The Child School
Tuesday, November 9th, 2004
The Child School (grades K-8)
Legacy High School (grades 9-12)
587 Main St.
Roosevelt Island, NY 10044
212-223-5055
212-223-5031 (fax)
info@thechildschool.org
www.thechildschool.org
Tuesday, November 9th, 2004
The Child School (grades K-8)
Legacy High School (grades 9-12)
587 Main St.
Roosevelt Island, NY 10044
212-223-5055
212-223-5031 (fax)
info@thechildschool.org
www.thechildschool.org
This school is BAD! There are small gangs within the school that both think rule the school. Not to mention the founder of the school is a thief, asking for supplies that the children don’t need so that she can use theme such as transparencies and CD-RW’s.
Wow, that’s a very stressful environment to go to school in. I updated that address, thanks for letting me know.
This school is not very good with children with Learning Disability. I have found that they will get rid of children who will not respond to their very limited resoures. They say that they offer counseling and speech therapy, that is false. They only take the money from the Board of Education and pretend to help minorities. If you dont have money to donate to the school, I would recommend to stay away.
Our school always strives to deliver the utmost in quality services to those with learning disabilities. We make it a priority to find each individual child’s strengths. Since 1973 we’ve built a community dedicated to respect, compassion, and growth. Ours is a communal learning environment, where teachers and parents are learning alongside students. We recognize that asking people to work together as a family isn’t an easy task. A guiding principle of our school is to acknowledge the dignity and worth of one another and strive never to diminish another by our conduct or our attitudes.
We are VERY proud that the racial make-up of our school almost exactly mirrors the demographics of New York City, an accomplishment we actively work to attain. We’ve won awards and recognition on our acceptance of diversity, quality of teaching and student participation. In our K-12 population of 250 students we have 5 licensed Psychologists, 3 Speech Therapists, and 3 Occupational Therapists working directly in the classroom every single day. Our graduation rate is exemplary. Most of our students receive Regents & RCT diplomas, a notable sign of success given the climate of special education in New York City’s public school system.
Sincerely,
Faculty of The Child School/Legacy High School
The thought that someone, I assume a competitor or party of interest, could possibly come to the conclusion that there are gangs at the school or that the administration has stolen assets is either a very inappropriate joke, or at worst, evidence of a vindicative and intentionally false accusation. Any parent, such as myself, with a child at the The Child School, will attest to the fact that this institution is one of the most caring, nuturing, and fundamentally sound and honest places of education one can find. It is an honor to have my child enrolled at the school. My child was subjected to an illness at an early age and as a result of the efforts of the staff and administration continues to thrive and develop as he now reaches his teenage years. If given the opportunity, my son would absolutely attest to the fact that the notion of a gang, or petty larceny is ourtrageous and quite simply, ludicrous. As a member of the fundraising committee I have had the pleasure to work with parents, staff, and members of the administration. I can personally confirm that members of the administration have made extraordinary donations well beyond the expected means of those individuals. To think that those donations are now subject to such baseless attacks is truly the only crime committed in this venue.
My son has been at The Child School and now Legacy High School for almost ten years. The negative posts on this site have no bearing on this school. The sharing of supplies is part of the school philosophy to engender a sense of community. As for “gangs”, no way. The classes are small, highly supervised and disciplined. Calm and order pervade the entire school setting. I have had occasion to teach several writing seminars at the school, and I have seen first-hand the generosity of spirit and cooperation of the teachers and students alike. And one of the school’s greatest assets is the diversity of the community, both ethnically and economically. I would suggest that this site do some research before posting hateful remarks that are clearly meant to do damage.
I happen to run across this blog and I am extremely surprised and aghast at reading such criticism of the school.
The suggestion that there are gangs at the school is absurd. A member of my family is employed by the NYC criminal system and they would be the first to know of any such activity.
My son has attended this school for over 7 years. Considering the size of the student body, I am always amazed when I meet with the director. She knows exactly what makes my son “tick” and of all of his individual learning differences. She has provided not only him guidance at school, but also has suggested to me, as a parent, creative techniques I should use at home to address his behavior, anxiety issues, lack of self-esteem, etc. (even his fear of the dark). The posting from The Faculty of The Child School is on the mark. The school does try to teach the INDIVIDUAL child and believe me, my son’s IEP is quite extensive. He has always received his supported services - counseling, occupational therapy and speech and language therapy. My son has never refused to go to school which is a major feat in itself considering he usually refuses to participate in anything else which can help him.
In these times, many educators spend more time fundraising than doing what they are suppose to do - educate and help our children. The main emphasis of the director of The Child School/Legacy High School has always been to educate the student. I find the postings from “Anonymous” a joke. I have never been pressured to donate to the school. If anything, because I believe so strongly in the school’s ideals and I am appreciative of how the school has helped my son, I have INDEPENDENTLY requested contributions from individuals who are not related to the school. These individuals are more than happy to help the school as they have witnessed my son’s progress over the years.
The staff at The Child School goes above and beyond their duty helping our children. It is a “crying” shame if someone gets a negative impression of the school based on “Anonymous” postings.
Given that this seems to have prompted an articulate and ultimately supportive response for the school, instead of just deleting all of these comments and closing comments about this school I thought I’d leave them stand as the comments will be useful to other parents. If you’ve been tracking this I’d love your opinion about it. Leave all of the comments or get rid of all of them and close comments on this school. Thanks.
The comments about counseling, ot, speech, gangs, drugs are true! Former co-teacher
The mandates are not being done, emergency counseling is only what’s available. The director does not care for many of the kids and allows much illegal activity!
Elementary school students vastly different from high school students. If they’re not “gangs”, by New York State criminal justice system, they’re students with thug mentality who dominate the classroom by intimidating teachers and students alike. My high school age child never felt safe. I had no choice but to find another high school for him. Families of academically-capable, high-school-age students — beware this school. .
Former Parent,
Where did your child wind up going? Does he have learning disabilities and did the next school work for him?
I have a 7 year old son that is classified as OHI(Other health impaired) He has adhd and PDD. His school wants to send him to a Boces school so I have been frantically looking for a different placement for him. When I read about the child school I thought I had found the perfect school. Now hearing all of this negative feedback I am very concerned. Please if anyone has children that attend this school please comment and tell me if this is a proper placement for my baby.
Tina, have you gone and taken a look at the Boces school in your area yet? What did you think of it?
no I haven’t gone yet. The CSE committee will send me a tour date. I just want to have a back up in the event I don’t like this school they have chosen. If anyone had any suggestions I could really use it.
I suggest yo go look at the BOCES program. If it’s not right for your son, then ask the school for other suggestions and go look at those. Don’t stop demanding until you find a school/progam that can meet his needs. When it comes to getting poper services for your child, be a relentless squeaking wheel.
I would not recommend this school to anyone who cares about their child. The director is seriously misguided about what kids need. State mandated IEPs are not followed, and “counseling” is a sad joke. There are no special education services offered at this school for learning or emotional disablilites. The director abuses staff and students on a daily basis. She achieves conformity from students and staff by threats and passive-agression. Avoid this school at all costs.
Wow! For how long did you teach there and how long ago? I’ve read a bunch of comments from people such as yourself who obviously have great concerns about the school. as well as one post from “the faculty” of the school which was obviously positive. One thing I’ve wondered about is why if things are so negative, do people continue to send their kids.
Yesterday after reading the Former Teacher post I went out and googled the school, the director, and pretty much everything I could find and I found quite a bit of positive stuff on both the school and the director. I’m not offering this as a way to undermine the folks who have found fault with both her and the school, but there are some satisfied customers out there who are saying that the issues raised here are not universally agreed upon.
I’m actually glad we’ve let this thread continue because initially we considered closing it down. I don’t want my web site to be part of a lynch mob, even if the person being lynched is guilty of something. However, There is a thread of controversy here that parents considering this school for their children need to research. This is not the best place to do the research but it should be done, either by talking with other parents or by visiting the school. An astute parent doing a classroom visit might get wind of some of the things talked about here, if they exist.
Thanks to everyone for taking the time to comment here. Please try to keep your comments civil and to the point so we can paint a fair picture for others to consider.
Richard, I understand the challenge you face regarding The Child School. To google the school, you will read all positive things regarding Maari de Souza and her work to make TCS what it is.
Let me first say, for some kids, this school is wonderful. It is a “very” controlled enviroment. Kids who are high functioning without emotional problems will thrive there. For kids that have greater needs, it’s more of a challenge.
Looking at the school from the outside, it looks amazing. Maari knows what to say to have parents in awe, and some of it is accurate, some of it are lies. There are a large number of tremendous teachers/co-teachers and staff members at TCS. It’s true, that working there is hard (as the co-teacher wrote) and Maari is MAJORLY controlling, can be abusive and insulting, and because of this, there is a HIGH turnover rate of staff members.
