The STAR Academy – P.S.63, New York | Fees, Rankings, Address, Admission, Vacancies, Reviews & More

Tomorrow is the last day of my daughter’s first year at S.T.A.R. Academy PS 63. We have had an amazing year here–she and the rest of our family! What distinguishes this staff here from any other school I’ve attended or taught at (public or private, rural or urban) is their focus on the family! There are a number of events that build community among the classes, between the classes and between the school and its surrounding community.

Teachers and administration alike are accessible, reasonable, clear, and direct. I felt that the staff made an effort to get to know my daughter, her siblings and us. Open office hours to meet with families were cut out and communicated to families early in the year, but small anecdotal and quick information could be communicated at drop-off or pick-up. Additionally, the school’s use of the app Class Dojo (with has a class page and private messaging connecting us to the staff directly involved with my daughter) really helped me to connect with my child around what she was learning and involved with in school during the day and feel like a fly on the wall without intruding. However, we were invited several times throughout the year to participate *in* the classroom with the kids–a morning read, an afternoon with the PE and arts teachers, free play in the playground. This not only helped me to learn about my child but helped connect me with other parents.

Speaking of the parent body…the families here at STAR are really devoted to the school and show up for events, fundraisers, exhibitions, etc. The PTA and SLT (Leadership Team) are very hard at work creating an environment in which each community member’s best self can operate freely for the highest good.

I have no doubt that my daughter has made lifelong connections here and that what she has learned will stay with her as she progresses with her education.

My daughter has attended this school for 5 years, and I couldn’t be happier with my choice in elementary school. The teachers are amazing, and very dedicated to the students. They do not teach for state tests instead they prepare the students for critical thinking. There are no text books, which I like since they create their own curriculum and are not limited to teach according to one textbook. In Math and ELA, students are broken out in groups based on their ability across the grades, but have specific focus to help them grow and develop. The classes have two teachers and then one or two assistant teachers. They are available to answer questions. And ClassDojo (a facebook for schools) is a great tool for teachers, parents, and staff to stay connected. Teachers post videos with new math concepts to help parents understand (!!!!). The staff is amazingly supportive. Ms. Cameron (p) and Ms. Friedman (vp’) are always there to greet parents and guide students through the day. Ms. Alice (the parent coordinator) is heart of the school! It is a small school, but builds a great community and support for parents, students, teachers and staff.