Coastal Middle & Sr High School

Principal Corey Ferrera is the reason for my son’s departure from this school. She has demonstrated a consistent lack of compassion, empathy, patience, and understanding toward students with unique challenges, particularly children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Rather than promoting inclusivity, her leadership fosters division and creates an environment where the needs of ASD students are not adequately supported.The former ESE Coordinator appeared overwhelmed and unsupported, which is especially concerning given the high population of ASD students at this school. Classroom ratios were often unsafe, and staff were overworked, yet there was little compassion or advocacy from administration. While there were a few dedicated and caring staff members, many did not advocate for students out of fear of retaliation. Several of the staff who truly cared have since left, which speaks volumes about the work environment.Most alarming, my son left the classroom and was later found at the playground. Had it not been for staff members who genuinely cared enough to inform us, my husband and I would never have known. This raises serious concerns about student safety and accountability.The school board should thoroughly investigate Principal Ferrera’s conduct and leadership, particularly regarding her treatment of children with disabilities. With strong, compassionate leadership that truly champions all children from all backgrounds, Allamanda has great potential—but unfortunately, that leadership is currently lacking.

The school eventually exceeded my expectations with dedicated teachers and a supportive staff. They truly partner with parents who are engaged and willing to collaborate. The school feels safe, and their aftercare program is excellent, my child loves it. Like most Florida schools they could use some more support and funding for special needs children.

My son has thrived at this school in kindergarten since he didn’t go to pre-k he had a hard time adjusting to school with following directions and his behavior and TCS counselors jump right in and really had one-on-one time with him to make him feel comfortable and to get his behavior on track. He wasn’t really a good fit with his first teacher in the beginning of the year and he was switched to a teacher who could better assist him with his needs, and he excelled exponentially from the beginning to the end of the year. I’m so grateful for all the help and hands on plans of action from his teachers and counselors and administration. My son absolutely loves going to school now I would recommend the school to everybody.

A Grateful Parent of a Washington Elementary GraduateOne of my children recently graduated from Washington Elementary in Riviera Beach, and while I’m so proud of their growth and success, I already miss the incredible support and care the school provides. Thankfully, I still have a child attending—and because of the leadership of Principal Dr. Vernicka Murray, I know my child is in the best hands.Dr. Murray is an outstanding leader who makes a lasting impact. She is present, involved, and deeply committed to every student’s success. She takes time to know the students and families, and she creates a culture of respect, learning, and encouragement. She leads with both strength and compassion, and it shows in how smoothly the school runs and how confident the children are.Thanks to Dr. Murray and her amazing team, my graduate left Washington fully prepared for the next chapter. My younger child continues to grow because of the strong instruction, structure, and support the school provides daily. Dr. Murray sets the tone and builds a true school family.I am so thankful for the care and dedication shown by everyone at Washington Elementary. It’s clear that under Dr. Murray’s leadership, this school is a place where children thrive!!!

My son have been at this school since Pre-K until 4th grade. This year was the worried year for us. I had to end my son school year earlier due to a teacher who confront my child over child stuff then she had the nerve to point my child out to a strange who don't work at the school. The Principal is a big joke he let his staff do whatever they want and he don't have a backbone. It is nothing Christian about this school cause God don't dwell in mess. Then we didn't get to meet the teacher until the first day of school due to they didn't know if they would have a fourth grade teacher or not. This use to be a wonderful school when Mrs. Hyatt was the Principal when she left the school just went down. It's sad that my son couldn't finish out this school year due to the Principal didn't want to discipline his staff. I thank for opening other door for my son. To then it's just business there really don't care about the children. They put teacher in the classroom without degree. Pray about this school before sent your child make sure this is the school for them and always ask you child what they learned and what happen today. You have some teacher who really care about the student and there family.