Big gaming

My experience could’ve been different if it weren’t for Mrs. Tobin and Mrs. Fargnoli. Like most public schools in Phila, this school faces significant challenges, but the staff that I’ve encountered appear to put their best foot forward. I believe the staff could work anywhere, but the choose to be here because they have a passion for doing what has been referred to as the impossible, which is educating inner city children, who often times lack positive role models and leadership. My child is happy here, but he’s incredibly gifted, so he will not be returning next year. The teacher to student ratio is ridiculous..

"My family relocated to Philadelphia for my sons 4th grade year. During his 1st year of attendance I had little to no issues or complaints. During his 5th grade year is when the bullying started. For a school that claims it is strict with their ""no bullying"" policy I was in awe. My son was pushed down steps and later threatened by another student. When addressed with his teachers we were assured it would be handled and that they would stay on top of it. Needless to say his 5th grade year was a mess. The lack of communication among the administrative staff, teachers, Dean & Principle is disgusting. No one had any idea what was going on and they failed to schedule a requested meeting with the parents and child to resolve the issue. My husband and I spent the entire school going back and forth to the office to no avail. We finally took matters into our own hands and approached the issue on our owns. Uncomfortable with the idea of returning to the following year we had no choice but to return because of our address and district. With fingers crossed and prayers we started 6th grade. Its only January and I'm searching for immediate transfer solutions. Attempting to get the school to properly investigate and follow up with my sons claim is like trying to win the lotto. Now we have teachers calling us and complaining about my son wearing a sweater in class in the middle of January that he has been wearing all year!!! Does this sound like harassment? Yes! It appears the 6th grade teachers pick and choose which policies to follow and the school admin office and staff just ride the wave unaware due to lack of communication. We have yet to have any follow up in regards to last years threats and bullying and this year is no better. Do I expect different? No. The principle is always ""tied up"" and no one ever calls back of reaches out to ensure the resolution.Disston creates problems. They have taught my son ""see something, say something"" only gets you in trouble. To hear your child say ""the teachers and office don't care"" breaks my heart. We have punished him, lectured him and stood on defense of the school only to learn they are not doing their jobs and taught my son that he is the problem. Take my advice and start getting on some waiting list for charters school. Go somewhere else. They focus on immediate appearance and a band aid method at Disston."

I've gone to this school for 9 years. I have been here from kindergarten and I have to say that this year (2013-2014) has probably been the worst year. This principal is not involved enough and the vice principal walks around with yardsticks taped together. This school needs Mr. Shannon back! He had this school in line and controlled us. Their has been way to many fights this year. Most of the teachers here are dedicated to their students but can't tolerate the disrespect. I feel that any parents who want their children in a good learning environment should not send them to this school! I am a child who honestly can not wait to leave this school for good!

"My child attends Hamilton disston elementary school. I am appalled that this school is even able to be open. There is a total lack of respect when you enter the office area to address a problem. If you ask to speak with the Principal she is always busy and no where to be found. You leave a message (or in my case ten Messages) and no response. I have never seen such an uninvolved principal in all my life. This school definitely needs to be investigated by the school board. You send your child to school to learn and you have teachers and parents getting into fistfights infront of our children. I may be the crazy one but this school is out of control. I will be making a call to the school board in regards to the current principals lack of common decency to avoid doing her job. Its appalling to me that these ""educators"" basically are doing nothing except collecting taxpayers money to ignore real problems that they have no problem bypassing everyday. If you cannot handle your job Please for the safety of our children, get a different job. The future of our world is these children, if you cant make a positive change PLEASE move on!"