Holy Family Elementary School

What was once a wonderful school it is now a toilet. Poor leadership. Poor communication. Unhappy teachers. This once beautiful faith-filled, community-spirited school has crumbled with the current leadership. It will take years to rebound.
—Submitted by a parent

I have to agree that the communication is poor between parents and the school. None of the teachers at the school will communicate by e-mail. They pretty much close the doors to parents. Is it too much work for them? As a result, we never felt part of their "community". So, we moved to a better school district and went to public school. Such a shame because otherwise HF a decent school.
—Submitted by a parent

I can't disagree more with review left 10/17/09. The majority of families are hard working, middle class who sacrifice to provide the best education possible. We may drive older cars, and take fewer vacations. Also, in terms of fashion, one of the perks of wearing a uniform, is that the level of fashion competion is minimal. I'm sure there are exceptions to this, and I'm sorry you had a bad experience, but we love it! Also, all parents are encouraged to participate in the many social activities for the children and as an active member, we are always happy to see new faces. We I don't feel I need to be in the classroom in order for my child to get a great education. Most importantly, the curriculum is challenging and above grade level in most cases. They are not taught only to pass MCAS, but well rounded courses. Rockland
—Submitted by a parent

My kids really disliked it at Holy Family. New kids are bullied and kids are discriminated against by their peers if they don't have the newest jacket or by how much money they have. A great deal of the kids are snobby and there are no opportunities for parents to volunteer. I pulled my children out of Holy Family and put them into the Rockland public school system and they are much happier.
—Submitted by a parent

Excellent school; top notch pricinpal working closely with involved and caring parents association to continually srtive for improvements. Excellent education and preparation for futher education
—Submitted by a parent

Acedemics at HFS vary with some grades very strong while others are ridiculously weak. Extracurricular activities are minimal. Parental involvement is restricted to say the least. Parents are not welcomed in the school and have to fight to get in. There are no volunteer opportunities for parents during the school day with the exception of one week a year when people in the know can volunteer for Catholic schools week activities. Parents are encouraged to help raise money for the school I(basically the only way to volunteer) but are rarely allowed to give input in that capacity either. Every activity is dictated by a select group with little opportunity to break through. Very disappointing!
—Submitted by a parent

Holy Family School is providing my children with an incredible education. Acedemically, the school is very strong with experiences that provide challenge and a sense of accomplishment. Spiritually, the staff creates a nurturing environment that is Christ centered. Socially, the students come from various socioeconimic backgrounds so as to make a diverse community reflecting what children will face out in the real world. The school provides a well rounded educational experience that I cannot recommend highly enough.
—Submitted by a parent

Holy Family School is exactly what we were hoping to find for our daughter's grammar school education. The quality of this school's academic curriculum is enhanced by its outstanding faculty under the direction of a principal who we consider to be an educational visionary. The level of quality of classroom work achieved by the students is outstanding. Holy Family School fosters an educational environment which we have come to find amplifies each student's ability to learn and achieve personal greatness. Our own daughter is performing at her full capacity and she is having a wonderful academic year. Holy Family School is truly a christian school, where dicipline is applied justly and lovingly. The mutual attitude of respect between faculty,students and parents is refreshing. We are a Catholic family and relish the excellent religious training and opportunities to worship our faith openly as well as celebrate holy days as a Catholic school community. Thank you.
—Submitted by a parent

Holy Family School develops more in our children than just academics. My daughter prays to God every morning, thanks the Lord for her food at lunch, pledges alligence to our country's flag each day and knows all her teachers, fellow students, the parents and clergy want all the children to be the best they can be, both scholastically as well as spiritually. My daughter feels a sense of belonging at Holy Family School. She is learning more there than just math and spelling.
—Submitted by a parent

We used to write on the backs of flyers and were always cold. This school set me back when compared to public schools. My math skills took years to develop due to poor background from this school!
—Submitted by a former student

We are blessed to have found this school. The academics are challenging, the leadership is dedicated and the spirituality is contagious. They prepare the students for the many challenges they face in life. Great parental involvement as well.
—Submitted by a parent

Excellent. I can't say enough about how please we are with the teaching staff. I find the school to be enriching spiritually, emotionally and academically.
—Submitted by a parent

Excellent staff from top to bottom. Focus on a solid education while celebrating Christ as the center of our lives. Nice to know your child is well-cared for, properly educated and attending Mass, saying prayers and pledging the flag for a solid moral center and understanding of what is right and acceptable.
—Submitted by a parent