I once considered myself an ardent supporter of Our Lady of Grace, having sent my two children…read morethere several years apart. But the unflattering stories seeping out of OLG are too many, too corroborated, and too disturbing to ignore. To begin with, quite a few parents in my network (a few of whom I regrettably, recommended to OLG) were dismayed at their experience at the nursery level. One says her child was denied a snack. Another complained of insensitive and unprofessional communication surrounding a language barrier (similar complaints surrounding developmental delays, both confirmed and perceived abound.) Additionally, there are quite a few complaints that the lead nursery teacher -- who has been there so long, quite a few generations have had this teacher at some point -- chronically shouts and is overall quite harsh with the children. It is my belief then, that seniority and impunity run parallel through the ranks, creating a haze of toxicity over OLG. Further, several nursery parents most recently complained that although they were given a lengthy midterm progress report, no final report card was given. Sadly, it was never lost on me that OLG has long lacked diversity, so parents were delighted to see a Black woman join as a teaching assistant last September. The children loved her, I'm told. But many were mystified when she disappeared soon before the school year ended. The children were told, "She's sick, and she went home." (From a child psychology perspective, this is an absolutely frightening, and emotionally damaging message to tell the preschoolers that a beloved mother figure is sick and, poof! gone for good.) Further, parents were never notified of the departure itself nor the actual reasons surrounding it and were shocked to learn a family member of another teacher just "showed up" one day to fill in. It is worth noting that, sadly, this is the second Black teacher in recent years to inexplicably disappear from OLG's all-White roster. Some gaps in the curriculum may need addressing, too. A few colleagues have complained that after their children dutifully completed their years at OLG, they faltered in traditional school settings, namely with reading and math. This further tarnishes OLG's reputation. From the outside looking in, it's clear that much of the surrounding Manhasset community is the wiser for all of these whispers. Some, like the deep-pocketed multigenerational donors, send their offspring off to OLG anyway, knowing their dollars will curry the extra favor. While the unsuspecting "others" have their rude awakening sooner or later. And thusly, there is churn and concern over retention rates. I hope those at OLG will read this review and look to address the issues laid bare here.

OLG is a wonderful school! Both of my daughters attend(ed) the school, and we could not be happier…read morewith their progress through the years - academically, emotionally, and spiritually. Sister Kelly and all of the teachers provide a nurturing and loving environment that challenges our young children to care deeply for each other and the world around them, respect others, and take responsibility for their actions. The school embodies the philosophy of Maria Montessori fostering initiative, self-esteem and independence. In the crazy world that we love in today, there is no where else that I would want my children to be. OLG is a gift and we are so blessed to be part of their community.

Ms. Carey and Ms. Lilia provide a really great & nurturing learning environment- Ms Vicky is a…read moregreat assistant and helps with my energetic little one! This is a wonderful first "classroom" experience for young toddlers. I choose it because I wanted my son to learn the basics of a classroom: socializing, taking turns/sharing, lining-up, circle time...etc I also met really nice moms thru the program.

I was struggling to look for a place to send my toddler (2 years old) because there aren't many…read moretoddler programs in Long Island. Buckley's toddler program is amazing! They are extremely safe regarding COVID at all grade levels and separate everyone into cohorts, so whenever there is exposure, we don't need to shut down the entire school. This entire school year, we have not yet had to stay at home due to COVID, which wasn't the case at the last school we enrolled our son in. As for his learning, his language has really exploded while being enrolled in the school. He has even started playing with other children so well and being interested in their activities, which I attribute to the great socialization at Buckley. My son loves going to school every morning. His teachers, Miss Susan and Miss April, are so wonderful and provide great updates on his progress as well as his classmates. The Buckley community as a whole is very welcoming and inclusive. Would definitely recommend!

From the owner: Buckley Country Day School is an inclusive, diverse environment that nurtures the whole child and…read morelays the foundation for success in high school, college, and beyond. Buckley accepts students as young as two years old in the Pre-Nursery program, and admits students on a rolling basis through grade seven. The school’s mission, Opening The Eyes And Awakening The Mind, is at the heart of its curriculum, which seeks to inspire and prepare students for a lifetime of learning. Buckley sets itself apart from other independent schools by fostering a deep appreciation of learning, and developing students who are committed to making the world a better place through thoughtful inquiry, critical thinking, and community engagement.

