Research Cumberland Elementary School public Schools in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

“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.”

“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!”

“I think this school is outstanding. To think that anyone would complain about the fun lunch, the Principal the parent involvement is ludicris. Pack you child a lunch (there is not any money made on fun lunch) if you don't like what is served and take the time to get to konw the Principal. It is wonderful to feel so welocme as well as needed in an arena where my children spend the better part of their week. Truely an outstanding school with great staff, parents and kids!”

“Having two children attend the independent private school in the area and then transfer in to Cumberland, I can offer the following observations. A parent must advocate for their child, regardless of the school. For the past five years, we have found professional responsiveness on the part of the principal in matters varying from curricula to social issues. The school representatives, from principal to teacher, give the same measure of respect and privacy to other students that I would want shown to my child. The students' academic needs vary and I am appreciative that the principal and the district administration sets the bar high regarding academics. The curricula emphasizes reading and writing, and there is increased emphasis on differentiation in mathematics. History, geography and science is taught in a fun, interactive way. Cumberland School and the entire WFB district offers a high standards education at a tremendous value.”

“I have two young daughters at Cumberland and we all absolutely love it. I have found all of their teachers to be incredibly responsive to questions and concerns. Although my children are very different, both have found the community they need at the school. The principal is extremely hands on. She knows all the childrens names and gets involved in everything from safety during drop off to goings on in the clinic. Parents are very involved and are welcome in the classroom for all kinds of activities. I feel very lucky that my children are at Cumberland.”

“In a time when most Principals across the country are having a real discourse about 'partnering' with parents, Cumberland's is not. 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. There also seems to be a problem with parents in the classrooms not respecting the privacy of the children(gossiping at pick up time about the behaviour of so and so, etc.) The school still relies heavily on antiquated, aversive procedures in dealing with children's behaviour and relational aggression among young girls runs rampant. The curriculum is interesting but very fast paced, many children complain there isn't time to finish eating or drinking and using the bathroom during class time is made difficult. I strongly encourage you to check out Richards School, I wish I had.”

“The principal at this school is not interested in working with parents. The parents work for the principal and everyone kinda keeps there distance as a parent because of the way she treats you if you don't agree with her. The area is safe, it's not a bad school compared to the city ones,the teachers are good, alot are really good. Still, I don't feel great as I'm sending her off. I don't feel she's at a great school.”

“We had excellent experiences at Cumberland School over the past 5 years. The principal seems to know the name of every student who attends the school. My children love the art and music teachers, because the teachers are enthusiastic and develop creative and fun activities. The school does not have facilities to provide a hot lunch. I am thankful for the parent volunteers who provide a hot 'fun lunch' one day each month so the kids do not need to bring a bag lunch from home. Cumberland is a friendly and supportive community. I strongly recommend Cumberland School.”

“While the school seems to care about its students it has its disadvantages. The 'Fun Lunch' program is nothing but a fundraiser, and while the children enjoy it, there is little to no nutritional value to the meal. I believe that a meal offered by the school should adhere to the same food pyramid that they teach. The principal is strict, perhaps too much so. Someone needs to remind her that children are children and not just small adults. Cumberland is far from a 'bad school' however the staff there seems very reluctant to take any parent advice into consideration. My suggestion is to keep a close watch on your child and his/her learning excperience.”

“I have found the principal to be entirely helpful and very involved in the day to day functions. There are many opportunities for parents to volunteer in the classroom as well as in other school functions. The teachers really care about each student and put their all into each day, many teachers live in this community as well. I highly reccommend this school.”