Testimonials

The Progressive School of L. I. is the only school which I can recommend without hesitation to parents seeking my advice. The warm, supportive atmosphere combined with your unique grouping strategies makes it a perfect alternative to public or parochial schooling for any child. It is amazing to observe! When we at Twin Oaks attempt to follow-up on some of our 'graduates', we invariably encounter success stories from parents whom we have sent to your school.
--Merrie Felshman Ed. Director, Twin Oaks

I can't thank you enough for your tremendous amount of kindness, understanding and patience towards my family. I feel very grateful and blessed. I wish the selfless staff of Progressive continued growth, love and blessings in the education and social awareness of our children. Our son has been developing into such a wonderful, giving and loving boy with a variety of interests in learning and his environment. I attribute that to the constant contact of a wonderful environment of teachers and friends who have supported his growth in every way. I know Progressive has had such a strong impact not only for him, but for our whole family. The friendships we have made at the school are unforgettable.  All our love ...
--the Salome-Diaz family

Dear Progressive,

I hope all is well with all the staff and students at the school!  I thought I would get in touch with you via email to keep you in the loop and to let you know of my progress in high school.  I would like to visit soon and talk with you in person so hopefully that can be arranged!!  Anyway, this past Friday, September 13, I was called down to the principal's office and received some pretty good news: I was announced as the Class of 2014 East Meadow High School valedictorian!  I devoted a massive amount of time and energy to my school work throughout my three years at the high school and I'm glad it paid off.  But what's more are the intangibles I've gathered and reinforced along the way.  You see, a curious thing happened on that Friday that sticks out in my mind: as I (and the salutatorian, who was in the same class) received the phone call to see the principal, my calculus class let out a deafening scream.  We returned later on to find our teacher crying because the salutatorian and I were so well-received.  She said in other years kids were snotty to each other as well as quite vindictive and competitive; it was refreshing, she said, to see our classmates genuinely happy and excited for us.  What followed that day was an onslaught of congratulations from friends and peers, even from people I had never met.  And as I reflected on that day, I realized it was made special by all of the people who were happy for me, all of the people who I've come to know and regard as friends during my brief time at the high school.  And it made me think of all I took from Progressive, all the things that went into making me not just a knowledge-hungry student but a wholesome, decent person.  Those lessons have been with me since I left your doors, they have accompanied me throughout high school, and they will remain a part of me until I'm gone.  I just wanted to thank you for all of that and more, for helping me develop into who I've become today.  Now I realize that this is a bit more than a quick update (I have a tendency to go overboard once I get started) but there are still things I'd like to express to you, gratitude and all, that I haven't mentioned in this email.  They will come in another email, in a letter, or, better yet, in person.  So thank you once again.

As far as the update goes, there's a little left.  I was selected to participate in the All-State music festival in Rochester, as part of the symphony orchestra; quite a prestigious honor, I am told.  Also, I received word that I was chosen as a National Merit Semifinalist for my score of 226 out of 240 on the PSAT.  I now have the chance to send in an application and win scholarship money as a finalist.  Being that you know my SAT score, I can only surprise you with what I received on the SAT II Subject Tests: an 800 in both U.S. History and Physics.  In the near future I will be applying to colleges and organizing fundraisers as the president of two honor societies (Science and Tri-M for music).  As it stands, I will likely apply Early Action to Harvard, and am seriously considering University of Pennsylvania, Yale, Stony Brook, Binghamton, and possibly Haverford or NYU.  Even with Friday's announcement, I must continue to work hard, but I wouldn't want it any other way.  Please send my regards to your family as well as to Benay, Joann, and all of the teachers (your extended family :]).  I will continue to keep in touch and hope to see you soon!!!

--Nathan Siegelaub, graduate (attending Harvard)

Dear Mr. Eric,

We all have great aspirations for our children. I want to see my son become an ambassador of peace and goodwill. I want him to contribute a lot to the beautiful world of God. For us, educating our son at Progressive School does not mean achieving academic success only, it is a developmental milestone which will help him imbibe a global perspective and Neohumanistic values. He is learning that the whole world is his family, that every atom of good that you do to help the tiniest creature counts, and if you wrong someone that counts too! His education at your school is not just books, it is a part of a journey of his life. While on this journey, he will acquire knowledge, skills and invaluable assets that will make him a good human being. We love seeing him grow and progress under your guidance and affection at Progressive School. We want him to take forth the legacy of your school and always stand beside you.

