Forest Avenue School

Middletown, RI 02842

Phone: (401) 849-9434
District: Middletown School District

8

GreatSchools Rating

public • Grades KG,1,2,3 • 328 students

Forest Avenue School, a public school located in Middletown, RI, serves grades K-3 in the Middletown School District.It has received a GreatSchools Rating of 8 out of 10, based on a variety of school quality measures.

Forest Avenue School is a public school located in Middletown, RI. 328 students attend Forest Avenue School.

School Ratings

Category Rating Details
Test Scores 8/10 The Test Score Rating examines how students at this school performed on standardized tests compared with other schools in the state. The Test Rating was created using 2025 Rhode Island Comprehensive Assessment System data from Rhode Island Department of Education, and using 2025 Rhode Island Next Generation Science Assessments data from Rhode Island Department of Education.

Posted: May 3, 2023

This school was ok, i had a couple problems before leaving the area with this school by what my child used to come and tell me…the teachers have this silly clip system where they had pink, blue, green, orange, red for good & bad behavior. My son came home scared thinking he was going to get in trouble by us because the teacher moved his clip to orange just for saying “white sucks” OBVIOUSLY my child was talking about the color to COLOR with, I don’t teach ignorance in my home so I know he wasn’t talking about skin color…also my son had problems with certain students being mean to him in class, when he would tell the teachers they would tell him to “Stop tattle telling” really??? So if my son was being bullied nothing would’ve been done about it since he was “tattle telling”…they also give easy work for 1st graders. We’re off to a different school now and he loves it where he is at momentarily than forest avenue. One more thing…they also have this principals awards thing and they choose and favor the PTA students every single time…

Posted: May 3, 2023

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Posted: February 13, 2020

My child has received excellent unwavering support at this school, I can’t say enough. I am so happy with all the help my child has received here, I am a little nervous about transitioning him to another state. I hope and pray we can find the same support system there.

Posted: February 13, 2020

I haven’t had the opportunity to find out information about bullying at this school, I haven’t had the need to do so.

Posted: February 13, 2020

I absolutely love this school, I am sad and nervous about leaving the state and transitioning my child to another.

Posted: February 13, 2020

Their homework policy is to give child time to come home, spend it with their family. I love it.

Posted: February 13, 2020

Teachers love to interact in a positive manner with all students, they are efficient, professional and loving.

Posted: February 13, 2020

Leadership leads by example. Children are taught to respect and have integrity.

Posted: February 13, 2020

Posted: January 27, 2019

We had some issues with our son at a school prior to attending Forest Avenue that weren't handled well and when we made the switch we saw so many improvements in his behavior and his willingness to learn. The calibration between the principal, teachers, and parents were prompt from the get go and they provided my son with the best environment to fit his specific needs.

Posted: January 27, 2019

Posted: January 27, 2019

Our experience at Forest Avenue for the past three years have been wonderful. My kids enjoy going to school everyday and the teachers truly care about the kids and engage with them no matter what the learning difficulties or advances the student brings to their classroom. I love the small town and friendly positive environment that this school has provided for my kids.

Posted: January 27, 2019

Posted: January 27, 2019

All the teachers are very caring. Both of my kids have been attending this school for three years and we have had a wonderful experience with everyone from the Principal, the teachers, the staff, and the PTG! They all have given my kids a positive environment to learn and thrive.

Posted: January 27, 2019

Posted: January 27, 2019

Posted: November 17, 2017

Posted: November 17, 2017

Posted: November 17, 2017

Posted: November 17, 2017

Posted: November 17, 2017

Posted: November 17, 2017

I have two children at this school and have been so impressed with the welcoming, caring and community-spirited feel of the school. As an international military family, I was very nervous about my children transitioning into this school and I had no need for concern at all. The ethos of the school is to be kind, be respectful and be ready to learn and from the superb principal, Mr Ponte, to the teachers, assistants, administrators and parent teacher group, I feel that this positive approach permeates throughout the whole school.

Posted: November 17, 2017

Posted: April 7, 2017

Posted: April 7, 2017

Posted: April 7, 2017

Posted: April 7, 2017

Posted: April 7, 2017

Posted: April 7, 2017

Posted: April 7, 2017

Amazing school, great teachers, and the principal is top notch!

Posted: November 23, 2016

Our son started this year and of all of the reviews and things we'd heard we were excited as a family for him to go. However, the ratio of students to teacher is not 10:1 as reported there are over 20 students in his class with one teacher who has made it a point to tell us on three separate occasions that she doesn't get much help. Furthermore our son has come home with bruises from another student with no acknowledgement from the school that he was injured, most communications with the teacher/staff are met with condescending responses/remarks. Overall our experience has been quite underwhelming. As a parent I was super excited as I had been told what a wonderful school it was and that it was on par with a private school but I haven't found this to be the case.