What can be said about the people and programs at Growing Tree North?…read more Quite simply - long gone are the days when the majority of families had one breadwinner and one caretaker raising the kid(s) at home. When financial obligations require having a 2 income household - parents want the next best thing - when it comes to taking care of their child(ren). We looked long and hard when we were searching for the right day care for our son. We began our extensive search long before our son was born. We wanted a clean facility; a strong child centered, educationally sound program; a good sense of community; loving caretakers; a convenient location - and people who take their tasks seriously. All of these things were found at Growing Tree North. Family owned and operated for 3 generations - there are great things happening with Amy Friedman's Growing Tree North in Roslyn Heights. Even with all of our criteria satisfied - leaving our 4 month old son behind and walking out to head to work - was one of the toughest things that my wife and I have ever had to do. As a former educator and school administrator, I knew the trust and the level of confidence that parents need to have with the caretakers of their most valuable resources - but this time, I was on the other end! I will be honest here - to all reading. We wanted to find a reason to hate the day care. We wanted them to fail. We subconsciously craved a reason to fly off the handle, pull our child out - and find a way to have to stay home with him. But... we could not. Slowly, as the days and then first few weeks went by - we found that the kids in the class were always happy. There was always something fun going on.. the monthly calendars always included family fun and educational ideas and events going on around the island. The children were well cared for - by more than the minimum amount of adults... Every employee - even those in the front office - knew who my son was - and because they told me he was always happy and smiling... not because he caused trouble or cried ceaselessly. When my birthday came in November - there was a cute birthday card made for me, with my son's handprints on them - something I treasured from the moment I received it. There are so many caring folks at Growing Tree North - that take pride in what they do. They are gracious and warm, welcoming and happy. They held a fall fun fest in October - complete with pony rides and petting zoo... My son just brought home a hand sewn holiday ornament/gift - a cute snowman with his photo in the center... all extras that never needed to be done - but were done happily. My parents, my wife's sister - and others on our list of approved visitors - have been able to come and see the facility - and spend time with my son. They are encouraged to do so - and they love it. My wife, who works nearby, spends her lunch break almost every day with our boy - and rather than being made to feel like she is in the way - she, too, is welcomed and encouraged. So - in the 4 months since our son began - our mindset and attitude has come 180 degrees - we love Growing Tree North. We cannot rave enough about the place - and their dedication to the children and their families. Again, as a former educator and administrator, I think that I held them to a higher standard - and they've passed with flying colors. If you are looking for a day care - a quality day care (emphasis on the word "care") in Nassau County - then Growing Tree North is the only place that you should be considering.

TERRIBLE PLACE. Someone mention about deposit in previous review…read more It's totally true. Dawn is very greedy. My son was starved there, unsecured, bitten 3 times, this is the reason I moved him out. Teachers at the schools are changing very frequently, looks like there are unpaid and overworked. UPK program have problem to find teachers that will stay full year. Its a shame. Dawn is not honest person. If you deal with her, remember what she says, it might be the age or she keeps forgetting on purpose for her own goods. Of course she lied to me regarding deposit that I never got it back... according to NYC law, deposit is returnable- RETAINER is not returnable. There are better places in area, more loving care, better hours, delicious home meals included, better environment, great curriculum.

We moved to Manhasset in the summer and were looking for a school for my child. Several of our…read moreneighbors recommended the Outlook School. It was exactly what we were looking for, structured, caring and a low student to teacher ratio. The principal is highly-involved in each child's daily activities and genuinely cared about their overall development, not just academically. During my first teacher parent meeting, I was so touched by how much she and other teachers care about my child that I was on the verge of tears. We are amazed by how much our child has grown in every aspect since joining the Outlook School. Without hesitation, I would put my next child here for sure

My daughter goes to this school (on her 2nd yr) and she loves it…read more Recitals and curriculum are fantastic!

Stay away !!!! This place is not for working families…read more They will call you for no reason to pic up the kid. Those are there rules and thats it. Dawn is not the honest person to deal with. Any argument she will make you pay. Extra fees are everywhere. Other places are more convenient and loving. Early drop off is a rip off there. You are paying for lunch that basically kids don't eat. Need to supply them with extra. My daughter was left in cold weather outside, shivering from cold and crying, I found her in playgrounds and teachers says.... We gave her hugs and kisses I hope she will be well. Teachers are changing very frequently. That make it very strange. Either there are overwhelmed or underpaid.

The school is absolutely wonderful with a fun, stimulating and varied curriculum. In my opinion…read moreit's a perfect balance of activities that incorporate all the critical early development milestones. There is both predictability in the schedule blended with new experiences. My children love it there and cannot wait to return for another year. Location is ideal. The playground and outdoor scenery is picturesque, located on a one way quiet and clean residential street. The classroom is bright and inviting. My kids absolutely love love the art projects. There is even group yoga!! And introduction of computer skills. I think it's great how there are different themes throughout the school year with emphasis on important health, science, safety, and community topics and more. The staff are warm, friendly, patient and professional and they seem very well versed in early childhood development and education. The drop off and pick up are well organized. It is amazing how much my child has excelled and matured socially and emotionally thanks to this wonderful, thoughtful and well laid out program. Definitely highly recommend!!!

I sent my twins here starting at age 2 as they have a toddler program which is amazing. I cannot…read moresay enough good things about this school. It surpassed all my expectations and provided my children with the best possible foundation of their education. Highly, highly recommend visiting this school to see it for yourself!

My third child will graduate NSNS this year and we could not be happier with our experience at this…read morenursery school. We switched from another local nursery school when my oldest was heading to PreK years ago and we've been here ever since. The teachers are SO loving and accommodating. Parents are welcome in the classrooms for their child's "special day" various times throughout the year, so you always feel connected to your child's daily experiences, as well as get to know their classmates. This was the ideal nursery school environment for us for the past 6 years and NSNS will always hold a special place in our hearts for the love, nurturing and education that it gave to our children.