Research Sanders Street Public Schools in Gardner, Massachusetts

“My daughter is in 1st grade at Sanders street but also attended Kindergarten there. I have had nothing but good experiences with all of the staff at Sanders Street School. The teachers are always willing to go the extra mile and speak w/ you whenever you feel the need. The only thing I would improve upon is having a program for advanced students so that they are not disrupting class or being bored during class. The principal is different this year than last, but both really cared about the students and were very active w/ the school. Keep it up Sanders Street!”

“This year is fantastic! My son's teacher is beyond great. She is everything we wanted a teacher to be-enthusiastic, creative, caring, communicative, tentative to every kid's learning and emotional needs. We get notes or homework back every day which really helps us understand what is expected. She actually called the night before school started to say hello to my son and us. She gave us her personal phone number in case we have any questions throughout the year. Other issues we had last year (playground supervision, some communication, and bullying) have gotten better. The leadership is a totally different story. The interim principal became permanent despite protests by many. I only know a few parents and each one of us who have met her have had a negative experience. Hopefully it is due to her total lack of experience and she will grow however she seems very unwilling to change.”

“We are new to the community and I am pleased to say that my children (Kindergarten and 2nd Grade) have both grown to love reading through the Title I Program. The teachers have been very supportive/agreeable to meetings and communication. I am not sure what it happening with the music/art/gym in the school as I 'heard through the grapevine' that they may be taken away from the students... I understand budget cuts do need to be made from time to time, but I wish they would take away things like computers/internet, etc. Things like music & art are found in children through school and most important to feel comfortable and progress for a future. This has made me realize how important it is for a parent to become more involved by PTO; etc.”

“This school is terrible. The principle lacks leadership. Most of the teachers don't care about their students. They don't follow any of their own policies and they don't follow any of the IEP's. I have taken my children out of this school and placed them in another. If it weren't for the 'secret' board meeting to close open choice for school. We would be in a different district all together. Heads ups to all if your going to have a meeting of this importance them send it in a letter or bullitin with the children.”