Haverstraw Elementary School

There is a lot of pressure in our community to put our kids in one of the big, well known yeshivas that "everyone" goes to. We went with our gut instincts with the Hebrew Academy when the kids were small and we haven't looked back. Our kids wake up happy to go to school in the morning and singing as they walk in after a LONG day of classes. They talk about their teachers with such warmth and enthusiasm, and their heart-felt friendships with their fellow classmates. When I worry about what type of education they are getting, I remind myself of their top Terra Nova scores, their strong academic records and most of all, the caring and concern that I feel whenever I step foot in the school. I see my kids participating with excitement at the Shabbos table, eager to go to shul week after week. I see their middos and the loving way they treat others from all walks of life. When I ask them if they would rather go to a bigger school with more activities, more birthday parties, they say " NO WAY!".I am truly not worried about my kids being big fish in a small pond. The character they are building at the Hebrew Academy will enable them to swim just fine in the big pond when the time comes.

My son attended the Full Day Kindergarten program at Children of Mary during the 2010-2011 school year. I can not even explain to you in words, how wonderful this program is and how wonderful the teachers and aides all those that work there are....so nurturing and loving. I loved that he began learing about God and religion and of course how to read and write too! My youngest son will go there next year and we can not wait to be part of their family again! Thank you Children of Mary for giving our son the perfect beginning!!!!

St. Peter's School is an excellent school when it comes to the academics and their curriculum prepares their students well for any High School. The school's values, warm, welcoming and culturally diverse atmosphere, encourages their students to become great future citizens.

We made a horrible choice sending our children here. It is not a friendly and inclusive environment as the facade suggests unless you are already part of an inner circle. Unfortunately, the culture of the school is very much bullying and we've witnessed parents and staff encourage it. I'm devastated at what my kids have experienced and feel really badly for students who will always be left behind by this system. Parents of color, if you speak up, you will be considered trouble. If you're looking for an environment where you can partner in supporting your child's educational needs, definitely look elsewhere.