There is much truth about the students and their mandates not being met. Much of that is due to the staff turnover rate, and another part is due to the “shortage” of specialists. Sometimes you will find that staff are hired for one job (i.e. speech therapist… and are turned into supervisor, or counselor…turned supervisor). It’s due to these problems that kids don’t get their services. Also, parents are urged to sign off on services that there kids might still need (although they will be told their child doesn’t need them), due to the lack of staff vs. mandate ratio. Mandates are NOT being met, and that IS the truth!
There are also some challenges for students that have behavioral issues at the school. Many of the kids are sent to the Directors office- now this is for all levels of kids (Elem, M.S., and H.S.) and they will sit outside her office for what can be hours missing classroom work. The behavioral problems really need to be dealt with in a better way, by the counselors, but often times the Director DEMANDS kids to be sent to her. For some kids, if they have emotional issues, Maari’s school is not the place for them, they only get worse and some have ended up in residential placement as a result. I’ve personally seen unethical treatment of students (and have written letters about it too), but these are the “behavioral” problemed kids, not the ones who work “well” in the school.
A benefit of TCS is that the kids still have gym and art and music by devoted, talented staff members. At many schools these programs are being pulled, and especially for Special Ed. kids, much of their disability comes out in other means creatively, so this aspect of the school is wonderful.
Someone asked why parents continue to send their students to this school. The answer is that MOST parents have no other options, or BELIEVE they don’t. Let’s face it, people get comfortable and don’t like change. Many disabled kids don’t like change. Therefore, it’s not easy for them. Some parents look and can’t find optional placement, although when things heat up for parents, they will in a hearbeat pull their kids out. It just depends on how much “hassle” their kid faces. I believe if there were more options for schools, more people would leave TCS/Legacy, but for now, parents are trying to get their kids through HS and have them graduate. It’s relatively safe (I’ve never seen GANGS, but I have seen some H.S. situations occur, but serious consequences are taken toward violence and abuse of student to student), and as I said, if a kid is a high functioning student… then they will fly through the school without trouble. If they have any other problems, it will become a problem for the student and their parent.
Also, for those parents who wrote about the school above (all those wonderfully, positive things you wrote), deep down you KNOW there are problems at TCS with the director, but they were asked by the “relations” staff member who wrote post #4 (and had only been at the school a year) to counter post. They have ALL experienced hardship (or their child has), however, they all want to portray TCS in a “positive” way, they won’t however, discuss the problems with the school- which many of them are FULLY aware of.
Oh, and lastly, here’s some advice for parents thinking of placing their child at the school. First, take a tour of the school. On your tour of the school (I think she allows questions on the tour… or else you will have a interview or two with her- but be warned… if you ask these questions, you may see her true colors) … ask Maari if you can speak with a teacher (this will NOT be allowed). Also, try to talk to a staff member (this will NOT be allowed). Ask her if you will have access to observe your child’s class anytime (parents are NOT allowed in the classrooms to observe- only if it’s your child’s birthday, OR on parent/teacher night). Ask what the policy is about letter writing to your child’s teacher. (All letters are SUPPOSED TO be given to the director and discussed before a reply is sent. Supposedly this is for the “safety” of the teacher, but truthfully, this is another aspect of the control.) Ask if you can randomly call the school and speak with your child’s teacher (you are allowed 1 day a week- in a period of about an hour to contact your child’s teacher- these are phone times-the teacher is supposed to be taking notes on the conversation, and will NOT be allowed to make any kind of decision or say much until this has processed through the Director.) Maari will stress the MANDATORY meetings that you will be required to attend, and she means mandatory. This is a HIGLY CONTROLLED ENVIRONMENT, both for your child and for you. If that’s ok for you and your child is high functioning… then this school may work for you. If not, and your child struggles with other disabilities… I’d tour the school, ask the questions (just so you see I’m not exaggerating) and then make your decision.
However, please remember, this is the MOST IMPORTANT decision you can make for your child. Don’t rush to make it and don’t just place your child somewhere because there is a seat open. It MUST be a right fit!
I think it’s fair to say that no school is a perfect fit for all students and it’s up to parents to do their research to find the school that’s right for their kids. In order to do this, they need to know a bit more about their kids and a bit more about the school. If, after doing this research they pick a school and the fit is wong, they change schools. This is not uncommon and The Child school is not the only school where there is a possibility of an offset between the way the school is characterized and the way some students and parents and teachers experience it.
In short, every single school in the world has these issues and it’s up to parents to sort it out the best they can.
Richard, this “school” is not run like a school. It is run like a kingdom. The kingdom of Maari. As stated, she does not follow IEP mandates or provide services, and she gets away with it. She presents and promises a school that seems too good to be true. And, indeed, it is. Thanks to the former staff member who wrote the above post and presented a picture of the real deal.
Sorry AFP, I don’t mean to be argumentative, I know nothing about any of this except what I read on the web and because there are some people who seem to find the school useful if not good for their kids, there is no “real deal,” there are simply a variety of perceptions and opinions about the way things are done there.
There is not a school on earth that is right for everyone and independent schools are in the business of selling themselves, all of them do it.
All parents need to be aware, do their homework and choose the school that’s right for their kids. If I were a parent reading this thread I’d want to dig a bit deeper and find out more about the school and its headmistress for myself.
FYI, this is not an independent school. This is a new york state school. Once approved by the board of ed, students are fully funded by the state. Most students attending The Child School are l00% funded at state’s expense.
Postings by the “former teacher” and the “former staff member” as to what goes on at this schol are not perceptions or opinions. They are recountings of their experience. They are the behind-the-scenes personal, actual observations of the protocol.
I have a home schooled child that is a dyslexic.CSE has made too many mistakes in her case. She has 3 Nickerson letter,because I and CSE cannot Find a school for her.I was thinking about the Child School, but…….I dont know.
Two weeks ago I got a acceptant letter from Winston Prep But I am having a problem with the Funding
I was concedering The Child School
But now I dont Know?
After my ex-husband & I were referred to The Child School as a possible placement for our son for his kindergarten and on, we got very excited about that and enthusiastically started the enrollment process last November. Now, after 5 month-long process of asking and begging Sheila Steiner, Director of Admissions, to contact us confirming receipt of our son’s paperwork and discussing it with us, we got extremely disappointed with the School and gave up. Sheila, who is the first School’s person perspective parents meet and deal with and who literally is the gate-keeper of The Child School, didn’t even bother to respond to dozens of our calls, messages, certified and FedEx mail to her. We mailed her twice a complete application package with all necessary reports and IEP in November’06 and March’07, as well as faxed it over again in February’07. Apparently she was too busy during that whole period of time to review it and give us a call back with status update despite our desperate requests and explanation of the Board of Education deadline for placement.
I found the way the School’s officials tend to “communicate” with parents of potential students to be outrageous, disrespectful and unacceptable for professionals, especially those dealing with special needs kids and their families. I believe that’s a good example of how our children will be treated there. Based upon our experience, we will not recommend The Child School to other parents.
Natasha, thanks for sharing your first hand experience with the admissions process. This is not a good sign that the school is well organized although this is a different type of complaint from the ones further up in the comment string that have more to do with the head of the school and its curriculum.
Logistical problems can happen but I’d say in your case the school had ample time to make it right and didn’t. Not good.
Thanks.
To Natasha — that was my experience also. But my son did eventually get in. But then, when all the other things described above started to happen, I took him out. You are right to look elsewhere. But don’t be surprised if they contact you with an opening, to begin in July. It’s a 12-month school year there, and they like to start in July. Good luck.
As a former parent of a child who attended the child school. Be warned! Avoid this school at all costs. IEP’s and not followed, mandates are totally ignored. If your child has a learning disability or emotional issues, this is definately NOT the place for them. Maari runs this school like a prison. Why she is confronted by parents, she lies straight to their faces. This is horror chamber not a place of learning and support for children who need it.
In reading all of the above commments I have to say that those written by the “Former Staff Member” on 3/6/07 ring truest and most comprehensive for me. When I am a “Former Parent” I will be more straightforward in identfying myself and making my own comments more specific because with a child in the school, and having experienced the “style” of the Director, I know that my child could reap the wrath of the Director because of what I would say….and she is smart enough to do that in a manner that I could not prove. I firmly believe that parents need to carefully consider this school and recognize that everyone (staff and parent-body) are micro-managed. Given the size of the school at this time (250 or so students) it is clear that a “healthy” administration would foster the decision-making process of designated staff based on a clear philosophy and accountability structure. Unfortunately the Director cannot tolerate what she may consider a “loss of control” and consequently noone can make decisions without consulting her and without her approval. Teaching children with learning disabilities is not an exact science and requires much collaberation. Unfortunately, Ms. DeSouza needs to dictate. You can imagine how this plays out given the size of the school and the number of people involved. Again, the “Former Staff Member” was quite fair and accurate in my opinion. I will share more in a few years when I am a “Former Parent”.
P.S. Some might ask why I have not looked into other schools. To those people I would answer……..”You then do not know that there are too few educational resources for the number of children who require better special educational services than the NYC Dept. Of Education can offer. That is why this Director can continue as she has been doing for this many years and also why I cannot yet identify myself.
