Cumberland Elementary School

My two children transfereed to this school in 4th and 3rd grade from a local catholic school. The transisiton was difficult for the entire family. We did not start here and we for sure were outsiders. It was a difficult choice we made as parents based on our children's educational needs. However, I could not be more pleased with the outcome. The comments regarding the principal are unwarrented. She is extremely professional. More importantly she is effective! She knows every child's name in that school. My children will go on to succeed because of Mrs. Heffron. I have never seen a school try so hard and execute as they have with my two children. I am a fan. A BIG ONE!
--Submitted by a parent

The principal seems very unprofessional and she is strict on the kids. If she has a problem with the parent(s), she will take it out on the kids. The school is VERY cliquey, and bullying is a big factor at this school. Other than that, the education is great at the school and don't get me wrong, I would say it's way better than MPS schools. The guidance counselors try to help but it almost seems like they can't control the kids who are bullies.
--Submitted by a parent

Great school. Strong leadership from principal who has been very helpful to my family. Great teachers. We are blessed that our son goes here.
--Submitted by a parent

Mediocre teaching, one size fits all model. I'm not sure the teaching rises to the caliber of the student body,
--Submitted by a parent

Cumberland's strengths - Most Teachers are excellent, parent involvement is extremely high and the PTO does a lot of great things for the school. Weaknesses - Not a fan of the Principal. I've seen her handle many things poorly. She talks a lot about 'Capturing Kid's Hearts,' but I have yet to see it happen. She sets a tone for the building that many are uncomfortable with (children and parents alike). I guess I had higher expectations for my childrens' school in that department. I hope the new beyond teacher has a better way with kids than the last one did. There could be more extra-curricular activities, and there are a lot of fees at the beginning of the year.
--Submitted by a parent

Both my kids went through Cumberland and are now at the Middle and High School. While school districts cut budgets, WFB schools still have strong music, art and gym classes. The 'Beyond' program for advanced students was a godsend for both my kids. A public school that has accelerated programs through high school! Can't beat that. Everyday Math doesn't work for all, and many teachers tailor their lessons to the class anyway. Involved parents are a mixed blessing. Teachers welcome extra parent help, but no school can cater to each parents' ideas. We've met many wonderful Cumberland parents and kids over the years. Fun lunch complaints? OK, you try to feed hundreds of kids quickly, and inexpensively with no kitchen facilities. My kids packed their own lunch when McDonald's was brought in.
--Submitted by a parent

All WI public schools are not equal. The faculty and staff are dedicated and more than qualifed to teach. The students and families are wonderful. Parents are very involved. This school is in an 'affluent' neighborhood, but lacks basics like handicap access and school lunch. The principal is great at public relations, but is extremely reluctant to change or even consider change.
--Submitted by a parent

We recently moved to the area. We looked around a lot for the best schools for our 3 children. I have found it a very hard transition for my children to go to Cumberland and the Middle School. There is no hot lunch program, which is very difficult when you have picky eatters!! And they are very fast paced. After being in a 'regular' school and being above average for 5 years in school my daughter has had some issues catching up at this school. They move very fast and do rely on parent volunteers ALOT! Also they seem to need money from you every week for one thing or another, it cost us over $350 to register all our children. That isn't counting all the supplies they needed!! It was crazy after attending a school that had a $5 registration fee!!! overall good, but make sure you can afford it!
--Submitted by a parent

Given the restrictions and mandates that all public schools face, Cumberland seems a good place for children to learn. Cons: ~They still use the ineffective 'Everyday Math' program which has produced horrible results nationwide. ~Because parents in the community are active, it seems some teachers rely a bit too much on volunteers and ask a lot of us. ~Like all public schools, a bit too much emphasis on guidance programs (i.e. anti-bullying curriculum, which is just dumb; wherever kids gather, bullies will exist, period) and incorporating moral relativity. Just teach my kids math, reading, etc., and I'll take care of the rest, thanks. ~It's a public schools, so even though Cumberland is teeming with excellent teachers, they're not allowed much freedom. Pros: ~The staff is outstanding. The principal has a real gift for hiring gifted, enthusiastic teachers. I have yet to run across a 'time clock puncher' or a teacher who was unwilling to work with me.
--Submitted by a parent

Quoted from another review: 'The school relies heavily on the volunteer pool that parents comprise but parents with any suggestions or differences in opinion are treated in low regard and at times with hostility.' I agree! I also agree about the parent gossip - shameful!
--Submitted by a parent