The Parents' Guide to New York City's Best Public Elementary Schools

Rating:
Summary: Superb Introduction to NYC Public Schools
Review: As a NYC K-12 educational consultant, I frequently listen to parents' worries about entrusting their children to the New York City public schools. This is unfortunate, because some local public schools are excellent. Hemphill's book is extremely valuable because she identifies top schools and demystifies the admissions process for zoned and out-of-zone students. She also explains admissions to gifted and other special programs. [e-mail]

Rating:
Summary: Superb Introduction to NYC Public Schools
Review: As a NYC K-12 educational consultant, I frequently listen to parents' worries about entrusting their children to the New York City public schools. This is unfortunate, because some local public schools are excellent. Hemphill's book is extremely valuable because she identifies top schools and demystifies the admissions process for zoned and out-of-zone students. She also explains admissions to gifted and other special programs. [e-mail]

Rating:
Summary: Essential Guide
Review: I used this guide when looking at schools for my five year old daughter. I found the descriptions very accurate--the author really understands the essence of these schools and appreciates the intricacies of NYC schools. If you're looking for a public school in NYC, this book isn't a luxury, it's a necessity!!

Rating:
Summary: A helpful guide
Review: My family is planning to return to New York City, and we need to find a school for my elementary aged child. This book has provided a good background of information, and answers all of the basic questions, i.e. test scores, class sizes, school philosophies etc. I do wish that is was updated (this is from 1997), and that there was an introduction that gave the reader some context of the New York City public school scene. I'd also like to see a ranking of ALL of the city's public schools so one has the option of seeing how their local public school stacks up against the ones profiled in this book. Despite those criticisms, I found this very helpful, and find myself considering some of the schools described in the book.

Rating:
Summary: What an incredibly helpful book!
Review: The book does a really good job of telling parents about some of the best public schools in NYC. The author also lets you know about the differences in philosophies, facilities and programs, to help figure out what would be best for your child. I hope it gets updated soon!