Palisades Episcopal School

Charlotte, NC 28278

Phone: (704) 583-1825

NR

GreatSchools Rating

private • Grades KG,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8 • 137 students

Palisades Episcopal School, a private school located in Charlotte, NC, serves grades K-8 in the .

Palisades Episcopal School is a private school located in Charlotte, NC. 137 students attend Palisades Episcopal School.

Posted: May 15, 2026

Start with the obvious: poor communication, weak academics, and an unprofessional administration. From top to bottom, this place operates more like a marketing machine than an actual educational institution.

What’s especially concerning is the pattern in their reviews. Most of the positive feedback appears clustered within a short time frame, while negative reviews seem to disappear altogether. That raises serious questions about transparency and whether the school is actively manipulating its public image.

And that’s just scratching the surface. Families deserve honesty, consistency, and a real commitment to education—none of which are being delivered here.

Posted: May 15, 2026

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Posted: December 8, 2025

My kids have been at PES for the last 4 years and they LOVE it. They don't even like going on holiday breaks because they love the school so much! While I really wish the public schools fostered this environment, I think they are just too big. PES is small, special, and I love that the teachers and admin know all of the students.
In terms of disabilities - They do have a speech and occupational therapist that come in to work with children. They are also very open to small sensory accommodations (my kids needed a couple) but I don't think it's the right place for a kid who requires a lot of accommodations for a disability. I just think its too small of a school for that.
Overall - anything that has been a concern of mine, has been addressed quickly, and my kids love it. What more could you ask for?

Posted: December 8, 2025

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Posted: December 4, 2025

Our daughter has been a student at Palisades Episcopal School for the last 2.5 years, beginning in Junior Kindergarten. Our experience has been nothing short of spectacular. From our initial informational meeting with administration to consider enrollment, we have felt an enormous amount of care and thoughtfulness being poured into the student and family experience.

In our experience, class sizes have ranged from 15-18, allowing for both robust socialization and individualized learning. All of the teachers have been communicative, supportive, and extremely invested in our daughter's success. Activities available outside of school engage both the student and the parent, ranging from sports programming, clubs, theater, parent education, and family social events.

We are extremely thankful for our experience at PES and wholeheartedly recommend it to others!

Posted: December 4, 2025

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Posted: November 13, 2025

As a transplant to the area, we visited several schools and even had our oldest attend a couple, but many fell short of what we expect for our children’s education. PES has been a game-changer for our family, bringing a positive shift for both of our children. We’ve had great experiences in both Lower and Middle School. Learning goes beyond the classroom with service projects, field trips, and hands-on activities. Teachers also make the most of Charlotte’s beautiful weather, ensuring students spend time outdoors for meaningful learning. We truly feel partnered with the teachers and administration in shaping our children into respectful, value-driven individuals who collaborate and contribute to their community. Probably the biggest difference is our children come home happy and excited about school—and that means everything to us.

Posted: November 13, 2025

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Posted: January 17, 2025

School might be good for preschoolers. Hight turn over of teachers, the academy standards are very poor. There are not enough teachers, if you have any question or need assistance they rarely respond.
I deeply regret the time and money spent on my child's education here.

Posted: January 17, 2025

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Posted: October 15, 2024

We had a great experience at PES. My daughter graduated 8th grade after being at the school for 10 years from junior kindergarten.

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Posted: September 20, 2024

We have two in lower school and have had a great experience at PES. Every school has its flaws but we are and have been very pleased thus far.

Posted: September 20, 2024

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Posted: September 20, 2024

We have two children in lower school, and our experience has been nothing short of wonderful! The teachers and administration infuse the school with a remarkable sense of love, faith, and joy each day. Our entire family has cherished the opportunity to get more involved, and we truly feel fortunate to be part of such a special community.

