P.S. 127 McKinley Park

I have two children in this school - both were G & T ranked (one got into NEST) but chose to keep them in the neighborhood and walking to their elementary school experience. Do not regret that decision for a minute. They have excelled at this institution. Quite simply, PS 127 is the little red schoolhouse of the 21st century. This is an outstanding neighborhood school. The staff is responsive, the PTA is very strong. The academic program is top-notch. Although space is limited, the staff have utilized every aspect of the building to incorporate art, music, physical education and a host of liberal arts programs for each grade. The administration is dynamic and sensitive to the needs of both students and parents. The school community is highly active, diverse, and focused on both enrichment and curriculum training.
—Submitted by a parent

McKinley Park School provides a small, nurturing environment. My children enjoy going to school and participating in the many activities the PTA, teachers and administration provide. The parent population is engaged and involved. The children support and challenge one another in positive ways. We have been happy here.
—Submitted by a parent

We feel lucky to have been zoned for PS 127 for a variety of reasons: First, we love its smaller size that allows for easier community formation and connection among the school staff and parents. Every staff member and even teacher seems to know every child and parent by name. The rich ethnic and economic diversity mean that my child already has a broader view of the world. While I do feel that the school (and its parents) feels pressure to perform well on standardized tests, as all schools do, I've always come across teachers and administrators who are willing to listen and respond to parent concerns and to shift strategies in response. My child's first year of elementary school coincided with a new principal. From increased parental involvement (class parents, Learning Leaders, new committees, PTA volunteers, etc.) to better communication between staff and parents in various forms (a printed newsletter, monthly coffee 'n' Q&A sessions, class parents, better website, monthly "family fridays" where parents can observe and engage in the classroom), we have seen nothing but improvement and positive change from the school and expect that it will only keep getting better.
—Submitted by a parent

I have two children at PS 127 who are thriving there. The curriculum is standard and sound, the teachers are concerned and well-trained, the principal is receptive to parent-input and open to new ideas and the parent coordinator is amazing. Teachers and staff are interested in what parents have to say. Both of my children tested into G&T programs, but we thought PS 127 was a good neighborhood option, because it was small, close to our home and there was no G&T program to suggest that some students were better/more important than others. It is rich culture and language, and the PTA is active, involved and engaged with the community. My son and daughter LOVE to go to school because they like their teachers, enjoy what they are learning and they want to be with all their friends and classmates. Over the years we have seen more and more parent-involvement--which is turning a good school into a great one. I don't expect any school to be perfect, and of course, PS 127 is not. But it gets high marks for hitting all the notes in terms of providing what kids need to be successful their educational long haul.
—Submitted by a parent

I was nice enough to give it one star. Every time I read bad reviews I assume this person is just picky or they are being too harsh. Well I guess that's not always true. I'm very disappointed in this school. Although my son receives pretty harsh work that's fine we're up for a challenge! Of coarse as long as you prepare them. I never knew my son was even studying science or social studies. Never got homework never saw science folder etc. yet one day there's a test a HARD test. Where's the practice they had to PREPARE them for these test?! Now my son has bullies in class and yesturday he got punched!!! Yes a child punched my son in his stomach!!! And what did his teacher say when I asked her who was the child that hit him?! She said "he doesn't speak English! What difference does it make?!" Ok so I'll just sit at home delighted that my son is getting abused and I can't say anything about it because this child or his parents can't communicate!! I can't wait until my son leaves this unprofessional disaster because you THIS is FAR from what I consider a school to be.
—Submitted by a parent

This school is a very warm, caring, and very traditional in its ways. The academics are very aggressive though. My daugther is very happy, and is prompted to be outgoing and is learning high order thinking. I love the teachers, all well seasoned and there are no behavioral management issues! I feel my child is safe and happy. Thank you PS 127
—Submitted by a parent

I have mt two sons in this school; and I mest say the teacher involovment and school enviroment is excellent..
—Submitted by a parent

i think this school is okay but they have no activitys. but to say the truth my song enjoys being at this school the teachers are nice and kind and they principal and staff are amazing.
—Submitted by a parent

I like this school, and my duaghter is doing well however, I do think it's too small and with all the extra outdoor space for a school yard it should be expanded. I know it's wishful thinking considering all the budgetary contraints on the state and city. overall I would give it a 6
—Submitted by a parent

Our grandson is graduating this year. Its been a wonderful 6 years.The office staff is really oustanding as well as the teachers. They go beyond and more to help the children learn. My wife and I will really miss them all . Gilbert Lee
—Submitted by a parent

I am having a great time at this school. They have healthy lunches, kind teachers, and great students. (Even though some are not successful as others.) I have been in this school for 4 years and they all have been a wonderful time.
—Submitted by a student

My son is finishing his fourth year at P.S. 127 and both he and I couldn't be happier. From his first days in Kindergarten he felt welcome and quickly became a member of his school community. He was tested and accepted for the Delta program however I chose to place him at McKinley because I heard so many good things about the school. I have never regretted my decision. He is thriving with the academics he receives, we are happily anticipating the 3rd grade citywide test results, all his test prep scores were high. The variety of school activities keeps him well occupied - hey - he's going to Carnegie Hall this month to play with their orchestra!! The parent coordinator is fabulous and our principal knows my son by name, as I think she knows all the children, how nice is that! I look forward to our next two years.
—Submitted by Barbara Benchimol, a parent