James F. Murray No. 38 Elementary School

I have a 3 children attending this school. The Pre-K teachers has been on short-term leave for so long without even informing parents. Substitute come and go - it does not create a love for learning for my kids. Luckily my eldest is above average, thanks for KUMON and a lot of preparation at home. It seems like it lacks challenge work to students who are getting bored... school is more after exceeding the standard test score and being out of the "Need for more improvement ..." title. Private school options around the area is limited. Because public school is free, I spent money on better after school program and extra-activities that supplements their learning. My Pre-K child will be moving to a charter school, hopefully it's better there!
--Submitted by a parent

I have a child that use to be in 38 and one who is currently in 38. My one in high school got skipped on her first day of high school. My 6th grader is smarter then her. All I can say is this school is the best coming from this school myself.
--Submitted by a parent

The course curriculum of the school was very diverse. I know the district demands it follows a path leading up to standardized testing, but a lot of the 'common knowledge' topics that make up our culture today are lost on these children, and as a parent, you have to make sure you are covering those topics at home. The music program that provided instruments was a great benefit. I was disappointed at the lack of after-school program availability for grades 5-8. For children with parents that work, it's a struggle, being children can't be at home alone until they reach age 12/13. The only option is the Boys/Girls club,which serves all districts. Also, notices of shool events rarely came home.
--Submitted by a parent

I've have had 2 children in this school. One is currently in 7th grade the other is graduating HS. We have found PS#38 to be a very good school with a dedicated staff and exceptional teachers. My only worries is with the state and federal government emphasizing standerized testing that some of the basic subjects and extracurricular activities are being lost or underfunded.
--Submitted by Ronald DeMello, a parent

Having four kids in Grades 4,6, 8 and pre-k, we can say that PS 38 has given the opportunity for all our children to explore and enhance their talent. This would only be possible with the motivation and assistance of their teachers. We have found it fulfilling that we can discuss with their teachers the progress they have been making, thus, both teachers and parents can collaborate towards the child's development.
--Submitted by a parent