Samuel L. Gravely Jr. Elementary School

Posted: April 10, 2025

The new principal is highly disappointing. She's consistently grumpy, rarely smiles, and often appears irritated. She lacks the ability to connect with students, parents, and staff, which is crucial in a leadership role. It's unclear how she even landed the position, but it's hard to believe there aren't far more qualified candidates. I truly miss the previous principal, who was far more effective and approachable. Let's hope she doesn't dampen and ruin Gravely which had a uplifting positive tone and energy.

Posted: April 10, 2025

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Posted: March 4, 2020

I have two children there and they both love going to school every day. The school and individual teachers communicate effectively and we are very happy with the overall experience.

Posted: March 4, 2020

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Posted: October 9, 2019

Posted: October 9, 2019

Administrative is highly responsive anytime something comes up.

Posted: October 9, 2019

I have not experience the IEP process at this school, but I do have a child who was identified for gifted services this year. The identification process was smooth, with strong communication throughout from both the classroom teacher and the gifted ("SIGNET") teacher. My child is highly engaged in and excited about the program. My student does have an ODD diagnosis, but behaviors do not present at school because she is encouraged, engaged, challenged, and given clear expectations.

Posted: October 9, 2019

I cannot get over how thrilled I am. As a career educator and a private school administrator, I have high expectations, and they have been exceeded at Gravely. We were in LCPS for 3rd grade and I was uncertain about moving out of such a "great" district, but my experience at Gravely has made me so happy we're here.

Posted: October 9, 2019

Very little homework is given, which is in line with recent research. Teachers have thoughtful reasons for sending home anything they do send, and equally thoughtful reasons for what they choose not to send. Teaching is effective, so students can enjoy their childhood and participate in family life after school.

Posted: October 9, 2019

My student (4th grade) is clearly learning, and I have never seen a teacher, whether in public school or private, go out of her way to the extent my child's teacher has just to engage with us as parents - even when nothing is wrong.

Posted: August 1, 2019

No homework given in 4th grade all!!!

Posted: August 1, 2019

My child a long term substitute for almost 4 months. The woman had control over the class and all the unruly boys. She bribed with candy to stay afloat.

Posted: August 1, 2019

Rude kids and teachers have zero control.

Posted: August 1, 2019

Posted: August 1, 2019

My child was failing math and reading tests and they had no clue how to effectively intervene.

Posted: August 1, 2019

Medicracy at its best. People love waking their kids to school and dropping them off because it’s easy. If they really looked a bit closer they would see their children are getting a subpar education. Curriculum in math is common core!!!! Testing is rediculous as they give the kids 4-5 question tests. Send your kids to private school!

Posted: October 8, 2018

Very friendly atmosphere. Teachers are really caring

Posted: October 8, 2018

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Posted: May 9, 2018

We have had an excellent year at Gravely. There is a strong PTO and teachers who are caring and who truly want children to succeed.

Posted: May 9, 2018

1st grade has spelling to study as well as reading and writing. Although it may not all be graded, parents are encouraged to have their children read and write each night.

Posted: May 9, 2018

Communication has always been great with my student’s teacher.

Posted: May 9, 2018

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Posted: October 15, 2016

My son is currently a 5th grader. He did not love his teacher last year but I thought she was great and we have both loved all the other teachers. The environment at gravely has allowed him to grow academically but also as a whole person. The only reason for four instead of 5 stars is that he is on his third principal. I feel a little more consistency with the administration would have been beneficial.