Posted: September 20, 2024

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Posted: December 11, 2023

My family and I can't say enough great things about this amazing school! The unhurried learning environment truly fosters an atmosphere of curiosity and engagement in the classroom like no other school I've seen. As a former educator, I love the school's differentiated approach to teaching children where they are while also instilling a joyful love of learning in all students. The curriculum connects topics across all disciplines of study which helps students develop a deep understanding of content without the basic repetition of facts. All grades (JK-8) enjoy numerous off-campus field trips throughout the year as well (I think last year the school had over 85 experiences planned!), which makes students love to come school. Highly recommend PES!

Posted: December 11, 2023

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Posted: October 10, 2023

Our family has had a great experience at PES! We love the teachers and school!

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Posted: October 10, 2023

We have been part of the Palisades Episcopal School community for 8 years and we absolutely love the school, faculty/staff, and community. PES is a wonderful school where each student is known and loved. Through hands-on learning and differentiation, my children develop a love for learning and are able to thrive.

Posted: October 4, 2023

My child is receiving an excellent education at PES. The teachers and support staff have gone above and beyond in order to help her succeed and grow. The smaller classroom environment is an ideal setting for students to learn and grow not only academically, but socially and emotionally. There are many opportunities for field trips and service learning experiences. My daughter feels known and loved at this school. I couldn’t ask for more.

Posted: October 4, 2023

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Posted: September 11, 2023

We love this school and believe it is the best fit for our children! We have a child with a learning disability who is well supported both inside the classroom and outside the class with one-on-one tutoring services that are also provided at the school. Our oldest is in middle school and thrives in an environment that is academically enriching and hands-on, while also unhurried and supportive, with a curriculum that connects content across all disciplines. The school offers art, music, chorus, Spanish & Latin, PE, equestrian, plus all the other core content areas. Middle School also offers competitive athletic teams, including volleyball, basketball, golf, tennis, cross country, and flag football. There are many after school enrichment options as well for younger students, including golf, chess, piano and guitar. My favorite thing about this school is that it cultivates a true love of learning in students while giving them time to explore and discover their own passions. It also instills a sense of service and citizenship in students as every grade from JK - 8 participates in multiple community service projects throughout the year. Having taught in the public school system for many years, I much prefer this enlightened approach to education (verses an environment that centers on teaching to a test for most of the year with additional classroom management distractions happening due to many, many discipline problems).

Posted: September 11, 2023

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Posted: September 4, 2023

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Posted: September 4, 2023

This school is very small, so if you are looking for small size this is perfect. Academics are very behind compared to some public schools. Each teacher covers multiple subjects, and the school is very expensive for what they offer.

Pros:
Perfect for people who live in the Palisades neighborhood
Small size
Good for Christian families

Cons:
It's not strong academically
Staff turnover
No electives
There are no band classes or instrument training

Posted: August 29, 2023

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Posted: August 29, 2023

My children attended this school, one for almost the entire elementary and middle school experience. I bought into their marketing for many years and believed my children were better off at a small, "sheltered" school. However, I highly regret this decision and recommend others think before putting their children here as well. According to PES, my children were high achieving. But when they were moved to the public system, they were behind (especially in math). They didn't have the academic strengths PES claimed they had. The switch to high school didn't allow for entry into Honors classes because the public school system does not accept the PES coursework as gifted/talented. In addition, they do not recognize the testing PES does (the ITBS) for entrance into GT for ELA. After we left PES, it was uncovered in the public school system that one of my children had a learning disability that was essentially ignored while attending school there (most likely so they could keep getting our tuition checks). My child went for years without help (despite getting all A's at PES with glowing reports from teachers). I believe the teachers are good, but were pressured by the admissions and administrative team to make these types of reports. They have to put on a front that all students are "joyful"! Teachers who have left shared with me the bullying tactics that go on from the Head of the School. Teachers all end up leaving because they can't afford to work there due to such low pay and toxic administration. Students are a revolving door as well and retention is an issue. With the high quality public systems in the area (as well as abundant amount of private school choices), don't waste your money here. They "talk the talk" with their marketing (which BTW they will continually ask you to donate even MORE money than you are already paying in tuition), but at the end of the day, they don't live up to being a strong academic institution. If you ever decide to leave (regardless of your reason which may be very valid), be prepared to be blackballed by all who are associated with PES (which is super Christian of them). I'll occasionally see someone who is on the admin team (which ironically seem to be the only ones who stay when board members should be getting rid of them) out and about in town, and they completely ignore me despite many years of supporting the school. DO NOT WASTE YOUR MONEY like we did.

