McAlpine Elementary School

Posted: May 16, 2024

Our son is just about to complete the 2nd grade here at McAlpine. He has been at McAlpine since Kindergarten, so this is the end of our third year. Our son is doing very well in school. There is a friendly family atmosphere to the school where the staff and students seem to get on like a well oiled machine. The feedback loop has been strong with all 3 teachers we have had. They genuinely care and meet our child where he is, while also pushing him to be his best self. I do not get complaints from my child about name-calling, bullying, or other rude behaviors like happens at some of the other programs he attends (which are also well established programs)...I attribute this to the culture of this close knit school.

The PTO goes above and beyond and coordinates fun fundraising events to help provide additional resources to the school. From the McAlpine Mile, to the Spring Fling, and more, there is a lot of cool tradition at the school. It is also limited in size because of the soccer fields out back and therefore will never have any trailers. The students are diverse and everyone is accepted.

I've spent time volunteering in the classroom, at school events, and other places so I think I actually know the kids pretty well...and again, it's just such a warm environment. We wouldn't change a thing. We are very proud Eagles!

Posted: May 16, 2024

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Posted: August 25, 2022

McAlpine has been a wonderful experience for my two children. It's smaller than surrounding schools, so the teachers and admin get to really know your child. Class sizes are smaller than average, and there isn't overcrowding. The younger grades get two recesses a day, which is great for energetic kids. The specials teachers are really great, especially the P.E. teacher, Ms. Davis. She's dedicated to making physical activity fun and goes above what's required of her position. There are some truly standout teachers that we've been lucky to have. We've also had a more average teacher, but I feel like that's the case at every school. If there are any problems or concerns, the admin team is approachable and helpful.

Posted: August 25, 2022

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Posted: November 10, 2021

If you value good communication with the school this is definitely a bad school. In my opinion a teacher must be attentive to the students, my daughter was not listened to, in 3 weeks my daughter got sick like I had never seen, the teacher and the principal did not give me feedback. My daughter was traumatized.

Posted: November 10, 2021

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Posted: May 18, 2019

The principal & assistant principal reinforce daily their motto of "every child matters." This notion can be observed every single day by administration & teachers. McAlpine administrators treat their staff wonderfully & respectfully.

Posted: May 18, 2019

There are many programs & learning opportunities to provide for exceptional students. There are specialized classrooms for children with autism and other special needs, as well as extra support staff to help children in standard classrooms that need extra help or time to stay on track and continue to develop into great learners.

Posted: May 18, 2019

Multiple counselors on hand, various social programs throughout the year that focus on anti-bullying, character education events throughout the year about respect, kindness, etc.... There is no tolerance for bullying at McAlpine!

Posted: May 18, 2019

Outstanding! We have 2 children at McAlpine, and this is our 4th year at the school -- our entire family has loved everything about McAlpine! I can't say enough great things about the principal & teachers. Children at McAlpine are made to feel like much more than just students -- they feel like part of a family and a close-knit community that cares, loves, and provides for each other. Parents at this school are extremely involved, and the PTO facilitates so many fun events throughout the year. From the supportive staff, caring teachers and involved PTO, each child truly does matter at McAlpine.

Posted: May 18, 2019

Homework is minimal, and focused on reinforcing classroom activities without being "busy work." Deadlines are never overwhelming, plenty of time is given to complete work.

Posted: May 18, 2019

The teachers at McAlpine are wonderful at focusing on personalized learning to ensure that each child is given what they need, based on their academic level and learning style. They truly care about their students!

Posted: May 18, 2019

There are multiple programs in place that focus on creating & sustaining good character in the students (and staff!). There's a unique "house" program where students of all grades work together in 4 different groups to bring awareness to important issues, help the community with food/clothing drives, etc. Other special programs like Friday Clubs and Buddy Reading (which has evolved into much more than just reading!) bring students together to focus on positive character development, respect, and compassion.

Posted: September 9, 2018

Posted: September 9, 2018

My son has been a student at McAlpine since K and is now in 5th grade. We LOVE our school! It is smaller than others in the area and therefore has a family atmosphere. The teachers and staff are amazing and truly care about each child and their success. The school has excellent parent involvement and an extremely successful and supportive PTO that provides things like field trips, technology, books & supplies for the students. McAlpine is our FAMILY!!

