I was absolutely outraged when the district changed our elementary school to Shady Lane. I had heard some pretty unflattering things about the school in the early 2000s when my son was in kindergarten, and I was absolutely relieved when he was assigned to Ben Franklin. Now fast-forward 12 years, and I have my little girl in the same school district - only her school was Shady Lane. Naturally, I started purchasing flashcards and workbooks to make up for what I believed would be a deficit in teaching, and I agonized over 100 different things that could go wrong in a school with such a crummy rep. I also should mention that we are a mixed-race family. We had had a bad experience with an incredibly racist teacher 9 years ago in this same school district (I should mention that she was dealt with harshly and swiftly by the administration). This meant that I had the additional worry about how my child would be treated when no one is looking. Well, I have to tell you it was all for naught. With a new Superintendent and a new Principal, heck, even an update to the actual school building - the experience has been nearly perfect. My daughter is happy and has adjusted well to her first year in kindergarten. And she loves her teacher. My only complaint was the lack of communication (I had called about testing and didn't receive a call back until after the fact) at the beginning of the school year. And since this is the Year of COVID - meh, I think I can overlook that minor slight. If you're at all considering this school, go for it. We are impressed with the changes, the staff's friendliness, the quality of the education, and the overall experience. Goooooooo Shady Lane!
Submitted by parent on February 20, 2018
Shady Lane is an outstanding school, providing great educations to our children in a caring and safe environment. We take great pride in our schools and never hesitate to recommend them to other parents!
Submitted by parent on November 08, 2017
We love Shady Lane! We loved the teachers and staff. Everyone is very friendly & welcoming.
Submitted by parent on October 23, 2014
One of the only reasons I've stayed in Men Falls for so many years is to make sure all of my kids get the chance to experience this excellent elementary school! Teachers are caring and encourage your involment not only in your childs academic achievements but also you really feel welcomed when it comes to the fun in the classroom as well! Many opportunities for you to be involved and again the welcoming environment is excellent! Teachers go above and beyond a much needed aspect for our children these days.
Submitted by parent on October 05, 2014
Shady Lane is a great school! I wrote the 2006 not-so-shining post. Since then, we have a new principal, Mr. Hoffman, who is wonderful! We also have a new superintendent in the district who is making great changes in the district's curriculum and staffing. Test scores are going up! Attitudes are too! There is a fresh energy in the district, with an expectation of excellence in the staff. The teachers really seem to work hard for the success of each individual student. The PTA at Shady Lane is strong and involved. Great school! :)
Submitted by parent on July 31, 2014
Shady lane is a school that genuinely cares both for students and parents. They bring up the child in such a way the child does not get hurt, but instead the child starts to work towards their improvement. A lot of parent involvement is also welcomed. Every child is treated same. And there are a lot of interesting after school programs too. And not to mention the office staff Ms. Phillip, she is the most humble person I have ever come across. Any concern is taken care by her so well.
Submitted by parent on November 12, 2013
My son came to Shady Lane the second half of first grade, having come from a school in Brookfield (which I will not name) where he was having a difficult time and was receiving less than adequate support. He is now in third grade and thriving since being at this school. Mr. Hoffman, the principal is a fantastic leader, down to earth, and genuinely cares and is involved with his students. Micah's teachers have been FANTASTIC, and the PTA goes a long way to make the sense of community here feel very special. I also have a daughter at Shady Lane who loves it as much as her big brother. There is nowhere I would rather have my children go to school!