|
Review content:
we sent our first child from 6mo through pre-K. it is a montessori-based program, and is a full-day daycare facility. through age 3 the program is play-based, but once in preschool/pre-k program (3+ yr olds), it becomes highly academic. Good for 4+ year olds, but I felt that it was way too academic for a 3-4 year old.
Otherwise, the teaching staff is excellent (especially the infant and the toddler program), materials updated and affluent. it is also one of the most expensive programs.
The experience here would have been excellent if it weren't marred by its president/founder's (Chuck Bernstein) unreasonable and unapologetic demeanors. If you ever have to work with him (making major material donations that would greatly enhance the school and what the instructors would love to have but that may go against his doctrine, or have issues with a last-minute drastic policy or procedural changes, etc), be ready to be shocked by his unforgiving and unreasonable responses with abrupt ""take it or leave it"" attitude. You will never hear any apologetic word from this person even amidst group angry/fuming parents at a meeting. We have tried to ignore him during our first child's tenure, but after many frustrating and infuriating dealings with him, with regret we have opted to send our second child elsewhere. Children loved it there, but the frustrations took a toll on the parents after 5+ years. Very disappointing.
So, if you can deal with his antics, you'll be happy, as the instructors and the working staff make up for a lot of the frustrations, and for that, the place deserves 4 stars. But if you are ever in a position to counter the president, be prepared to be shocked and disappointed. If judging by the leader, the place deserves a 1-star.
Pros: Teaching staff, materials,
Cons: crowded interior rooms, high cost, unreasonable president
|