Reply to posted by a former parent April 21, 2007. I totally concur with you; but I urge you to continue to look for another school. As I said earlier if your child has a learning disability/and or social or emotional issues; this is definately not the place for them. I have personally confronted Maari, and she lied straight to my face; and unfortnately my child had to face the consequences, also denied. The only reason we choose this school was because our child had the option between a regents or an IEP diploma. Our first choice was Martin De Porous in sheeps head, brooklyn, which then offered only a regents diploma. Unfortunately, we just did not know if our child could complete the program. Believe me, it was a HUGE mistake! I implore you, please get your child out of this school. My child was there for three years; and it was a totally horrible experience for her and us. As you stated in your comment, that is exactly why Maari continues, because there are too… few special educational services in NYC; and also
because she hides behind the veiled threats she issues staff and students.
Does anyone ever wonder why there is such a hugh turn-over staff? That is quite highly unusual. I urge any parent that even considers this school, to just please say no. I know to many, it seems like the ideal school, but it really is like a chamber of horrors. My child was was so… miserable there I had to pull her out. She came home crying almost every day. The only good thing I can say is that if your child is in the regents program, it is quite different, those students seem to do quite well. On the other had, everyone else is treated as last. Not much thought is given to them, and that is quite a shame; especially given that their tuition (given this is deemed a private school) is highly inflated; and nothing is really being done for them.
Bottom line is… Just say no!
the school principle can seem racist and she thinks that she has to seem inferior to all the students.She makes the teacher say that they quit when they really got fired. This school says they give ot and speech but they do not even take u out of class the teacher thats helps you with goes in with us.he/she can not really give you what you need. She says not to bully but when we go to her office she makes u feel bad.For example she called some of her students gay and dimwitted chimps.The older teacher are the principle pets they do not fight for the students cause they know once they say something they so ca ll quit.I have notice that the teacher that fight for the students they leave.the leader is a bad example for the students that can talk freely. HA HA the second worst school in the nyc. The founder of this school is evil. one last thing she treats the students whose parent has gave money to the school better. Input from a few of her students. This is only a opinion you cant do anything to the students that wrote this.
Dear Students,
My child used to go to this school, and, as you describe, did not receive the speech, OT, or counselling that was on the IEP. My child was also verbally bullied by the head of the school. We watched favorite teacher after favorite teacher disappear from the school. My child spoke to me about all of this, and I found another school, where these things don’t hapapen. You should speak to your parents or guardians when these things occur, especially when she insults you. You may feel like you’re “stuck” there, but there are other schools, and with adult help, you can pursue other schools. I know the school psychologist “quit.” But your parents or guardians can help you find another school. My child is much happier now now that he’s getting the services and the respect he deserves. You deserve the same. Don’t be afraid to speak up at home. And don’t drop out, as other kids there do. This page is a good idea, a place where everybody can be heard, especially the students. If you think this is the second worst school in NYC, what do you think is the worst?? Just wondering.
posted by former parent.. my kid use to go to that school to. TCS/LHS.. and it’s bad cause she experienced very bad stuff like the principle being very mean and yelling at my child because she always had to be right about everything.. that school is a dictator school.. You can’t speak your mind in that school.. because if you do she’ll get angry and be even more harder on you. than before. my kid wasn’t liked by maari so her life was hell.. and Maari runs the school like it were the military.. these kids have disabilities some more severe than other… and you can’t do anything to my kid because protected by us the parents and the family.. but everything that has happened by the principle to my kid was always upset and very angry.. that school is evil.. and ya it true the teachers can’t fight for the students even though they know that maari is bad and evil they will get into alot of trouble with maari God only knows what she says to them so they don’t stand up for the students..
It’s a very stressful environment to be him.. you have to have balls of steel to put up the her.. Maari needs someone to give her the taste of her on medicine I sure hope they do something about the principle because she get go on treating people dis way.. my kid doesn’t like that school.. even when my kid was interviewed with maari herself she was very uptight and very not nice.. and my kid was very nervous just being in the meeting with my kid and she meets with kid separatedly after my kid came out then I went in to meet with this woman what a witch, very uptight ans she thinks the world evolves around her… well my kid faced alot of stuff and if wondering why am I putting down about why some of the teachers that do try to fight for the students don’t stay or because wby some of the teachers that don’t find for the students what happens to them well it’s because my kid has seen the behind the scene without anybody else watching.. she’s very sneaky.. and she does everything under table.. she picks trips that are very costly and my kid wanted to go and where she picked a trip to Costa Rica or Spain those are faraway places and in other counties and it’s not fair why she can’t pick a trip where everybody can go on a trip she has to pick these expensive trips tht’s not fair and unreal.. But she’s egocentric and she thinks who she is.. and yes she is a thief..she asks students to bring supplies that staff can use more than the kids can.. and let me tell you something once you get in it’s like a walking living nightmare that you hope when you up it was just a dream but it really isn’t cause you really are going through hell.. it’s not cool to experience this stuff.. just ssy no.. and I agree with the parents that have put why the principle is bad and stuff.. and the other people that don’t really agree you know what’s going on don’t hide it.. and don’t ever be afraid to speak your mind…….. it’s shame that a school like that can’t be good school.. ya it’s one of the worst school in NYC
I almost forgot to mention.. to the former parent that posted number 34.. I agree with you.. and you did the right thing by taking your kid.. that was a very smart move of you… you see I”m not the only one that is saying the principle is very bad.. I know what your talking about because it’s happened to my child… I totally understand… and good for him or her that their in a new school.. I’m very happy for your child that is getting the help that your kid deserves.. and the service that he didn’t get from them shame on them for not giving the services kids with disabilities deserve the extra help and they shouldn’t say I’ll give you the help when they know their lying.. it’s a shame it really is… because my kid was miserable over there in TCS.. but my kid is no longer there no more.. my kid wants to get help somewhere else… and I’m sorry it had to happen to your kid and to everybody else that had to go through it.. and yes your right if something bad is going on in school or anywhere they should definitely most certainly come to a grown up anybody that is guardian over them.. so these type of problems or more severe depending on how bad the situation can be taken care of.. you did the right thing by taking your kid out of there.. and your right there are other schools but you really have to look… I wish they would build more private special schools for these kids that need it.. you have alot of kids with all types of diabilities and they need all the help that they can get and beyond… I’m happy your kid out and it’s great to hear that your kid is getting the help that your child deserves and respect as well and good luck to you and future
one more thing and I feel very bad for the parents that had to put with the principle and the things that she would do to each and everyone of your kids… to the ones that know that maari is bad and that their children had to suffer.. well good luck everyone
The number of comments related to TCS/LHS is quite striking when you look at how few comments there are for all of the other schools in NY on this website.
There is a very real, concrete and identifiable “thread” that connects the many negative comments. That “thread” is the Director, Maari de Souza. Maari was a pioneer in her time, 25 or so years ago when she started the school, and there is no doubt that she is a very bright and determined person. Unfortunately, she is also a very disturbed and insecure person who capitalizes on her position aned the vulnerability of others (students, staff, students, parents, students, Board Members, students etc.) to her advantage. Differences of opinion are intolerable to her and she administers utilizing fear as her main “tool”.
There have been (and are) many talented professional and non-professional support staff in the school. At this point in time I firmly believe that the gifted staff who are there will not be there for long (turnover is an issue in any school but……at TCS/LHS I believe it is a much more significant issue) and that many of those who were there, left as a result of being treated in a disrespectful, degrading and condescending manner.
It is unfortunate but it seems that she “reigns” as if without accountability. The Board of Directors has a real and significant responsibility to the present and future students and they do not appear to have intervened in any significant manner. “Exit Interviews” of departing staff are a standard in schools that are committed to quality service. The “Board” should be conducting them, at the very least interviewing staff that have remained at least 1 year. They should be confidential and held after letters of recommendation have been provided to the staff person, as fear of getting a good reference can impact on honest feedback.
The school needs to go on, especially given how few options exist for students with these types of learning challenges. But……Maari’s “style” and behavior are common enough knowledge at this point in time for there to be a clear recognition that someone else needs to take the helm. An educator and administrator who welcomes constructive input and ideas, rather than being threatened by them, is badly needed. Micromanaging a school of this size is not the way to administer. People have to be trusted and have clear decision-making guidelines and authority.
Unfortunately, Maari’s “style” in her position as Director sets the tone and example for the staff. Negative approaches may yield what she may view as quick “solutions” but the students, staff memebrs and parent body deserve a leader who can lead effectively by their positive, honest and supportive example.
I am hopeful that this may one day be the case but I do not think it can happen with Maari having any significant role in the school.
The only thing we can do is communicate to those who need to hear and….hope!
