Newton Rayzor Elementary School

I like this school because there are challenging projects, but the teachers help us. The extracurriculer activities are very good. The principal pays attention to every one and gives a warm greeting to everyone. This school has taken a big leap from where it used to be. The teachers are good and teach in fun ways. Parents are very involved in their childrens classes. Newton Rayzor is a excellent school. It has a strong principal and the teachers are deeply involved with every one of the students.

Newton Rayzor has some strong points: 1) it's an IB school and the IB program is excellent, 2) the extra curricular activities are excellent and the teachers involved in those activities are devoted to the students, and 3) there is an excellent GT program, 4) the teachers in the lower grades (k-3) are exceptional, 5) parents are very involved, and the school is safe. It also has some weaknesses, though: 1) the administration does not stick by the anti-bullying policy - if your child is bullied, they'll stick it on him and say it's his fault, 2) the upper level teachers (grade 4, 5) are poor communicators (students don't understand assignment, miss parts of it, parents don't get information in a timely manner), poor at classroom management, and do not involve parents in the classroom, 3) the school teaches to the TAKS test. My son's teacher teaches "tricks" to ace the TAKS rather than give a solid grounding in the subjects.
--Submitted by a parent

I went to this school along with my sister about four years ago. We hated it. I once had a project to do but the teacher barely explained anything and kept nearly everyone in at recess because we couldn't understand it; only one of the students actually got it done. She criticized me twice, once because she claimed I 'plagiarized' and the other because I cut something the wrong way. Meanwhile my sister was always in trouble simply because her classmates didn't like her. She was framed and the teacher didn't to anything to help. One time when she was just working she went '___, help ___ put her desk in the corner'. The student she asked was one of the ones who was bullying her. I can safely say we had a grand total of four friends at that school, and if it's anything like it was then, do NOT send your children to it.

This is my daughter's second year at Newton Rayzor. She has really grown all-round. The IB program encourages creativity and critical thinking. I would like to see a bit more emphasis on reading and writing in second and third, but her teachers could not be more caring. My son is in Kindergarten and loves his teacher. It's October and I can already see his growth in reading and writing.
--Submitted by a parent

I think the attitude of the teachers and principal at this school is great. They aren't just teaching to the test, and I think that takes courage. The love of learning is so much more important. I've seen that my child did better at this school (and did well on the tests) without all the unnecessary stress.
--Submitted by a parent

This school has undergone a huge transformation in the last few years. New leadership, new teaching philosophy, recently authorized as International Baccalaureate (one of the few public schools to have this distinction), and a vibrant learning community. The entire school atmosphere and philosophy is about kids and learning. Character education is embedded through the IB attitudes and profiles. Higher level thinking is the focus. Teaching to the test is a thing of the past, yet test scores are good and all standards are taught. This school goes above and beyond. Just walk down the halls and you'll feel the learning and excitement. We're thrilled to be part of it.
--Submitted by a parent

I am glad my children are attending this school. The staff is very helpful and the teachers are attentive, I know my children are getting an above average education.
--Submitted by a parent

My granddaughter attended Kindergarten and was in Ms. Ganns class. She loved the class and especially Ms. Gann. She learned so much and excelled in reading this year. I am not aware of what is going on in the other classes, but Kindergarten turned out to be so rewarding for my granddaughter this year. Kathy Poulson Grandmother
--Submitted by a parent

my daughter loves going to Newton Rayzor elementary. The classes are small and she is learning a lot.
--Submitted by a parent

This was a great school until the new principal took over a so-called 'Leadership' position. She is definitely not warm or caring and should not be entrusted with leading anyone; especially the leaders of tomorrow.
--Submitted by a parent