Highland Forest Elementary School

Since the previous principal, Mr. Ornelas, moved to another school in the district, everything has gotten worse at this school. Luckily, my child will be finishing up this year and will be moving on.
—Submitted by a parent

The dual language program at highland forest is impressive. My child went into it not know any spanish and just after one year, knows so much! I am extremely impressed at the program.
—Submitted by a parent

My son just finished kindergarten at Highland Forest and we couldn't have been happier. His teacher, Miss Emmons was wonderful and he excelled in her class. We are very sorry that we will be moving out of state and leaving this school. It is a great place.
—Submitted by a parent

My son entered the 2nd grade this year as a new student to East Central district, and I am mad that I didn't do it sooner. His teacher Ms.Madigan, the principal, vice principal and the school staff could not be more dedicated to their jobs than they already are. To see the principal and vice principal out to greet the students every morning is quite impressive, and it goes to show how much they care for the school and its students. I have nothing but great praise for the school and would recommend that all parents in the area let their children attend Highland Forests over private and charter schools.
—Submitted by a parent

My child's teacher, Ms. Kasper, was amazing. She is so committed to the kids. She exemplifies what a teacher should be. She really strives to make the kids excited about learning. I was always impressed by her complete focus on learning and acheivement. She truly does it for the kids. The school had a few administrative and staff problems this year but the whole staff handled it well, never losing sight of the kids education. The individual attention to each child's needs was wonderful. My child was so inspired by Ms. Kasper. I saw a complete change in her attitude last year directly due to Ms. Kasper. She is truly an angel!
—Submitted by a teacher

I think Highland Forest is a great school. I know this year will be just a great as last school year. Mrs. Mazzy is the best!
—Submitted by Gabriel Martinez, a parent

Most of the teachers at Highland Forest are caring, committed, educators. There are, unfortunately, a very few teachers who are teach because it's a secure job with lots of vacation time. These teachers do not have high standards and are not dedicated to the students. Provided that your child has one of the many awesome teachers, she or he will have a great year of growth, but given the wrong teacher. Also, the district spent all the funds on building an attractive structure, and there are hardly any moneys available for supplemental curricum or needed supplies. This is a ECISD problem and blame falls on the board and main office.
—Submitted by a teacher

Being a new school, I had looked forward to a rewarding experience for my grandchildren. It was a year of nightmares. I hope they can improve for the children's sakes. We moved out of the district to avoid having to go through another year.