Rosa Parks Elementary School

Our sixth grader has been at Rosa Park since she started second grade (the year the school opened). We couldn't be happier with the school, especially since she was going to another school in the same district before Rosa Parks opened, and we can see the difference between a good school and a great school. The school puts an emphasis on the performing arts, which has helped our shy daughter develop into a confident, creative young woman. We often say that she is getting a private school education at a public school. We love Rosa Parks and will miss the school community when she moves on to junior high next year.
--Submitted by a parent

Its a great school with an awesome Principal, awesome PTSA and awesome teachers. Its has a big focus on Music, Art and Drama. PTSA runs many in-school and after-school enriching activities.
--Submitted by a parent

Having paid for private education for my daughters for several years, as well as home-schooled one of them for 2 1/2 years, I have very high expectations from teachers, schools, and staff. Rosa Parks is the best! The teachers and staff are incredibly dedicated, and teach the students to 'think outside the box'. The school has a very strong arts program. Rosa Parks Elementary is the proof that going to school can be a whole lot of fun! The principal and teachers love what they do, and it shows!
--Submitted by a parent

Some of the previous reviews are based on some false information. The Boys and Girls Club has always been on site and will continue to be supported by the principal as a necessary component to the community. The idea that the school is far down the list for portables is clearly false as the school now has 2 portables adding an additional 4 classrooms to the school and even more space for the Boys & Girls Club. The office staff is extremely warm and competent in all situations I have witnessed, which isn't always easy given the diversity in the community in language alone. The staff always adheres to the philosophy of 'work hard, play nice' and it is evident in the level of school work displayed throughout the school and in the Courage Assemblies led by the principal. This is a school with heart and brains.
--Submitted by a parent

I think the 'growing pains' that other reviewers cited are typical of most schools in the Lake Washington district. The school is seeking to accomodate a growing student body amidst budget cuts. The loss of the Quest program was unfortunate but the Boys and Girls Club is still on site. My daughter has been at Rosa Parks for three years and has had absolute top-notch teachers every year. My son is in his first year at the school and I have noticed a definite lack of parental involvement compared to my daughter's classes. Hopefully, this is just an oddity with this particular class and not a sign that the neighborhood (and school) is changing.
--Submitted by a parent

With the school at capacity in it's 3rd year, Rosa Parks has already lost some of it's unique qualities and 'vision'. The Boys & Girls Club has left and so has the Quest program. RP is years down on the wait list for portable classrooms and the multi-purpose field has sat marked as unsafe for nearly 3 years. There is a substantial wait list for all day kindergarten with no expansion on the table. Volunteers are lacking and the consistent parents who do get stretched thinner each month. The teachers are very capable and loving and we'll see if leadership improves over this next year. The PTSA does provide good after school activities but is also going through growing pains. They are a great bunch. Between Redmond Ridge and now Redmond Ridge East barely developed it is questionable how the jam packed school will accomodate these family owned homes.
--Submitted by a parent

It's a nice school but that's about it. It's a public school and curriculum driven. If your child is a different style learner, most likely the teacher will label the child as having some type of learning disability. Don't get me wrong, they have 'some' of the best teachers but unfortunately, not all. We have experienced both, one kid have had the greatest teacher and the other kid, had teachers who are simply not motivated or lacked patience and training. As far as friendly, welcoming atmosphere, the office staff and I.A.'s are great but as far as others, it all depends.
--Submitted by a parent

Rosa Parks is having some growing pains as the school is coming close to capacity. I agree with others, the teachers are amazing, loving and very talented. Unfortunately, when a real issue occurs at this school the leadership is lacking.
--Submitted by a parent

Rosa Parks is now in their second year, and already have a wonderful sense of community and an incredible PTSA (parent support). Their WASL scores were excellent. The teacher's and staff are all so excited and happy to be a part of this school - their energy and positive attitude is contagious. :) The kids have so much fun with the integration of the arts within their challenging academic curriculum. The principal - Mr. Newport - is such a cool and wonderful guy! Love him! If you are new to the area and looking for a wonderful elementary school and community for your family - this school would be an excellent choice. We have two boys who currently attend Rosa Parks and we can't be happier... it's a wonderful school and a beautiful, caring community. Best of luck to everyone!
--Submitted by a parent

Is a great place for children, parents and community. The staff support daily communication of all the activities and it seems to be a successful place.
--Submitted by a parent