General Wolfe Elementary School in Baltimore, Maryland

“Wow! What a surprise to find a school in the city that is full of educators, aides, administrative staff, mentors, involved parents, and good kids all so focused on successful achievement! My son came from a neighborhood Catholic school struggling to read and frustrated, and in months this school has transformed him into a confident reader and accomplished math whiz. The PTO is also amazing. Thanks to all at Wolfe Street Academy, and especially Mr. Gaither for his leadership and vision. It's working!”
This review was posted by a parent.

“I think the school should be completely remodeled or moved to a different building. The classroom condtions are horrible. Most classes don't have windows, so there's no fresh air and no daylight. The lamps are on, no matter what. The carpets are old, filthy and covered with mold. So kids have to stay there about 7 hours a day and they breathe in that dirty air and spoil their eyesight. The worst thing, however is that there is neither gym nor any good playground. Therefore, kids don't exercise, they are confined to their seats and when it's time for resourse classes they just watch videos. I feel terrible for those young kids who ruin their health in that school.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“The time has arrived. General Wolfe Elementary School is now Wolfe Street Academy, Baltimore City's newest Conversion Public Charter School. As of July 1, 2007 Wolfe Street Academy is open for business. Through the dedication of administration, teachers, families, community members, local businesses and district support General Wolfe Elementary School has now made the jump to charter school status as Wolfe Street Academy. Wolfe Street Academy opens its doors to students on August 27, 2007. For the past two years, as General Wolfe Elementary School, the dedicated staff and students have achieved Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) as defined by the State of Maryland and the federal Department of Education in accordance with the No Child Left Behind legislation. It is with great joy that the faculty, staff, administration, and families launch Wolfe Street Academy with these two years of success under our belts. At Wolfe Street Academy we provide a scientifically based reading program to all students along with art, music, gym, after school programming, community school programming, a diverse educational experience, and a school-wide approach to developing both academic and social strengths of all students. Education with Intelligence and Integrity. Education is a complex process. It demands people with the expertise to successfully problem solve issues every day in a flexible and creative manner. It also requires people with the integrity and dedication to stick with difficult situations. Wolfe Street Academy faculty, administration, families and community members work together to find smart, effective solutions to the challenge of educating the children, the future, of Baltimore City.”
This review was posted by a principal.

“My 5th grade son moved to General Wolfe from a private school in the city and we have no regrets. Not only is this wonderful school free of charge, it has an excellent 5th grade teacher who is caring and involved. There is a school counselor that is available to the student body, and the principal is friendly and accessible. When I first visited General Wolfe, the teacher and the principal made sure I was informed of every aspect of the school operations and the class environment. I was allowed to spend some time talking to the teacher and observing the class, and the teacher suggested my son spend some time in the class, too. Although my son's transition was difficult - as it would be for any other child - General Wolfe was extremely supportive! I highly recommend General Wolfe over a Baltimore city private school!”
This review was posted by a parent.

“General Wolfe Elementary is an excellent community school; the teachers, faculty, staff and administration are knowledgeable, caring and compassionate. The climate of this school is very welcoming.”
This review was posted by a staff.

“The new administration, along with the teachers and staff are incredibly dedicated to the students and the community. Give it a few years and this school is going to be one of the best in the city.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“I just want to make sure that people realize the school is failing per MSDE standards because at least half- literally- of the students there do not speak English. There are a lot of immigrants (or aliens) from Mexico in the area and when those children go to school they are still expected to complete the same state testing in the spring that other students take, in English. If they are not allowed to be exempt or to have the test in Spanish, how on Earth are they supposed to pass? I wish the state would take the extremely high ESOL population into account.”
This review was posted by a teacher.