Posted: August 29, 2023

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Posted: May 17, 2022

I am a Palisades lifer and graduate. Every day I am grateful for the foundational education that Palisades provided for me. Not only do I feel academically prepared in college and beyond, I feel that Palisades contributed to my character. The academic experiences — as well as recreational — were unbelievably transformative. Community service projects here are fantastic and truly memorable. I continue to participate in community service even after graduating. The PES has made me a forever compassionate contributor to my community.

At PES, the faculty is truly passionate about shaping their student's minds to be kind, joyful, and brave. I always felt supported and motivated by my teachers as a student who struggled with mathematics and a learning disability. Instead of ignoring my struggles, my teachers patiently assisted me after classes because they TRULY wanted to see me succeed. Thank you, PES!

Posted: January 22, 2021

We love this school and have been there for over five years so far! Both my children have a love of learning and an inspired curiosity that has been instilled in them because of this school's mission and amazing teachers. They feel safe, cared for, nurtured and challenged in ways many other schools fall short. They are treated as individuals and met academically where they are DAILY. As a teacher for many years, including teaching in the public school system, I can't say enough PES' challenging, diverse and differentiated curriculum, focus on hands-on learning experiences, moral and character development, and even the opportunity to be engaged in middle school athletics. WE WILL BE PES LIFERS because we know and trust this school is BEST preparing our children for high school, college, and beyond!

Posted: January 22, 2021

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Posted: May 9, 2020

Leadership is responsible and adaptive to families and children who have different needs and family situations.

Posted: May 9, 2020

Posted: May 9, 2020

Teachers look for a solution that involves parents, other teachers and students and keep an eye on the situation daily.

Posted: May 9, 2020

We could not be more pleased with our decision to send our children to PES. Our children are just beginning on their educational journey but we look forward to the opportunities they will have as a part of the PES community. We feel strongly that PES is "education the way it used to be" in a positive sense, we feel the small community at PES supports our children and gives teachers flexibility to be creative and meet students where they are academically, while also offering incredible opportunities for enrichment.

Posted: May 9, 2020

Our children are in JK but the policy toward homework for older grades is that children should have time after school to engage in activities and sports.

Posted: May 9, 2020

Our teachers have been incredible in the face of emergency remote learning. They have scheduled one-on-one time as well as class group time which is so important for young children to stay engaged with their teachers and classmates.

Posted: May 9, 2020

You can see this in particular in the PES "lifers"- children who have been at PES since JK or Kindergarten. Leadership is a major component of the 8th grade curriculum and it is evident in the poised, confident, well spoken young people in 8th grade.

Posted: April 29, 2020

Appalled that they are considered a “Christ-centered” school yet tolerate obscene behavior in order to keep students from leaving. So much bullying going on here yet everyone is turning a blind eye

Posted: April 29, 2020

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Posted: April 29, 2020

The students negative behavior is never addressed in a way that is effective

Posted: April 29, 2020

There is a huge disconnect between admin and actual teaching staff. A lot of gaslighting going on here

Posted: April 29, 2020

“Education plans” not followed according to professional recommendations

Posted: April 29, 2020

My children have been horrifically bullied for the 3 academic years they were there. Discipline is not addressed because they are scared to lose money from parents. One having to go on antidepressants and another child mentally and physically ill over constant bullying not addressed. There is a huge bullying issue and it will not be addressed

Posted: December 13, 2016

I agree with another reviewer that the school does not live up to its ideals. Classes were disruptive, and teachers were not in control or even observant of problems between students. Many teachers are inexperienced. Many families have left, so ask about family retention statistics. For those who leave, the door is slammed shut--no one calls to say goodbye or thanks. At the new school, we found that our kids were behind academically and had to struggle to catch up, which was a shock because we were always told how smart our kids were. We are glad we noticed problems early on and moved. There are lots of bells and whistles at PES that will impress the parents, but basic education is being missed.

