Academy Street Elementary School

Anyone who considers this a great school has low standards. We had no problem with the teacher, who controlled her large class well. Our main issue was with the curriculum. Our daughter was an early reader, but her enthusiasm was quickly replaced by vacuous complacency. Instead of challenging her, we were told our daughter could just 'relax while the other kids catch up'. Here, 'no child left behind' means 'no child gets ahead'. There was too much emphasis on sports teams, and too many extra-curricular & social events that threatened to interfere with family, worship, and other activities unrelated to school. And oh yes, academics. For a school in such a highly-taxed district, there were too many fundraisers. This school needs to examine its priorities, and get back to basics.
--Submitted by a parent

Two of my children have graduated from Academy Street Elementary and one remains. I feel that they received an excellent foundation for middle school. Every teacher was invested in my child. Parent communication was excellent and school administration 'top notch'.
--Submitted by a parent

They make learning fun.The staff is friendly and welcoming. AND my child loves it!
--Submitted by a parent

The teaching staff and principal are excellent. Too bad the local parents can't be fired. For some reason, competitveness on the ball field and popularity is considered to be more worthwhile endeavors than charactor or academics. There are too many 'not my child' parents that ruin the cultural climate.
--Submitted by a parent

Being a teacher myself, I am thrilled to see how much the faculty of this school cares about every individual child.
--Submitted by a teacher

Busing was presented to voters two years ago and loudly defeated on the May ballot. The right solution is getting parents to car pool and more kids (and their parents) to walk to school and home from school -- we wouldn't have the parking or traffic issues. Especially those people live within 2-3 blocks of the school... There's been tremendous improvement in parent-school communication and collaboration in the past two years and some of this year's newest teachers are the best we've ever had in this district. Very likely one of the best elementary schools in NY State thanks to the staff, and parent involvement.
--Submitted by a parent

The overall quality of the academic programs at Academy Street is quite good. They began a new math program called 'Every Day Math' which incorporates real word experiences to enhance a child's understanding of math concepts. My daughter has responded well to this method and math has become 'fun' for her. I would like to see a greater availability of music lessons to younger students, but this is not unique to this school. The overall art and music classes are quite good and I have been impressed with the availibility of extracurricular programs. In particular, the science program availble after school for an addtional fee has been fun, comprehensive and inspiring for my daughter. Regarding the level of parent involvement, again I have been quite pleased to see how many are truly invested in their childrens' education. Overall, a stellar elementary school. (I would like to see busing offered though)
--Submitted by a parent

The small town atmosphere provides an intamite and personal experience to each child and their families. All the teachers that my two children had were considerate, involved, and fun. They also uncovered the source of my youngest child's organization probelms. The school is involved in community, and both my children and I enjoyed the experience.
--Submitted by N M, a parent

This school has the potential to be outstanding. The parents and communtiy support the students and are involved. The principal is motivated and enthusiastic and has high expectations of students and staff. If everyone works together, our children can accomplish the goals and expectations set before them. One concern is the student behavior. A more clearly defined discipline policy getting students, parents and staff on board would be great. Stop the turn-a-card method and focus more on character development. Overall quality is good but with strong leadership and an engaged, motivated teaching staff given the resources they need, this school could be great.
--Submitted by a parent