Posted: May 27, 2014

Forest Avenue exceeds in every area! My son and daughter have both attended this school and not only did they love it and feel welcomed but so did my husband and I. The teachers were always helpful whether it be a concern with academics or peers. Every employee deserves credit for making this a school I was proud to send my children to. I have never seen a principal as involved as Mr. Ponte. As we are military we will be moving this summer and I am sad to say I may never find another school as great as Forest Avenue.

Posted: May 8, 2014

We love Forest Avenue and recommend it to any and every incoming family! From the committed, compassionate and professional educators, to the Principal, Mr. Ponte, not only knowing each child's name, but promoting physical activity, we can't say enough about Forest Ave. As a Navy family, we were touched at the constant inclusion of not only military families but our international military families as well. The Parent Teacher Group is very active planning fun family nights, and the teachers! We just love the teachers! I highly recommend this school and am so glad my sweet little kindergartener started her school career here. 5 Stars all the way!!!

Posted: April 16, 2014

Forest Avenue School, Middletown RI has exceeded in the success of our daughter graduating this year, and is ready for her next school years.

Posted: September 30, 2013

Forest Avenue is a wonderful elementary school full of dedicated staff and faculty, engaged families & yes, sweet & curious students! I am so excited to be part of this Professional Learning Community! Kristen Ramsey Art Educator Forest Avenue Elementary Middletown, RI

Posted: September 30, 2013

Forest AVe. Elementary schools is exceptional. The environment is one of caring, nurturing, and rigor. Students and staff share in the highest standards and expectations. By far, Forest is the best elementary school in Rhode Island!

Posted: September 29, 2013

Great teachers and great staff!!! Everyone is so friendly and helpful. Teachers are caring and support their students in any ways possible! Everyone goes above and beyond to help our kids learn!!

Posted: September 29, 2013

Forest Ave has been a wonderful new school home for our kindergarten! The teachers, principal and fellow parents are enthusiastic and engaging with the students. Our daughter comes home excited to tell us about all the neat activities and cool things she is learning each day.

Posted: September 29, 2013

Forest Avenue School is a very comfortable and nurturing school for all families. We have a high population of military families and overseas families who are studying at the local War College. I have had 3 children complete their elementary years at Forest Ave and one in third grade now. All 4 children have had positive experiences and they all love to go to school every day. The Parent Teacher Group has monthly activities at the school to get families involved in their child's school experience. I recommend this school for all!

Posted: September 29, 2013

Forest Ave. School is a perfect example of what a neighborhood school should be. The principal knows most of the children by name, he plays kickball during recess with them almost every day. The children love Mr. Ponte, and also respect him very much. The teachers are dedicated and caring professionals who are committed to doing whatever it takes to meet the needs of their students. I have 4 children and have had at least one child attend Forest Ave. for the past 11 years - they are so lucky to have had such a positive elementary experience!

Posted: September 29, 2013

I am sure you can check out the outstanding academia of Forest Ave. without me telling you in this review. Here are some side facts that you may not know. It's located in a naval town, get quite a bit diversified student body. It's off main road, no traffic noise to interfere lessons during school. The lunch menu is great. For elementary I think they have a wide range of healthy balanced meals. The bus ride to/from school isn't long and the drivers are very nice. The principal, teachers, even the PTG are very active and supportive of the school's operation. Beside normal school hours, they offer fun events to bring school, parents, and students together like a social gathering.

Posted: September 29, 2013

Forest Ave school is an amazing learning community. The faculty, staff and parent volunteers truly care about each and every student in the school. There is a strong focus on academics, as well as community and character-building.

Posted: September 29, 2013

This has been our first experience with public schools and we have been very happy so far. The teachers are great, ours kids love going to school and feel very comfortable there.

Posted: September 23, 2013

Forest Avenue School is the most amazing school not only for the quality of teachers and staff but also by the atmosphere is had. It's incredibly warm, inviting and refreshing to see my child grow and learn the love of education. She is a great student who is always striving to do better and it's welcomed by her teachers. She looks forward to returning to school every September and can't wait to see what new teacher she'll have. I wish every school was as inviting to parents as Forest Avenue has been to my husband and I.

Posted: September 18, 2013

Kindness and responsibility seem to be the cornerstone of the school community. My first child just started kindergarten and we are already thrilled to be a part of the school. The principal has such great energy that is contagious! Positive reinforcement appears to be a hallmark of the school. There is a Forest Avenue School rap and school songs about sharing and other important qualities. The principal plays kickball on the playground everyday at recess. There is even a kickball night on Sunday - student vs. principal and parents. I have never heard anything other than glowing reviews of the teachers and staff at the school.

Posted: September 17, 2013

Forest Ave. is a wonderful, caring environment. My children love being there. On the first day of school this year, I asked my 3rd grader if he liked his new teacher. He said "I Loved her." Mr. Ponte, the principal, knows most children on a first name basis and serves as a wonderful role model for the children. He is outside daily at recess playing kickball with the children. The teachers are constantly giving their time to create great enrichment opportunities during and after school to the children. They not only teach reading, math, and the usual subjects, but they teach a sense of community. A organic garden whose harvest is given to local shelters is one way Forest Ave gives back. I am a teacher and I am proud to have my children go to Forest Ave.

