St. Vincent De Paul School

The academic program is archaic -- some currently used worksheets still bear dates from the 1970's. The teachers have lost their zeal and inspiration, and harshly deride the children too often. The fabulous new facility is underutilized, technology is inadequate, and it is very hard to get but a handful of parents to get involved to support the school -- and it's the same ones every time. The leadership seems to coddle the inactivity and ineffectiveness of the teachers, especially in the middle and upper grades, and encourages a "teach to the lower-middle" philosophy. School is going downhill and an overhaul will be required for it to survive as an alternative to the vibrant public and private schools in the area.
—Submitted by a parent

This is an immature preschool program - only 3 years old with issues with the quality of Pre K2 staff. While the teachers may have enough education/experience to teach a preschool class, they do not have the maturity or communication experience necessary to effectively interact with parents. They resort to writing notes when there are issues instead of communicating directly with parents. If a parent questions the way a situation is handled, they view it as being disrespectful and unsupportive of the teachers. What they don't realize is that respect is a two way street and if they expect to receive it, they need to be respectful and open to hearing other points of view. Again, this is a sign of immaturity and being unwilling to take steps necessary to make changes that will improve the quality and effectiveness of their program. Ms. Michelle especially has a negative attitude which shows in the tone of her voice when interacting with the children as well as with parents which is totally unacceptable. Our child did not feel supported or accepted by the teachers which ultimately caused us to remove him from the school.
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter was in the 3 year old class at St Vincent Preschool. What a gem. Ms. Katrina and Ms. Christina are "3 year old whisperers." They were always there, and key to set the kids up in their routine. My daughter had a fantastic year. Definitely my best preschool experience (and I went through a couple with my older son). I love how they work on both the gross motor, fine motor, language but also work a lot on moral education. The snacks are appropriate portions and healthy, and the entire school is very health conscientious and "green." We are not catholic, but felt welcomed right away and the moral education appropriate for everyone. The facilites are beautiful and designed for their age, and separated from the larger school. We became very close with her teachers, the director, and the other parents. Its a great little school and my best school experience as a parent (I am also a pediatrician).
—Submitted by a parent

Our daughter goes to St Vincent Preshcool and we are happy with the program. The director had to work through some staffing issues but now they have some incredible teachers with Ms Michelle and Ms Sarah. We plan to send our younger daughter to St Vincent when she turns two in March. The preschool is brand new and the K-8 school just installed promethius boards in every classroom. The average student teacher ratio is 18-1 so we are happy with the education so far.
—Submitted by a parent

Not Happy... This school is going down hill
—Submitted by a parent

Our school has a family atmosphere Throughout all of the crisis' a family may experience, the other families of St. Vincent De Paul are there to support your family.
—Submitted by a parent

Our child has really benefited from his time at St. Vincent's. Classmates are smart and polite. Teachers and Staff are experienced and dedicated. Parents and Alumni are involved and support the school.
—Submitted by a parent

We are extremely happy and blessed to have our son at St. Vincent's! It is an extraordinary education that is afforadable. The faculty is superb, as is the ciriculum. We look forward to our other children being students at St. Vincents, as well.
—Submitted by a parent

This is not a very school. Segregated physical education classes are not a good idea, in my opinion. My son and daughter complain to me all the time.
—Submitted by a parent

I am an alumna. While I agree that some programs, especially Literature and Science, prepared me for high school the Spanish and Math programs were abysmal. In addition, for kids who test into or have honors programs available in local public schools (like Seminar and International Baccalaureate) I suggest they go that route. Based on purely anecdotal evidence, I have seen that those in honors programs at public schools go to far better colleges than than 98% of private school kids.
—Submitted by a former student

This is an excellent school that has great teachers and leadership. The sports have an important role and music is starting to become a reality as well. The parents are very involved with fundraisers among other events they put together for the school. They are very interested in how well their child is doing in the class.
—Submitted by a former student

St. Vincent's has a very good academic and sports program. The academics are more difficult than at other schools, and there ias a lot of homework, but the children usually get in to good high schools such as OLP, Saints, the Bishops school, etc. St. Vincent's is not as parent friendly as it could be, but the overall atmosphere is very welcoming.
—Submitted by a parent