Although my triplets are only 3, I'm already stressing out about our zone school. It's considered to be one of the best elementary schools in our area, BUT, it's extremely overcrowded. It's about 150% capacity. Yet they manage to have amazing reading and math scores. The kids don't have a cafeteria, gym, library, or computer lab because all areas are utilized for teaching.. and gym is taught in the hallway.

Is it a good or bad idea to send kids to such an overcrowded school? It doesn't seem to have a negative impact on kids' education because of the amazing grades kids get.. but I'm still worried about how it will be in a year or two for us.

I think the fact that the test scores are high is a positive deciding factor.

You said it perfectly: the overcrowding doesn't seem to have a negative impact on kids' education.

Can you talk with other Moms of younger kids to get an idea what they think?

I had so many questions about our school and it help tremendously to chat with other parents.

Good luck.

Lisa

I would call and request a tour of the school. If the school is well organized and you feel comfortable with it, then that says a lot. I would also do as the other mom suggested and talk to other moms currently enrolled. Test scores are one thing, a child's environment and comfort level are another. Some kids do better in a smaller setting. Don't stress, just do your homework and weigh all the pros and cons of all your possible options.
Good luck. You'll make the right decision for your children.
-Camille

I think it is a little early to worry how it will be in 2 years. Yes things can get worse in 2 years but they overcrowding can also get better. I can't even name all the schools built here in the past 2 years. I would start calling your schools district office and see if they have any plans for new schools. But even if they don't have plans today, with 150% capacity they may have plans next year. In two years there may be another feeder school to take some of that overcrowding. Or the overcrowding could be worse in 2 years.

I just have a hard time imagining a school district sustaining that type of overcrowding without at least exploring expanding.

Tasha
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I wouldn't worry about it. Our school is a charter school and our campus is rented space from two churches. We do not have a cafe, gym or library. They make it work! Our kids are getting a fabulous education regardless of the amenities. Our school does however limit the class size to 18 kids per class.

You do have a couple of years. But I say do a tour the year before your kids will start and see how you like it.


Terri~
12/21/01 at 33 weeks