Murray Avenue School

I went through Murray Ave from 3rd thru 6th grade back in the early 1960s and loved every moment I was there. I thoroughly concur with all those parents who have seen the value in the school , teachers and administration. My 6th grade teacher (back then Murray went up thru 6th) , Mr. Kurak, so inspired me that I never forgot him and became a teacher for 30 years. Although I feel I was never as good as he was I attempted to replicate all that he instilled in me and tried to make learning fun and enjoyable. I only wish I could have let him know how much an affect he had on me and I'm sure many others. I went back after 45 years away in 2009 and toured the school and couldn't believe how much it had not changed so all you parents are seeing pretty much what I saw with some obvious upgrades and improvements in technology. I am now retired and still love seeing how well Murray Avenue is doing. May this school and staff continue to do well and inspire her students for years to come. A male student from the class of 1964.
--Submitted by a teacher

My daughter had the most amazing kindergarten year here. The teachers are wonderful, the environment is nurturing and the principal is terrific. I have been happier here than I have been with any of the many schools we have paid for (both in NYC and preschools out here.) The teacher really knew my kid--how she learned, what her strengths were, how to reach her. I was amazed at their level of understanding.
--Submitted by a parent

To the posting made by a parent dated (August 14, 2008), I totally disagree with them. I moved to this district 24 years ago to give my kids a better education. Both of my children went through Murray, Hommocks and Mama. H. S. They were both nurtured by wonderful teachers and very loving aides that got out of their way to see that they were happy in and out of class. One thing we both agree is that the aides are underpaid especially with the kind of work that they do. I highly recommend this school to any family that is looking for a nurturing, academic school for their child. To the posting Sept. 19, 2006 I would not pay too much attention. As I said this is an excellent school with a very dedicated teaching staff. The disciplinary issues are addressed and the school psychologist and speech patologist are excellent.
--Submitted by a parent

I'm at my last year at Murray and its a fantastic school! All the teachers are great and really help you understand. 1 out of 10? 10!
--Submitted by a student

I have 2 daughters. One has gone completely through Murray Avenue, and the other is halfway through. They have had a fantastic experience at Murray. The teachers they have had are innovative and they have really made learning come alive. Drawbacks -The school has a lot of kids, and while the class sizes are very good-usually between 19-23 kids, the playgrounds are overcrowded at recess, the aides are underpaid and under qualified, and this sometimes results in a potentially dangerous situation. Still, I highly recommend this wonderful school! There is a great feeling of community within the school and a very involved parent body.
--Submitted by a parent

This is our first year at Murray Avenue. The support system that has been available for our child is not to be believed. Since our son has some special needs, but does not qualify for 'special ed', we have been concerned about what types of support would be available. His teacher has been fantastic, paying particular attention to learning styles that work for him, while consulting with her peers (in a formal process they have at the school!) to come up with other ideas as to what might work. The school psychologist, while quite busy, was familiar with him and had read all revelent materials as was evidenced in our conversations (she had highlighted and made notes on the pages). Very well prepared! Great School!!!
--Submitted by a parent

We were disappointed with Murray's inability to foresee and divert disciplinary issues. All attempts to curtail 'bullies' are re-active. Psychologist and speech pathologist were overwhelmed. Teachers were impotent to addressing problem kids. Half of Murray kids that live on my street have tutors to supplement what they're not learning in class. Dissappointing after paying such high taxes and moving here based on school rep. Specials are excellent. So are field trips and PTA.
--Submitted by a former student