Posted: August 5, 2015

I LOVED THIS SCHOOL FOR MY DAUGHTER! My daughter was a kindergarten student in Mrs. Trammell class with her assistant Mrs. Cleary. Over the year I could see tremendous progress with my daughter not only socially, but academically she finished kindergarten reading at an advanced first grade level thanks to her lovely teachers! The staff is AMAZING at the front desk and I loved the security I felt with the front desk asking to see my drivers license even though they knew I was my daughters parent. The front office the staff are always smiling and even if they are on the phone they greet you. The principle is a very nice lady and every time I came to events such as the fun run she is always involved with the children and is always waving to the children both in the morning and the afternoons during kiss and ride instead of sitting behind a desk! My daughter loved all her teachers! art, music etc and I am so SAD to have to leave the state! Florida has huge shoes to fill! We will miss all the staff dearly! -Gonzalez Family

Posted: March 11, 2015

Due to corporate moves, Gravely was our 4th elementary school and, by far, the worst. While I give kudos to several wonderful teachers, Mr. K, and the front office staff, the chaotic atmosphere in classrooms and the cafeteria is ridiculous. The teachers aren't able to concentrate on teaching due to the constant need to reign in out of control students. The gifted program is a joke. The principal's leadership is driven by reducing her personal professional risk than in caring for the students. The lack of support for the head of the PTO is appalling. Several events had to be cancelled because of it.

Posted: April 30, 2014

Gravely is a superlative public school due to the excellent teachers and the wonderful parent community which supports them! This is our 4th year at Gravely and we are sad to see our eldest move on, the school has provide strong academic preparation and a great sense of community. There are true standout teachers at Gravely, kudos to them for their hard work and ability to instill a love of learning in our kids!

Posted: April 27, 2014

Gravely is a great school in all aspects. My oldest child (now in 6th) loved Gravely and my youngest is about to finish up her time there this June. Both loved the school and staff. I haven't heard anything about the new Principal, good or bad, but I can tell you that I don't see any difference as a parent.

Posted: December 10, 2013

This is a very wonderful school. As a parent to a 3 grader at this school, I can highly recommend any parents wanting to bring their child into this school. The new principle is great as well, the front staff and the teachers as wonderful. Ignore the negative comments below. Ask the school to introduce you to actual parents and visit the school during drop offs and pick up and talk to parents. Anyways the school is wonderful and their PTO is even more involve. Our son is happy and learning well, that should matter the most.

Posted: November 21, 2013

Not the same school with Ms. Salzano gone. The new principal seems more interested in numbers than in students. The responsiveness we had with Ms.Salzano is gone. New principal says the right things, but her actions don't match. Gravely will likely change significantly under this new principal over the next several years, and not for the better. If you don't already live in Gravely district, don't base your move on Gravely's glowing reviews from before 2013-14 school year.

Posted: October 8, 2013

I am disappointed in the new principal. She has been unwilling to get involved in an issue that has come up with school buses and I have attempted to reach out asking for assistance.

Posted: February 19, 2013

I currently have 3 children attending Gravely and a son who formerly attended who is now a 6th grader at Ronald Reagan Middle School. They did such a great job preparing my son for middle school. He is in the top advanced/extended learning programs there and excelling. WE LOVE GRAVELY!! The teachers are motivated and top notch! Mrs. S runs a tight ship. My kids are getting an EXCELLENT education at this school. Two of my kids participate in the SIGNET program which they are excited about attending. There are lots of extra curricular activities that the school offers. Mr. A does an amazing job with the students and their music concerts. Lets see.. and there is run club, Odyssey of the Mind, bingo nights, movie nights, and so much more! I think it is so cool the school has a relationship with the U.S. Navy sailors on the USS Gravely. If you are transitioning into the area, seriously consider this school.

Posted: April 16, 2012

Wonderful administration and teachers. Dedicated and helpful staff. Well run school. Caring school leadership. Good academic program.

Posted: July 20, 2011

Michelle Salzano, the principal, is incredible--she shows up at every event, knows all of the students and is very involved with everyone. The teachers and staff know all the children's names. The teachers stress good citizenship and respect and as a result, it is a very nurturing environment. Problems are handled with diligence and care and parents are treated as contributors, not problems. We have considered moving from the area but Gravely keeps us here. My daughter loves it as well.