Thanks for a coherent, well written comment Present Parent.
you see there are alot of bad comments about Maari but it’s because of what these people have experienced with her and her actions… But it’s sad.. and the sad part about it that My kid had to face it and had a hard time dealing with it. So what these people are talking and saying not nice things it’s because of what their kids faced and tolerated.. Look your right in the respect that somebody else needs to take the helm your right because Maari is just doing a p oor job.. and yes I totally understand of what your saying but what my point is yes even if she is insecure and stuff the problem is that even though she may or may not be secure she shouldn’t be aloud to treat people this way because people have real feelings..and well the reason why that person posted a comment the one staff member that was there for only one year the reson it was written the way it was written because they were asked by the the school to not discuss any problems or anything like that with other people… In a year you can experinece a lot but they won’t talk bad about the school because if they do well than they get into trouble with the boss.. and I wish the higher up authority will proceed and do something but than again who knows.. I am speaking from experience and something should really be done about the principle and she is not in right mind sorry to say.. Hey I wish this school was a better school but it’s not a good school.. We need a miracle in plain english will all do respect.. but her style behavior is not common because only a bad person as evil as she is does not have the right to attack people verbally nor scare the living delights out of somebody it’ horrible.. and I’m sorry but I speak the truth.. and nobody is lying about what they are saying it’s all truth.. How can she handle anything the school is run like it was a military.. look mother to mother good luck to you.. and I wish the school does change..but not if she is going to continue to be there… Maari has faults and if she is that insecure than she needs help if that is the case I really don’t know.. BUt everything you have said in your comment posted I respect your opinions… but my kid is no longer there do the principle and her behavior and my child wasn’t getting help so she left…
former parent of TCS/LHS
and have one more thing to add to what I am trying to say you have no doubt she is bright she is not bright because if she was she would know how to run the school properly that’s no excuse and you also said that she is determined please in what making people’s lives a living hell… she is determined to give people nothing but misery… and if she does use fear as a tool well she should be using her brain and heart and they should all be in the right place which is clearly not the case… let’s face it the woman is a very deceiving, coneiving, uptwisted very evil monster with all do respect…
former parent TCS/LHS
I already wrote a post above, although after reading the continued posts (and how intersting that there are SO many) I would just like to add a few comments.
First is about the students who said Maari called them “gay” and “dumb witted chimps”. I recall that those are the “kinder” phrases that Maari often used, and those are absolutely true (I’ve heard her say them myself). I’ve seen behavior and verbal words used that is horrifying toward students (and staff members for that matter) and #36, the Board KNOWS what she is like, although they would NEVER even TRY to meet with the staff, Maari would NEVER allow it and they have been asked in the past to meet with certain staff, and never replied.
Actually, let’s discuss the board. The head (Mr. P) is a wonderful person, wise executive whose daughter used to attend TCS in the early years. Poor guy, he’s too nice for Maari. I definitely KNOW that Mr. P has heard from staff members (present and former) about Maari’s behavior and treatment of not only students, but the abusive treatment of her staff. I’m sure at times he regrets being in that position, and it’s probably more often than less. Another person on the board is Maari’s boyfriend and live-in for over 20 someodd years (Mr K). How is it that you can sleep with a man on the Board of the school you are director of? That’s just so unethical, and needless to say, a coflict of interest! Of course, I think he uses their country house address as his address for “adademic” correspondence, but they both live right near the school, on Main Street on Roosevelt Island. I’ve heard some dusey stories about those 2, and so I really don’t see him “speaking up” against her, after all….he has to live with her! Then there is Ms. F, whose child is a student. This student is one of the students that can thrive and survive at TCS/LH, he has limited disabilities and does well. I’m truthfully unsure of why she would even agree to serve on the Board of Directors, except that she’s extremely busy and has more of a “hands off” situation due to her own occupation. I don’t believe she has had many “encounters” of the severe kind with Maari. Then there is Mr. H, whose child is one of those kids who has struggled in TCS. His parents have worked hard being involved at the school, so that their child would continue to have a seat- because the child’s been on the “get rid of” list multiple times. (Actually, I can’t even understand why they would even KEEP him at the school, due to past encounters with Maari). If anyone on that board has the ability of helping and bringing about change in the school, it’s him. He’s a mover-shaker and truthfully, he’s got to know about the abusive ways of Maari, I’m SURE his kid has gone home and “talked”. I hope that there is someone on that Board who is willing to get their head out of the sand and stand up for those kids at that school- they are GREAT kids, worthy of kind and respectful treatment (something Maari forces the kids to do, just doesn’t follow herself). The Board should also consider all the marvelous staff they have, and be disappointed about the ones they have lost, and realize there are more who are currently looking for other places to work, and will be gone in a nanosecond, given another job offer! When will they stand up and not allow all the unethical treatment to students and staff members? How long will this go on? Who really CARES about these kids? This IS supposed to be a school after all…. not a prison with Warden Maari! They have PETA for the ethical treatment of animals, maybe they should start PETSS: People for the Ethical Treatment of Students and Staff Members!
Oh, and one last thing #36, here’s a bit of information for anyone out there who wants to be a detective, I’m not sure it’s true (it’s one of those stories that are passed around with no concrete evidence), although I wouldn’t be surprised AT ALL if it is true:
The story begins when the school started, it was started by a woman with a PhD. and Maari. If you look at Maari’s background, it’s in daycare and El. Ed. Her (supposed) degrees are from other countries (and she DOESN’T have any certificates or diplomas hanging on her walls- and wouldn’t a egotistical person like her have them displayed for all to see?)except the “so called” PhD. degree from NYU (which, by the way, on 33rd street all the information material we sent out to perspective parents said she was “pursuing” this degree, somehow now that we moved to RI she has attained it-and none of us were invited to her graduation!). Anyway, the story continues that these 2 people (Maari and this woman with the PhD.) came to the point of inability of working together (does this surprise you?), and so the woman left and Maari just kind of “assumed” this persons title as director. I would challenge anyone to really go in search of documentation about the degrees that Maari actually has. I doubt there were “regulations” on directors and academic people when Maari started TCS so long ago, but now I know that you have to have special training and certification to run a school, and I can tell you for sure… THAT she doesn’t have. I’d actually be EXTREMELY surprised to even see that she even has her Master’s Degree. I just can picture her as one of those “fake” people who function like a certified person when in reality she’s got nothing as far as education behind her. Maybe THAT’S why she treats the students and staff in the inhumane way she does, she’s never taken classes for the ethical treatment of people!
My child has made major educational milestones over the years in the Child School. There are a number of dedicated staff members who truly care about the student body.
Unfortunately, the major stumbling block for this important educational institution is the director of the school, Maari. She has over the years attempted to micro-manage the staff, parent and student body. My child as well as others students have told me of her inappropriate comments to students that could easily be labeled as racist, sexist or homophobic. In addition, there has been a constant turnover of staff members resigning from the school. This has put the student population at risk of learning when the educational instructors leave unannounced.
I have been deeply concerned about my child’s happiness and welfare, but given the school choices in New York for students with LD, we have encouraged our child to stay until our child can graduate from the high school. This has been a difficult task for my child. Each day my child has come home with yet another story about the director.
I have thought on numerous occasions to report her to city and state agencies but I do not want my child to suffer retributions from this sometimes-irrational director. I however am waiting until my child leaves the child then I will definitely report the director.
If you can find another appropriate school, DO NOT SEND YOUR CHILD TO THE CHILD SCHOOL/LEGACY HIGH!!! BEWARE!!!!
to former staff member that posted #38 I totally agree to what you said.. that is very interesting of what you said.. well your probably right.. she knows nothing about how to treat staff nor students it’s really a shame… and your right of everything you said… and the reason why maari doesn’t want the staff or anybody else related to the school to meet with the board of directors of high up well because she afraid of losing her position.. and well your right she is fony.. I mean anybody with the right education in the field for principle should know how to handle the responseability which clearly she doesn’t have.. and hopefully something should be done but than again what goes around comes around.. but you see to do a documation on maari I wouldn’t know where to look on her website the child school all you see is wonderful stuff but it’s just to make her look good… hey she is evil and I’m glad you agree of how bad she is.. all this information I hope the board is looking at it right know as I typing to your reply and let them see how bad she really is , I’m sure they know but the more they see and read the more they are gonna want to urge themselves to push to do some kinid of undercover investigation. Because if their was any kind of investigation and they came up to school well Maari isn’t going to act like her usual self infront of them.. and you also have some people in that school that are on Maari’s right handed people unfortunetely no names mentioned those people are very bad and are kiss ups to maari they tell maari every little thing about what’s going on.. and that’s not good because that’s how problems start.. but it’s just to make them look good and to be loyal to maari.. but it’s wrong because they shouldn’t do that and they should not tell things to maari that are going to hurt innocent people for no reason just because they want a rise or so or what ever the reason is.. and yes it’s a shame that people have quit the good ones.. I just wish we can get rid of the bad apples they’re too… thanks for sharing… former parent my kid use to go there what a night mare, what hell was there , caos…!!!!!!!!
all the comments that I have posted are all very true my kid has experienced very true and also I have seen it as well… and faced it because it’s true.. to let everybody know including the owner of this website that we are using to network to other people to communicate too…….. This is all reality not lies………..
