Ralph S. Maugham Elementary School

I agree with the previous poster. Maugham school is a gem in many many ways. But today I'm posting on something that I find troubling -- they used to be very friendly to parents, but now don't let parents in citing safety. Again a valid point. However, it appears to apply only to some parents. On one occassion I had a good reason to go into the school office and my child was standing next to me. I explained to the teacher standing guard at the door I am going to the nurse's office, but she was quite adamant about not letting me in. Why, you may ask, is this a problem? So what if she's hostile to one parent. Well it could happen to you, but let's look at the larger issue. People who place a premium on how someone looks and talks, people who make snap judgments are themselves a security threat and should avoid holding positions like 'security advisor' and standing guard anywhere. I'm sure she's a great teacher. Memo to parents and the bogey man I keep hearing about, all you have to do is smile and be friendly and she'll let you in. Yeah you can catch more flies with honey, and we all try. But what about safety?
--Submitted by a parent

Maugham allows my kids to grow in all aspects of life. My shy daughter can get up in front of the whole school and act on stage or play the flute in a duet. I wish I was taught like that!
--Submitted by a parent

Maugham School is a gem! The excellent teachers and staff are truly caring. There is a happy and respectful atmosphere at the school. I have been a Maugham parent for ten years and, yes, the school population has grown enormously and it is no longer a small school but the heart and pride and desire to have each child excel to his/her full potential is still there. Some 'old timer' parents feel that the school has changed so much since it has grown from 200+ students to 400+ students in the last 10 years (due to new housing development) but it is still a diverse and caring community with involved, enthusiastic and talented parents. Principals don't come much better than Dr. Ben-Dov. It's a happy place.
--Submitted by a parent