Pioneer Valley Elementary School

I have felt nothing but judgment from the teacher's and office staff, the pick up line after school is ATROCIOUS, no one enforces the rules of the blue line, people pick up their kids where ever, and then come tearing out of the line, I have been almost run over twice trying to leave the parking lot after getting my kids. I had a woman, who I guess thought driving 15 mph in the parking lot to get to the pick up line, was to slow for her, so she went speeding around me and got in line RIGHT IN FRONT OF ME!!!!! The whole pick up line is just sooooo messed up.
--Submitted by a parent

I enrolled my son here with very high hopes. My daughter attended Pioneer Valley and did very well there but that was 11 years ago. She just graduated an honor student from GKHS 2010. I could blame it on the over crowding or lack of funding but my son had a great 1st grade teacher. This year my son's teacher lacked the patience. I noticed a general attitude of 'being bothered'. I witnessed it with other children with similar quirks. Maybe she has frustrations of her own but we look to our schools for guidance and comfort. On a postive note, I do believe that the special programs that are offered need to be incorporated in the regular curriculum because it made all the difference in his learning. Because we entrust our children to these individuals we should feel like celebrating and not have regrets because our choices are limited.
--Submitted by a parent

I love this school. My daughter writes notes to her teacher almost daily to let her know how much she loves her. We've not had any problems on the playground (an occasional tiff between friends that is solved amongst themselves I wouldn't count as an unmanagable problem - that is part of learning and problem solving). I'm curious about the statement that NO one cares about the children. I disagree and would encourage that parent to make contact with a teacher and/or principal to have their issue resolved. If they have knowledge of these things taking place, try to solve the problem rather than adding to it. I appreciate the balance between academics and a real care and compassion for the students' well being. I'm grateful to have Pioneer Valley as my daughter's school!!!!
--Submitted by a parent

My grand daughter is currently finishing up the 5th grade with Mrs. Best. I have the utmost respect for this particular teacher. Mrs. Best donates her own time after school to assist students struggling in math 2 days a week. She goes the extra mile to make sure her students succeed. The staff overall at Pioneer Valley is friendly and helpful. I'm proud to be a Pioneer Valley parent. Teresa Thurston
--Submitted by a parent

I have had my child enrolled at PVE for 3 years and have not had any problems. The teachers have been caring and helpful. I am shocked at the bad reviews here.
--Submitted by a parent

I was very wrong about this school. I cannot believe the general attitudes of teachers and staff at Pioneer Valley. Don't expect the school to take care of your childs needs. Don't expect them to respect the confidentiality that goes along with your childs academic progress, physical demands, or limitations the child may have. This will be talked about on an unprofessional level and your child may also become gossiped about around other parents, by the staff. They will also do nothing about this as well, and i guess is an accepted part of their core values and morale as a school. The kids in the classes are able to get away with a tremendous amount of hostile behaviors towards each other~ cussing and verbal abuse are common, and nothing will be done about this either. There is no one truely there for the best interest of the children.
--Submitted by a parent

I have had two children attend this school, and both have passed the WASL testing with flying colors. My youngest is in 6th grade, and has a tremendous teacher that is strict, and ensures ALL work is conpleted. My oldest is now in Jr high, and has excelled in higher learning classes, which is a direct result of the caring faculty, great learning environment, and teachers at PVE.
--Submitted by a parent

I really disliked Pioneer Valley because my student had a teacher that was rude and was gone at least once a week !
--Submitted by a parent

I haven't taken my son to many schools, but I do know that he thinks highly of his teacher, loves to learn, and has many friends. That to me is worth putting up with a few petty rules such as a dress being too long. As far as the staff, they have only been courtesous and respectful to me and my wife.
--Submitted by Jerry, a parent

As the parent of 2 PVE students (3rd & 6th grade, both who have attended since kindergarten) I am very happy with the teachers, staff and parents at PVE. We like the uniforms, makes it easier to get dressed in the morning. I was very surprised to read the bad reviews here. While I know everything is not perfect at PVE (overcrowded, etc.) I can't imagine someone being so disappointed with the school. We are looking to move out of state and I hope we can find another school with staff and teachers as caring as those at PVE.
--Submitted by a parent