Madison Elementary School

I just started my son in the kindergarten program. I have to say, I am awestruck at how rude the staff is at this school, from the lazy, apathetic front office, to my sons teacher Mrs Henrie, who cant even bother to say hi to me when I pick him up. I wouldn't think that a kindergarten teacher would come across as being so hostile, I am going to move him to view ridge I think. The only redeeming quality about this school is the school therapist. She is the most friendly and approachable element of the whole school and she is only there 3 days a week!
--Submitted by a parent

I volunteer at this school and have for many years. I have been through 2 principals, and many teachers. I feel as though Madison lacks leadership from its principal. It seems as if there is an overall lack of passion concerning the education, teaching styles, and saftey, and happiness of the children. There are several excellent teachers in all grades and in kindergarten, and there are a few 'bad apples' that I would sooner homeschool my children then submit them to the horrors of those 'bad apple' teachers. I feel that if the principal was ever passionate about his job, he has long since lost that passion. The new Librarian acts as if the kids are soldiers in her military. She is extremely harsh, strict, and controlling. Reading is no longer fun.
--Submitted by a parent

Madison's kindergarten program is severely lacking. Teachers have no enthusiasm or passion - they are like robots who open the door and wave the kids in. There is no computer time, no show and tell, no art on the wall, not even names on their cubbies or desks! The principal tells me that the K teacher is 'one of the best class managers on staff'. My kids need to be taught, not 'managed'. Whatever happened to passion and enthusiasm for education?! We are working on a variance to View Ridge.
--Submitted by a parent

We love Madison! We live outside of the boundary of Madison and tried the school near our home, and both of our kids struggled. We brought them back to Madison and they were so happy! Madison is a healthy and happy school where our children thrive.
--Submitted by a parent

the principle seems not to be very involved. I absoutely LOVE Mrs. Ristig, my daughter's 2nd grade teacher; she is SO creative, fun, and a very enthusiatic teacher! Unfortunatley, I'm afraid MY enthusiasm and confidence in WA schools is dead. My DD has had homework 4-5 nights a week since kindergarten!
--Submitted by a parent

I was really blessed my son was able to go to this school. They have a wonderful staff whose very willing to support you and your child(ren). I believe all my son's needs are being met and he is thriving. This, by far, exceeds expectations.
--Submitted by c b, a parent

Madison is the best - I had 8 children go through Madison between 1987-2003 - much of the time on variance because I felt that Madison could offer my children the best in education, feeling safe, and the quality of children and staff are the best! We moved out of the area this last year and now I am homeschooling my children because I fell there is no better place than Madison Elementary!
--Submitted by Rhonda Ross, a parent