Idlewild Elementary School

My daughter is entering the first grade this school year and so far I am highly impressed with Idlewild Elementary. My child is reading on a second or third grade level. I loved her kindergarten teacher. She was so involved with the students and the parents. I pondered on sending my child to private school first, but I wanted to give Idlewild a try first. I am extremely satisfied with the results. I plan to keep my child there until her elementary days are over.
—Submitted by a parent

I'm a student at Idlewild and I love it. I've been there since kindergarden. My conduct in kindergarden wasn't so great, but the teachers helped me with that. I am currently in the fifth grade and an A and B student. Ihave a very tight bond with the teachers and principal. I am also in C.L.U.E.(creative learning in a unique environment). Those teachers are great also. The teachers at Idlewild are so amazing, I really can't say anything. I could make up a word like fantabolous! All I have to say is that you're wrong if you don't let your child or children go to Idlewild.

We moved from a private school to Idlewild, and had our pick of private schools in Memphis. We were very impressed with the quality of the students' work and the professionalism of the teachers--- it was better than comparable samples from the elite, college-prep private school our child was also accepted to. The best part is that Idlewild is free!
—Submitted by a parent

My son has been at this school sence second grade, he is now in the fifth grade. He had a rocky start second grade okay, third grade his first six week in miss swift class he made strait F's and one D, We both cried because i was helping as best as i could, But after that i talk to the principal, concelors and they help me to determine that my son had difficulty staying focused in classroom full of distractions. They got him in tutoring and there afterschool program and now he a average student , he makes b's and c.s.He came along way and its because if your child needs help thet will do everything they came to help you.
—Submitted by a parent

My three children were previously attending private schools. Once I visited Idlewild I was hooked. The teachers not only educate my children they nurture them as well taking time to offer special learning tips. Enrollment has increased but classes are still small enough for students to get individualized attention.
—Submitted by a parent

I have two kids who walk to Idlewild. Its a great neighborhood school and the staff is excellent.
—Submitted by a parent

I have been an Idlewild parent for 5 years. My oldest son is now is in his first year at middle school and doing extremely well. I currently have a daughter in the 5th grade and a son in 3rd grade at Idlewild. My children look forward to going to school each day. The teachers are great, the administration is responsive, and the parents are very involved. Our enrollment increased by 10 % over last year. We feel a great sense of community at Idlewild. The teachers and administration have a sincere interest in making sure that every child receives an excellent education in a safe and nurturing involvement. I am convinced now more than ever that we put our kids in Idlewild even though we do not live in the district.
—Submitted by a parent

I have 2 children at Idlewild and we couldn't be more happy with the school. We could well afford to send our children to private schools but have chosen to educate them at Idlewild because we believe it is better. The teachers we have had are all fabulous and there are so many extra classes that they do. Music, PE, Art, Special Art, Computer, Science are the ones I can think of. There is a great sense of community, and it is small enough for the principal to know my 3 year old son's name, but big enough to offer all of the extras. I would definitely recommend it.
—Submitted by a parent

My child has been at Idlewild since Kindergarten. While that experience was wonderful, I have found that despite the much touted 'encouragement' of parent/teacher interaction; there was significant push-back when trying to question certain areas of curriculum and day-to-day student experiences. I don't know about other schools, but communication about classroom activities, school activities and even day-to-day student schedules is sorely lacking. Communication is often late or non-existent. While my child is not experiencing any problems herself, I feel that we are not getting the much touted excellent education you often hear other parents rave about at Idlewild. I am looking into transferring my child to another school.
—Submitted by a parent

This is a wonderful school. The teachers and principals set such high expectations and give such great leadership. I am grateful my children go to school here.
—Submitted by a parent

I have one child in Idlewild and love this school. Any issue that I have had with my child's performance or student interaction has been address by the staff to my satisfaction and they have worked with my child's needs to help him perform his best. He started with a C avergage in 1st grade and now is going into the 3rd grade with 2 Principal's list ribbons, more confidence and is excited about what he is learning in school.
—Submitted by a parent

My 2 children attend Idlewild & we couldn't be happier. We have had exceptional teachers & there is a real sense of community that every school should benefit from. There are high expectations for the students & a really good support system in place to help all achieve.
—Submitted by Tracy Aulfinger, a parent