Okatie Elementary School

Posted: March 12, 2026

I would not recommend Okatie Elementary School based on my experience.

The biggest issue is the leadership under principal Tracey Lanese. In my opinion, she creates a very negative and unwelcoming environment for both parents and students. I have personally witnessed her yelling directly in children’s faces to the point where they were visibly upset and crying, which was extremely concerning to see in an elementary school setting.

Interactions with parents can also feel dismissive and demeaning rather than supportive. The overall attitude from leadership often comes across as entitled and hostile rather than warm or collaborative.

It’s unfortunate because the school itself has potential, but leadership sets the tone for the entire environment. In my opinion, with NEWK leadership the school could improve dramatically. Until then, parents should be aware that their experience here may not be positive.

Posted: March 12, 2026

Posted: March 12, 2026

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Posted: March 19, 2025

Hi there! If you haven't had a chance to read my review on Maps yet, I encourage you to check it out. In that review, I discuss the significant changes that have taken place at this school since the new principal, Tracy Lanese, took over about two years ago.

For context, I attended this school during my elementary years under Principal Pinkney, and I can confidently say those were the best years of my life—aside from some minor bullying related to my appearance. Now, as a freshman in high school, and I feel it's important to share my experiences.

The first time I encountered Principal Lanese was in 7th grade. I was at the school for my sister's NASA meeting, and after finishing my homework, I asked my mom if I could play outside with some other kids. She agreed, but within ten minutes, Lanese came around the corner and yelled at us for being too loud. She reprimanded us several more times and even confiscated the ball we were playing with, forcing us to go back inside and listen to a meeting that had nothing to do with us. I later asked my mom if we were being too loud, and she mentioned that she could barely hear us.

Since Lanese's arrival, my sister has come home in tears multiple times because she feels singled out by this principal. It’s not just her; the same treatment has happened to my sister's best friend, who is also in 3rd grade.

Moreover, Lanese has threatened to expel my sister from aftercare due to my mom being late twice—both times she arrived just after 5 PM. Our mom is a school nurse at McKracken and often has students come in at the end of the day, which makes it challenging for her to leave right at 3:45 PM. Additionally, she has two other children to pick up, adding to her responsibilities.

In my view, Lanese is an ineffective principal. She has been unkind to students, staff, parents, and anyone associated with the school. Many teachers I grew up with have resigned, opting to leave rather than work under her leadership, and I completely understand their decision. I aspire to be an elementary teacher, and once I graduate high school, I plan to leave South Carolina and only return if necessary for family matters.

In summary, I do not recommend this school—or River Ridge Academy—for your children’s education. If I were in your position, I would consider relocating to a place where children can truly enjoy learning, rather than facing bullying or learning in an environment where the principal neglects to address these issues.

Posted: March 19, 2025

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Posted: June 8, 2024

My children love this school. We are relocating to another area ands leaving this school is one of the hardest things we have had to do. I’ve had two children attend this school in grades 2-4 and then grades PK-K. Teachers have built relationships with both my children, not only teaching academics, but life skills. One child has allergies so requires special care around food and we also had developmental concerns at one point. The team for the review process was excellent, fair and informed. The principal has a background in Special Education and it made all the difference in deciding the path for my child. The school holds community events that students are excited to attend, but even classes like media and the STEM lab are magical at this school due to the efforts of amazing teachers. I would recommend this school to anyone wanting a welcoming and safe place for children.

Posted: June 8, 2024

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Posted: December 15, 2023

The principal of this school, Tracy Lanese, discriminates. She is a horrible administrator. SC is ranked 42nd in public education and Okatie Elementary does not rank well at all among other SC public elementary schools. I would highly recommend avoiding this school and school district at all costs. In fact, we are moving back to NC as soon as possible just to rid ourselves of this nightmare.
The Office for Civil Rights in Washington, D.C. has already been in contact with me after I submitted an 11 page formal complaint with a request for early mediation. Too much to share here, but please try your best to avoid this school entirely.

Posted: December 15, 2023

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Posted: March 4, 2018

Posted: March 4, 2018

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Posted: March 4, 2018

I moved my kids from Pritchardville Elementary to Okatie through the choice program. I am so glad I did! They are thriving at Okatie, the staff are truly caring and really get to know your kids. The parent involvement is so much more at Okatie than at Pritchardville and it makes a huge difference. We love the principle Jamie Pickney. She runs a tight ship, but you can certainly tell she is caring and the students respect her. She leads through a great example. They have a ton of extra's for the kids; music, art, theatre, Young Astronauts, and clubs after school as well. From the principle to the librarian, all staff is approachable. You can tell when people like their jobs and their environment......it shows.

Posted: December 3, 2015

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Posted: December 3, 2015

This is an excellent school and by far, the best school in the area! We are so extremely pleased with the level of education my son is receiving. There are so many family events and clubs and the school really makes sure the parents are involved in every step of the way! I'm so glad we made the decision to put our son in this school.

Posted: October 29, 2014

OES is a terrific school. The teachers go above and beyond to give the students the best education possible. I have found the principal and vice principal to be friendly, kind, and fair. It is a blessing to have my children at OES. Go OWLS!!!!!

Posted: October 29, 2014

Okatie Elementary is simply fantastic. They offer so much for the students. This school has art, drama, band, chorus, and science lab. There are also so many clubs and activities that children can get involved with and enjoy while they are learning. The teachers and staff are all so professional and the atmosphere at this school is so warm and welcoming.

Posted: August 31, 2014

this school is not what it seems to be. Lots of favoritism and judgement is passed to parents of a students that have english as a second language. Principal is very hard to talk to and is always judgmental. If a child is behind parent is asked to remove the child to another school so the scores would not fall under... hmmmm its a luck of the draw getting teacher. Some of the teachers are frantic neurotic...

Posted: April 1, 2014

This is one of the best schools I have ever seen. They have a great environment for our children to learn in. The principal and the assistant principal are two of the most caring individuals in the industry. The teaching staff and assistants are wonderful.

Posted: September 25, 2013

Jaime is the BEST Principal and school leader in Beaufort County! The pride this school has from leadership to, teachers, to students and parents EARNED THE BLUE RIBBON NATIONAL RECOGNITION!! just two days ago for exemplary education of ALL students. This school is an American Model School and its WELL deserved! Thank you Okatie! My children have been extremely blessed to be a part of this community. WHOOT WHOOT Okatie Owls EARNED their WINGS!!!

Posted: August 6, 2011

My daughter just finished kindergarten and will be attending first grade next week. This school is the best in Beaufort County. Teachers team teach, and work in small groups so the kids can work at their highest levels and not be held back. The science program is awesome! My daughter loved working the garden. And we have the best art, music, and drama programs!!! Test scores are high because the teachers care and they take the time to work with all the kids individually. This is a science and technology based curriculum. We chose our house to make sure we would be at this school! Go OKATIE Owls!

Posted: August 10, 2009