Mary Jo Sheppard Elementary School

This is a very good school. Mr. Mann's (principal) oversees the Kinder crosswalk. He waves & says hi when you walk down the halls. He personally answers emails quickly. He sets a good vibe for the school. There are MANY great teachers here too, but l think whatever constitutes GREAT in your eyes will vary with whatever your child's learning style is. Overall, we have been pleased. Our MJS partnership began w/ Mrs. Prince (kinder) who is now the libriarian. She is wonderful. I DO think that parent involvement seems to have dropped somewhat since school bounderies were changed. Many former MJS kids now go to Nancy Neal. PTA could use some fresh ideas, but that involves all of us. Any complaints cannot be pinned solely on those that hold PTA positions. This school also offers Destination Imagination (an awesome program). It's amazing to me that most other elementary schools don't. Private school is in our future after we leave MJS because we don't particularly like the lack of flexibilty that public schools have (legislature/red tape/issues with standardized testing). However, this is no way reflects MJS. They are doing the very best they can in the midst of it all.
--Submitted by a parent

My child has attended MJS for 2 years we could not be happier. The prinicpal acts as the crossing guard for students being dropped off at the kinder entrance (cafeteria) and knows everyone. The Dads Of Great Students group is highly involved- they also take turns as the crossing guard for children coming from neighborhood behind the school. Parent involvement is amazing. I.E. field trip this year an average of 11 parents per class showed for our grade level. This is a wonderful school, and I believe it's success is based on the hard work and care of it's staff (many of who are practicing Christians). It is reassuring that the values I teach my child are being reinforced in school and not underminded.
--Submitted by a parent

I believe this school could do better. My son started there in kindergarten. We have faced some issues that I think were not fairly addressed by the principal. It is sad that not all students get the same treatment. One thing I can say is that some of the teachers really care about the success of the students and there are some that really do not take the time to know the students for themselves. I honestly believe Mr. Manns have no clue of this type of behavior. I was also on the PTA Board and it was clear to me that I was not welcome there. Overall, the curriculim there is great, however some of the teachers need to find jobs that they have a passion for and not do it for the paycheck. They make the whole school look bad to the parents.
--Submitted by a parent

I have a daughter in kindergarden and has been to mjs since pre k this is one of the best schools they seem to really care about the student the staff is amazing! sadly next year she will not be attending mjs! i would reccommed mjs to anyone!
--Submitted by a parent

I have taught at MJS since its opening. I love it there and am fortunate to be working under Mr. Manns' leadership. The staff, administration, and other employees work well together to create a positive environment for the students there.
--Submitted by a teacher

I have a daughter exiting 3rd grade who has attended MJS since it's opening. I could not be more pleased with our experiences here! The principal and staff are very 'hands on', and are attentive to both student and parent concerns and needs. Also, something that is very important to our family, a large majority of the staff are very vocal Christians, and we love that about them, knowing they give my child the same foundation in school that we promote at home is a bonus!
--Submitted by a parent

My daughter will be in 3rd grade next year. When she started kindergarten was when the school first opened. We have never been dissappointed once since she has been there and are very sad it only goes to 4th grade. The leadership of the school is impeccable. The Sheppard Colts will always have a special place in our hearts!
--Submitted by a parent

Wonderful school!!!I have three children that attend this school. I am involved with various activities and a member of the PTA. This school has great teachers and staff who really care about your child and their learning experience. They strive to incorporate new ways of teaching and learning. The principal is very involved with the students and is very open to finding creative ways to motivate and help his students achieve their best!!!!I give this school an A+..
--Submitted by Amy Blank, a parent

Mary Jo Sheppard is an outstanding school. I've had three children go there with various needs and we've been very pleased. Mr. Manns is doing an outstanding job. He is visible always out directing traffic. :) We've also had some outstanding teachers there as well.
--Submitted by a parent

My son is in 3rd grade. We came from a private school to Mary Jo Sheppard. We have really enjoyed this year and love all the extra programs. The teachers and staff have been very caring and helpful.
--Submitted by Kelly Kelly, a parent