W.W. Gordon Elementary School

This has been my son's first year in elementary school and it has been a good experience at Gordon. He likes his teacher and seems to be challenged. The class size is good. The fundraising isn't too obnoxious and the library staff (where I volunteer) is awesome. The teachers provide plenty of opportunities to volunteer for parents who work and don't work, there's something for everybody. If I could suggest an improvement, my teacher didn't know much about the gifted program so I didn't feel encouraged to look into it any further. Also, the front office ladies aren't the warmest. They don't look up when you walk into the office so you kind of stand there awkwardly. They also don't ask who you are and what your business is when you ring the doorbell, which is a little shady to me since one could easily bypass the office. Wouldn't they want to know if the person has a child abuse record? I've never been ID'd to pick up my child. Things were better after Newtown when I complained, but it's slipped back into old habits. Despite these oversights, we're really pleased with our son's Kindergarten experience and he seems happy, which is all that matters.
—Submitted by a parent

Some teachers are great. Some are not. Our average for 6 years of school is 50/50. The (new) principal is too busy advocating for the teachers and covering for herself that one one really cares for the students...except those exceptional teachers. I must applaud them as must work under extreme conditions.
—Submitted by a parent

I went to Gordon Elementary School for 6 years (PK-5th). The food they serve is beyond disgusting and I recomend you pack your own lunch. Although they enforce their "No Bullying" rule pretty seriously, I as a student found bullying everywhere I went. The new princepal and vice princepal are terrible. Although I will say something nice. The football team is legendary. Overall, this school is terrible.

We love Gordon Elementary! I have a son and daughter that attend this school and both of them had great teachers that have been very loving, kind, creative and always professional. The office staff is friendly and the principal and assistant principal are doing a great job running the school. I feel blessed that that my kids get to attend such a wonderful school. The parents are very involved and support the teachers in any way they possibly can. I think Gordon is one of the best schools in Chesterfield County and I couldn't think of another school that I would rather have my kids attend!
—Submitted by a parent

My son started Gordon 2010 for kindergarten and I have to say the experience has been so terrible. His teacher had no patience with him, the assistant principal, principal and guidance counselor do not provide feedback when you have issues. Do not be fooled by the good reviews, it is a great school but if you run into a problem there are no resources. I felt like my son was being mistreated by his teacher who said to me in front of the assistant principal she bends over backwards for my son. I thought that was a unprofessional thing to say but everyone I mentioned above did not address that issue so that made the relationship with the teacher, assistant principal, principal and guidance counselor go sour. I wish I could put my son in another school but I cannot because I live in the district. I now have my armor suit on whenever I have to attend this school for my son.
—Submitted by a parent

I find Gordon Elementary is lacking in many areas. We moved to that school district based on the schools ratings and it has been a horrible experience for my son. I find the office staff unfriendly. The teachers my son has had so far do not challenge him at all. This school wants robot kids that sit there and learn what they are told and nothing else. There are many autistic kids placed within the student body that are a major distraction to the other children. All that said I think Gordon is a below average school.
—Submitted by a parent

We couldn't be happier with Gordon. Excellent teachers and accessible and caring adminstrators create a great atmosphere. In particular, they do a fantastic job with their autism program and creating a supportive culture throughout the school.
—Submitted by a parent

This school is great! My son went through K and now 1st grade. The principle is terrific and the school community is wonderful. Lots of parent involvement, good communication between staff and parents, the PTA is strong and many activities are offered. We are moving to another state and I can only hope to be at a school as good as this!
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter has been at Gordon for only a few months, we moved here from the West Coast, and her experience has been wonderful! I have a good relationship with her teacher and she is making a lot of friends. Gordon promotes various clubs to help the children out in whatever they need. My daughter looks forward to going to school each day and that makes me feel great!
—Submitted by a parent

Gordon is an amazingly excellent school! Every child is valued and respected for their gifts and talents. The teachers and staff are motivated toward excellence. The administration represent true leadership in education. The minute a parent or child walks into the school they are welcomed. I have never met a parent who has a negative thing to say. Mr. Joyner and Mrs. Venable have created a learning community where everyone is fully included an valued! This school is a gem!
—Submitted by Carol Schall, a parent

We are so thankful to be a part of Gordon Elementary! Our son is in first grade this year, and our daughter will attend Kindergarten in Sept. 2006! We moved into a neighborhood so that our children could attend this school! As CCPS teachers, we know quality when we see it. Gordon's small student body, along with the a loving staff of teachers who are well-experienced make it top-notch! The principal, David Joyner, is highly regarded, too! Thank you, Gordon teachers, faculty and staff for providing a nurturing, safe and exciting environment for our children!
—Submitted by a parent

I have lived in Midlothian for 10 years now and have 3 children go thru the Gordon school... It is a wonderful school with caring teachers and a PTA that is over 100% involved. It is safe and well kept. Everyone is equal and everyone is respected for their individual gifts. I hear alot about Bettie Weaver.. but what Gordon lacks in test scores they make up for in teaching self confidence and respect. A Great School!
—Submitted by a parent