5 Rockledge Rd
Pleasantville, NY 10570

As a recent graduate of Byram Hills High School, I have to say that my experience is separate than the actual quality of education provided at this district. It is certainly true that Byram Hills provides an amazing quality of education to students who are not part of the special education. Any college is quick and eager to accept Byram Hills alums as this school prepares students amazingly well for college education. I have found that many college classes I take were easier than classes I would take in high school. There are numerous AP courses to choose from (although little to no emphasis on dual enrollment which is a better option for college credits), numerous advanced courses, and built-in office hours for students to use (they never do). Further, the guidance department is wonderful and extremely good at helping students apply for college and fill out their Common App. However, the actual environment created by the students is horrendous. Students are extremely close minded to ideas that are outside their rich white point of view. Many students who identify as part of a minority within the school demographics (LGBTQ+, POC, low income, religions aside from Catholic and Jewish) face some form of discrimination, harassment, or microaggression regularly. Being 3 of those 4 listed items, it was tough to say the least. If you would like for your kids to have more understanding and acceptance of different types of people, do NOT send your children here. They will leave the school with little to no understanding of the world around him. If you, however, want your kid to be in a racially segregated, all-white, all-wealthy school, then this is your place.Additionally, do not send your kids here if they have some sort of disability (physical, mental, social, etc.), this district's special education program is awful. You just do not want to get involved with them; there are some nasty figures to reckon with. My younger brother had to switch schools because of this.

Both my children enjoyed being at Coman Hill Elementary. They still return to visit their teachers, who they say made great impressions on them. My daughter was very shy and had a difficult time with separation, but her teachers and aids spent extra time with her and helped build her confidence. My son was diagnosed with special needs but after spending 3 years at Coman Hill with exceptional occupational therapists and counselors, he too moved up with great memories of the experience. There are so many community oriented programs and moral building exercises that have helped to establish and build my children’s character. I’m thankful for this excellent foundation for my kids.

Our experience with this school has been wonderful. The teachers genuinely care for the students and it reflects in the work they do and their attitudes about school. Our guidance counselor, Claira Domato, is very supportive, kind, and helpful. We feel very lucky to be part of this school.

Wampus has done a tremendous job educating my son. They challenge him academically and support him emotionally. I have been very impressed.