Marguerite F. Christian Elementary School

This is a fantastic school. The parent involvement is wonderful. I would hands down say the PTA is the best in the county. My son is on his 5th year and has never had 1 single problem. No one gets bussed in from the city, how ludicrous. There are always so many wonderful events being held by the school the PTA. People need to get over themselves and see this school for what it really is. Anyone that gets a waiver to another school is only hurting themselves and not to mention their property value. Another great thing about this school is the gifted program is held there. If your kid is fortunate enough to get into the program then it is very beneficial, just make sure to request they be tested in December.
--Submitted by a parent

This school has been terrible for our child. This school lacks strong leadership! The principal offers no support for teachers or parents. I needed to have a conference with my daughters teacher and I wanted her to sit in on the conference. The principal told me that she would be unable to attend because she had a hair appt. Does this show her character or what? The behavior issues at this school are over the top, nothing gets down about the issues, only excuses are offered. I would not advise sending your child/children to this school.
--Submitted by a parent

This school has been a terrible environment for my child. The school is a title I school and receives federal assistance when at-risk children are bussed in from the city. The more at-risk children they get, the more funds the school gets. The hotels in Chester have become apartments for immigrants which also attend the school. It is a rough environment. I know that the staff does care and tries their best, but they seem very overwhelmed with behavioral issues. I would not advise sending your children there. It is pretty much the same as sending them to a school in Richmond City.
--Submitted by a parent

I love the school. My son has been there going on 2 years. The teachers are awsome and great communicators. The front desk needs a personality check but they try there best. They are not as friendly as they should be at an elementary school...a lot of straight faces and no smiles. One person I can say that stands out in the front office is "The Pink Lady" (if you are familiar with the school than you know who I am talking about) she is very friendly to the parents and children. The students love her.
--Submitted by a parent

My son loves it! His teachers are very competent as well as caring. The principal has always addressed any concerns that may arise. The kids are very sweet.
--Submitted by a parent

I urge you to check out the SOL test scores over the past 3 years. The scores reflect the quality of administrators and teachers alike at this school. Most every score and most every classroom have dropped below state standards. It is sad to see this school go in this direction.
--Submitted by a parent

Teachers are great, especially in the CBG program. Resource programs are also outstanding. However, the school is large and we often feel like just another number, especially to the front office staff. I find their competencies lacking. Also, there is a lack of willingness to communicate with parents, given the size of the school. Not a very friendly atmosphere compared to other schools in the county.
--Submitted by a parent

Great school. Great Parent Participation. Teachers are great and caring . Some come see your kids in outside of school activities and cheer them on . The kids love the Teachers . Great New School Thats on its way to the top .Great CBG Program . Highly recommend. Great Chesterfield school. Librarian very nice. Staff in Office very friendly welcoming, helpful . And parents are encouraged to come participate in Fun nights and other activities planned in the school.
--Submitted by a parent

I have had 2 children go through this school and am on my third. I think it's a great school in general, but like most public schools, not all of the teachers are as great as you would like. The administration is strong and works hard toward excellence and now that there has been redistricting (in 2007) they have to work a little harder. My last child is in the center-based gifted program there so she will only get certain teachers and so far they are wonderful. The so-called 'resource' classes - PE, art, Spanish, library and music are all wonderful with v. strong teachers. This is definitely a school that cares, and it is a very attractive school as well.
--Submitted by a parent

I have had two children go through Christian. I have been very happy with all of their teachers and the opportunities that they have been given due to their eduction there. One of my children has special needs and was given the individual attention that he required to be successful within a regualar classroom setting. The open library program available to the 3-5th graders is wonderful. The library media specialist does an amazing job supporting the grade level curricula.
--Submitted by a parent