PS 9 Sarah Smith Garnet School (The)

I have two kids at this school both started in Pre-K. I wasn't sure what to expect because while most reviews are positive there are few very negative ones. In my experience over the past several years I can say that I feel so lucky to be a part of the PS 11 community. The Principal knows every student's name, she is always walking the halls, in the cafeteria and at every school event. This year they added two additional assistant principals, any emails I've sent have been answered same day. The school did increase in size this year (not surprising because its so wonderful more families want to come) so I can see how a new family might feel lost, but there are so many people to reach out to - class parents, PTA, School Leadership Team, teachers, aides - and if you raise your hand and ask for help people are happy to assist. They have regular coffee with the principal sessions where you can come and ask questions. The teachers have "office hours" every Tuesday afternoon to talk to parents about any concerns. In my experience the teachers are very communicative about your child's progress and work with you to come up with a plan for areas where your child may need extra help. There are lots of opportunities for parents to come into the classroom to help teach or to volunteer at lunch or chaperone trips. These help the school but also help you get a sense of what your child's day is like. The school holds a lot of events to build community - Back to School Party, Halloween Party, Lunar New Year celebration, Skate Party, Yoga in the morning, food bank drives etc. that happen on the weekends and evenings. These are excellent ways to connect with other families and the principal is always there (I think she sleeps at the school :). The school takes academics seriously by challenging students to do their best but they also focus on providing a well rounded experience - cultural celebrations, fun and educational field trips, swimming for all 3rd graders, and enrichment like art, karate, music of some sort (violin, African drumming chorus, band) and Spanish -for Every grade. But as a public school they can only do so much so they rely on having engaged parents. This school pours into these kids. My kids have really thrived here.

We are in PK and could not ask for a better experience. We love our PK teacher. They just got accepted as an IB school and are applying a new curriculum that incorporates dance, art, Spanish and lesson plans around self and community. The PTA is very involved and making great strides.

As a former student I would whole-heartedly recommend you send your child to this school.

BWS is such an amazing environment for our kids. We joined when looking for a preschool for our then 3.5 year old (what Waldorf calls "Early Childhood"). We're now in our 3rd year (Kindergarten) and we're totally in love. The thoughtful approach to every subject, including art, music and physical growth has really blown us away. I'm excited to watch my daughter continue to flourish in the grades program, with such a hands-on approach to learning with your hands, head and heart for all subjects. Our little guy has also started once a week "caregiver and me" classes at, which have been great for his development and to get to know other parents. I'm so glad we found this community.

It's a warm and welcoming school with a great community of families. Excellent Jewish and secular education in a Montessori-type format. The new building opened two years ago and so the school has excellent facilities - new gym, science lab, music room, etc. The school prides itself on including kids with different needs in the classroom. The other recent posts are not reflective of my experience.