Posted: January 19, 2016

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Posted: January 19, 2016

We are in our third year at the school. Everything we have experienced has been fantastic. The curriculum, individualized attention and meeting the kids at their own achievement level is something you just don't find in the public schools. The love and spirit of this school is palpable and worth every sacrifice to send our kids here!

Posted: November 9, 2015

I would like to start off by saying I don't normally rate anything on line and or even bother with reviews because they can be misinterpreted. However I would like to take a moment to say that i absolutely LOVE - PES.... This school is like an extension of our home and values as well as learning. The teachers are FABULOUS - EVERYONE of them I am so happy that my son has found a school that allows him to be himself and grow to the heights that are limitless.
Thank you PES for doing what you do and NO words can describe how grateful we are to you for being here for our children. It is a true testament that with GOD all things are possible.
Sometimes I dont have money for alot of things but I look at my son and how HAPPY he is at school and it makes EVERY sacrifice we have worth it.

We the BLADES love you and please keep up the GREAT work you are doing

Malinda

Posted: November 9, 2015

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Posted: August 24, 2015

Words cannot express what an amazing school this is. We have been there 4 going on 5 years now and it was the best decision that we have ever made for our daughter. Every year after attending the year end review I cry and feel so thankful and blessed that we have this amazing place for our children. With each passing year the level of curriculum astounds us! I know each day when I drop her off not only is she being challenged mentally but she is in a warm, loving and fun environment. As as parent you could not ask for anything more! My mother has been a teacher for over 35 years and is contantly blown away by PES. She will express this often as she looks over homework, visits class or just has a simple conversation with my daughter. As I tell many people, it is a special place. If you are considering PES I would encourage to visit the school and see if it works for you and your family. For us it is the best thing we ever did!

Posted: August 24, 2015

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Posted: August 2, 2014

Our children attended Gaston Day before moving to PES. We have liked PES better - smaller class sizes and poorer performing teachers are mostly gone (although be prepared to supplement where needed). It is amazing the children feel like they are part of a community and support each other across the grade levels (plus k-8 only is so much better), so the learning atmosphere is just right. Sports opportunities are better for PES students (ie PES students play whereas other schools kids ride the bench). What PES could improve on is its sophistication with addressing low performing aspects of curriculum and/or teachers, and have a far better growth plan. We will keep our children at PES because we know PES challenges are manageable compared to other schools (where many of these same challenges exist, but the student community and learning environment is not at the level PES experiences year over year), the classes will remain very small and tailored to learning, and the better teachers PES is attracting and retaining will, over the long term, provide its students with an optimal environment that most other schools in the area have been unable to foster as a school culture.

Posted: November 13, 2013

PES is a fantastic environment that enables my kid to be cool being smart. I have a 6th grader that tries to teach me about the use of distributive properties , explains the jokes that he can say in Latin and is working feverishly on the piano to learn Billy Joel s Piano Man for the talent show because his classmates think it s really cool. He and several of his classmates were awarded the Duke Tip award. I couldn t be happier about how cool it is at PES.