Richard,
I wanted to ask what role you play in regard to these comments? Do you have any other suggestions for communicating concerns regarding the Director of TCS/LHS?
Thank you
My opinion on this school cannot be given properly for I have not remembered a day where I was in a different school.
This school lacks a proper art and music department for High School. A half-year course and that is it. This caused a student to feel depressed at multiple occasions and I am not surprised. There is potential to introduce newer and helpful electives but obviously nothing is being done. Student Assistant class isn’t as educational as anyone thinks.
Another problem is the unusual rules, which contradict the usefulness of other things such as bulliten boards. Did you know that a student cannot remain in the hallway unless transitioning, where the student must directly go to class? It goes directly against the board of student works, which is meant to be read by students.
Of course, this isn’t entirely the schools fault, for the students have “ruined it” for the others. For example, the bathroom. The bathroom is a home for gossip, temporary vandalism, cellphone conversations, cheating, and other things that go against the school rules. Actually, The Wire, which is a voluntary activity where students stuff news papers for Roosevelt Island and deliver them (a long and tedious job which holds students responsible for the homeworks they do), included students who ruined future volunteers of a generous offer of food from Trellis. After intentionally ordering expensive foods, Legacy High School no longer is allowed to have food from Trellis.
Students, although as a whole can be enjoyable to hang around with (as the current class of 11A seems to be), can also show themselves as rowdy. Gang-like students are abundant in the Patterson House and when joined with those in the Island House, form cliques that belittle or deny other groups, destroying the togetherness this school attempts to build. Problems and hate come from little things like seats and typing on a keyboard that it is no wonder we have not seen a fight break out on occasion.
To cut this short, the rules have become ridiculous, the school lacks a proper art department, the ghetto students make this environment repulsive to some, and some students force the school to be this way for others. Did you know that the ones who ruin it seem to relish in the others disappointment, only to deny having taken any part in the situation?
Well said, Current Student. You sound like a thoughtful, intuitive person and I commend you for your thougtful, well-written response. I agree with you about the rules — over the years, they have become more and more ridiculous, and they have such little effect! That’s the irony of the situation. Like the “punishment” of sitting outside Maari’s office all day long, missing classes. Like the “punishment” of being suspended, out of school, for three to five days. That’s just welcome goof-off time for some. Meanwhile, these bad apples continue to “ruin it” , as you said, for others. You sound like an intelligent, motivated, caring student. Best of luck to you in the future.
I agree with you former parent and present student. well written is definitely for sure.. I hate the rules because it’s so utterly ridiculus for the good students because we the good students suffer because maari thinks that if one bad apple does something wrong we all have to take the punishment come on that’s so stupid. and one more thing the rules should only apply to the bad apples.. I know the stupidity that is going on in this school environment because I went through it.. but I’m glad I’ve graduated and no longer there… and maari of course has her favorites and if one of her favorites does something wrong well they just get yelled at but if one of her other students does something wrong well they get it worse… and I have lived to see it and experienced it as well… no names mentioned because it’s not confidential. but the director of the school is not fair and is very unreasonable. we need somebody to run the school better. and I have experienced alot and have been in that school for sometime.
First of all, I want to start by saying that I have my doubts that most people who post as a “parent” or “staff member” are really who they claim to be because of numerous grammatical/spelling errors (not to say that I won’t make any myself).
Now, my opinion of the school: I have been attended since 1st grade and, in my parent’s opinion anyway, it was a godsend for me. Although, I happen to be high-functioning so maybe I was just one of the lucky ones. For years, I didn’t want to leave.
And then I got to High School.
I know that HS is that period of your life where EVERYTHING falls apart, but this was different. My best friend goes to LaGuardia High School and has an immense workload but she’s also learning what she wants to learn (art and the Japanese language). I, on the other hand, get a much more managable workload, but the academics are UNBELIEVABLY limited. Once you get to 10th grade, there are no more art programs. Period. UNLESS you’re in the established-last-year chorus or band, both of which take place during school hours and cut into other academic periods. I have literally cried several times in dispair that I will not be accepted into an art college because of these limitations.
The social atmosphere has also been a change. Never before have the classes been so isolated, even more so are the two separate High School programs (Regents and RCT) which are in different buildings and do virtually nothing together. The classes are only mixed up during elective, after lunch, and during gym (which we only have 2-3 times a week) and even those are very limited. Lunch takes two different periods, one with just 9th and 10th grade and one with just 11th and 12th grade. This is sad because I have several very good friends in 11th grade who I only see in the hallways and after school. Electives are not available to 9th grade, and gym consists only of 2 classes in one grade. Considering that we spend 7 hours each day, 5 days a week with the EXACT SAME SMALL AMOUNT of people, it doesn’t exactly build the community feelings that Maari probably expects us to develop. Quite the opposite. This year, I have become so intollerant of my classmates that I have lashed out at my entire class out of rage on, I’m pretty sure, more than one occasion. It’s reached the extent that I’m even starting to hate my friends. Our class also has several “problems kids” that the teachers barely deal with. It’s the same punishment every time: if they bother the teacher enough, they get sent out of the room. And they never learn. One such student has been at the school for about 5 years and I really don’t think has shown any improvement since he arrived. What’s worse is that he SOMEHOW wound up in the top 10th grade class and, escencially, prevents the rest of the class from learning on multiple occasions. The school probably hasn’t expelled him yet because he’s a particularly problematic case and Maari doesn’t want it to look like she’s “giving up on him”.
The staff turn-over rate this year has been mind-blowingly high and the remaining staff always seem to have the same excuse: family problems. This is becoming an increasingly unbelievable excuse and is feeling more like a parent telling their child that they “just sent Rover to a farm and he’s very happy there”. I think only one of the…what is it, 5? 6? teachers we’ve lost this year had a formal sending-off (which included him telling us, BEFORE HE LEFT, what school he was transfering to).
And then there’s the issue of Maari. I see her as a woman with two faces. On one, she loves all the students at the school. On the other, she is quite the dictator. Nearly every suggestion that the Student Council has sent her way has been shot down (I really think that the SC exists just to give the students the illusion that they can make a difference in the school). Also, to put it quite simply, she is a technophobe. She once confiscated a student’s laser-light keychain because “it could burn someone’s skin off”. She also refuses to use the internet. She lets everyone else deal with the tech stuff. Oh yeah, we also have no internet access in the classrooms and the library was only recently opened (actually, it isn’t quite finished either).
I think the bottom line is this: IF you are a parent who can put up with Maari’s “my way or the highway” attitude, then you probably stand a chance. If not, find another school. Also, ONLY enroll in Legacy High School if your child has been going to TCS for a while. If you’re thinking of enrolling them fresh into the High School program for academic purposes as opposed to disability-related purposes, DO NOT SEND YOUR CHILD TO LEGACY. There are TONS of better academic environments in New York. If you have a 5-14 year old with learning disabilities, give TCS a try. In the long run, it turns out different results for different people.
I’m watching from the sidelines. I know nothing about the school except from these comments so I can’t comment on the school, just on your comments.
I run this web site and can do what I feel is best with any comment thread including edit, delete, or close entirely. I’ve talked with many people about this and other threads that are borderline libelous and at least for the time being, I’ve decided to let these go on. But, I’m watching and read every comment posted here and it’s getting quite tiring.
Here is a warning for those commenting here:
1. I don’t like the names some of you are using “current student,” “current parent,” etc. I have no way of checking your status and I’d prefer that if you are going to write comments that are as strong and judgmental as some of you are writing, you come out of the closet and use your real names.
2. Let’s not continue to make comments just to add fuel to the fire. We’ve already established that the director of this school and the school’s structure may be problematic for some but not for all. We know that, please don’t restate it.
3. Read the entire comment string before commenting. The redundancy from lack of reading in this thread is startling, including from those of you who say you are parents (I realize that these comments may not be from parents). We are not trying to vote with comments here.
Thoughtful parents will go and check out the school and meet the director and make up their own minds, taking the most thoughtful of these comments into account.
4. Keep your comments short. I appreciate the time you’re putting in on writing these comments and many of them are considered, but edit for brevity and clarity so that others read your comments and get your point.
I’m going to now start filtering this thread more aggressively and will delete comments that don’t meet the criteria I just spelled out:
* Read the comment thread before posting
* Use your real name
* Keep it short
* Edit your comments for clarity and brevity
If you can’t meet these criteria please don’t comment here.
Thanks.
Without the cloak of anonymity, current parents and current students will most likely be reluctant to reveal themselves, as there is strong probability of repercussions from the director. The school is indeed reading this thread and I know from experience that there are consequences for speaking up. At the very least, the child will be put on probation for months and will become a very closely watched train. In our case, this made a bad situation worse and is why we are no longer there.
I’ve welcomed the opportunity to express my discontent with the school, and, so as not to restate that discontent, this will be my last post on the subject.