Thank you for always being gracious and helpful, thank you for understanding our feelings, thank you for always being there for us!
-- the Khan family

I just wanted to drop a quick note to thank you for the wonderful experience you have provided at Progressive. I hope my few words at least touch upon how much you are appreciated by the entire Obergh family.

Today it occurred to me that many graduating middle schoolers will take with them academic excellence and a drive to excel. Students at Progressive will also take the high moral standards and a compassion for others that is intertwined in everything you do here. There are so many strengths that make this school stand out from the rest it would be impossible for me to list them here but I wanted to at least share some of the “highlights” that I believe have made a tremendous difference for both Rachel and Andrew over the years.

From the first day we entered this school we were treated like we were an important part of the Progressive community. Both of them were welcomed, encouraged and supported every step of the way. The school’s support for the local community, the regard for others and love for all living things were instantly a part of my children’s lives. Although I had high hopes academically I have to admit that I never expected the level of dedication and advocacy for our children. Everyone at Progressive; teachers, students and parents all “cheering them on” in everything they did making it a truly remarkable journey. My reserved children steadily evolved into confident, well spoken leaders of the community. Things we take for granted here, an “open forum” for ideas, each student being valued as a unique individual, the consistent building of self esteem, volunteerism, beneficial lessons you just can’t find in any other setting.

So I guess in my own way I am trying to say that It takes a day like today to reflect on what a gift and privilege it has been to be a part of the Progressive family and all that it provides. Our “last” year at Progressive, I can not believe it is finally here, despite my happiness in many ways I have dreaded this day since Andrew graduated 2 years ago. It seems like yesterday Andrew was interviewing in the office and today Rachel graduating, how bittersweet indeed. I am so proud of the education we have received yet I will truly miss everyone at Progressive, not just from an academic standpoint but on a personal level as well. Our decision to send Andrew and Rachel to Progressive from kindergarten through 8th grade has given our children a foundation for greatness that will last a lifetime. I promise you they will do “great things” with it.

In closing I will again simply say “thank you” since I can think of no other words that better express our gratitude for your efforts.
--Lou Obergh

Thanks for another fabulous year full of learning and growth. The teachers are so inspiring and innovative, they continue to motivate and encourage a high level of learning. Our daughter has loved coming to school each and every day. This is because Progressive is a place filled with caring, loving and concerned people who put the students first.
--the Richardsons

As a family, we must thank you sincerely for your tireless work and commitment to Progressive School.  You have created an open and welcoming community for families.  It is a beacon to those searching for like-minded people with a commitment to education and compassion.  We are so proud to be members of this wonderful community you have created.

--the Belgrod-Marshall family

I can honestly tell you that the middle school was the best experience imaginable for my daughter Jessica (who graduated 8th grade at Progressive last June). It enhanced her desire to learn, and, still, according to her, was the most fun she's had in school!  This is in sharp contrast to her experience at Berner in Massapequa where she was just one of hundreds of kids, running back and forth to classes across a big building. Her experience at Progressive's middle school was a real eye opener as to how great a school can be, and an example of why NOT to settle for less.I can also attest for all who are interested in learning more about the middle school that the teachers are fabulous. Independently, a friend of mine has Karen (Math) tutoring her three daughters who go to Kennedy in Bellmore, and she is thrilled with the progress they are making with Karen's assistance.  Jess was asked if she wanted to go into 10th grade Math when she met with the head of the Math department at Lawrence Woodmere Academy (after having taken the placement test).  Her current math teacher advises that she usually has the right answer, is the first to assist other students and always speaks in class. I absolutely attribute this to her experience at the middle school.

Mark (social studies) bravely arranged and guided a fabulous trip to Colonial Williamsburg that was very informative as well as very enjoyable.  He also gives great guitar lessons (and apparently skateboarding lessons as well).

I cannot say enough about the Science teacher (Val). She had an extremely positive impact on Jessica and taught her well.  In fact, currently Jess has a 97 gpa at Lawrence Woodmere Academy this year in Biology.

Jen (english) did a phenomenal job getting the kids into Shakespeare and other english readings.

All in all, the curriculum was at or better than any other school, public or private, on or above grade level. The kids can excel and learn at their own pace. They are not limited to grade specific learning. Most of Jessica's friends took at least the Spanish placement test last year and did well.  In addition, there are things about the middle school you won't find specifically in the classroom. It is a community. Everyone has the ability to learn and make mistakes as necessary, and test out what they truly can do and who they want to become. My daughter is not a public speaker. However, she advised that last year not only did she routinely speak in class, but even took questions from the other students.