Posted: August 28, 2013

For too long we hoped that PES would become the great school it professed to be. While there, the math program changed direction four times. Writing and grammar were afterthoughts in the classroom. Project-based learning was another catch-phrase like core knowledge--intended to impress but not implemented. Curriculum questions were often skirted. Specials like Latin are time-gap fillers, and teacher turnover was high. Communication was a constant struggle. Some classrooms were chaotic, and too often classroom management reflected poor judgement and leadership. The facility is disappointing. Parents were asked not to discuss their concerns with others. And students who have left report struggling to catch up. Do your homework when choosing schools. Ask to observe (not just tour). Ask how test scores are utilized (good schools share scores and use them to make improvements). Ask for examples of writing; ask to see text books/materials used; ask teachers about their classroom experience. And ask for examples of problem solving (i.e., recognizing learning challenges, discipline strategies, individualized learning). Be an advocate for your student's academic success.

Posted: August 21, 2013

I love our school and all that it has done for our kids. I love to see how our children have grown with their friends, teachers and community. It is going to be a sad day when they go to graduate but their reward will be in the knowledge, confidence and love of learning they will take into their future. There is no other place like Palisades Episcopal School.

Posted: July 26, 2013

Palisades Episcopal School continues to allow our children to make gains, academically, athletically, spiritually and socially. We came from a previously mentioned public school where we were just a number. Our children were straight A students just memorizing information. The teachers at PES are very much certified and majority have their Masters Degrees. The test scores are high, but not every child can be in the 99th percentile. Our children are challenged and if a child needs additional help the teachers can direct them to the services needed. The current families are actively involved, realistic and loving. We came from a school with over 1000 students and were lucky to see 10% involvement. For families that continue to pressure their children to have perfect lives, perfect grades, perfect friends and perfect test scores PES may not be for you, but the hundreds of other schools out there will not be for you either. This school is a blessing and the current children and graduates continue to amaze us.

Posted: July 16, 2013

Although I wholeheartedly agree with the vision and mission of this school, I am deeply disappointed that they are failing to meet not only the high standards they have set for themselves, but even the basic academic standards we would have expected for our children at any school (private or public). You cant look at the standardized testing scores PES uses as a relevant marker bc IOWA testing is not used by any other valued private school in the Charlotte area. (This is not a coincidece). Poor standardized testing scores and failure of the lower grades to thrive given the small class sizes is directly related to the fact that the teachers are inexperienced (many of them not even certified teachers). Besides failing academically, the social and emotion needs of the children are not being addressed. There is constant strife and drama in the upper grades, bullying amongst kids in younger grades and no evidence that any of the teachers or leaders are willing to step in. If you're considering this school...Ask questions about standardized test scores, family turnover and teacher experience and credentials before you sign up!

Posted: July 13, 2013

PES is a school that will continue thrive as a community school. This is something that is lacking elsewhere as parents drive their children all of the county and out of the county to attend other schools. I love that my children are attending school with friends and familes from Steele Creek, Lake Wylie and Fort Mill and that they can continue friendships after school as well. We are in our fifth year at the school and are amazed at the curriculum. The current families are very actively involved and comitted to the school and the children. The teachers and faculty are phenemonal. We have family visit from out of town and they cannot believe the level of work our children are engrossed in. In comparison to other schools I love that the children are not cramming and memorizing facts just to pass a test...they are actively learning and applying information. The national test scores are based on children that just come to school and apply their knowledge. This test is not something they study for as they already know the information. Investing in this strong program will not disappoint. We can't wait for the upcoming year.

Posted: June 29, 2013

My son just completed his first year at the Palisades Episcopal School and I am blown away by the difference one year makes! The Palisades Episcopal School has exceeded every expectation that we had as parents for our child. The hands-on, differentiated learning atmosphere along with the intimate clasroom size and low teacher-to-student ratio has been a perfect fit for us! My son is reading two grade levels above his current grade and he just finished Kindergarten! I cannot say enough about the amazing teachers who really are the heart of our school. All you need is to take a tour and you will feel the difference. People ask me all the time what makes the Palisades Episcopal School so unique and so wonderful. The short and easy answer is EVERYTHING. Everything about PES is unique and amazing. I could go on for days with my long answer to that question!