Explanation follows: Are you saying that your earlier comments in this thread were read by the school and your child suffered consequences for it and you were forced to switch to another school because of that?
If you’re willing to post again (how about the same assumed name) I’d like to know if this is in fact that case. If it is the case, how can you be sure? What proof do you have that this happened.
Thanks.
I am concerned for my status as a student and how my image will look upon the staff if my identity was used (even if it isn’t me). It may seem cowardly or inappropriate (or even unnecessary), but the weight that is placed onto my shoulders after doing something like this might be too much in the end. I do not want to deal with pressure when I am so close to leaving the school.
Sincerest apologies, but I cannot disclose my name (yet). But I have indeed watched this school’s progress. Raise the Roof, the basement/auditorium/lunch room going under construction. There was even a contest to submit your drawings of the new school building back in the late 1990s.
Unfortunately Richard I have to agree with the concerns expressed by “Explaination Follows”. Direct feedback from former staff members and former parents (and my own experience and interactions with Maari over a number of years) confirm that retribution is a very real fear and probability. I believe that the only truly “safe” time to identify oneself is when your child has graduated or is no longer attending the school. A “disturbed” person is cause for worry and a bright, disturbed person even more so. I will gladly identify myself when I can.
I’d like to weigh in here. I’ve read through and followed this Child School thread for quite a while. I’m not sure if this school is markedly worse than some other controversial schools I’ve known, or not (and believe me I’ve known a few). In fact even after all the postings of the various reported negatives, I know very little of this school. Like others who’ve posted, I couldn’t begin to confirm the accuracy of the posts. I must say however that they are compelling to me for two reasons. One’s the obvious; but for me the equally compelling question I have is why are so many of the “current folks” still there? I ask this with all due respect and ignorance of the facts.
Is it me or does it seem unfathomable that folks would stay at such a school if they feel so very mistreated? Faculty and families alike, why do people stay?
I understand that some may take longer to make moves but again if things are so bad….
Are jobs that hard to come by? Are the school alternatives so poor that families remain? What is it that has a hold on you who have such strong opinions? Are some students enrolled by the district with the parents feeling little wiggle room as far as alternatives go?
If it were me I’d bring my concerns to the board. If they turn a deaf ear I’d find another place for my kid or find another place to work.
What am I missing?
Sorry for the confusion. My son was not put on probation for speaking up on this thread, but for speaking up within the school, because he made the mistake of believing the director’s misleading message of “my door is always open, come in and talk to me if you have a concern.” For that, he was put on probation and we weren’t told until the end of the school year if he would be “allowed” to stay. Permission was granted that he continue, but my son lost a great deal of faith, trust and enthusiasm for the school in the process. He was not forced to leave, but it wasn’t the same for him after the probation incident. That’s why he left. I’m sorry I didn’t make myself clear in my previous post, Richard, and apologize for the confusion.
Richard, Explanation follows has hit the nail on the head- it’s the retribution that everyone is afraid of- and Maari’s can be vicious, although I would like to answer Mr. Shapiro. Mr. Shapiro, you have to understand, working at TCS for someone who has come out of the Board of Education is “for a while” “heaven”. The class sizes are small, the students behavior is “very” controlled and it’s a “safe” environment. Yes, the Director micromanages the staff and can mistreat them, but some are just willing to tolerate the “perks” of being in a small school, rather than the hardships. Eventually, however, the staff get to the point where they start to realize that even the “perks” aren’t worth staying for- they are underpaid, don’t get increased pay for summer school, have a horrible health plan which was “chosen” for them, don’t have dental coverage, don’t have a good pension plan, etc., etc., etc. Thus the high turnover rate- some forced, many voluntary! Many times the staff don’t even “give notice” because they don’t want to “deal” with her, so they fax in their resignation letters, that’s how screwed up things are there!
As to why the families remain- have you any idea how many children looking for placement with Nickerson letters there are in NYC? Funded schools receive so many IEP packets on a weekly basis, people would pay anything to get their children a seat, in ANY kind of school, even TCS. However, it’s not apparent until you are “in” about these issues and problems with the Director. She puts on a good front, says all the right things and parents are “awed” by her. On the outside things look “marvelous”, “Well controlled” and “amazing”, it’s once you are inside you see all the “cracks”"flaws” and “problems”. Some parents stand up to her and question the MANY issues (like their kids not getting services). If someone does (if they get a reply from the school about the issue that is- calls and letters are HEAVILY screened and MANY not responded to) get to meet with her, they must just be prepared for her. If she gets riled, she can be demeaning, obnoxious, and totally rude to parents who stand their ground and refuse to take her nonsense. Once she has a kid in her school- she feels she’s the “owner” of the kid till he/she graduates- not the parents. I think for many parents it’s just overwhelming for them to think about finding another school, and so they let these things slide. However, for those that do move their children on, they feel it’s the best decision they ever made and wish they had done it long before. What I don’t understand is how some parents allow her to be mean and abusive to their kids- now those parents should be held responsible for their actions! However, if your child isn’t on her “radar” and doesn’t cause trouble- you can easily just do what she wants and “slide” till graduation!
Mr. Shapiro, it’s not like parents (or staff members) haven’t gone to the board, or to the Board of Ed. for that matter. Do you know what some have heard from the BOE? That there are few schools available, so there is not much that they can do- they NEED the school! What do you do when you hit so many brick walls? You give up- and that’s what most have done. Although… I have a feeling there are a few determined people looming on the horizon that will not allow these things to continue- who are determined to make a difference- all for the students sake!
We had a Nickerson letter. No room in any appropriate programs. All schools on maximum overload. This school had an opening. Now we know why. Private special ed schools in NYC run over $40,000 a year in tuition.
Is that a reasonable option for most? Is having to move by September a reasonable option? If you refuse a spot at The Child School, is home-schooling for two hours a day a realistic option? These are the alternatives to The Child School. This is why many stay. And why the BOE tolerates the school. The Board knows all about this school, Sanford, and basically told us that if we can’t stand the heat, get out of the kitchen, and pursue legal counsel. Staying was not an option, as we were on the “radar,” so that is exactly what we did.
It’s always tricky when asking any public school district for funding of a private education; and there are some strings that may be attached.
Do you have the list of approved schools?
Am I to understand that since you were feeling scutizinized (”on the radar”) that you left? Where did you go?
My reason for staying in this school (though I hope to move) is because I cannot find another school out there that I can transfer to. It’s not that I like the “Mistreatment”, but I bite my bullet and hope for the best in other students not getting enrolled.
I find the problems that the posters here have quite true. The extra things that you would hope for like art or music is only a rumor once you get into 10th grade. From there nothing else comes up. There is a strange way of how the Student Council works (and the way it does is that it doesn’t). The art supplies thing is simply a rumor that goes about the school (started since when I came by back at 1997). The pay is something that I only hear is not up to par with the other schools.
Honestly, I don’t care as much about “Getting into the heat”, because I don’t “fear” or “worry” about getting moved. It might actually be somewhat of a godsend, as I have wanted to move to a different school since things have been looking ugly since March.
Let me just say, this school isn’t recommended if you want to enter High School. Though the teachers are doing a mighty fine job (especially at discipline), there are other things that you would rather not have your child face (the “Jocks” are one example, where they have a strange tolerate/hate feeling to “Unpopular” students).
You have been warned.
Sanford — re finding another approved school in NYC, because it was mid-sophomore year when we approached other schools,and we were interested in him starting as a junior, five different approved schools said they would not take a student at junior year level. He was “too old”. This from approved schools where on the web site it says students can attend through age 21. We had the funding in hand, but no approved school would even let us in to look at the program. He was accepted at the last minute by a private special ed school in NYC not on the approved list, and we are seeking funding.
I’m no expert in these mediation type situations but when the schools on the approved list can’t/don’t work out, then it seems to me a district has an obligation to go to schools that are not necessarily on the approved list. That, sometimes is a good thing.
This school(the high school) caters perfectly to kids who had slight “disabilities” in younger grades, because it is NOT run like a special ed school. But it doesn’t help kids who have real disabilities that they cannot control, alough you do have to give them points for trying.
Yes, Sanford, that’s what happens. The tricky part is that most private schools not on the approved list want their $40Kplus tuition paid before the child attends the school. Then the wait for reimbursement settlement begins, usually taking over a year, at which point you already have had to pay the next 40K. In the course of one calendar year, we have had to front $80K. Is the BOE in any hurry to reimburse us??? Hah.
That’s the way it is for some schools even with approved lists. Sometimes with some districts in California, the receiving school and the paying district have a MOU (memo of understanding) and agree on terms. They (district) then pay the monthly fees but it’s the parents who have ultimate financial responsibility should there be any type of glitch. I’ve known parents who choose to make all sorts of sacrifices/take out all manner of loans in order to make these things happen.
It seems harsh but when I think about the types of loans people will take out on new cars without blinking an eye, it puts it into a different perspective for me. I don’t mean to suggest that any of this is easy. The cost of running an independent school is staggering as well. Insurance costs alone would shock you.
