I absolutely loved the learning environment at IVA. My son went here as part of the foundational…read moreclass and transferred out when he moved to Seattle. IVA was my school of choice for my son, because LB Unified refused to let my son attend his home school when we moved to another part of Long Beach. LBUSD also made the school selection and enrollment process so much more difficult that I decided to pull my child out altogether. Save the drama for your mama. In comparison, IVA had an easy enrollment and application process. I was able to contact someone from the school every time I had a question or concern. The student-teacher ratio is something LBUSD has historically fallen short on, and with IVA teachers knew my son by name. The learning environment became a small community built on pillars of intellectual virtues. As a parent, I appreciated the one-on-one communication from my child's instructors. I also enjoyed the social gatherings of parents, students and instructors, when I did have time to participate. Really, it's a private school feel without the price tag. My son was afforded opportunities he would have never had experienced in LBUSD as far as athletics and extracurricular activities such as weight lifting club, photography, and yearbook committee. Geographically, the area of the school is a little rough, but the school does have a nice outdoor area in the back for student activities away from the "distractions" of LB Blvd.

IVA has been a wonderful experience. We are looking forward to our second child also attending. The…read moreentire staff, faculty and admin truly want to be there. The support is unmatched not only academically but also socio-emotionally. The community is diverse and welcoming. My child is challenged academically but not stressed and she loves her school and teachers/staff/faculty/admin. The way the material is presented and discussed is all truly with curiosity, engaging and to develop critical thinkers. We know there is nothing like IVA middle school in the best way possible.

This business tried to swindle me out of $60. I booked a lymphatic drainage massage through Groupon…read moreon August 22 for August 28 at 9 AM with Monica. They operate through the booking system Vagaro, which only sends an appointment request. The business owner must approve the request to confirm the appointment. Monica never approved mine and made no effort to reach out, even with my appointment request pending for days. I texted her at 10 AM on August 27, and only then did she acknowledge my appointment for August 28 at 9 AM. An hour before my appointment, she canceled claiming a power outage however I have a friend who lives less than two minutes from her shop and their electricity was fine, so I am not sure how valid that excuse really was. At first, I wasn't upset because cancellations happen and I simply requested a refund from Groupon. I even provided screenshots of our full text thread showing that Monica canceled on me. Instead of being honest, Monica lied and told Groupon that I was a no-show. When I confronted her about it with proof, she responded by saying she would reach out to Groupon to correct the issue and still claimed that she did not cancel the appointment. Less than 24 hours later, Groupon emailed me again saying the merchant reconfirmed I was a no-show and even provided "photo evidence." How that's possible when my only communication with this business is in the attached text thread where she clearly cancels is beyond me. That false statement blocked my refund and left me having to dispute the charge with my bank. This is very unprofessional and consumer fraud. If you are considering these businesses (LB Sculpt x Cali Bods), beware. The lack of integrity, poor communication, and dishonesty about cancellations show they do not operate ethically. No customer should ever be lied about or penalized just so a business owner can avoid issuing a refund.

+++ Herlinda at Calibods is absolutely amazing! I've had two…read morelymphatic massages with her, and both experiences were outstanding. She is incredibly thorough, skilled, and truly knows what she's doing. On top of that, she has such a great personality--warm, professional, and easy to talk to--which makes the whole experience even better. She's also very accommodating and understanding when schedule changes come up, which I really appreciate. Herlinda goes above and beyond every time. She is the best--hands down a 5+++ star therapist! Highly recommend!

I can't say enough good things about U Drive driving school! My son was a bit nervous starting out…read morebut Olivia took the time to work with him at his pace and build his confidence behind the wheel. Olivia was incredibly patient and supportive throughout the entire process. I feel he is much more confident driving after he completed his lessons. We really appreciate how professional and encouraging the process was. I would highly recommend this school to any parent looking for quality driving instruction for their teen!

Olivia was the best driving instructor! She is very detailed and thorough with her teaching. She…read morehas always kept us safe and is very patient. Shes also very funny and kind. I can confidently say that I am a very safe and alert driver as well as good at parking! Her car is also clean and smells nice.

My son has been taking lessons with Francesca and Ariana and have seen drastic progress in just 2…read moremonths. He is learning important pool safety skills. He enjoys going to the classes and has built his confidence.

Appreciation post for Ariana. There was a scheduling mix up and she immediately jumped to help out…read moreand add my son on for a last minute class. My son was hesitant of a new teacher at first, but he quickly got comfortable and carried on with his lesson. Thank you so much Ariana! It was much appreciated!

I have taken Improv classes here and it is a very welcoming and inclusive environment. I tried…read moretheir free Introduction to Improv workshop and I was hooked! I'm a stand-up Comedian and I've been here for the past two Open Mic Nights as a performer and had a very positive experience. 1. There is no 2 item minimum. You only pay $5 either as a performer or audience member. That is a bargain! 2. There are no more than 12 comedians performing in total. Each comedian has a 5 minute set. You'll be home in time to shower, go to sleep early, and wake up sober for work the next day! 3. Friendly and encouraging audience. No one will boo you or throw a bottle at you! If you are interested in taking classes in Improv/Comedy or would just like to be a supportive audience member, this is the place to be!

Held2gether, Improv for Life is making such a difference in so many areas of my life; I had no idea…read morethe profound effect it would have. I just thought it would be fun, and it turned out to be so much more. Yes, it is fun! It is a beautiful escape from life's difficulties and filled with laughter, learning, and grace. Darren, Neil and the rest of the instructors and cast have created something very special here. Imagine a group of strangers from all walks of life coming together to create something magical. It is scary at first but the growth is quick and you are supported and encouraged so much more than you could imagine, not only by the instructors but that group of strangers who you bond with. Some of my biggest takeaways are to listen, (really listen), choose words wisely, and not to rush. This is not only true on the Held2gether stage but has carried over in my life. Give it a try, you won't regret it and you just may get hooked too. All are welcome and encouraged.

My child has CP and she's been attending DBSS for about 11/2 and she loves it! She loves her…read moreteacher Ms Alexa . Very professional and patient with her.

All three of my boys attend here, including two with autism, and we've been coming for over a year…read morenow. The staff has been incredibly patient, kind, and accommodating with each of their individual needs. Finding a place where my kids feel safe, supported, and excited to learn is priceless. The facility is always very clean, the water is warm, and the atmosphere is calm and welcoming. I also really appreciate the convenience of having clean changing rooms available after lessons such a huge help for parents! My boys look forward to swim class every week, and I've seen so much improvement in their confidence and skills. I highly recommend Deep Blue Swim School to any family, especially those with children who may need a little extra support. They truly go above and beyond!