Posted: June 9, 2013

After 4 years in public school, we chose Palisades Episcopal School when we realized our daughter needed something more in her educational experience. In her first year at PES, she has been consistently engaged and challenged to do her best. We were so impressed with the school that we moved our son to the JK program after the first of the year. Both of our children have flourished in their academics as well as their spirituality and citizenship. At PES, children are seen as individuals with their own gifts to be nurtured. Teachers meet children where they are academically and help them grow in their own time. Lessons are often hands-on and not dictated by the writers of a textbook. Real world resources are utilized and time out of the classroom experiencing the lesson is just as important as the lesson itself. Growth is gauged by comprehensive review of the student s work. This approach has given us a better picture of how and what our children are learning. If you value individuality, rich curriculum topics and a community of respect not just for others but also for the art of education, then you will want to give Palisades Episcopal School a closer look.

Posted: June 8, 2013

Palisades Episcopal School exceeded all of our expectations. Our son transferred to PES several years ago and has experienced the elementary and middle school programs. The quality of educaton is superb. The teachers are the most knowledgable and dedicated group of educators I have ever seen. The faculty are committed to developing strong minds through academics and stong hearts through character and faith building. I feel the quality of educational programming can be measured not only in individualized performance but also in the very impressive national test scores. The emphasis of serving others is demonstrated through meaningful community projects and mission trips. Palisades Episcopal School offers a sense of acceptance and community while encouraging each student to acheive academic excellence. We could not be happier with a school and we are deeply grateful that our son has had the opportunity to experience such an outstanding educational environment.

Posted: June 4, 2013

After touring all the well known private schools in Charlotte, Palisades Episcopal School was the choice we made for our children, and it could not have been a better choice. Our children are thriving in this school at the proof is not only in their happiness, but in their test scores. The curriculum, the staff, and the overall environment have exceeded all of our expectations. We could not ask for a better experience across the board. We are so thankful that PES is here. It is a truly remarkable place!

Posted: June 3, 2013

PES has been such a wonderful experience for my children and our entire family. We came from a local public school where our children received perfect report cards every year, but could not tell us one thing they had learned. They were memorizing information and because they were A students they were lost in the shuffle. Palisades Episcopal Schools curriculum is challenging & engaging while teaching the children to learn and engage in the classroom so when they take a test/exam/quiz/write a paper they already know the information. Majority of the children are above average on National not State testing. The teachers are available and majority have their Masters Degrees. Yes, not every child can be in the 100th percentile, but if tutoring or additional services are needed the teachers can provide this help or direct the family to what services may be needed. Our children are confident, good leaders and are surrounded by children and families that believe in their strengths and their weaknesses. PES continues to grow each year!

Posted: March 25, 2013

Sending our kids to PES was a huge mistake. We thought we were going to a school that provided "a superior education". We were wrong, the education is mediocre, at best. The teachers are fresh out of college with no experience or aren't certificated. The education is particularly weak in writing, math and science I thought they were teaching my children "how to think", well if you haven't first studied basic math facts or grammar rules, you can't perform well. We are not alone, many, many other good families with smart children have left the school. The sad part is the Board and administration have their heads in the sand. I'm writing this so that other well intending families don't make the same mistake. We wasted some important years and a lot of money. We are left with very expensive tutoring bills to catch our kids up to their peers. I'd be surprised if the school makes it with the new "free" public school being built at the end of the street. Ask questions about standardized test scores, family turnover and teacher experience and credentials before you sign up! Everyone seems safe and loving, but there's not always a lot of substance behind the fluff.

Posted: December 30, 2012

PES has been such an incredible experience for my son who is in his second year at the school! As a former teacher my expectations have been greatly surpassed. The love, compassion and commitment to each child's individual needs is comforting as a parent and sets a foundation of confidence and love of learning. My son loves going to school and he continually surprises me with not only what he has learned but how they teach him to think and come up with multiple solutions in any situation. My daughter will start JK in the fall and my husband and I are very excited to see her benefit from all the wonderful things that make up PES!

