Artondale Elementary School

We had two kids in the school. One child hashad cream-of-the-crop teachers; the other had more mediocre teachers with one we thought was in the wrong career and one that we liked quite well. Teachers here are given lots of discretion which generally works well for most classes; no micro-management here. This can be a problem however when a family has an issue with a teacher. I doubt that teachers in any school are properly managed, however; the system works against effective management of teachers. Many parents are very involved, though that seems to be changing with the recession. Finally, most of the teachers are not themselves comfortable with math beyond the basics. The teaching of math is muddled and confuing (at least in our experience). Kids need a lot of parental support to advance properly in math, and sometimes in core writing skills as well. Reading is the big focus here. Science program was great, even with changes in teaching staff. The school district is rigid; as everywhere, education is more about the district and it's employees than it is about the consumers (ie: the children). Though lip-service is given, they seem better at stone-walling than listening.
--Submitted by a parent

It often appears a core group of teachers are in charge of the school and its structure. Extra money is allocated to a few select classes, cirriculum is trumped by extra activities in certain grades (i.e. 4th grade play) and although the school rates well there are educational indicators that our students are lacking instruction in critical subjects (spelling, social studies, science). Our children are happy at school but perhaps unprepared for their next step in education. In a community of highly educated adults it seems we should set the bar higher.
--Submitted by a parent

Artondale is a wonderful school which has very involved parents and a great staff. There are great teachers and marginal teachers. My three children have had both types and we feel they are getting a good education. Our biggest complaint is that thee WA state curriculum is weak in the younger grades and doesn't address gifted children. The school counselor and principal are very warm and supportive. The school feels more like a family than a public institution.
--Submitted by a parent

School has select teachers who are very good, classes are too big. If a child is ahead there is little done to address the sitruation and there is little available for them as far as the G/T program goes. We were disappointed in the lack of effort to help us assess the curriculum of future grades in order to figure out ways to help our child academically.
--Submitted by a parent

Not sure why the previous poster described class sizes as 'too large'. At last count, largest class was 25 students, however the larger classes are grades 4 and 5. The lower grades have much smaller class sizes. This school has much higher test scores than the state average and the curriculum being used is obviously adequate to support those scores. This school district is returning to a more traditional but still balanced approach to math next year. There are great teachers and not so great teachers in every school, not just public. Not sure why the previous poster would advocate no playground time?! The principal at this school is experienced and has the best interests of the students and teachers in mind. Very active PTA! Love this school!
--Submitted by a parent

Overcrowded classes...there are no class size limitations in WA state public schools and this particular school population is large. Curriculum strays far from the traditional 'reading, writing and arithmatic approach' with absolutely no phonics and spelling. There are 3 lengthy playground sessions which break up the continuity of instruction. Quality of teaching is inconsistent...some good, some very bad. Program for highly capable/gifted children is non-existent for grades 3 and below and is 1 hour per week for 4th grade. On Wednesdays, school starts one hour later so teachers can 'collaborate.' We transferred my son to a private school and it was the best decision for him and our family.
--Submitted by a parent

Superior school to nearby private school(We tried both) Staff and parent involvement is phenomenal. I feel that my child is receiving a great education.
--Submitted by a parent

Nice School with great academics. Upper middle class and a little snobby. But my daughter had great teachers.
--Submitted by a parent

Very satisified with the quality and care of all of the teaching staff and of all they have to offer. Staff goes over and beyond the call of duty to ensure a productive learning and safe enviroment.
--Submitted by a parent

The test scores are great which says alot about the entire staff and leadership. The principal is personable and clearly loves kids!
--Submitted by a parent