St. Celestine School

I've been going for 8 years and I love it. It has such a great learning environment.
—Submitted by a student

My two daughters attend this school and it is the greatest school in the area. We drive from Franklin Park to Elmwood Park everyday, and are very happy with all the aspects of the school. This school offers everything we could ask for good teachers, good families and a good parish.
—Submitted by a parent

My three children attend St. Celestine, I am pleased with the parent involvement and the sense of community that exsist. Although, I would like to see a stronger curriculum that re-enforces the basic 3R's and a well supported/ organized athletic program. St. Celestine School has much to offer but as with any school there is room for improvements. A satisfied and optimistic parent.
—Submitted by a parent

I attended St. Cel's and decided that my children would as well. The school is above and beyond any in the area and I have always felt at home there, and now my children do as well. The principal is dedicated, concerned and involved. Yes some teachers there were also my teachers 20 years ago, but that says alot about the school. Most teachers are members of the church and their children go to the school as well. The sports program has excelled in the past 10 years and the parents are so dedicated to both school and to the church. I feel fortunate that my children are able to attend the school, that they are getting a great education and that they are participating members of the community.
—Submitted by a parent

St. Celestine is an excellent school. Contrary to what a previous reviewer said, all children take music and art classes, as well as computer, and gym class is held three days per week for third grade and up. (No recess for most grades, though, which is not at all good.) Academics are much stronger than at area public schools, and also stronger than most Catholic grade schools, but the math and science program should be stronger. The principal is fantastic, as are most of the teachers, and parental involvement is strong. Extracurriculars abound, including sports, band, choir, clubs, yearbook, student newspaper, student council, academic competitions, and more. With all that said, however, if your child has special needs at either end of the spectrum, this school (or most Catholic schools) may not be for you. They're not great about curriculum adjustment, and do not employ tracking. Overall, though, a wonderful place!
—Submitted by Satisfied Parent, a parent

Quality has slipped tremendously in recent years as 'older' teachers reach burn out. They often teach to the tests rather than teach content. Parental involvement tends to be marginal. Music and Arts are nonexistant, Sports is barely tolerated by the Principal.
—Submitted by a parent

I find this to be a well run school, with an extremely capable princiopal. The students are alert, knowledgeable, and well behaved. The facility has undergone a remodeling in 2005-2005, and is an excellent environment for study.
—Submitted by a parent