Keenes Crossing Elementary School

5240 Keenes Pheasant Drive

School District

Orange County Public Schools
Grade

PK, K-5
Teacher/Student Ratio

1:14
Type

public

School Map for Orange County Public Schools

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 January 14, 2025

The gifted program is a joke as is the new principal. The "gifted" classes contain averge (& sometimes below average) students. These classes should be fast paced, but have to be slowed down for the non-gifted kids (who then feel bad because they can't keep up with their gifted peers). There is no difference in the curriculim between gifted and non-gifted classes. The principal only cares about the special education students (& the money the school receives for them). She does not care about the rest of the students. If you are zoned for this school, use other options - home school, virtual school, charter school, private school, school choice - anything but this school. Stay away.
Submitted by parent on April 30, 2024

I have 2 children who attend Keens, both are currently on the honor Roll and I’m so proud of them .Also they volunteer on Safety Patrol. Kids love going to this school, Teachers are Proud of their beautiful students and Parents feel Safe leaving them there. The Administration is Running a Tight Ship and the High Test Scores Prove It. Seems like people are moving to Orlando for the theme parks, sunshine and great A rated schools.
Submitted by parent on February 15, 2019

We moved in 3 years ago in the middle of the school year, and so far I'm happy with the school. Staffs are always friendly and caring. The three vice principals are seen everywhere positive, kids love them. When you need help or talk to admin, they are there. The music and art department always put best effort with their programs. My kid loves chorus, recorder, chime, and cello. So many great teachers who stayed from the beginning of the school for 10 years, which you don't see a lot nowadays. Parents' involvement is great, I love father-daughter dance every year, can't wait for this year's event!
Submitted by parent on April 11, 2018

This is my family's second year at Keene's Crossing and both years have been great. The first year out second grade teacher was ok (and we just found out that she transferred to a different school), but this year her third grade teacher is amazing. It's been a lot of iReady, but we understand this is to help prepare for the FSA. It sucks that so much emphasis has to be placed on the FSA but that is not the school's fault, that is the state. The school just does what they need to do so the students are ready. The school is a very big school, but they still find a way to keep all students engaged and productive during the school day. Parents also have lots of opportunities to volunteer to help.
Submitted by parent on February 06, 2018

This is an excellent school! My son is currently enrolled in Kindergarten for the 2017/18 school year, and his first 6 months have been a wonderful experience. Despite my son having challenges with ADHD, my son's teacher is so caring and focused on ensuring he achieves success. She communicates regularly with me via email about his progress and "challenging days," and I really appreciate that. He loves attending school every day, and is thriving at Keene's Crossing. Re: the previous comments about having to arrive 45-60 mins prior to school opening in the morning to drop off your child, they are no longer true (that might have been the case in previous school years, but not now). We drive our son to school every morning (our home is too far for walking distance) and park at approx 8:05am in the spaces along the road next to the community park. From there, we make the very short walk up to the school building and are back in our car headed to work no later than 8:20am. It's a total of 15 mins to accomplish our drop off every morning. We cannot speak for the afternoon pick-up, because our son attends the Afterschool Program until 5pm every day (at which point there is no traffic or challenge in driving directly up to the school to get him). Just wanted to share this info in case others are seeing the previous comments about morning drop-off being a challenge. It's totally manageable now!
Submitted by parent on September 16, 2017

Brilliant teachers and administrators, one of the top in the state.
Submitted by other on April 13, 2017

My son got a letter from Rick Scott for his perfect performance on the FCAT, he is learning disabled and with all of the extra classroom exceptions made for him by the teacher he has has made his life amazing. The teachers have never disappointed me. If I had to criticize I would say they could document things better, but aside from that they are amazing. We have been attending the school for 3 years.
Submitted by other on November 17, 2016

Don't let a couple of bad apples ruin the whole bunch. This school is excellent and most all of the teachers go beyond their duties and expectations.. Those that don't we all know who they are, so get them out if you're not happy with them. Praise those that do! And there are more that do than don't! BTW, overcrowding is not the schools problem, it's the officials and commissioners. As for traffic issues? It wouldn't hurt if the parents adhered to the traffic laws and taught their children by example how to be a good citizen
Submitted by other on July 19, 2016

I agree with the recent teacher comments. Very bad administration. By the way, this school dropped to a "B". Go figure.
Submitted by teacher on June 11, 2016

Teachers avoid this school. The fact that we are an "A" school is merely an illusion and if the curtain was pulled back, the dysfunction that is caused by our inept administration would be exposed. The sad truth is we are an "A" school in spite of our administration not because of them. The principal is off campus almost as much as she is on campus. I'm not sure what she does when she is at school other than look out for herself and her best interests of getting promoted to the district office. When on campus it’s not uncommon for her to have the secretary take time out of their busy schedule to go get breakfast and/or lunch for her. When the secretary is too busy and not around she has had the audacity to ask custodians to do it. She's also asked them to move her car for her when it needs moving and she doesn't feel like doing it. She doesn't communicate with the teachers and then yells at them when they are not doing what she expects of them. Most good administrators like getting input from their staff, after all you can't be an expert in everything. This lady goes out of her way to keep staff out of the loop and from providing any input of their own. If you have a difference in opinion on her vision and respectfully give your advice her reaction is equivalent to a child who throws a temper tantrum. It is unfortunately easier to just agree with her even if it is not in the best interest of the students to avoid her reactions and being put on her bad list. There is hope that she will be moved or unjustly promoted just to get her out of here. There has already been staff turnover due to her. I also heard the community tried to push her out years ago but cannot say if that is true or not. I would not be surprised if they did since most everything is about her and not the kids. She knows very few students by name and is usually only involved with the students if it involves a photo op. If you are a teacher looking for a school in the West Learning Community I highly recommend waiting this principal out. She will eventually get moved or promoted since unfortunately it's not always how good you are at your job in OCPS. In the meantime there are plenty of other schools in the area with more competent administrators.
Submitted by parent on August 24, 2015

