Mary Esther Elementary School

Posted: May 26, 2026

I’m glad this school is shutting down, my child has had the experience worst experiences at this school. The teachers aren’t prepared, the cafeteria feeds them the worst food, and the coaches never properly monitor the children on the playground.

Posted: May 26, 2026

Posted: May 26, 2026

Posted: May 26, 2026

Posted: May 26, 2026

Posted: May 26, 2026

Posted: May 26, 2026

Posted: May 26, 2026

Posted: March 30, 2019

Posted: March 30, 2019

Posted: March 30, 2019

Posted: March 30, 2019

Posted: March 30, 2019

Posted: March 30, 2019

Posted: March 30, 2019

I love this school. The teachers are great! This is the first year my son is in public school and he absolutely loved it.

Posted: July 12, 2018

Posted: July 12, 2018

Posted: July 12, 2018

Posted: July 12, 2018

Posted: July 12, 2018

Posted: July 12, 2018

Posted: July 12, 2018

My daughter goes to this school, so far the teachers have been very friendly and helpful, and shes doing great

Posted: December 7, 2017

Posted: December 7, 2017

Posted: December 7, 2017

Posted: December 7, 2017

Posted: December 7, 2017

Posted: December 7, 2017

The administration would rather keep a student at the school so that they don't get dinged by the district than to keep other students safe. When a student is not working hard and having issues in their daily life because of these bullies it's time to re-evaluate things.

Posted: December 7, 2017

I have always had a good experience with the teachers however the bullying issues are out of hand. Putting a student on a behavior contract and then trying anything and everything to make sure the student stays in the school is not the right thing to do. If that child and their group of friends is continuing to bully other students it's time for action and not words.
Being a teacher myself I know when there is a line that is drawn and if crossed the trigger needs to be pulled. Apparently keeping students in school now, so that the school doesn't look bad is better for everyone. Well it's not and other students are now suffer in major ways due to it.

Posted: July 25, 2017

Posted: July 25, 2017

They really try to instill these characteristics in children

Posted: July 25, 2017

Posted: July 25, 2017

When it happened to my child it was handled in an appropriate manner. Though I feel they go overboard on the bullying issue.

Posted: July 25, 2017

As far as I know, it is a teacher policy and not the school's policy for homework. So the work load really depends on the teacher.

Posted: July 25, 2017

It has gotten better over the years. I have like my children's teachers and the staff that I have been in contact with. My only issue, that is not a Florida education issue, is their recess policy. Last year (2016-2017) recess was apart of their P.E. time which meant that was the child's only break to be physically active. Yes, the teacher do have "brain breaks" in their class, but that is completely different than running around and playing like children should. I cannot speak about the up-and-coming school year as it hasn't started yet.

Posted: May 31, 2015

Posted: August 17, 2014

I pulled my daughter from this school 6 years ago because of the rude unhelpful administration staff and extremely unrealistic ideals of a kindergarten teacher. My youngest is now in the PreK program and when they told me he would go here I almost cried. I went in hoping it would be better. Was I ever wrong. The staff is extremely rude. They refuse to answer questions and if they do the answers are ALWAYS incorrect! I asked a question and got 3 different answers at the same time. The staff laughed thinking it was funny none of them has the same information. My child's teacher has been fantastic, but other teachers I have met and interacted with have acted like it is a bother for you to ask questions. I wasn't sure where I needed to go during orientation so I asked a teacher and was told "get a map and learn to use it". Overall I am completely disappointed in the lack of care or professionalism at this school. I have submitted a formal complaint to the school board, not that I expect it to do any good. If your student is set to go here, just be warned that you will probably greeted with rude and unhelpful people.

Posted: February 3, 2014

The teachers are hit and miss with this school. The teachers are more interested in convincing parents they love to teach verbally, then showing dedication through involving parents and improving student skills. There is zero communication from the teachers or administrations end unless initiated by the parent. Then it's delayed and limited. Teachers heavily dependent on worksheets for homework instead of involving any critical or creative thinking skills. Principal and teachers turn off any parent involvement, belittling their involvement or suggestions.

Posted: September 17, 2013

So far I am not impressed with this school. My son's teacher told me that the kids get tested at the beginning of the year to see what they know. She said that she "wants" them to do bad so they can show improvement...because this is how she is rated. Awesome right? I know many teachers think like this...but please...dont tell a PARENT! My son is smart for his age...not a genius....but a quick learner and there is NOTHING they do for these kids. They help the kids struggling, but do not do anything for those kids that need a little harder work. It is true that Mr. Massey is nice...he greets me in the halls. I have not interacted with him as yet. The front office is nice. Its sad because this school does have potential...but there is no motivation to offer something "special" to make this school better. It seems as thought they do the minimum and are average at best. The lunch menu they offer the kids is DISGUSTING. So much for teaching the kids about healthy eating. Nachos Supreme anyone? Chicken Nuggets? How about offering a salad bar? kids do eat salad! And for the grand finale? I submitted to volunteer in the classroom, have done training...and NO ONE has called....

Posted: August 12, 2013

I love this school principal Massey is very sweet and my kids love him and I also like the way he takes time to meet with me and my concerns and he probably the only principal I have seen helping in lunch room picking up trash and watching the children !!!

Posted: April 2, 2013

I went there in the 1970s and have positive memories. My kids go there now.

Posted: July 12, 2012

I am not sure where the previous parent got their informatin, but there have been 3 principals in the last 6 years which is not uncommon. I am overjoyed with Mary Esther. The teachers are hardworking and dedicated to their students. I volunteered a lot in and out of the classroom frequently. The music program is back and better than ever! And Mary Esther was the only elementary school to make an A rating between Edwin's, Wright and Florosa. If you don't believe me go and talk to Mr Massey who is readily available to chat everytime I go there!

Posted: May 30, 2012

Our child attended school for six years. We have had three great teachers out of 12 (keep in mind they switch classes) 5 different Principals in 6 years. No music program or guitar program that left with Dr. Neese. Lunch is a hostle setting with attendant who guards/guides. I absolutely love a few teachers. This does not make up for the teachers who are just collecting a check. Parents are not encouraged to visit the class room. If you vollenteer you will never be allowed in the classroom. (that would allow you to see what occurs behind closed doors)

Posted: July 21, 2011

Mary Esther Elementary is a great school with a caring faculty and staff. Exciting things will be happening with our new principal, Mr. Massey. We have a computer lab, PE program and Music program in addition to the regular academic classes. Parent involvement is encouraged; we have a very active PTO that sponsors several events throughout the year. YMCA provides before and after school care on campus. We invite you to come visit our school!

Posted: April 4, 2011

Teachers do not care about their jobs. Tell the kids to deal with it, or get over it. Principal says they will take care of some issues, still waiting to hear from him. Have a niece who went to a Niceville school with A-B grades transfered to Wright and now is a C-D student. She hates everything about the school. Other niece used to love going to school, even wanted to go on the weekends. Now hates school and can not wait for summer vacation. HOPING to get a waiver and change schools!!!