That's a big step.

And the friendships will probably last for years to come. In October, 4 months after graduation, almost the entire graduating class got together for one last hurrah. Imagine that happening at any other school.

--Mary Ulrich

After moving, I was fortunate enough to find an excellent school here in Arizona, and I just had to write to tell the news. They asked where my daughter had gone to school in New York and were curious to know more about you. They said that they had never seen a child arrive at such a deep assimilation of a variety of topics by third grade. Her attitude and interest are also a standout. You already know my feelings, but I thought you'd be interested in hearing how profoundly impressed her new school is with her former education. I'll be forever grateful.
--Kathy Monteiro, Teacher

There are so many things I would like to say to all of you, but you would be reading for hours!  I really just want to thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for what Progressive has done for my life.  I may not have conceived how entirely special the school was when I was younger, but after I moved on I realized the influence it had on my life. At Progressive not only did I make great friends, and learn, I was taught the most important life lessons, and treated with respect.  When I moved on to public school I saw how different the kids were from the students at Progressive. I did not feel the same sense of intelligence, acceptance, love, and care that I had known in all my other years of grade school.

The six years I spent at Progressive have made a permanent influence on my life.  I will never forget any teachers, friends, field trips, school plays, field days, fun at Baldwin Park, or the mornings of quiet time.  Art with Melanie, Spanish and crafts with Eva, and music with Dr. Rothgarber and Amy are also memories that I will cherish. I remember everything so vividly.

After all these years I am finally done with school.  I graduated from W.T. Clarke High School with honors and a high ranking.  I am now attending the University of the Arts in Philadelphia where I was awarded the Presidential Scholarship for my artwork.  My good grades and my love for art would not exist if it wasn’t for Progressive

--Sky B., graduate

There are a few things I would like to say after this year.
First I want to thank you personally for keeping the school running the way it is (and starting it in the first place).
It has been a year since Maria started in Progressive. What this year brought to her:

• Confidence: The whole school community is concerned and engaged with real world problems. Kid's interest in these problems and possible solutions are taken seriously and put into life. This brings children sense of self worth.


• High respect and tolerance for people's differences and cultures. You could see how the children pick up these high ethical standards.


• Enjoyment of learning at school, and challenge.

We came to Progressive a year ago for challenge and some meaning in learning. This is much more than I could expect from school. This year also brought us hope that there are options for learning according to our family values.

I appreciate the hard work of the teachers who actually live by the philosophy of the school and make all these miracles happen.

--Anatasia Pigal

Dear Eric and Progressive Staff,

Given my experience as a teacher and school administrator in both public and independent schools, in New York and California, I know the critical role schools can have in educating students on multiple levels, not just the intellectual. For students to be able to apply the intellectual knowledge and skills they gain and live a life of fulfillment and meaning, they must fully understand themselves on multiple levels, physical, emotional and spiritual. Unfortunately, it has been my experience that most schools neglect some or all of these aspects of their students’ development.

Progressive represents a beautifully realized example of the successful implementation of Neohumanist educational principles and stands as a powerful beacon to Neohumanist schools worldwide. The pedagogical framework of Neohumanism empowers students to fully connect on the deepest levels with who they are and who they want to be.  Of equal importance, Progressive provides them with the resources to fully realize their highest goals and potential.

I wanted to write a short note to express how much I enjoyed visiting with you and your staff these past few weeks. Your wonderful school is an inspiration and a model for schools, both public and independent, here in the United States and around the world, whether they are founded in principles of Neohumanist education or other educational theories.

There is no question in my mind that students graduating from Progressive are empowered with the understanding and wisdom to live a life of meaning and purpose, fulfilling their God given potential in a way that uplifts themselves and humanity at large. Please express my gratitude to everyone on your staff on my behalf and communicate that much of what I have learned from them will be implemented in our new Neohumanist school and Teacher Training Center we are in currently creating in the Anse Rouge area of Haiti.

