R.O. Nelson Elementary School

This school is OK--but after returning from having kids there from 1990-2004, I was most disappointed in the PTA . There is no welcome table, it 's not easy to join and get involved . Made me very sad to see the clique that runs the program there. I never felt very comfortable, and it was something I was so looking forward to. I pray that their PTA will bring back a table and welcome more parents to be an important part of their community.
--Submitted by a parent

R.O. Nelson is an excellent school. There are a variety of programs to meet the needs of students. The teachers and administrators are outstanding and dedicated.
--Submitted by a teacher

This place is great if you have perfectly average kids, an abundance of patience, and the means to attain aide for your child's special needs outside the school system. Otherwise, be prepared to spend a couple years of your child's education battling for his or her access to necessary resources and diagnostics. And often still not receiving them to everyone's satisfaction. Also, familiarize yourself with all their handbooks and learn the key phrases early. This could save you months of stress waiting for them to come to the same conclusion that only takes you a few days to realize.
--Submitted by a parent

My son has attended this school both last year and again this year for the TAG program. The teachers and staff are wonderful. From a military family perspective Newport News public schools are very good for handling Gifted and Talented education.
--Submitted by a parent

My daughter was in this school last year and returns to it this year for TAG. It is a wonderful schooland the staff is great (I work there so I have gotten to know a few.)
--Submitted by a parent

My son attends Nelson and I think it is a great school. The staff are very helpful and they are very caring. I am in the Navy so I have experienced the best and worst of the schools. This is a great one...
--Submitted by a parent

Nelson is a great school. Their principal is the most involved of any I've seen. The teachers are wonderful and involved enough to make a great balance between home and school. My daughter has been there since Kindergarten and she has had a great experience.
--Submitted by a parent

This school is phenominal. It works to keep the children excited about learning, to help the children become better citizens, and all around individuals. They are better prepared for their next steps in life when they attend this school. As a military family, it's nice to find a school where my child feels at ease.
--Submitted by a parent

This school has a fantastic curriculum for the Talented and Gifted program. Excellent and very involved principal, teachers, and staff that make learning fun and productive. A wonderful learning environment.
--Submitted by a parent

My daughter is in her second year at R.O. Nelson (4th grade, TAG program.) I am absolutely thrilled with this school. The teachers make the time to give each of their students the attention they need. The curriculum is stellar. If the childen are having trouble, the teachers set aside their time to help. The counselors are wonderful. Beings we are from a military family there have been times when they have been needed, (when her father has to be gone.) The activities are family based and there is a great school/parent involvement ratio. They are always willing to answer any questions. I am really glad my daughter was picked up for the TAG program at R.O. Nelson. I would recommend this school to anyone with children in grades K-5
--Submitted by a parent