School

I have to say this is the best school my children have ever attended. We recently left ADE and my children miss it dearly. The teachers are great and the staff as well they have after school care, Pre K and a 3 yr old program run by the some of the best teachers I know. I only gave 3 stars for principal because I have not worked with the new one that started at the beginning os this year. If you are moving to sumter this is a great school for your kids.
--Submitted by a parent

Before moving to Sumter I heard bad things about SC schools but we had to move and place our kids. I did tons of research before deciding on a home/neighborhood (school choice is rarely an option here). Placing our chidren in ADE has been a good thing, have had excellent teachers, great communication and I often walk the halls just to see if the other school staff recognize me as a parent. We love the fact that people know our children's names, the crossing guard says good morning to them by name and they are not just a number here as in so many larger school systems. The teachers have good communication with parents (though some parents could care less-so sad) and each time I need to speak to someone/teacher/admin...they are very kind and receptive. Preschool is available (half day) for free here if you sign up in time, they do semi-annual home visits and have a great program. Unfortunately, there is no actual gymnasium at this school. I can't say enough good about the teachers here and though the principal seemed out of reach at first, has been wonderful to our family. We Will miss them next year when we move on.
--Submitted by a parent

these kids meet the challenge to exceed expectations, to reach for the best inside themselves. and they are a group of neat kids I love seeing in my neighborhood.

My daughter has attended ADE from 2nd -- 5th grades and has done very well. The parent involvement seems to be high with the PTA doing so much for the children & teachers. She has so many wonderful memories here. Her most important influence though was Mrs. Dave' in Chorus and Spring Fling. Through these programs, our daughter has realized her vocal talent and interest in drama which she LOVES! Mrs. Dave' was always SO supportive and loving! Can't say enough about the Mrs. Dave'! We will miss ADE next year.
--Submitted by a parent

If you have a child with special needs. Then I stongly advise you not to attend this school. the communcation is poor. The teamwork is unbearing. As a parent I have to spend a great deal of time working with my child everyday just to get the report card marks up.
--Submitted by a parent

This school is fine for students that do not require any special attention. If your child has any Learning Disabilities, I strongly recommend that you read all the IDEA Laws and IEP Procedural Guidelines before attending this school. My son attended this school for 6 years. Getting after school tutoring at this school is a battle.
--Submitted by Glenn Horton, a parent

My child has been atending ADE since kindergarten and is now going into 4th grade. Her teachers have always welcomed parents to come in and speak with them about any concerns they may have. The office staff is always helpful. The principal is the best! She is always smiling and interacting with the children. She is very supportive of the faculty and staff. There are extracurricular activities available. My daughter will be going to chorus this year after school and is so excited. The art program is wonderful. She was thrilled to see her artwork published on Artsonia. The Challenge curriculum is just that - challenging. I was impressed with the depth of the class/homework. My daughter absolutely loves her school.
--Submitted by shirley, a parent

We are lucky people to have found Alice Drive Elementary. Our children have been in the 2nd through 5th grades here and I can't think of anything negative to say about the school. The positives would take up more room than is provided. The principal is outstanding and has been since the day we first looked at the school. We've had great teachers and great support staff. Our children come from a military family and they were welcomed with open arms at ADE. They truely make you happy to walk through the doors.
--Submitted by a parent