Posted: December 28, 2012

I cannot recommend third school, due to the current leadership. The staff is ok. Some teachers seem to really care, but others do not. My child no longer attends the school. I was told for years that nothing was wrong with my child. But I knew something was amiss. After further testing (on my own) I was right all along. I guess I would have never known as long as I wrote my check every year to PES. Cannot recommend, public would have been a better option.

Posted: September 9, 2011

I can relate to every review whethr great or sub par. I agree, I often question the focus of Christianity in the lesson, when I looked at my daughter's calendar for JK it was a block of 30 minutes, which is not acceptable when you state you are a Christ honoring school. I can not speak on behalf of the Head of School and BOD because my contact was limited to " Hi -------" when they saw us. However what I can say, is when there was a lost of employment in my home, theyw orked with us, and did not hesitate to make sure we came back even with the financial difficulty and working with our family. I know that in CMS what my daughter learned in JK was being taught to the entering kindergartners, so the children are most assuredly ahead. I agree that the older children step up and acts as leaders and treat the younger children like family, with Book Buddies reading time, walking them to chapel on Thursday, my daughter would always point to a older child that was in 5 or 6 th grade and say there is my best friend such and such, as that child was a friend and a mentor. I do not feel there was any favortism, as we came from a bigger school where I felt like a stranger not a parent.

Posted: May 9, 2011

Watching my sons grow and respond to the world, I am continually reminded that a real education is not a simple transfer of information, not a competition, but a gradual process of awakening compassion, deepening understanding, and fostering the development of imagination, curiosity and will. Learning well doesn't always mean scoring high on a test but it does mean acquiring the tools necessary to take on the most challenging work of all - becoming the person you were meant to be. The combination of structure and freedom, nurture and challenge, education and exploration Palisades provides has given my young man the opportunity to truly bloom and begin his path of discovery. It is a very special place and a refreshing approach to developing children. I challenge you to try to find a school any better.

Posted: January 3, 2011

Very disappointed by our kindergarten experience last year. The class had 21 students all crammed into a tiny room. Absolutely no individualized instruction and negligible hands-on learning took place. Half of the students were too young for kindergarten and did not turn 5 until Sept., Oct. or even Nov. Faculty did not know how to motivate students to learn except by rewarding them with stars, stickers, treasure boxes, etc. Learning was not valued as a worthwhile activity in itself. The reward systems created a stressful environment that encouraged students to rush through their work. It was definitely not the "unhurried" environment that we were promised. Systems used for classroom discipline at PES were no different than what is found at the local public schools. Specials were a complete joke. Half-day field trips were numerous, rushed and often unrelated to anything that the children were studying. Parent involvement consisted mainly of fundraising and bringing sweets to classroom parties. Many parents are content with the school merely because it keeps their children out of the dismal CMS system. There are literally no other independent school options in the area.

Posted: November 18, 2010

Very disappointed by the lack of quality leadership at the school. Teacher turn-over is VERY high (nearly 100%) in only a few short years in existence. The school claims to 'teach children how to think". This is NOT the case, rather it becomes a race to be done first and not produce quality work. We found our child's quality of work declining rapidly in order to appease the teachers desires to be done in hurry. Rewards were rampant, which is not how children should be taught "how to think". Look closely at the statement and mission of the school as many of the phrases are trite and meaningless. Lastly, realize that many of the reviews of this school swing from 1 to 5 with the 1's coming from parents who expected MUCH more for their children. The remaining come from parents who are pleased to find an alternative to a public school but aren't expecting much from their school. Parent involvement at the school only stemmed from fund-raising and very little education involvement. Very disappointed.

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# Name Type City State Overall Rating Distance
1 Regent Park Neighborhood/Subdivision Fort Mill SC 7.3 mi
# Name City State Overall Rating Distance
Base Distance
Charlotte Air National Guard 12.1 mi.
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