George C. Baker Elementary School

Olph is more than a school, it is a family. Like every family sometimes there are bumps but those bumps are in the past and our future is looking bright. We have upgraded programs, dedicated teachers and a wonderful Principal starting her 2nd year with our family. I would not send my children anywhere else.

Our child's experience at Westfield helped build a foundation of kindness, acceptance of diversity, and the sense that she can make a difference with service. She learned that any answer is a good answer, no matter if it's right or wrong - that we learn even more from our mistakes. She experienced a challenging and engaging curriculum and a comprehensive art and music program. Practicing silence and introspection during weekly all-school meetings for worship was an invaluable tool to allow her to sit with her thoughts, feel her sense of self, and see others as equals. She loved the field trips throughout the years, especially when they went on the overnight ones. The responsive tuition program allows families who might not otherwise afford Westfield to be able to experience this wonderful little school. The sense of community among the families was also very important and helped parents feel a part of their child's experience. I recommend this school wholeheartedly. It is an experience not to be missed.

Highly recommend! Our son, age 5, is currently in his 2nd year at MFS and we could not be happier. When he first started in PK (last year), we immediately felt welcomed by the wonderful administration/teachers/staff led by (the very approachable and involved) Head of School, Julia de la Torre. The overall school atmosphere is like something out of a fairytale. From pick up to drop off, we are greeted with smiling faces, kind students, friendly parents and an overall feeling of inclusion. Academically, we were impressed with the curriculum at the PK and K levels. In addition to his normal class schedule, our son has two special-subject areas each day; one being Coding (taught by the amazing Rachel Kaplan). All special areas are wonderful, but as I understand it, MFS is the only school in NJ to teach Coding (which is the future) at the PK and K levels. We are planning to start our younger son, age 2, into the PS program next year as he will be old enough to enroll (age 3) by September.

This is a long-established, law abiding school. It is a safe, secure, healthy and wonderful peaceful campus. It is designed to allow for parental direct observations of the classrooms at work, and the Head of School is accessible for honest and straightforward, welcoming discussion.