10/29/09

St. Mary Star of the Seas School

by Unhappy Parent

My experience with St. Mary's has been jaw dropping. I'm amazed with the low participation of parent activities, there are no isolated computer classes for the children, the playground is limited with activities (especially for the PreK) children. The principal's attitude is evidently "her way or the highway", and in speaking with the teachers about the school progress, it's quite evident that everyone is afraid to speak. It's a very sad situation for a school that has so much potential. Someone should investigate the representation and management level of this school and help it prior to have its door closed due to lack of management.

• Pros: Bus Service and early drop off
• Cons: School dictated by a principal that knows nothing

03/26/08

Bronx Parents' Educational Prayers Answered at St. Mary, Star of the Sea!

by Clamdigger10464

St. Mary, Star of the Sea School is a small, academically rigorous school, and it does not seem to have the noise and discipline issues that the local public school (P.S. 175) reportedly has. Also, its student body is more diverse racially (predominantly African American, with Hispanics and Caucasians well represented and increasing in number [yes, we "clamdiggers" from City Island are here!]) and more diverse economically (both extremes: families of modest means on public assistance and those of well-compensated professionals). Surprisingly, this mix works beautifully, with no apparent tension. As a result, our child's outlook has broadened considerably.

St. Mary's academic calendar is at odds with some working parents' tight schedules (limited time off to cover gaps in the school's schedule). Examples: On the first Friday of each month, dismissal is at 11:30 in the morning, with no aftercare available. Every Wednesday, school is let out at 1:00 in the afternoon (with aftercare available). Similarly, the school is closed for two full weeks for the Easter recess. On a minor note, street parking for student drop off and pick up by car is often tight; the church parking lot behind the school is unavailable, as it is used for buses and as the school's only playground. Sadly, after spending up to a decade together, St. Mary's close-knit students scatter after their eighth-grade graduation to different public and parochial schools in the greater NYC area.

However, despites these issues, the experience that St. Mary?s offers students is unparalleled. We highly recommend it.

• Pros: Few if any discipline problems, rigorous but fun academics, diverse and accepting student body
• Cons: Could use more extracurricular activities. Needs aftercare for the first Friday of every month and needs a playground. Parking is tight.