Pleasantdale Elementary School

Great school in an awesome district. Teachers couldn't be more caring and supportive of individual student needs.
—Submitted by a parent

We came to Pleasantdale two years ago. My daughter was entering first grade. She was a year behind all the other kids because the school she attended in Kindergarten was so bad. She could barely read and write. Her first grade teacher (Ms.Carsillo) and supporting staff worked wonders with her. By the end of first grade she had caught up and was were she needed to be academically. She is now in second grade and is excelling! She loves reading and is above average in Math. The teachers here are amazing. They are a tight knit group that put their kids first. I don't know if she would be where she is now if it had not been for the excellent skills and support she received.I am a volunteer at the school and I am at the school constantly. As an insider I can say that you couldn't ask for more in an elementary school, especially with Ms. Pollara leading the school as principle. As far as the 2009 posting about lack of parent involvement, I agree that had been the case when I entered in 2010, however I feel the tide changing. Within the last year there have been more events and ways for parents to be involved with the school and they are responding and taking part.
—Submitted by a parent

My son started in kindergarten this year. I have so far been thoroughly pleased with Pleasantdale Elementary. The teachers are fantastic, the environmnent is nurturing and there is a clear sense of caring and community. My son is academically challenged to an appropriate level. He is excited about learning new things and has a positive attitude toward school. I'm impressed by the level of work the kindergarten students are doing. The curriculum seems well thought out and coordinated and well executed. The relative new principal, Ms. Pollara, is doing a great job with the school and the student body. I'm very grateful to have my son attend this school.
—Submitted by a parent

I believe Pleasantdale is the best kept secret in West Orange. I have 2 children presently in the school (1st and 5th grade). They have both been challenged since their first day of school. The teachers are the heart and soul of this school. Pleasantdale is recognized mostly for it's phenomenal Spec Ed program, but the regular mainstream program is outstanding. The curriculum is competitive at all levels. The only thing lacking is the parental involvement, but with so many children being bussed in I feel that they do the best they can. Don't miss out on this wonderful educational experience for your child.
—Submitted by a parent

I agree with you mom my son (darion moss) went there for 2yrs in the speical ed program ms. sadler and ms.McMahon did wonders for my son. he has autism and with the work of the speical ed team you will never know my son main stream to reg ed. this past sept. and i was so sad because i didn't want my son to leave the school. he went on to gregory and what a diff.
—Submitted by a parent

This is a great school! I have two sons at the school and I just love it. The academic program is great. Starting of in K with three levels on Language arts and Math (only school in WO that starts in K) They have Spanish from K as well. The staff are all great. The principal is available when you need him. A wonderful enrichmenprogram and a great PTA. The school is so diverse. It is great for my children to have the ability to go to such a diverse school. We have all th especial ed for all of West Orange and that is a part of the diversity. The school could use some more parent involvement but which school isn't like that. Also, parking could be better. But that has nothing to do with the academic ability of the school. Me and my kids love this school!
—Submitted by Michelle, a parent

Excellent preschool program and I am not only a very picky parent, but former educator. My daughter is in her 2nd year of preschool in the inclusion class and could not be happier with her teachers (especially the aide Lisa O'kyle). She also had THE BEST PSD preschool teacher ever - Karen Johnson, who with her team of Karen and Lynn changed my daughter's life. Great SBST - Maddie & Theresa are great too. Have not heard great things about the regular elementary grades. But, if your child needs support services or is fortunate enough to land a spot in the lottery - GRAB IT!
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter goes for 2nd. year to Pre-k, the Especial Ed is outstanding.Mrs. Eileen McMahon and what I call the 'Dream team' Mrs. Nancy, Mrs. Donna, Mrs. Maddie Werner, Mrs. Garrison, Ms. Alexis deCarlo can't be better, I leave my baby with close eyes in their care, they are loving, caring, understanding, is like they are extending part of my home for my baby. She love them and she is improved so much since she started. Mrs. Judy is a sweetheart, don't know the principal really, but the rest has all my gratitude & respect forever. I will recommend Mrs. McMahon & remember her forever,Thank you for all what you guys do in such marvelous way,your help and friendship mean the whole world to me and my family. God Bless you and millions of thanks again, and again. You are all the best! Alex, a mom of two!
—Submitted by alexandra deronde, a parent

Medium quality of academics Available Music, Art, and Sports but poor Marginal level of parent involvement
—Submitted by a teacher

The preschool, special ed, and inclusion pre-Ks programs are first rate. Teachers work together; good principal; very friendly front office staff.
—Submitted by a parent

Both of my children are enrolled in the school. There are some wonderful teachers, and some teachers that have got to go--they are past their prime!! What I find really disappointing is the quality of the principal. He is very unpolished, contradictory, and has made some ignorant comments with regard to religious/cultural background.
—Submitted by a parent