West Side School

My older child was enrolled at a local public primary school until 2nd grade when an ongoing subpar experience forced us to reevaluate our decisions. As local residents and alumni of the public district, it was not an easy choice to leave but we pulled him out and enrolled both our boys two years ago. I wasn't sure what to expect having heard both good and bad reviews--but nearly two years later I can't say enough good things about St. Patrick's.My older son is an excellent student who excels anywhere--so it wasn't exactly about finding a better education though we certainly didn't want his academics to suffer. But if you ask him, he will tell you that the academic environment is more challenging, the student body overall is more engaged, and the school itself holds children far more accountable than his experience at public school. My younger son is also very bright but required special services for speech and some accommodations. The public school district and St. Patrick's worked together seamlessly to ensure a comprehensive approach to his support and he is flourishing. We have an entire team of people dedicated to his well-being through the school and he's now beyond grade-level expectations in core areas.I find the teachers extremely approachable and flexible. They adapt their teaching to individual children--and have the support of the school and means to do so as the class sizes are relatively small (17-18 kids in each class we've been in). The teachers are all extremely invested in the academic, social, and emotional welfare of the children. There is also a full-time social worker who is accessible to children and parents at all times.There is an abundance of extracurricular opportunities that far outpace those at the primary school level in the surrounding public school district. And the curriculum moves at a faster pace as well. The homework, on the other hand, seems like less busy work and worksheets than my friends' children at other schools--which we appreciate.There is a tremendous emphasis on family involvement and the community here is truly unparalleled. The school events are extremely well attended and the volunteership among families and children is remarkable. They educate the whole child and support the whole family and my only regret is not joining this school sooner.Our current experience applies to grades K through 4th. Families ahead of us have shared equally great things about grades 5th through 8th as well.

This school has gone markedly downhill since Principal Albrecht left. No longer are there thoughtful community events or comprehensive updates. Everything seems to be done haphazardly and at the last minute. Worse, the new administration is ill-equipped to deal with normal student interactions. Everything becomes an outsized issue for the school psychologist to deal with. They try to push students into needing special services, even when their grades are good, so the school can get more funding. I am not the only parent who has experienced this. I've spoken to other parents who say the same thing, as well as the actual district contact for Syosset school district. So it is a pattern in my opinion. I would avoid this school. Students are leaving and the school is shrinking, yet they do nothing to address these problems. Much better Catholic schools out there.

East Woods is an amazing school. If you want your kids to feel loved and appreciated for all their strengths than. this is the school for you. It warm environment, kind teachers, and amazing education is everything you want for your child. It is safe, small, and has old school fundamentals.