Posted: June 6, 2013

Both of my sons have attended this school and we love it! The teacher and staff are great at communication and Mr. Ponte the principal is awesome! The boys love Mr. Ponte! He knows all the children by name and you can tell he cares for the children. Being in the military and having to move can be hard on children but at Forest Ave the transition is so easy and refreshing. The school appreciates the military families and welcomes them with open arms!

Posted: June 6, 2013

We are U.S. Coast Guard and moved to the area in 2008. My first experience with Forest Ave. was on the first day of school I did the drop off which moves very smoothly. As I was sitting in my car waiting for my turn to pull up to the sidewalk I watched the principal Mr. Steven Ponte say good morning to each child and get high fives from every student. From then on he has done nothing but amaze me. From the office staff and the classroom teacher to the janitors this staff is here for you and your child. They are always doing something special and parent involvement is huge it is great to see so many parents helping out. They do a dedication day to the Military children that will bring tears to my eyes every time I think of it. The Military is a big part of this community and they make you feel important. Forest Avenue Elementary school is one big family and I love it. We will be leaving at the end of this school year and that makes us all very sad to say good bye. My children will always have great memories of the beginning of their school careers because of Forest Avenue and their dedicated staff. Thank You for EVERYTHING Forest Ave. The Dorsey Family

Posted: January 13, 2013

Phenomenal school for military families! From day one, we have felt included in the school community - just a wonderful, welcoming group that has made it clear our kids are their highest priority. We will be sad to move on, but are so thankful that our son had the opportunity to attend Forest Ave, and especially that he was fortunate enough to be in Mrs. O'Neil's class!

Posted: August 5, 2012

I cannot say enough positive things about this school. Our son was very fortunate to attend Forest Ave. Mr Ponte, the principle, is amazing. He know all the students by name. He is very involved in their daily life. He plays kickball before school and at recess with the students. All the staff is wonderful and truly do care about your child.

Posted: June 17, 2012

We are very impressed with the school and all of the staff that works there. They go way and beyond to make sure all of our needs/concerns are met. My child loves to go to school so much that he is sad when there are vacations, breaks, etc.

Posted: June 14, 2012

What a great school! The principal Mr. Ponte knows every kid by name and greets them every morning. The front office staff is very helpful and friendly. The teachers are dedicated and willing to go above and beyond for their students.

Posted: May 7, 2012

Great school! Being a military family and moving here in the middle of the year Forest Ave. has been awesome! They have wonderful teachers and a excellent academic program. The principle, Mr. Ponte is great! He meets and greets the kids every morning. We just celebrated Military Child Month and had a great assembly-over 100 parents of military children attended! About 40% of the kids are military which made it easy for my son to transition because other kids could relate. They are extremely supportive of our military children and parents. I can't say enough. I highly recommend living in this school district to have your children attend Forest Avenue! They even have an "circle of friends for military parents" that meet once a month at the school! Great programs!!

Posted: February 16, 2012

Forest Ave is the best elementary school! I have been so pleased with the staff and students at this school. My son felt so loved and welcomed. Being a military family and moving around a lot, Forest Ave stepped up to the challenge of making my son feel welcomed and right at home. He has been so happy there and I am deeply sadden we had to leave. Any kid who attends Forest Ave is truly lucky! I can't praise Forest Ave enough! Wonderful school!

Posted: April 4, 2011

You just can't find a better school than Forest Ave. The principal is truly one of a kind - he knows every student by name and strives to make each one feel special. He has amazing energy - he even went so far as to go skydiving in front of the entire student body to reward them for reaching a reading goal. His enthusiasm is contagious and clearly evident through the entire staff. The teachers are excellent and seem to know how to bring out the best in every student. The front office is equally amazing - efficient and welcoming. Five stars just isn't enough to rate this wonderful school.

Posted: December 16, 2010

I could never say enough wonderful things about this school!! What a warm and friendly environment to learn! The teachers and office staff are outstanding and parental involvement is highly encouraged! And if I could give the principal a 6th star, I would! It is an extremely friendly environment for military families as well! We are only here for one year and our son is in EFMP with Autism. I can't imagine a better school for him!!!

Reviews provided by GreatSchools

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1 Slate Hill Farm Neighborhood/Subdivision Middletown RI 1.2 mi
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6 Pawcatuck Neighborhood/Subdivision Pawcatuck CT 30.2 mi
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# Name City State Overall Rating Distance
1 Middletown Middletown RI 1.9 mi
2 Downtown Newport Newport RI 3.3 mi
3 Jamestown Jamestown RI 4.6 mi
4 Portsmouth Portsmouth RI 5.7 mi
5 Common Fence Point Portsmouth RI 8.8 mi
6 Bristol Bristol RI 10.6 mi
7 Westerly Westerly RI 29.9 mi
8 Stonington Stonington CT 34.6 mi
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10 Ledyard Ledyard CT 38.2 mi
11 Norwich Norwich CT 40.9 mi
12 Groton Groton CT 42.7 mi
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