Posted: September 9, 2018

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Posted: March 18, 2018

Posted: March 18, 2018

Posted: March 18, 2018

Posted: March 18, 2018

Teachers and staff are wonderful and very helpful.

Posted: March 18, 2018

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Posted: March 8, 2018

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Posted: March 8, 2018

Excellent school. Excellent kids and committed teachers and admin

Posted: March 8, 2018

Both of my kids had great experiences at McAlpine. I was impressed by the amount of parent involvement in the PTA, classrooms, etc.

Posted: March 8, 2018

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Posted: March 8, 2018

Very good! Dedicated teachers and staff. Emphasis on learning

Posted: March 8, 2018

The homework is geared to reinforcing lessons and not simply "busy" work.

Posted: March 8, 2018

The teachers help the children work to their highest ability.

Posted: March 8, 2018

Multiple programs are actively in place that demonstrate the value the staff put on these characteristics.

Posted: March 8, 2018

Principal is very responsive and visible at the school.

Posted: March 8, 2018

They place children in differentiated groups based on their strengths. Great TD teacher.

Posted: March 8, 2018

Leadership demonstrates no tolerance for bullying. We have never experienced any issues in our 5 years there.

Posted: February 7, 2018

Posted: February 7, 2018

Posted: February 7, 2018

Posted: February 7, 2018

Posted: February 7, 2018

my daughter has autism is in their AU class. From pre-k to 1st grade AND i have been extremely pleased with this school, the staff, EVERYTHING. Every teacher, counselor I've encountered... even the principal and vice principal are just amazing. they are caring and take a real hands-on approach to teaching and loving their students. my daughter loves going to school. Thanks McApline for taking care and educating my little one. YOU ARE TRULY AMAZING

Posted: February 7, 2018

Posted: February 7, 2018

Posted: September 26, 2017

This school literally has caused our family more disruption than I could have ever imagined possible. All 3 of our children have been traumatized for life when it comes to school.

Posted: September 26, 2017

Posted: October 28, 2016

Posted: October 28, 2016

Posted: October 28, 2016

Amazing Principal who has taken the school from good to great during her tenure.

Posted: October 28, 2016

The 4 houses model as well as the focus on kindness and bullying prevention with the Eagles Character Award are examples of the excellent changes that the Principal has put into place supporting the development of strong character, integrity, compassion and respect.

Posted: October 28, 2016

Motivated and hardworking teachers who excel at communicating with parents and keeping them informed about what is being covered in class.

Posted: October 28, 2016

Ideal balance of homework and study time. Excellent parent-teacher communication.

Posted: October 28, 2016

Wonderful neighborhood school in the Ballantyne area that is working hard every day to achieve excellence. Kids are challenged, teachers are motivated, class sizes are small and the new Friday clubs offering Robotics/Lego, Drawing, Foreign Languages (French & Spanish), Gardening, Drama, Green Club, Chorus...etc are fantastic and not offered simply as outsourced after-school activities. We LOVE McAlpine!!! It's rated 9 here, but it should be a 10.

Posted: November 19, 2015

Posted: November 19, 2015

Posted: November 19, 2015

Posted: November 19, 2015

McAlpine is a wonderful school with a true sense of community and family. Staff goes above and beyond to help students day to day and to support our families and staff. It's a wonderful place to be.

Posted: March 22, 2014

McAlpine is a warm, inviting school where all children are challenged. My third grader does things in math that blow my mind! His teacher works with small groups at their own level so all get what they need. At our previous south charlotte school, the high kids worked on their own because their test scores were secure. At McAlpine they care about teaching and challenging all children. It is refreshing!

Posted: March 18, 2014

In response to 03/17/2014 Post: My goodness, Woman, talk to your child. I have autism in my family. I can tell you that as soon as a mother gives up on the difficult task of communicating, the child suffers. Your comments insulting. I have always found the teaching staff at McAlpine among the most caring, loving and professional individuals I know.

