Helen Haller Elementary School

Both my children had excellent experiences at Helen Haller for their first year being in public school. My son loved Mrs. Marcy who went out of her way to make sure my child - and every child in the class - succeeded in every area. Miss Grotzke is a fantastic and well loved Kindergarten teacher. My daughter turned out to be an above average reader, and again, the teacher went out of her way to continue challenging her. As for the leadership of the principal and the comments about 'it's not the Marines'....a little structure, consistency and discipline has gone a long way in making this school a success. Sure, he doesn't get it right at every turn, but on the whole an excellent leader and motivator.
--Submitted by a parent

My daughter in 3rd grade and she has being Bullied by her classmates. This has effected her tremendously. The school seem to have failed to stop this from happening. But I think the school is a great school and has a family type enviornment.
--Submitted by a parent

This is in response to the parent who submitted on Nov 18 08. 'Mr. Ricco,' as he is known, is probably the absolute BEST principal I have ever dealt with. My children loved AND respected him. His unconditional belief in the ability of EVERY child to learn and succeed was clearly stated and lived out in his administration. One of my deepest regrets in leaving the area last year was removing my children from Helen Haller and the positive influence of Mr. Ricco, and indeed, the entire teaching and administrative staff. Helen Haller is an exceptional school in every sense.
--Submitted by a parent

This school needs a clean sweep. the Principal has the worst attitude i have seen in a school. Its his way or the highway. He is rude to some kids and parents. His leadership is poor and lacks the skills that he needs to help troubled kids. This is not the marines.
--Submitted by a parent

Some of the best teachers I've ever experienced - an example is Jane LaBelume. She is the best teacher I've ever dealt with. My children adored her. She loves every child like they are her own and she finds a way to get the best from each of them. On the negative side, though I thought the principal, was energetic and committed, he was very rigid and wasn't good at listening to or addressing individual issues raised about a specific child. His rigid stance resulted in our moving our children elsewhere to find a good environment for their education. A good man, but he needs to work on flexibility - this is school, not the marines.
--Submitted by a parent

Extremely energetic principal who is building a first class staff and student environment. Very open to parent participation. School supports weekly specialists in P.E., music, library and science for grades 1-5. Very active PTO. Facilities could use serious upgrade--almost 30 years old.
--Submitted by a parent

I have been very pleased with the Sequim School district. I think over all the teachers are caring, and supportive. It is a little like being back a few decades even in the high school kids tend to be respectful. It has been an amazing school district in which to raise my children.
--Submitted by Janelle Hankinson, a parent

I am a long time ago former student of Helen Haller Elementary school. 1979 - 1982, I think it was. I am now almost 29 years old and found this site today. I remember my school days as if they were yesterday. I remember Helen Haller being a great school, with great teachers. I'd have to say it was the best school I went to in my school years. Mrs. Prince, Mrs. Lunderville, Ms. Monroe, Mrs. Craker, and Mr. Janell were my teachers. I'd love to know if any of them are still teaching. After 4th grade I moved to California, and I'd definitely have to say this was the best school I went to.
--Submitted by a former student