471 Vanderbilt Ave #3F
Brooklyn, NY 11238

I have two kids at this school both started in Pre-K. I wasn't sure what to expect because while most reviews are positive there are few very negative ones. In my experience over the past several years I can say that I feel so lucky to be a part of the PS 11 community. The Principal knows every student's name, she is always walking the halls, in the cafeteria and at every school event. This year they added two additional assistant principals, any emails I've sent have been answered same day. The school did increase in size this year (not surprising because its so wonderful more families want to come) so I can see how a new family might feel lost, but there are so many people to reach out to - class parents, PTA, School Leadership Team, teachers, aides - and if you raise your hand and ask for help people are happy to assist. They have regular coffee with the principal sessions where you can come and ask questions. The teachers have "office hours" every Tuesday afternoon to talk to parents about any concerns. In my experience the teachers are very communicative about your child's progress and work with you to come up with a plan for areas where your child may need extra help. There are lots of opportunities for parents to come into the classroom to help teach or to volunteer at lunch or chaperone trips. These help the school but also help you get a sense of what your child's day is like. The school holds a lot of events to build community - Back to School Party, Halloween Party, Lunar New Year celebration, Skate Party, Yoga in the morning, food bank drives etc. that happen on the weekends and evenings. These are excellent ways to connect with other families and the principal is always there (I think she sleeps at the school :). The school takes academics seriously by challenging students to do their best but they also focus on providing a well rounded experience - cultural celebrations, fun and educational field trips, swimming for all 3rd graders, and enrichment like art, karate, music of some sort (violin, African drumming chorus, band) and Spanish -for Every grade. But as a public school they can only do so much so they rely on having engaged parents. This school pours into these kids. My kids have really thrived here.