126-43 Willets Point #844
Corona, NY 11368

I have spent three years at PS29, starting in kindergarten and now in the 2nd grade. I sought this school out for their academic success, after school programming and their self reported Anti-Racist Anti-Bar values/mission. During this time, I have served on the SLT for two years and currently serve on the PTA board - so I have became deeply familiar with the school , its administration and community support. To start, there are wonderful teachers at this school who go above and beyond. This review is not a criticism against individual teachers per se but the leadership of the school that dictates the community values and safety of all who are a part of PS29.However , holistically the PS29 administration and larger parent community are not a safe place for Black or POC kids or parents of these kids. There is a palpable economic and racial divide at the school, on the playgrounds, at playdates, in volunteer opportunities, in community engagement and interpersonal relationship between staff, parents and most severely the administration. The school lacks the fundamental education and training to safely take care of Black and POC kids, due to a lack of open collaboration with parents, an all white staff equity committee and an all white administration that when confronted with racist attacks and behavior between students or staff are quick to minimize the incident, question children's understanding of the event, parents reactions, are neglectfully slow in making meaningful change that will correct or improve the environment. The common refrain from the administration is that it was "not the intent" of either a student, parent or the administration to do harm to another but they hold no accountability towards their actions beyond that with either proper education, restorative practices or allowing access to changes by non white members. Complaints are isolated from larger community discussion, never documented on email or intensely downplayed if in email, and are often seen by the administration as singular events rather than a systemic issue in the school.My children and others have experienced overt and covert expressions of racism, prejudice and bullying at this school and have come to the understanding that it is not a priority or a concern of the administration to make meaningful change.My advice to Black or POC parents who want to attend PS29 - organize discreetly. My advice to other parent who say they care, speak up, question the status quo.