Discovery Elementary School

Both of my son's teachers have been exceptional with handling multiple student personalities and needs, as well as delivering outstanding performance with presenting the curriculum. The staff at Discovery have all been more than helpful when we have needed them, and have always been super friendly.
—Submitted by a parent

I have two kids at Discovery in 3rd and 5th grades. They have had wonderful experiences since coming to the school 2 years ago. Their teachers have blessed my kids with encouragement, tools for life, and the love of learning. Discovery is up to date on its curriculum, but I do wish there were a bit more pressure on the students to excel rather than get by with average work. I have 4 children though, and Discovery was not a good fit for my other 2 because they had learning disabilities. The teachers and principal made it known these 2 did not fit the mold. We homeschool them now and have seen great strides in their academics and self confidence. If a child doesn't have learning issues, Discovery is wonderful.
—Submitted by a parent

We recently relocated back to Gig Harbor, after living in Ohio and Texas for 4 years. Our 8 year old son, having had 5 teachers in 3.5 years, due to corporate moves, maternity leave, and grade changes, adapted WONDERFULLY into the Wriley Community in 3rd grade at Discovery Elementary. His teachers tell us they would have never guessed our son had only started there a few weeks ago...he walks through the halls and knows teachers and students by name and shows he feels comfortable by his smiles and good behavior and his good grades. The school principal, Mr. Brooks takes time to get to know each student and parent and has worked with staff to create a fun, intimate, healthy learning arena where our son is blooming. We love Discovery!
—Submitted by a parent

We sent our son to Discovery for a couple of years, and the teachers were wonderful. I do think they spend a lot of their time controlling noisy student behavior though. The school has a very open lay-out. The students are noisy, and the expectations that they be kids hampered my son's ability to focus and learn. I think the expectations for most of the students are too low, and that those children who don't excel on their own are not expected to learn much. We finally decided to put our son elsewhere, where the expectations were higher, and where he is able to focus better.
—Submitted by a parent

Our son attended kindergarten at Discovery, and I was very pleased with the turn-out and participation in parent meetings. The academic programs were very child-centered and appropriate.. with emphasis on learning to read, and laying a strong social foundation. We were sorry to leave the area.
—Submitted by Sheree, a parent

Wonderful school which encourages children to remain kids. Great community atmosphere. Incredible interior boasting a boat a theatre and classrooms which look like houses along a street. Really a fun and enriching place for any child to go and learn while being supported and respected.
—Submitted by a parent

The elementary school is the best in Gig Harbor. It has very active parents and the teachers are superb. Children really enjoy learning and going to school here.
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter attended Discovery Elementary for 3rd grade. It was a good public education. She was involved in music, art and sports. We did struggle with keeping her challenged without moving her up a grade. Other than that, we found a high level of parent involvement in a variety of ways. The overall experience was a positive one for my daughter.
—Submitted by a parent

I have two children at Discovery and both have had excellent teachers all the way through! The staff places a high priority on the overall development of the student, emphasizing life-long learning skills. It is a very nurturing environment.
—Submitted by a parent

We have been at Discovery for 5 years now and have had wonderful, positive experiences with the teachers, staff, volunteers and quality of education our children receive. Our 9 year old had and opportunity to transfer out to a challenge program at another school and we researched and decided the best place for her was at Discovery. It is a terrific school!
—Submitted by a parent