It’s not easy…but it’s the only thing to do. Thanks for your encouraging words.
This School is horrible.. There is no privacy at all!! the teachers follow you to the bathroom for gods sake.. Maari has “babied” the students and has done a terrible job of preparing them for the outside world..
Maari has made me strip down almost half naked because my under shirt was hanging a little low.. I attempted to ask her if i can change in the bathroom and she denied my request and made me strip n take my shirt off in front of her.. There was also an incident in which she tried to send me home during a home basketball game and forced me to change in front of her…
The former two students are current Legacy high school students, with adult physique, over six feet tall.
Accompanying students of this age and size, students who if you passed on the street you would assume were men, to and from the bathroom and stripping them down to their underclothes in front of a female director…yes, unfortunately, this is how “discipline” is reinforced here. Dorian, your mother needs to write a letter to the Board of Education and tell them about this.
A very uncomfortable thought, but #69 is right with the students listed (though it’s a shame their names are revealed like this). As for the situations, I cannot say whether or not they are true. Though judging from a punishment, I wouldn’t be surprised.
I know I might be adding to the redundancy that this thread is hoped not to keep up, but the reason why I am not surprised at Dorian’s comment is because I can recall clearly the various things that occurred during elementary. After one incident (which I forgot what I have done), I ended up in my underwear in the “office” (the name for, well, Maari’s office). While waiting, I received the pizza from a party my class was throwing (which was my main concern of what I would miss at the time). I also remember having my shoes temporarily disposed of, though I don’t recall it being on the same day or not.
I know I am putting myself way too out there, which might question if I really am part of this school or if I am telling the truth, but I am known well enough throughout the school by students and I can’t lie about something serious.
Hi. Current Student 2 here. I’m only using my first name because it’s an internet safety precaution of mine to never reveal my last name. Although, everyone from the school reading this will know who I am.
My reason for staying at the school could be called “stupid” by some, but part of it is that I feel that I have a moral obligation to stay until graduation because of everything the school has done for me in the past. Yes, homeschooling is very much a possible alternative for me along with just finding another school, seeing as my mom majored in Education and homeschooled me for most of Kindergarten. Heck, she could’ve gotten me all the way to college level by homeschooling alone (I actually know some people who did that and had Associate’s degrees from SUNY by the time they were about my age) but she and dad sent me to this school because I needed the social experience. And that’s what I got.
That’s not the only reason, though. The small classes and workload feel like a godsend compared to the horror stories I’ve heard from friends who go to other schools.
HOWEVER.
This does not mean that the school has my complete and utter devotion in this matter. Actually, I am somewhat torn. We’ll see what happens. The school year is almost over after all…
Okay. Time for a rebuttal.
First of all, I hope everyone who reads this thread realizes that people are always louder and more aggressive when complaining than they are when they are satisfied. Not to make light of anyone’s complaints but this thread has become rather one-sided.
THIS SCHOOL IS NOT PERFECT, BUT I’VE YET TO SEE ONE THAT IS!
I just want to make a few quick points that will shine a light on what the school has to offer:
SAFETY: this school is the safest school I have ever been in. Many of the students we service have had terrible experiences in their former schools. The fact that many of our students have social/emotional or learning disabilities make them easy targets for bullies. We do as much as is humanely possible to make sure these students feel completely safe and secure during the school day. We do this through consistent supervision. Sometimes this alone is enough to help a kid become less anxious and more focused during lessons.
ACADEMICS/SOCIALIZATION: The Regents program this year is graduating 100% of our Seniors with a Regents Degree. This includes students with substantial learning difficulties. Through modified pacing and scheduling we are able to give students extra help in the subjects that they are deficient in. One of our weaknesses is in challenging the atypical extremely high functioning student, while modifying the pace for the LD kids. We are working on a program for next year to challenge those students, but still for the majority of our students the goal is simply to EARN a Regents Diploma.
Socialization: as I stated before, many times the safety of our school limits social issues. Students who used to dread coming to school are not only relieved by the security they are psyched by the fact that there are so many kids that can relate to their experiences. I can’t tell you how many parents have expressed their amazement that their child finally has friends.
MAARI: okay, now for the Million Dollar question: What’s up with Maari?
First of all, There are NO SCHOOLS THAT ARE DEMOCRACIES! It just doesn’t work. Eventually you need a final word. There is no doubt who has the final word in our school. BUT..Maari is more approachable than many people give her credit for.
It is actually a far less political school than most public schools, in this school if you have an issue you know where to go with it.
I have had more than my share of disagreements with Maari, I have had many arguments with Maari, and I have been full on yelled at by Maari on many occasions but the difference between myself and the people who are posting attacks is that after the initial anger subsides I go and talk to Maari (or she talks to me) and we listen to what each other has to say. That way whether I agree with her or not at least we see where each other is coming from.
DISGRUNTLED STUDENTS: I’m actually just really psyched that Yannick and Dorian are writing outside of class.
You go, John.
Thanks John, I was hoping someone like you would come along and give this thread some context and another point of view.
You’re right, no school (or business or family or person) is perfect. And, no school is perfect for everyone.
Peace everyone.
Oh yeah, I know that there is no such thing as a perfect school and this school is very safe compared to others, but I am giving my warning as a 10 year student that there are some things that won’t settle down anyones stomachs, Maari or not.
Actually, I don’t have too many complaints regarding the school in the eyes of an average student who wouldn’t get in trouble. Sure there are going to be ridiculous rules, but as long as you stay out of constant trouble, not mind the strange absence of some extra-curricular things, and keep a good level with the “Cool kids”, then you’re set to deal with the school.
I’m a current student at TCS, currently in 10th grade, and I have to say that I deeply share the sentiments echoed by many of fellow students.
I agree that Maari babies us. Maari goes on and on about how she wants us to be more and more independent, and yet she doesn’t even trust with us to take a simple trip to the bathroom by ourselves. Not to mention we can’t keep our cell phones secure in our locker. Instead we give them to our teachers, where they are completely out of reach in case an emergecny.
Secondly, some of her disciplinary methods are completely unorthodox. I’ve heard stories that she’s taken away a student’s pants, that she once used the term “faggot talk” to describe the various dialogue from cartoons many kids were reenacting in schools, and she curses at the students. Having been in her office more than once I’d know.
I also think many kids are lacking the proper help that is required for them in certain subjects. I and another studnet are failing math, and we requested earlier this year to work in a smaller group with our co-teahcer (who departed a few weeks ago, the 8th this year). Our math teacher granted us this request, and we really began to improve our grades. However, when this teacher left, the math teacher made no attempt to find us someone else to take her place, so now I as well as my friend ahve to work witht he whole class, where I’m often distracted by the various interruptions and general noise of the class. I’m doing worse than ever in math, and with the Regents less than two weeks away, I’m fearing the worst, since my dad’s going to come down hard on me if I don’t pass, and it’s starting to tear at me.
I also think that the location of the school is a big problem. We are on this isolated little island with no cultural significance or leisure spots, and the people on the island don’t want us there. This is an inconvenciece for us since the Island officials, namely the Rent-A-Cops, go out of our way to inconvenience us in any possible. I wish that for one day a teacher could see the system by which we board our school buses in the afternoon. I bet they’d be taken about by how inconveniencing and unsafe it is.
There are many more issues to be dealt with, but it’s almost 2 A.M. and my mind is fried. I’ll vent more some
I wanted to respnd to John Lockwood’s comments (#72) as I have great respect for him, as I do for many of the staff at the school. I just wish I had the same respect for the Director and, quite honestly, she IS the issue. As I have said before and I will say this to John, I cannot identify myself yet because my child is still in the school, but I do wish that I could let him know right now who it is that is responding to him. There are, and continue to be, talented staff at the school. That, as well as the extreme lack of other options, is the reason that my child continues there.
John…..knowing what you know and what you have directly experienced with Maari……put yourself in the shoes of a student or a parent. Being belittled, infantilized, micromanaged and/or being referred to in a homophobic or racist manner by the Director or Principal is totally not acceptable.
Yes, there are many stressors for the head of a school….but, my experience in working with other Directors or “Heads” is totally different and…..I have had ample opportunites for experience.
Verbal and/or psychological abuse of any adult or child is unacceptable….regardless of whether you are a staff person, parent/guardian or a student. I am quite sure that you have been witness to situations involving the Director which are, at best, controversial in regard to her attitude or approach.
You and I know that the best approach to children/adolescents and students is an approach that is REALLY based on a Positive and Strength-Based strategy. You (and some other staff) may approach students in this manner BUT….in your heart of hearts, can you really say that this is Maari’s approach?…or, if she verbalizes it, that she ACTUALIES it?
John, you have my respect as a teacher, but……knowing what I know and having heard what I have heard…..the school needs a Director who is skilled and can also exemplify respect for staff, students and parents. Unfortunately….this is NOT Maari!!
Thank you, though, for your support of the students….it has been noticed and appreciated!
