Middle school was the best experience imaginable

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