Stark Elementary School

This is an excellent school! As a former educator, I can say that I trust the faculty 100% to provide the best education to my kindergartner. He was zoned for another school but we took the risk and enrolled in Stark's Dual Language program. The school has a very active parent base that is constantly invited to volunteer and contribute to learning events. The teachers are very serious about learning and have high expectations for students. While I am surprised that my kindergartner has so much work, I am very impressed by the results. I am so thankful to have found this school.
—Submitted by a parent

Great school the teachers really give the best gotta say the dual program they have is great ....there is one person thats been so rude and it bothers me because shes the one person that should make us feel welcome there , talking about the principal...she is just so careless about the kids they are the secund parents of our bbs they spend big time of day there so she should be more compassioned and more human instead of just been there for the job...one day i noticed bruces on my kid he told me he was being bulied in the bus. i went and talked to the "principal" and her said "":well u should talk to the bus driver there is nothing i can do...then i said but ms there is a diferent bus driver every day for the past 3weeks , so she said well make sure u let know to all of them ..Another insident was when it was very cold so i put on a vest to my child to keep him warm but it had red stripes not solid color so i though it was okay shouldnt be a problem ...well as soon as we walked into the office she said"" ms. Pls take the vest off that is not part of the uniform ;well i did but the next day my son was sick ..she cared more about the policy than my kids health..living next year...
—Submitted by a parent

Although the dual language program helped my child become quite versed in Spanish, the grammar and reading deficit became VERY apparent once she entered 6th grade
—Submitted by a parent

We drive 6 miles past the brand new elementary school in our neighborhood to take our children to Janie Stark because we believe in the power of the dual language program. Our children are becoming fluent in Spanish as well as their native English, but most importantly, are learning language skills at a time when this really affects their cognitive development. The teachers, administrators and district seem very committed to this program. We also were so pleased to find a community of involved, committed parents also wanting the best education for their children. Take a look at Janie Stark... and look beyond the front curb or socioeconomic stats... they are really doing some amazing work! Come to a community event and learn more about this great public school. Its truly a shining star in CFBISD.
—Submitted by a parent

My child is in the Dual Language Program at Stark. The administration, CFB District, teachers, and PTA families are committed to its record of excellency. My kindergartener can read in Spanish and English and will be prepared for an elite university and global job market.
—Submitted by a parent

Janie Stark provides a dual language program that gives students the opportunity to leave elementary school as bilingual learners that possess a confidence for languages and love of learning. The parent involvement is comparable to none and parent's passion for a school rivals even the top private schools in the area. The administration and staff have a love and dedication for the students they teach that is evident daily as you walk the hallways. This campus is special, a school you do not find every day. I am thankful for Janie Stark Elementary!
—Submitted by a parent

As a parent I like the Extracurricular Program ,the improvement of my daughter since she came from Puerto Rico is huge
—Submitted by a parent

Stark used to be a much friendlier, welcoming place. It has a cold, impersonal feel, seems very unenthusied about parental involvement. PTA possibly may be involved, but is not visable. The staff, as a whole, does not appear to be very happy or upbeat this year. In years past, they all projected cheerfulness, enthusiam, and joy to be there and be part of your childs' life. The office staff is basically downright rude most times! Not sure what change occured over the summer, but I am almost dreading another year here. Stark seems to be run more like an institution now, with little to no 'extras' for children to enjoy thier younger school years, communications with parents needs much improvement. I would love to volunteer all my extra time if I felt even a bit welcomed, instead of tolerated. Very sad decline to what was a terrific place to be!
—Submitted by a parent

Teachers devoted to quality education for all the students and an administration that backs them up are what make this a great school. The PTA is top notch and remind parents that they are the best teachers and need to stay involved in their child's education.
—Submitted by Jamie Jewell, a parent

The school, is in my opinion, the best elementary school in Farmers Branch. It is surrounded by the city's best neighborhood. It is undergoing a major renovation and is looking really nice. The students have centers every week that includes music, art, and PE. The PTA is actively involved in many facets of the school. I would recommend sending your children to this school.
—Submitted by a parent