On behalf of all of us in Haiti, we thank you.
--Hanna Meadow, Director NHE training, Haiti

In my 40 years of visiting schools and observing teachers, I don't think I have ever seen such an outstanding educational facility. You have managed to pull together a group of very talented and caring teachers. The relationships between student and student, student and teacher, and staff and administrators is exceptionally generous and friendly. I wish that I could come here every day and enjoy the atmosphere. Yours is a school that truly lives up to its name.
--Mrs. Irma Marmor, Senior Adjunct Professor, Adelphi University

I am writing to thank you for welcoming Brian into your family at Progressive School. Brian came to Progressive School in 7th grade without knowing any of the students or teachers. Everyone welcomed him. The teachers at Progressive are superb. They are very knowledgeable and approachable. They engage the students while challenging them. The teachers help the students to grow and become independent thinkers. Creativity is always encouraged at Progressive as well. Creativity is incorporated into the curriculum in the main subject areas as well as all the specials. The children are exposed to art, music and drama. This year Brian particularly loved the computer class as he has a passion for computer science. Progressive School is such a great community because it is centered in service. The students take an active role in deciding how to serve the community. The entire faculty and administration models and teaches the importance of service. I cannot thank you enough for allowing Brian to be part of your family for these past two years. He will graduate Progressive being extremely prepared and ready for high school.

On a personal note I would like to thank you for allowing me to work with Carol and the children in the art room for the past two years. I am a teacher and have been in many classrooms and the students at Progressive are truly special. The students at Progressive are loving, creative, inquisitive and intelligent. I know that this is a result of the atmosphere created by the faculty and administration that allows the students to blossom and grow. Thank you again for welcoming our whole family into the Progressive family. You have always been there to answer questions and help in any way you can.

Thank you, Jennifer Power

I feel that Progressive School has been a precious gift given to my son. He has not only mastered the curriculum, but has learned about life, love, and his importance in the world. Your school has had a priceless impact on my son. He graduated a well-rounded young man, eager to face the world and make it a better place. He learned the attributes of caring, intelligence, inquisitiveness and a love of education at Progressive. Your school is much more than a school, it is truly an extended family. I trusted you for 5 years and the results have far exceeded my dreams.
--Katherine Wahl, Teacher

In my 35 years of teaching, in various public and private settings, I have never been witness to such a conducive atmosphere for education as the one I have seen each day that I have been present in your school. There is such respect and affection, that a free exchange of ideas seems easy and natural. The remarkable energy that permeates the school stems largely from the devotion and commitment which you have managed to inspire in your staff. Such comradery and support is so rare--Progressive School is verily a spiritual haven for its teachers and its students. I feel honored to share in a part of it.
--Dr. Herbert Rothgarber, Music Professor

Dear Eric,

On Friday morning, September 13, at nearly 9:30 an announcement came over the loudspeaker at East Meadow High School.  Mr. Howard, the principal, cut into third-period class time to reveal the names of the valedictorian and salutatorian for the class of 2014.  The recipient of the top award for scholastic excellence spanning several years (including two courses taken in 2009-10 at the Progressive School of Long Island) turned out to be an individual well known to you:  Nathan Siegelaub.  You might not remember that the six-year-old boy, who once sat in your office amusing himself with puzzles and books while his parents underwent a sort of grilling as to his suitability for attending Progressive, had planned on being enrolled just for kindergarten and then moving on to the public domain.  But life often takes unexpected turns and Nathan's certainly did as he ended up staying on eight more years (thanks, in large part, to your generosity and sensitivity) in which he absorbed the lessons that would form his character, work ethic, and pure love of learning.

Probably you are not aware of just how pervasive an influence you've had on Nathan's makeup:  You, Eric, were his choice of topic and subject for an essay assigned to all candidates for induction into the National Honor Society.  You who changed his way of looking at the world; you who sparked his interest in knowledge that ignited his imagination and creativity;  you who gave him the confidence to take on challenges and pursue excellence; you who recognized his character and worth and, with patience and care, nurtured his very soul.  So it was not without emotion and consideration that Nathan lauded you for being his role model.  Of course, the achievements earned, honors won, and the relationships formed within his high-school community have been an extension of his experiences at Progressive.

