Hardy Elementary School in Newport News, Virginia

“This school WAS a great school. Teachers are not happy anymore. Parents are frustrated. The principal and assistant principal are new this year. They are making so many changes to a system that was nearly perfected by the former principal. The teachers have complained that the new principal is on a power trip to establish themselves. It is hard for the parents who were so happy with this school. We cannot wait to be away from this new staff.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“I have been very impressed with this school. The principal is phenomenal, the teachers truly care about the kids, and every child's needs are met. Teachers word hard to differentiate instruction so that each child gets what he or she needs, and the teachers work as a team to help your child. You can feel confident that if your child attends Hardy, they are being monitored by a team of people who care and are ready to step in to help the teacher if need be. My son is very happy here, and we are been in other schools since we are military. He loves this school the best and I feel like he is safe here. I highly recommend this school!”
This review was posted by a parent.

“I always felt that the principal was quick to resolve any problems and just as quick at responding to my questions/concerns. As a military family, we've had to move to 2 other states since our time at Hardy, and I genuinely miss it. I have found that other schools may be newly built and look great on the outside, but academically they just don't compare. Hardy may not be as nice looking as the new school down the road, but take the time to go into the school and spend some time there. You won't be disappointed. The quality of education at this school will be hard to beat!”
This review was posted by a parent.

“I would like to say that I am on the inside, working at different events and volunteering at lunchtime; I have also talked with parents in other schools. The bad things mentioned: the principal not handling issues, people not friendly, caring only about SOLs (which are state not locally regulated). The principal's hands are tied in many instances - because of the system. People at the desk: what time of day did you see them? In the morning, when the office is the busiest? Hardy, overall, is a decent school. But what can you expect when the school board and superintendent don't even get along. Also remember that most children don't have discipline problems; it's their parents who have the discipline problem. Education begins at home and some parents need to realize it. My disappointment: the gifted program. I don't think the kids get enough to challenge them.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“I tell everyone who will listen how displeased I am with this school. This is the 2nd year that my child has attended Hardy. The first year was bad, but I decided to give it another chance, what a mistake I made! If you care at all about your child's academic career, bypass this institution and pay for higher quality.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“I am a very active parent at this school and I see alot of things that those parents who complain all the time don't. You all may show up every once in a bluemoon and think you know all but come out and spend a day or so volunteering every week and then voice your opinions. I think this school is great. I hate to see my son leave and go on. I find that the principal is very easy to work with and talk to. He is great with the kids also. In this day and age you have to watch every move you make when handling different situations just so you don't offend people. As far as lunches and children who forget money I have known several kids and my son included who have forgotten and they gave them lunch and sent a ltr home. Get involved and see.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“All the staff cares about is the SOLs they could careless about your childs future. Spelling is almost completely ignored here. The principal neglects parent/teacher issues. I don't reccomend this school.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“Everyone else is very pleasant. I just bypass the main problem person. I act as if she isn't there and take my matters up with the other people in the office. She is the first person that the public sees. That doesn't do much for the school. Other than that one individual, everyone is pleasant and helpful. It is a very good school. It has high academic standards and good teachers.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“All i can say is the front office has alot ot desire for friendliness . they're very rude to parents and students. we are to be teaching and seting examples for the children they watch and mock us. they're lunch prices are horrible. they wont let a child eat if they forget or dont have money that day, thats neglect if you ask me.”
This review was posted by a parent.