Ps 31 Bayside

My son is graduating fifth grade this year.We really liked the last principal, Miss Lee, She was very fair. The new principal Miss Ski has a bias against children that speak Mandarin. My son and two of his friends told me that he has heard the principal call these children “Mandarin” as if that is who they are rather than the language that they speak.

Please do not send your child to this school. The list of all that is wrong at this school is just too long to write. Students and teachers leave mid-year just to get away. I heard the kindergarten class had three teachers this year alone, each one stating lack of support from the principal as their reason for leaving mid-year. The building is literally being held together with tape in some areas, where the building experienced pipes leaking. There is writing all over the bathroom walls and cracks all along the foundation, none of which seems to be fixed despite running fundraisers all year. The school's principal cannot even write an email to parents without it being riddled with grammatical errors. My children spent only one year at this school, and it was one year too many. I had heard this school was great about a decade ago, but has since gone to shambles, both literally and physically.

My child never had good experiences in school; he didn't really understand the material being taught, especially in Math and Science, and bullying was present. At LSFB, the faculty really take the time to ensure the students are not only introduce to the material, but really understand the content and how to do the work. The hands on learning and research (not working on computers, chrome books, or iPads) encourage one to think about the process and show the work. The students are very accepting and learn how to properly interact without offending each other. Many friends are made at this school and returning alumni come back to check on their "little sisters and brothers."

Our family has been part of the St. Kevin Catholic Academy alumni since 1990s. This was one of the main reasons we decided to extend the same path to our child. Our child has been in the SKCA community since kindergarten (covid) and now finishing fourth grade. Like any school, it has faced its challenges over the years, but one thing that stands out is how the principal, staff and administration care about the children and their privacy. Their focus has consistently been on providing stability, a strong education, and a nurturing environment. My child is happy to go to school and be in the clubs and sports that are offered. Has made friendships that feel more like extended families. There’s a real closeness among families here. We support each other, look out for one another’s children, and genuinely enjoy being part of this community.

Best school in Bayside. Great teachers and great student environment. no bullying permitted