Father James B Hay School

Our move to Alamogordo was unexpected and happened very fast, so we didn't have a lot of time to research the area schools. After talking to the few people we did know, we decided to enroll our 1st grader into the on-base elementary school. Rather quickly, it became clear that this was not a good fit, so we began researching alternatives. We are not catholic, so although we'd heard good things about Father Hay, we were reluctant to even consider it as a viable option. A friend finally talked us into visiting the school. My husband and our 3 kids made an impromptu visit to the school on a Friday morning and were treated to a lengthy, in-depth tour and q&a with the administrator. We were introduced to the 1st grade teacher, Mrs. Kosek, who also spent a lot of time with us answering questions and giving us her philosophies and teaching style. We were so impressed on our visit that we not only enrolled our 1st grader, but our twins into the pre-k as well. It has been a great year for all 3. I cannot say enough about Mrs. Kosek or the Pre-K teachers, Mrs. Avalos and Mrs. Gallegos. The small class sizes, tae kwon do and music programs and homey feeling have made all the difference.
--Submitted by a parent

Coming from a parent who researched every school around the city, along with resorting to checking out home school - I absoutely fell in love with Father Hay and their teachers and staff. My son began Pre-K this year and I must admit my expectations were not only met, but were exceeded. The teachers are amazing, have the patience of saints, and provide great feedback on how my son is doing. He has gone from counting to about 14 to over 30 in a few months, is writing, learning so much about the world and the value of prayer...he even says grace for us before every meal! I just wish they had classes to 12th grade - as i would keep my kids there the whole way. Keep up the dedicated and wonderful work!
--Submitted by a parent

My son transferred to Fr. Hay when he was old enough for pre-k ,from an Army daycare facility. The advantages of having a real, state-certified teacher, with an aide, in the classroom cannot be overstated. The class size is small, the teacher and her aide are extremely competent and kind to the children while still being strict and demanding compliance. The curriculum for 4 year olds is comprehensive; colors, shapes, letters and letter sounds, pre-reading skills, social skills, etc. The children still have nap and playground time which is essential; for the boys especially. My family has changed from one where my son was obviously running the show at his old daycare, and tried Mom's limits anew at the start of every weekend, to one where my rules and values are reinforced throughout the day. We are so pleased with the switch that I plan to keep him here throughout elementary.
--Submitted by a parent

Father Hay offers a safe alternative to public school. It provides an enhanced curriculum in which my children receive one-on-one and small group instruction. The teachers are committed to excellence and work for very little pay. The community has supported this little school for over 50 years because it addresses the whole child and teaches morals and ethics which are so lacking in public schools. The principal leads a team of caring, qualified staff who give more time and energy to this little school than I have ever seen in public schools. I am proud to have my children go to Father Hay School.
--Submitted by a parent

Father Hay offers a safe alternative to public school. It provides an enhanced curriculum in which my children receive one-on-one and small group instruction. The teachers are committed to excellence and work for very little pay. The community has supported this little school for over 50 years because it addresses the whole child and teaches morals and ethics which are so lacking in public schools. The principal leads a team of caring, qualified staff who give more time and energy to this little school than I have ever seen in public schools. I am proud to have my children go to Father Hay School.
--Submitted by a parent

My child has been in enrolled in the Preschool Program since last school year. From the begining, there was a definite improvement in her academic and social skills. The teachers are thorough in their teaching of the basics in language arts and math, while providing a good, christain atmosphere. Thanks to their hard work and dedication, my daughter will be ahead of the curve when she starts Kindergarten next year.
--Submitted by a parent

I have 2 daughters that go to this school. One thing I can say about this school is that it definately has a big heart. The teachers not only push the children to achieve their best, but they also really care. The teachers are there because they love to teach, not for the pay. the only thing that I wish could change is the parental involvement. It seems like the same group of parents always trying to do everything....if only more parents would volunteer, think of what we could accomplish!
--Submitted by a parent

Available academic programs are limited and there are no activities such as sports teams to participate in. Parents show no involvement nor support of the school. The facilities are very run down and in need of major repairs. Questionable pre-K curriculum, more like daycare. Fair teaching standards but questionable problem solving skills. Discipline is lacking in a major way. Unfortunately the educational standards are substandard accross the city and state so that in comparisson to other schools in the area this one is no better or no worse.
--Submitted by a parent

I have twins in the 8th grade, and have been at the school since 5th grade. The school's administrator and teachers have all of the students' best interest at heart, and encourage and challenge each child without hesitation. The curriculum is advanced, with the 6th-8th grade areas of math and English at least 1 year if not more ahead of the public school. The school's goal is also to teach the students how to treat each other with respect as well as to be responsible contributing individuals to society.
--Submitted by a parent