John F Kennedy High School

John F Kennedy higschool is a great school, with a great atmosphere and great professors. I attribute much of my success to the teachers that were there while I attended highschool. The teachers that walked the hallways were always more than welcoming and always made time for the students. Professors were not scared to challenge students or offer an alternative view on any idea, situation. Without the right mentors or individuals pushing you to the best of your ability, challenging you and constanly making you think, you never will reach your full potential . And that is what teachers strive for at JFK, they want the best for there students.

As a working parent, it's important that your children get involved and stay involved after school. John F. Kennedy High School in Bellmore, N.Y. has a wide variety of afterschool programs and above all there are many dedicated teachers and coaches who run these programs, provide plenty of their extra time and encourage the children to get involved. The teachers who aren't involved in extra curricular programs also go the extra mile to offer extra help in order for the students to do well in academic subjects. For example my son has a teacher who is at the school at 6:30 AM in the morning till 6 P.M, at night, offering help to the children who need it. Because of their efforts, many of the children go on to college and stay out of trouble. I think this school is worthy of 'Americas Favorite School' award.
—Submitted by a parent

I just started this school this year and its been the best. the kids and teachers and great and they have great clubs
—Submitted by a student

We have lived in Seattle, San Diego, Marysville Wa., Japan, and Merrick. When it comes to schools JFK and Merrick Ave middle school are top shelf. The most important benefit is that the school district manages to create a competive enviroment that children buy into. Additionally they are very organized in college preparation. When your student attends these schools the question is not if your child goes to college but instead what top ranked collage are they going to. This is a public school but the teacher ae non-union and are rewarded on performance. Words of advice if you come to this town. Property taxes are very high, largely to support the school system. The district is very guarded about allowing new students because people will rob, cheat and steal to try and get their kids into a district like this, so be prepared to jump through many hoops.
—Submitted by a parent

I am a freshmen in Kennedy, and it has been so far one of the best schools I've gone to. I've been told their orchestral music program has been lacking in the past years but now has a teacher who is devoted to making it better. There are many clubs and plenty of electives in this school, along with a nice and beautiful community. I highly suggest that any parent looking to send their kid to a public school take John F Kennedy High School into consideration because of it's achievements and knowledgeable teachers.
—Submitted by a student

Good academic programs. Many extracurricular activities. Great parents involvement.
—Submitted by a parent

Frankly, I am underimpressed with the academic quality and student population at JFK-Bellmore. Having moved to Bellmore from Smithtown in summer 03 I think my son has stepped down a notch in terms of the excellence of the teaching staff and motivation/challenge of assignments. The teachers are under enormous pressure by some parents who want their child to go to the best college - so they give in all too often. My son says he was bored with the work and not really challenged at all compared to his previous H.S. With taxes higher and quality not so hot, we're not sure this was the right move for us and are looking to move back to Smithtown for his final year.
—Submitted by PAT HOROWITZ, a parent

I'm not too pleased with Kennedy H.S. Out of all the schools in the area it is the one where the students academics are most affected by grade inflation, and the top colleges know this. So many students get A's it's just unbelieveable. Also, besides the money problem there are drugs, just like any school, but this one is too insular. There is a dominant group of parents who don't appreciate parents from the rest of the community participating unless you are in their particular clique. I just am not too pleased, but my son has found a way to succeed despite the obstacles and is going to Georgetown anyway, I say despite Kennedy.
—Submitted by a parent

Kennedy High School is really a wonderful school. It is very strong academically and all of the students and faculty are very kind and caring. It is a terrific environment to learn in and it boasts a large number of clubs and other after school activities. It's only weak point is that it lacks diversity among the student population. However, this is not due to any form of pressure or negative feelings from the students or surrounding residents. In fact, the minorities that do exist within the school and community are widely accepted and appreciated. The school is located in a very pleasant and safe suburban community. If you are thinking of moving to either the Merrick or Bellmore region, I would highly reccomend it.
—Submitted by a former student