You know how hard Nathan worked for everything he got, how seriously he took his commitments and responsibilities, how he knew when to have fun and when to get down to business, all traits he developed and honed at home and at his home away from home, Progressive School.  As you well know, he never pursued anything less than full speed ahead, or took a single thing for granted.  Consider that when Nathan attended a concert at Lincoln Center the night before his practice PSAT's in tenth grade and groggily slogged his way through the challenging test early the next morning, he made the connection that a good night's sleep translated to maximum performance (at least for him it did), a valuable lesson that no one had to impart or reinforce.  He understood what he needed to do to achieve maximum results in the future and he did it.  It's not happenstance, then, that in his ensuing standardized tests, he received one of the highest scores on Long Island in the PSAT that counts toward a National Merit Scholarship (he just found out he's a semifinalist in the competition, almost certain to qualify for finals status and a scholarship), he earned a 2400 on his SAT's, received 800's in subsequent SAT Subject Tests (in Physics, US History) and 5's on all his numerous AP Tests.  Nathan competes hard and well, but he's so humble, sweet and good-natured that administrators, teachers, and students hold him in high regard.  The cheers that emanated from many classrooms upon his announcement, and the outpouring from well-wishers testify to his popularity.

On the verge of applying to colleges and years removed from Progressive, I'd like to take this opportunity to express Betsy's and my gratitude for all you've done for our son and for all you still do in terms of the impact you have had on his (our) lives.  An educator can receive no greater accolade than the one bestowed on you by Nathan, who credits you and Progressive for endowing him with the grit and intestinal fortitude to overcome obstacles and with building leadership qualities and confidence that allow him to set lofty goals and achieve superior results.  The Siegelaubs thank our lucky stars that we had the opportunity to be part of your family at Progressive, and, rest assured that you will always be part of ours.

With utmost respect and thanks,     -- Marc Siegelaub

P is for People, they're all different it's true,
R is for Respect we have for cultures, old and new,
O is for Overall, a completed view of life,
G is for Giving back something full of light.
R is for Reaching deep inside your soul, Realizing you're a person too, special, new and whole,
E is for Everyone, who has unique thoughts,
S is for Special teachers, we remember what they taught.
S is for Secure, for this is what we are,
I is for Imagination, it'll take you far,
V is for Values, and we're taught them with great care,
E is for the End of the best times we've had anywhere.
--Jamuna Kelley, graduate

When my daughter was in Kindergarten, I used to think that Progressive was a great school.  After my son began attending, I started to think that it was perhaps the best school in Nassau County. Last year, after spending a day with my children in the school, I told you that I seriously thought it might be one of the best schools in the country. But after this past year, and seeing the final show, I am convinced that Progressive must be one of the best schools in the world!  Words can't express how much your efforts have meant to me, and to all of us.
--Dr. Michael Goodman

Our children have had many memorable years at Progressive. Your staff has always been very attentive and we are very pleased with our children's progress. Many of the projects that they have completed have enabled them to use their imagination and realize the importance that they must be a productive member of their community. We believe that this foundation will provide them with many raw materials that they will be able to use throughout their lives.
--Dr. Andrew & Susan Rutman

Thank you for everything. Thank you for the wonderful teachers and this great school. You have made my stay at Progressive a very enjoyable one. My experience at Progressive will never be forgotten, for this school is very special and unique in every way. I'm very sad that I am leaving the school that I love so much. I had a very great six years at Progressive and I've learned so much from them.

With this knowledge, kids could outsmart any other kid from any other school in the whole entire world. Even though our school looks small, once you go inside, that changes. It turns into a place where learning and imagination are fun.

At this school, size doesn't matter because our school looks great anyway. I need to go to a different school now. I wish the day had never come. For six years seems like a long time, but to me it feels as if I've just begun. Everyday since Kindergarten I wondered what it would feel like to go to Middle School, but now I don't want to leave. I wish that EVERY child could share the experience that I've had at Progressive. This would make every child smile and jump for joy. Keep up the great work with the school and try not to change that much, because it's practically perfect in every way.
--Sydney B., graduate

We can never thank you all enough for creating an environment where our son can learn, feel safe and flourish!! Yesterday he felt comfortable enough to actually eat something at lunch. Each day he's becoming more and more like his old self.....someone we haven't seen in a very long time!! We consider having Nathan at Progressive one of our biggest blessings this Thanksgiving!!

We were telling someone recently about how Nathan is becoming more talkative and engaging. He's smiling and laughing more too. They said "it sounds like he's making a transformation." I replied I wouldn't call it a transformation so much as a restoration. He's becoming more and more like the boy he was before last year.

We agonized over where was the best fit for Nathan based on the approach to education and the mindset of the children and parents. So much was riding on this decision...we were watching Nathan become withdrawn and lacking joy. The deeper we get into this semester, the more we see our child spreading his wings again. This is more rewarding for us than words can say. So yes, we give thanks for Progressive and wish you all a very Happy Thanksgiving!
--Bill & Nancie Tynan