Gulledge Elementary School

What an unfortunate situation. A substandard school in an amazing community. The Principal, Mrs. Rene Rucker, seriously lacks leadership skills and is unable to address concerns with "Lemon" teachers that have been around for several years, simply collecting a paycheck. Elaine Doering is one of those teachers and works in Special Education. She is dangerous and unpredictable. Be extremely cautious when deciding whether or not to purchase a home within the boundaries of Gullegde Elementary. Very tragic, as it is nestled in a great West Plano Community, certainly not lacking in resources.
—Submitted by a parent

We moved because the principal demonstrated poor leadership and management. When our daughter's 1st grade teacher stopped coming to work and was absent a full 45 out of 70 days of school, there was one substitute after another assigned to the class with no communication to the parents about what was going on. We requested a new teacher and were turned down because "staffing issues were none of our business and were not grounds for change in class."
—Submitted by a parent

it was ok i guess too much homework though and no time to play in class cafeteria food was bad

This school is evil and horrifying! My child screamed the first day and never came back! VERY BAD
—Submitted by a parent

Gulledge is truly an exceptional school that manages to stand out even in an exceptional district. Renee Rucker, the Principal has an uncanny ability to identify nearly every student by name, and is always ready and willing to address any issue with a parent. The teachers (at least in K, 1, and 2 where my daughter has been) are energetic, capable, and encouraging -- they have pushed my daughter to be more than she thinks she can be, and they are always willing to show her how. They have been more than understanding with helping her adapt to several challenging situations, and deserve applause for their individual attention to students. Extracurricular activities ARE limited, however I would point out that this is an ELEMENTARY school. In my opinion after school should be about playing with friends - overscheduling with extracurriculars will come all too soon. Overall, I'd encourage you to take some of these reviews with a grain of salt -- sometimes parents don't want to accept the fact that their own child is the cause of some problems.
—Submitted by a parent

The Special Ed department has taken a turn for the worse and they are sending children to others schools because of the inability to handle them. There is a lack of compassion and patience here, and unless your child is able to sit back and coast, this is not the school for you. The Principal tries to be kind, but does not monitor her staff closely and does not always go by the book. My child had to leave after the school continually called home for us to come and get him. Too many teachers that are nearing retirement and burned out.
—Submitted by a parent

Gulledge is an ok school. My daughter's Kindergarten teacher was terrible and lacked any spark, personality or ability to work with my daughter or us with her ADHD or becoming adjusted to school in general. Her first grade teacher was EXCEPTIONAL, but her FIRST teacher in 2nd grade was so softspoken and quiet that we had to demand a new teacher. The one she has now is GREAT! Ms Rucker is very involved with the school, parents, and children. Afterschool activities are close to zero, and unless you are a part of the PTA you really have to be aware of what comes home as to activities. The parents are mostly cliquish and mostly PTA. This school passes as just about anyother school in a good area, but isn't anything special.
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter goes to Gulledge for kinder garden. The school has very very good teachers, My daughter loves this school and the education they provide is almost equivalent of a montessori. They give homework and check the homework and sign on it. I recommend this school
—Submitted by a parent

Gulledge is a great place to be especially if you child struggles in any area. My middle son has focusing issues and they have made every attempt to help him and have been very good to communicate progress with me. Yes there are a lot of young teachers, but I have had several young ladies who weren t moms yet and let me tell you their level of energy and commitment was more than enough to inspire my kids. Great job Gulledge! The pricipal Renee Rucker is visible and interactive with the kids. When it is carpool time Renee is outside managing and leading her team. I appreciate her professionalism and polite demeanor, she leads with a strong compassionate spirit.
—Submitted by a parent

It's an excellent school. My youngest stepson has ADHD and came to Gulledge in 1st grade already behind. They've worked very closely with us and him providing adjustments where necessary. I couldn't have asked for better support.
—Submitted by a parent

Both of my boys transferred to Gulledge from overseas schools last year. The staff and the school are excellent. The faculty is proud of their school and it shows. I highly recommend Gulledge Elementary.
—Submitted by a parent

The teachers are however the principle is rude unless you live in a house or a member of PTA. They have removed the spanish classes instead of hiring another teacher.
—Submitted by a parent

Quality of academic programs should be good. However, the extracurricular activities are not enough in my opinion.
—Submitted by a parent

Gulledge is a great school with lots of parent involvment. Most of the teachers are young and that I found to be only o.k. The counselors are wonderful, but I cannot say as much for the principle. She seems to be on another planet and does not address a lot of the issues she should. As with all Plano schools the money in the system is what helps to make it so good.
—Submitted by a parent

This is a wonderful school. The teachers are great.
—Submitted by a parent