Research John F. Kennedy School public Schools in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

“The major problem with Kennedy is the separation (segregation) between the Open Classroom and Multi Age programs. It's very obvious to me (and probably to all the children) that the Open Classroom is the preferred program, because of it's full capacity and waiting list. I don't think this is a healthy learning environment for our children, especially the Multi Age minority.”

“I have 3 children at Kennedy school in the Open Classroom program and we LOVE it! We have considered moving to the Grosse Pointe district, or further north, and the one reason we're still here is because of this school! My kids are getting a wonderful education, our teachers are phenomenal, and the parents and families are the warmest, kindest people we have ever met. There are loads of parents in the classrooms every day helping all the children, from those at grade level, to those needing extra help, to those needing challenges. My kids are involved in art club, math club, girl scouts, cub scouts, band, and a wonderful music program. We couldn't be happier! Go Ferndale schools!!!”

“My two oldest daughter went to Kennedy and my youngest is going into 4th grade, at Kennedy. As a Kennedy family, we have had a great educational experience. We have a close knit community and all our needs are address. I have only positive things to say about Ferndale School District. If you want your child to succeed they will, but you need to get or stay involved.”

“My son has attended JFK for the last 3 years, and I wish that this wasn't his final year. The staff is amazing! The support and communication are excellent. My son and some of his classmates played basketball for a church league in the area and his teacher, Mrs. W. made it to at least half of the games. These were games that took place on Saturdays, mornings and afternoons and had nothing to do with the school except that some of her students were involved. The kids were thrilled and know that Mrs. W. truly cares about them and their outside successes, her concern doesn't end at 3:30, Monday thru Friday - how awesome. The academics, extracurricular activities from the Sock Hop to the Fall Festival, the music program, all outstanding. Like my son and I say, all the cool kids go to JFK!”

“I have a son in Third grade at this school and he is in special Ed and they have done an excellent Job with him he can read now and his grades have improved and his teacher is the sweeties lady that you could ever meet and she has a lot patient and she cares about her student and there learning and that is what our kids need today”

“My son started in the first grade in the open classroom program at JFK. He has had nothing but great teachers and support staff. The program allows him to advance in math without waiting for the class. This keeps him interested in his studies. Each household is responsible for 40 hours a year of volunteering so there is always a parent in the classroom. The music department is excellent. They have several concerts throughout the year.”

“My son is only a kindergartner, but the culture of learning and support at Kennedy give us confidence in both the pedagogical apporoach of hte open classroom and multi-age philosophies as well as the general positive environment of Kennedy. For an elementary school in an inner ring suburb of a supposedly 'rust-belt' city, Kennedy has thus far provided nothing but a positive expetation for our son and daoughter's education at this vibrant public school.”