Bay Haven School of Basics Plus

I love Bay Haven. The school is focused on teaching all kids. Parents are held accountable for their child's preparedness. As a teacher in Sarasota County I see how valuable a tool it is when parents have to be involved in the school. Most public schools are not that lucky. Furthermore, I love that the schools demographics reflect the community we live in. No one group is over or under represented. I have found the staff approachable, open to input, caring, and committed to my child's education. The principal has been nothing but helpful to us. I cannot say enough great things about the school. The before and after school programs are outstanding. The staff that runs them are loving and observant. When my son was in Kindergarden he was moved to another teacher's class due to a student situation. The Principal ensured that my son was placed with a fantastic teacher who help my little guy out. In first grade his teacher tutored my son after school. Mind you, this was on the teachers own free time. I LOVE THIS SCHOOL!
—Submitted by a parent

I love Bay Haven School because of its desire to treat and teach all children the same despite individual obstacles. They are a truly concerned school from the principal, counselors and teachers. They are involved in the latest technology and sustainability. They fight hard to keep their library open as well as their spanish, arts and music classes alive. The PTO is very active and supportive fund raising ensuring all children to be able to attend the educational field trips. Most importantly, they bring issues to the forefront and implement plans to come to win-win situation for all parties involved. Thus, ultimately providing growth in the child.
—Submitted by a parent

One of the oldest and the best elementary school in the area, reminds me of the elementary wchool I attended when I was a child in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

I put my son's name on the waiting list when he was just 2 years old and was lucky enough to be the last kindergarten student admitted. That was just over 5 years ago. He's in 5th grade now and I am very sad to think about leaving this school (he will begin his middle school career in the fall of '09). What I love most about this school is the contract the parents and students must sign which holds both to standards of proper behavior and dress, required volunteer time, etc. If either fails to live up to the contract, the child can be dismissed from the school and sent back to their districted school. This, in my opinion, makes the school better than private school because it keeps the troubled kids out.
—Submitted by a parent

It would be difficult to identify any one characteristic that makes BayHaven so dynamic, as there are multiple factors. Worth mentioning: history of the school/architecture and green friendly campus with innovative projects and activities; accomplished faculty and helpful/caring staff; what appears to be a Montessori approach to math/ science with out of the class activities that keep the students involved and excelling (Over 200 projects in the ScienceFair this year); and last but not least a really dedicated group of families that do more than their fair share. I put my son on the waiting list at 4 days old. He is now 7/2nd grade and excels on so many levels. He feels safe, loved and respected. I am extremely proud to be a BH parent and am reminded regularly that even the smallest involvement I have on the campus is contributing to the success of the school. Extremely rewarding!
—Submitted by a parent

We love it at Bay Haven and would not have chosen anywhere else. I rushed to get my daughter on the list- she is now entering second grade and is a straight A student doing math and reading on a level higher than other kids at elemetary schools in Sarasota. Teachers are amazing, parents are amazing and so is the entire staff including ESE resources- Go Mrs. Gold and Mrs Brown and of course, Miss Funnybones!
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter attended another school prior to finally being able to attend Bayhaven. She has almost completed here first year as a first grader. As stated from other parents, her reading skills are outstanding as she has increased rapidly in her vocabulary and interest in the academics and even math. There is no doubt they are a safe environment and parent/teacher involvement is a constant. She receives arts, music, science, Spanish and fun activities to enhance her academic program. We are extremely happy a position became available. I cannot believe my daughter's transformation.
—Submitted by Karen Hormuth, a parent

My daughter loves this school and I love the fact that they read, read, read. Awesome teachers and school. Great with parent involvement and teachers let you know how your student is doing
—Submitted by Y Phelps, a parent

Bay Haven is a great school. The principal, teachers, staff, parents and children are outstanding. My daughter by the end of kindergarten was reading chapter book and words I didn't even know she knew. I would recommend this school to everyone. Get your children on the waiting list right away.
—Submitted by a parent

our daughter has been at this school for 5 years it has been the greatest experience we have had, the parent involvement is great. also The teachers are the best. I would recommend this school highly to all.
—Submitted by a parent

In review of the kindergarten program at Bay Haven, I can only express how inpressed I am with the progress of 5 and 6 year old children reading difficult words and understanding the majority of the things they are reading.
—Submitted by a parent

Fabulous school - great programs - teachers and administration are outstanding with the students. Focuses on all around child wellness - highly recommend.
—Submitted by a parent

Bay Haven is an amazing school with the most experienced, caring staff you could have. The children are wonderful and know what is expected of them, the teachers are super and the PTO is spectacular! We could not ask for a better school.
—Submitted by Heather Zangara, a parent

A private school education at public school cost. Sign your kids up now if you want to be involved and informed. Wonderful Gifted Resource and ESE programs.
—Submitted by Melissa Germanio, a parent

Bay Haven is a wonderful school but the wait is long to get in if you live outside the district. Plan agead & your child will thank you.
—Submitted by a parent