Helen I. Smith Elementary School

Great school, awesome community, and thoughtful teachers!

Midland is a great school with affordable fee

I'm writing to express extreme disappointment and concern about my experience with Elmwood Park Middle School's registration process for my niece. A staff member visited my home unannounced to verify address information, entering private areas of my residence without an adult present. This egregious breach of privacy was alarming, especially since it involved access to personal spaces, including my daughter's room.Furthermore, when my daughter, who has a medical condition, needed to use the bathroom during school hours, she was denied access despite providing a medical note. This lack of accommodation was distressing and unacceptable.I demand that the school review and rectify these issues to ensure respect for students' and families' privacy and needs. As a parent, it's heartbreaking to feel that my child's well-being and safety are not being prioritized.

This school is very good. The teachers, staff and principal are very wise, regardless of race or religion. The school also collaborates with the officer to maintain school security. The rules are very good and in the 3 years my child has been at school, there has not been a single problem. My two children go to school here. If I have more children, I will send them all to Sixteent Avenue School

Our experience with Ridgewood Montessori School has been nothing short of exceptional.This school truly stands out for providing an education that is noticeably more advanced and thoughtfully delivered than what we have seen in many public school settings. The academic expectations are high, but they are paired with individualized support, hands-on learning, and a deep respect for how children actually learn and grow.One of the most impressive aspects of Ridgewood Montessori is the staff. The teachers are not only Montessori trained, but also fully certified New Jersey teachers. This combination of traditional certification and specialized Montessori training creates a level of expertise and professionalism that is rare to find. The classrooms are calm, purposeful, and academically rich, and it is clear that the teachers understand both child development and rigorous academic instruction.Equally important is the school’s commitment to maintaining a focused, respectful learning environment. Ridgewood Montessori takes proactive steps to ensure that all students can learn without ongoing disruptions. They prioritize a classroom culture where children feel safe, supported, and able to concentrate- something that can be challenging to consistently maintain in larger public school environments. This attention to the learning climate allows students to thrive academically and socially. As an educator myself I am thoroughly impressed everyday. The sense of community, the respect for each child as an individual, and the dedication to high standards make Ridgewood Montessori a remarkable place for children to learn. We are incredibly grateful to be part of a school that combines strong academics, professional educators, and a nurturing, orderly environment where students can truly reach their potential.

Unfortunately, my experience with Thomas Jefferson School #9 was very negative. The school failed to provide the right support for my child with special needs. Instead of understanding, there was blame and misunderstanding. I had to remove my son and start home school. I hope the school improves communication and training for staff.