Laurel Nokomis School

I'm increasing unhappy with this school, and my recent concern is that the student no longer recite the Pledge of Allegiance! When I questioned why, I was told they didn't have enough time in the mornings. After looking more into the situation on this issue, I realized it is only this school, and not county-wide. Okay - that's the pledge and I'm nit-picking, but the real issue have been nicely expressed but the June 6th reviewer.
--Submitted by a parent

I don't feel that the education is any more sub par than most schools in Florida, let's face it the educational standards in this state are pitiful despite all efforts- however this school is distressingly apathetic about parental involvement- it actually seems that they just don't want to see parents there. They rarely have any ceremony or shows and when they do it often seems as if they didn't even know you were coming, though they invited you- few chairs, disorganized, poorly planned and executed all the way around- we left in the middle of our child's "graduation" because it was a complete and utter mess, and not showing any signs of improvement 2 hours in. The teachers are clearly distressed, and apparently lacking motivation as much as the students. This school has great potential and some truly wonderful teachers- sadly it seems it is not being guided or directed properly- and I have many years of primary education still ahead of me unfortunately. I make the best of the good aspects and hope for the best.
--Submitted by a parent

When a school is great you could argue the only way is down. With the employment of Nancy Dubin in 2003 this sad direction became inevitable. Within weeks of taking over, distraught parents seeing the way things were going, called for her resignation. Unfortunately she survived. Subsequently, good teachers left and better parents than I moved their children. I have had 2 daughters attend Laurel Nokomis. The eldest benefited from starting her education at what was then a magnificent school. My youngest sadly has endured the Dubin years. The differences are vast. Where once children were once recognized in many ways for their hard work and achievements they now receive nothing. Motivation for doing well has vanished. I can remember thinking "not another ceremony". Sadly I can't remember (other than today's farce of a graduation) the last one I attended. A Principal should be a person for both the teaching staff and students to look up to and respect. Nancy Dubin exudes none of these qualities. To see her on the school grounds is akin to tumbleweed in the desert. If you are thinking of choosing this school think twice. On the bright side, now it's at the bottom the only way is up!
--Submitted by a parent

My daughter Loves Laurel Nokomis! It is a great school, love the curriculam and I or my daughter have never had a problem.
--Submitted by a parent

Their teacher/child ratio is completely understated. The communication between parents and teachers is below average. Little genuine concern.
--Submitted by a parent

This school has far exceeded my expectations!!! Exceptional staff! A genuine concern for individual needs! Many opportunities for parental involvement. As a lifelong educator I would highly recommend this school. My child is thriving in many amazing ways! Thank you LNS!!
--Submitted by a parent

I am not very fond of this school. My daughter did much better in a Private School. My daughter is learning stuff she learned in 6th grade. Im not a big fan of public schools anyways. She has been in Private School her whole life and had gotten such good grades now her grades are dropping because the work is boring because she already learned it.
--Submitted by a parent

I moved from the northeast to find an exceptional school. I am very fortunate that my 3 children receive the attention and care at Laurel. The teachers are caring, fun and very helpful. I am not dissapointed. Oh, yes the resource officers are there to protect and serve. It is wonderful to be in a safe and well protected environment. Afterall, Laurel is a big campus.
--Submitted by a parent

My children have attended LNS for the last 6 years. During this time I have seen a school who's children were motivated to learn and eager to please their teachers. The teachers genuinely cared about their students and gave 120% to education, and promoting self esteem. Also gone are the stretch and enrichment programs.
--Submitted by a parent

I have been a teacher at LNS since the school was first built. The current principal, Mrs. Nancy Dubin has brought the school to a level of excellence that is outstanding in the district. Each student and family is treated with respect and dignity. Our ESE program is the best!
--Submitted by a teacher