Jones Point

Oakside was our favorite school out of the three elementary schools in Peekskill. My child entered 2nd grade just as they were coming back to in person learning. The school handled the transition very well. Returning to in person was a very positive experience and the school was always very communicative with parents. Peekskill has a challenging and engaging academic curriculum that includes an exceptional dual language program, excellent visual art, performing arts, and music programs at all levels. The dual language program at Oakside was excellent. She had wonderful teachers in both 2nd and 3rd grade who made learning exciting, engaging and creative. All the teachers were so compassionate and caring and always available to talk and answer any questions. The administration was also excellent and always responsive. The principal and vice principal would be outside helping to direct traffic and greet families every morning at drop off. Oakside also has the amazing regeneration farm on its premises which I think was a positive things for students to see and they give free fruits and veggies out to families during harvest season. Truly a friendly school for a friendly town!We love the diversity of Peekskill and how it is reflected in the schools. The school district is structured on the Princeton Plan, kids from all over the city attend school together in all grades to promote diversity at every grade level. The fact that our child is in school with kids of many different cultural and economic backgrounds plus the culturally responsive curriculum has fostered learning and understanding of diversity and inclusion throughout her public school experience and she has a diverse friend group. Through her educational experience our child has been supported academically, creatively, and emotionally by teachers and administration. Whenever we need support, teachers, admin and guidance counselors are always available. Through their support our child is excelling in her education. We are extremely satisfied with Peekskill public schools, our child’s education and the school community we are a part of.

I miss this school so much. We recently moved to Florida, where my daughter is now in first grade. Unfortunately, the school she attends is disorganized and overcrowded. It’s a combined elementary and middle school, which adds to the chaos.The car rider situation is horrendous. They don't provide bus transportation for students who live within two miles of the school, which creates an extremely hazardous drop-off and pick-up experience. Given how many neighborhoods and housing developments surround the school, I’d estimate that at least 80% of the students live within that two-mile radius.Buchanan-Verplanck was such a wonderful, family-oriented school. The staff genuinely cared about the well-being of their students. My daughter, who is seven and has a learning disability, was well-supported there.At her new school, instead of being greeted by a teacher and walked in from the car line, she’s simply taken out of the car and expected to walk in on her own. It feels impersonal and careless.I love living in Florida, but I have to say — the school system here has been incredibly disappointing so far.

This is the worst school. The teachers are nasty and so unprofessional ! They tried to say my daughter needed therapy and something was wrong with her. She was being bullied and no one noticed. I brought her to another school what a dramatic change she's doing amazing. Horrible horrible school!!!!!