Posted: November 23, 2013

McAlpine is the BEST school I have even had my children enrolled in! The teachers are supportive, informative and fun. My Children are on fire for learning! I have one child who completed school there and is in the 8th grade, he loves going back to see his old teachers (my 4th and 2nd grade children still attend) The office staff is helpful and friendly. The environment at McAlpine is one of family and friendship. The children are happy and they thrive. This year a new Principal has come on board and I can't say I like or dislike her as I haven't gotten to know her. She has introduced herself every time she has seen me though and I find that very inviting. She also ended the AR tests (thank goodness! If you have an avid reader you will understand this) Parent involvement could be better but it is not horrible. We are moving at the end of this school year and I am sad to leave! I have recently considered homeschooling the children as we haven't found a school in the entire CMS system that has half the atmosphere. I have a step child who went to a 10 rated school in CMS and I would NEVER send my children to that "stuffy" school. McAlpine is a gem hidden away and kept secret!

Posted: November 11, 2013

McAlpine Elementary might be the best kept secret in Ballantyne, I had three children at this school. Last year was our first year and we fell in love. The level of engagement by the entire staff at this school and the caring about the children that attend has amazed us. We left an IB international school when we moved here, I was very worried about the adjustment, but it was without cause. The teachers here not only made the adjustment achievable, my oldest in 5th went from struggling student with a possible ADD diagnosis to the McAlpine Honor Roll. They had a 504 accommodation in place within 3 months to provide what he need for success. HIs confidence soared and so did his excitement about school work. This year I have a 4th and 2nd grader, and they have blossomed even more. I am continually amazed by the activities in learning that are presented and when I pick up my nine year old and he talks about all he has learned in the day I am speechless. Engaged doesn t begin to cover what is happening with these 4th graders. We have moved enough to know these numbers in the rating are just that, numbers. They do not reflect the experience your child will have. Thank You McA!

Posted: October 16, 2013

This school is fantastic and deserves a higher rating than 7 for sure! The teachers are great and the new principal has brought some wonderful new energy that will surely enable McAlpine go from Very Good to Great. Excited for the year ahead.

Posted: September 25, 2013

We enrolled our son from Dec 2012 and I must say that it is an excellent school that provides good training to students in a manner they enjoy. They have a balance of learning, field trips and fun. My son loves going to school everyday. The teachers are very dedicated and students love Mr Ashley

Posted: May 15, 2013

Two years in McAlpine so far an it's been a great experience. The teachers are dedicated and really care. Principle Saxton is a very involved, energetic leader who is able to connect with the children. Communication with parents is good and parents are greatly encouraged to get involved in a variety of ways.

Posted: April 30, 2013

FIRST IMPRESSIONS: I am a grandfather of a child entering kindergarten at McAlpine. Based on a very well organized and comprehensive "Beginner's Day" presentation by teachers, staff and PTA, I am impressed and confident that the next 6 years of schooling for my granddaughter will be and enjoyable and productive experience for her. I am particularly impressed by the competency and caring of the principal, Ernest Saxton, the three kindergarten teachers who are returning this coming school-year, and the active involvement of the PTA. I'll check-in at the end of the year to give you feedback on how the kindergarten experience turned out...

Posted: November 4, 2012

McAlpine is a satisfactory school. The teachers are okay, and so is the staff, however, the principal is very ignorant, and selfish. He only cares about doing his work, and getting paid, in my opinion. My child was getting bullied, and he said it had something to do with my child. I do believe that it is an average school, for average students. People will not success well, when attending.

Posted: September 20, 2012

I moved to Charlotte one year ago from a small town where the schools were great. I never had any complaints...ever...until I came here and my kids started going to McAlpine. Let's start with last year. My daughter struggles in Math and would beg...yes beg...her teacher for help. Everytime she asked for help, she was told, "just do your best". Until one day the teacher became aggravated with her asking for help she told her "I'm not in the mood to help you. If your mother would like to pay me $85 per week I will give you a one hour session one day a week." Why should I have to pay for her to do her job?? Oh yea...I already do; my taxes. This year is better for her but not my son. My son has an immature bladder and came home with pee on him everyday for the first week. It took me calling everyday and finally being rude for the principle to call me back. When he did call me he said my son was a liar (exact words) and how did I know he was peeing on himself when I was not at the school? Hello!! Smell!! He is struggling in spelling making F's and the teacher still won't talk to me about this. Blame it on a bad experience but this school sucks!!