Way Elementary School

765 West Long Lake Road

School District

Bloomfield Hills Schools
Grade

K-4
Teacher/Student Ratio

1:13
Type

public

GreatSchools Rating

The school rating calculation is based on four ratings: the Student Progress Rating or Academic Progress Rating, College Readiness Rating, Equity Rating, and Test Score Rating each designed to show different facets of school success. Learn more about GreatSchools Ratings

Reviews

Submitted by parent on September 27, 2020

Way Elementary School in Bloomfield Hills MI is one of the best public elementary school in MI for certain and probably in the USA. In addition to stellar educators and administrators, it has an amazingly diverse student body, which is a must in these times for bringing up emotionally intelligent adults.
Submitted by other on July 13, 2016

Started at K, wonderful teachers and support network. My child was below national and state average at the beginning of the year and far exceeded both by the end of the year. I also have an enthusiastic, happy and polite child. Excellent experience
Submitted by parent on May 06, 2015

How on earth did greatschools only come up with a score of 7/10 for Way? This school is phenomenal, and has ranked consistently somewhere between #4 and #40 out of 1,500 elementary schools in Michigan (depending on source)! All the schools in the Bloomfield district are very highly rated, and the district itself is rated best in the state. My child absolutely loves this school, and the staff is amazing. Would give 10 stars if I could.
Submitted by parent on December 13, 2014

My family moved to Michigan from Nevada. Whenever we looked at a home that was zoned for Way Elementary, the "Selling" Realtor would STRESS the selling point that "This house is zoned for Way." There is a culture at this school that is concerned with actually teaching the child through almost a socratic method. "Visible Thinking" is used in every grade and it brings forth interactive conversation about any and every subject that the children are studying. Children discuss things as young adults would in a college setting in an effort for them to really "get it," to understand, appreciate and relate to what they are learning. Every teacher has been thorough, yet extremely caring. Our principal sets the mood of the entire school giving the kids high-fives every day both at drop off and pick up, knowing every child's name and making himself available to parents daily. The PTO and other parents are very welcoming - especially to newcomers. I have only one child and she will have only one elementary school experience. I feel extremely lucky that we found Way Elementary and that she will have not only learned so much, but will have also gained such wonderful memories.
Submitted by parent on October 26, 2014

This is an outstanding school for a children and parents. They pride themselves on teaching the 'whole' child. This means differentiated teaching to all levels in class, the social aspect of the child and even welcoming parents into the school to participate in activities. The community of parents is welcoming and educational. The principal is an exceptional leader in the school and educational community at large. It's great to see him high fiving kids on the way into school and playing soccer at recess. We are so fortunate to be part of this school! It will be a sad day when our youngest moves on to the middle school (which is just as great, but we'll still miss Way).
Submitted by parent on September 22, 2014

This is now a K-4 school now. The best part of this school is the Methodology of teaching using Visible Thinking. Teachers are wonderful, extremely dedicated and highly trained. Parents are involved in all areas of the school and even take time to read to children of other grades that are not their own.
Submitted by parent on September 22, 2014

Way Elementary is an exceptional place for learning and developing thinking skills. The Visible Thinking program helps students understand information in a deeper way and expand creativity. My kids are having the most amazing experience. All of the staff are well trained, passionate, talented professionals who share best practices. I cannot imagine a more happy school where students want to be and teachers love their work! My neighbor told me that "Way is like going to a private school. We hit the lottery with this school. " Obviously, she is a fan as well. I completely agree. Bloomfield Hills School District really supports each school and produces great results. The learning culture here is inclusive and learners are met where they are. From the tech in the classrooms, the student organic garden, to the all-school art show, and learning exhibitions, the children get to be hands on, skilled learners from kindergarten on. We love the school, staff, and the amazing collection of families that attend this school.
Submitted by parent on October 07, 2013

I must say that after reading these review I agree with most of them. I went to the principle last year with a problem regarding my child and a teacher and it was addressed immediately! In fact the principal has searched me out to make sure that my child is doing well this year and see if more action is required. It is not. I applaud his immediate action and overall administrative style! this is a fabulous school with great staff and involved parents!
Submitted by parent on August 19, 2012

As with most schools, there are some great teachers and some not-great teachers. The principle is a good public face, but not great with parents or issues wih kids. The parents are very supportive. For a public school, they are probably above average, but there is definite room for improvement. Some classes are below average in my opinion.
Submitted by parent on April 27, 2010

N/A
Submitted by student on March 01, 2008

N/A