This school is overcrowded and the staff and principal unable to mange it well. The traffic is a mess and seems like no one care in this school. To drop and pick your child your need 45min in the morning and even more in the afternoon. This school is a mess.
Submitted by parent on August 21, 2014

This school has 1200 students, and 10 kindergarten classes. It is way overcrowded and impossible to get your child into class on time during morning drop off unless you get to the school one hour before it opens. Picking up of children is just as chaotic and frustrating for the children as the adults. Chaotic dismissal and overcrowding of school does not make a good place for elementary students. Week one of school and already very disappointed. Thinking of a private or home schooling over this situation for my child.
Submitted by parent on April 10, 2014

We love Keenes Crossing! The teachers are so engaged and really look out for my daughter's best interests. We moved here from MD two years ago and have been amazed at the level of great education that she is receiving!
Submitted by parent on March 20, 2014

I AM THE FATHER OF A STUDENT DAVID FRIDMAN WHO HAS 12 YEARS OLD AND IS VERY HAPPY WITH THE SCHOOL AND ALL THE STAFF.I DEFINITELY RECOMMEND THIS SCHOOL
Submitted by parent on February 08, 2014

I have had 2 children at the school for a year now and absolutely loved their teachers from last year and this year! They challenge my kids and really care about them! There are also great parents! Twice parents I don't even know have helped my children. Once when my son fell of his bike and got hurt and this week a sweet parent bought my child lunch when his got ruined. I am sure like every school you may have teachers or situations that are not ideal, but this school has been great for us and the families we know also love their teachers!
Submitted by parent on January 23, 2014

This school is the cream of the crop. For the past few years I have had the wonderful pleasure of having an ESE student at Keenes Crossing Elementary School. I have been thoroughly pleased with the dedication of the teachers, the commitment of the staff and the "students first" attitude of the administration. I have never had concerns regarding my child's education and/or safety as school staff members are vigilant about education and security throughout the school campus. The Parent Organization has been extremely supportive of the school and students. Their efforts are reflected in the wonderful spirit and involvement displayed by the students and the families. I could go on and on, but there is simply not enough room and time. A quick eparting thought....when searching for a home and a school you should strongly consider a school whose administrations is award-winning caliber, a staff that is dedication and commintment lead to the best possible education I have ever seen a child receive and a school community the exudes family involvement and student succes....you should consider Keenes Crossing Elementary School! You will not be disappointed!!
Submitted by parent on January 17, 2014

Not a safe harbor for my child. The main reason is an uncaring, irresponsible and wreckles principal. Staffing skills are non existent and supervision of the staff is a poor to say the least. My child had seven teachers in 2.5 years and almost all of them had issues with safety compliance and curriculum. I feel sorry for those great students and teachers that are stuck with no options. Hopefully something is done soon so this school can be saved from the obvious failure. It needs to start from the top. Parents, talk to your children and make sure are treated with dignity. Don't take anything for granted and don't count with the administration for help. Get others involved.
Submitted by parent on January 16, 2014

One star is too high for this school. Worst public elementary school in Orange County. Completely neglected my child educationally, mentally and allegedly physically. I have three DCF (Department of Children & Family) reports ranging from, leaving my child unattended, loosing my child and a staff member physically abusing my child.. The administration is unqualified and uncaring to say the least. I would have never purchased a home in this school zone if I had any idea what a train-wreck this school was. Thankfully I was able to get a transfer due to their absolute neglect. Do not make the same mistake!
Submitted by parent on January 05, 2014

Fantastic teachers and parental involvement! Teachers worm hard.to challenge students as well as reinforce missing skills.
Submitted by parent on September 15, 2013

Our experience at KCE has been good. The school is full of lots of caring & well educated teachers. Parents are very involved and spend lots of time with their children and it shows. The principal is very focused on academics and test scores...she lacks greatly in social skills. The assistant principal, Ms. Amy Lerman, makes up for this big time. Not only does she know my KG and 2nd grader by name, but she also knows their quirks, likes, and personalities. She talks directly to them and treats them with respect. The two together make a good team. Yelling by the teachers is tolerated way to much. Ridiculous!Lunch in the cafeteria is lacking. Most of the lunch room staff have horrible attitudes. Parents have been volunteering and coming in to help there.KCE is a wonderful school overall...but regardless parents must be present! There is also a great sense of community.The school also has a wonderful gifted program and lots of great specials the kids regularly go to...science lab, science technology lab, art, music, PE,and writing lab. I would not choose another school in the area to be a part of.