Donald P Yates Primary School

Small class size, personable teachers/principal and a generally well maintained campus. Some teachers are a bit task oriented and seem to be "teaching the test" concerned about scores. A lot of worksheet work and not as much interactive and creative teaching as it could be. Some kids respond well to sitting long periods of time and doing worksheets while other do not. Still a great school but be an advocate for your child and know their style of learning.
--Submitted by a parent

Yates primary is a great school. It only has grades K-2 and they really do cater to the younger children. It is such a happy learning environment and all the teachers and staff are so friendly. The principal at this school, Mrs. Carolyn Ingram is hands down the best principal I have EVER dealt with. After three children attending Yates, I am proud to have been a part of this school.
--Submitted by a parent

I've had three children come through this school and I wouldn't have it any other way. This school is totally aimed at meeting the needs of K-2 only. What I Love about this school is the reading groups. Every child is tested and put into a group of 4-7 students in their grade on their same level and for 1/2 hr. every day a teacher teaches reading using a phonics method. Children who struggle with reading get an additional half hour of tutoring. Yes, sometimes the tutoring is done in open 'closets', but it's cozy quiet there and allows the child to really concentrate. Teacher/child ratio seems to be about 20:1. Parents volunteer quite a bit.
--Submitted by a parent

We have been so pleased with Yates Primary. My daughter was in kindrgarten this year, and has learned so much. Her teacher was amazing, as I had the opportunity to help out during reading groups twice a month. Yates is a very well-run school where she has flourished.
--Submitted by Heather Sims, a parent

The Tennessee Department of Education found Donald P. Yates in violation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This is Public Record with the Tennessee Department of Education. If your child or you as parents/guardian bring your concerns of how your child is being treated to the Principal and Administrations' attention, they have the propensity to retaliate against you and your child for complaining. They are also required by the Tennessee Department of Education to conduct cultural sensitivity training to all Staff.
--Submitted by a parent

I have a K kid at Yates and we have loved it! He is reading and adding! The principle is great. And all the teachers are Awesome!! Parents can be involved as much as they desire (within reason). It has been a wonderful way for my sons school career to start. The only draw back is the school is overcrowded. One classroom only has curtains for walls and students sit in closets for special reading groups. This problem seems to be no concern to the school board. But that's politics. We Love the school and teachers keep up the great work!
--Submitted by a parent