Anthony, though what you have stated is true for the most part, there is something that is bothering me that I have to point out.
The thing about Maari and cellphones is that she was informed of students using them in bathrooms and using them for things that aren’t school (infact, she has pointed that out multiple times). She is, in a sense, forced to do this. Though we can’t be sure the students who did this (if they still come here or not).
And for your current Math teacher not making an attempt, I have to point out that this was a hectic year, and he cannot necessarily do enough with the current staff and their schedule (as well as the sudden rate of disappearing teachers).
And as a final thought for today, I would like to ask, why is it that most of you are hiding your names? I flat out admitted my full name because there are more than enough Steve Fosters in the world. But for those who refuse to reveal your first name, you sound like you don’t want to risk getting assassinated.
I don’t mean to sound like I’m taking “Maari’s side” or anything like that, but the cellphones in the bathroom thing isn’t just something she rants about. It’s true. I’ve gone into the bathroom multiple times over the course of the year in which there was another girl on her cellphone. I won’t name names, namely because I don’t really pay attention to who it actually is.
However, making us keep our cellphones in our lockers is one thing. Having them LOCKED UP IN A DRAWER IN THE FRONT DESK is a bit much.
And here, I confess to you openly, I have not handed my cellphone in at the beginning of the day for the past 4 months. I know I will not use it in school when I’m not supposed to, so I don’t bother putting it somewhere else where I’m most likely to go off and forget it at the end of the day. Contrary to the typical teenaged-girl stereotype, my cellphone is NOT the vessel of my very existence.
Okay, about the cellphones, deal with it. I don’t like the cellphone thing either, but you are making it seem like you’re going to school at ground zero. We live on Roosevelt Island, where nothing happens. In case of an emergency, the staff will take action. Believe me, they’re not lazy.
I’ve seen them take action on an incident that has never occurred before and nobody was prepared for. The ambulance arrived quickly and friends helped the staff in contacting the parents. Parents also know not to call your cellphones as it is against the rules and your cellphone will most likely be off in the first place.
Although I do agree that having them locked up isn’t such a great idea. But not having them is nothing to complain about. Don’t mean to sound rude, but it’s something a little to trivial to complain about.
Richard,
I don’t think that you meant for this to be a blog and, consequently, I hope that when you decide you need to edit or delete that you feel comfortable leaving the comments that are consistent and are more than just “venting” without substance and consistency. Again, I believe that TCS/LHS has the potential to be a great school and option for a sizable number of students with learning disabilities and Asperger’s Syndrome (given some of the former and present staff). The only reason for it not being so at present is because of the Director. The forum you offer is important! Thank you.
Actually, the software running LD Resources is WordPress, a weblog engine but you’re right, this isn’t a typical blog. However, the fact that folks can comment and we can have social interaction here makes it blog-like. Just like in weblogs (I have one of those too) we can have trolls and guests who aren’t civil and it’s up to the publisher (me) to sort that out. This thread is problematic in that I want to give people a place to communicate but I want them to do it civilly and responsibly and I have no way to be sure which comments are from kids impersonating adults or from adults who write like kids.
In short, I’m doing my best, which may not be all that great.
Thank you.
I am a past educator of The Child School. I am taking this opportunity to make parents and other academic institutions aware of TCS and its Director- Ms. Maari DeSouza because I am very concerned about the high school students at TCS. My concerns can go on for several pages, but I’ve limited it to what I regard are the major ones:
1) IEPs – Individualized Evaluation Plans are not done correctly i.e. parents and students are not involved in the process of creating these plans for their child. A major element in the creation of any IEP is having both child and parent/s with the guidance of the teacher/s, as required by law, present to help craft a proper individualized education plan with achievable and realistic goals for their child. Also, the services listed on the IEPs are not factual such as having an OT (Occupation Therapist) or Speech Therapist amongst other necessary accommodations for the child, in the classroom during classroom hours.
2) Qualified Educators - there are unqualified teachers teaching the students. Every child has the right to receive a free appropriate public education, just like other children. In being able to obtain this, every child has the right to learn from qualified teachers who have the appropriate training and credentials to work with special needs children.
3) Discipline – students are disciplined harshly by the Director - rather than approach gently, the Director would come down on them (regardless of the offense) by giving angry and ruthless lectures, intimidating the student/s, at times embarrassing a student in front of his peers (sometimes even feeling the need to do the same to teachers in front of students and/or his colleagues). Discipline means to teach – to help children lean responsibility, cooperation, kindness and respect. When dealing with high school students one should keep in mind their age and developmental abilities, as well as their individual temperaments. Positive discipline tools such as Dr. Marvin Marshall’s approach (Discipline Without The Stress) is geared toward enforcing this methodology - disciplining the child with a constructive mode reminds him that there are choices he can make, offer solutions or alternatives, lets him know he has the ability to do the right thing, to choose the right way. Much work and effort and consistent enforcement was delivered by the staff to the students and the students understood their errors and made choices, right choices to correct it. However, when you have a Director doing the opposite, it defeats the entire purpose because her need to control is never-ending and does damage later on to the kids.
4) Independence – students are not given enough independence because the environment is excessively restrictive for their level of functioning. The law clearly states that every student should be afforded the least restrictive environment. “Learning in less restrictive environments benefits students with and without disabilities in so much as all children are likely to improve their academic performance, and increase their communication and socialization skills.” (Least Restrictive Environment Coalition)
5) Travel Training – one of the major elements the high school kids lack is travel training. This suggestion has been brought to the Director’s attention on a number of occasions and every time it has been declined without logical reasoning. Travel training can only allow these kids to travel independently to a regularly visited destination and back.
Education is fundamental to creating a strong pedestal on which understanding is based. A proper high school education should not limit or restrict students but rather gives them every opportunity to broaden their knowledge and gain positive experiences. to implement in their daily lives.
Thank you.
I have read your entire post and there are some things that caught my attention.
2) I have been in this school for 10-11 years and ever since the Regents program was introduced I have not seen, heard of, or experienced any unqualified teacher except for maybe one who has unexpectedly quit half-way through the year. As a matter of fact, during the beginning of the year it almost seemed as if the teachers were doing more learning than teaching. Learning how to accommodate the student’s needs, proper discipline, and the curriculum at the same time.
Patterson House is a mystery to me.
4) Students may complain about this but turn 11th grade the individuality level increases. I guess my grade got the short straw due to limits placed due to code of conduct rules being broken.
5) I call half-bull. Though this isn’t strongly supported, 11th and 12th graders are allowed to do voluntary service by attending The Wire, a Roosevelt Island newspaper where students are to go by themselves and stuff newspapers and deliver them.
We’ve attacked the Director enough. Anything ELSE to bring up tat is either good or bad regarding the functions of this school?
Maari has left 3 kids back for behavior.. The last time i checked that was illegal.. maybe somebody should look into that rather then everything else everybody on this site is talking about…
Every school has its dark underbelly and TCS is no exception. Despite its issues, the staff at TCS is full of very skilled, very dedicated, very effective teachers who care about their students and who pull the best out of their students. Amazing and wonderful things happen every day at TCS, despite the challenges.
Dear Legacy student,
“…left 3 kids back for behavior. The last time I checked that was illlegal..” I’m not a lawyer but as far as I know, that’s not illegal at all.
I have no interest in discussing the particulars of how someone judges Maari or how any other director deals with an individual’s discipline. I need to be respectful tol the privacy needs of all concerned.
I do think the issues you raise are really important and you raise a great question.
I’m no legal expert but here’s what I see: The governing law in this issue is IDEA. The amendments concerning special education and discipline were finalized in 1999 (if anyone knows of anything more recent let us know). Basically the law requires that schools develop “functional behavioral assessments” and “behavioral intervention plans” when dealing with significant discipline issues.
These regs are founded on two basic assumptions: 1. You have to make a good reasoned assessment to figure out the cause of the behaviors and
2. Strategies to improve behavior are more effective when based on Positive Behavioral Approaches (those promote better behavior and reduce less desireable ones before they happen).
There are two critical questions schools are guided to answer: “Is the behavior in question a reflection of the disability?” (I suppose impulsive behavior from someone with brain-based impulse control weaknesses would be an obvious example of this, such as a result of AD/HD or TBI. The other question to ask is, “Does his/her disability impair ability to control behavior or înterfere with awareness that disciplinary consequences could be expected?”
The law doesn’t and shouldn’t exclude students with disabilities from consequences or discipline. The purpose is to minimize frustration from repeating strategies that do not work.
For me, this is the issue I’d like to hear opinions on: Where do you draw lines with disabilities and expected behaviors? Given that behaviors in class definitely impact others as well as impact student performance: should students with disabilities have the same behavioral expectations as anyone else? If not, how should they differ?
I think the IDEA guidelines are fine. In fact they should apply to everyone. Thinking about why someone misbehaves, what are the antecedents, what can be tried that may head these behaviors off at the pass before they occur makes good sense. I’m concerned however with pathologizing learning disabilities to the point of encouraging a victim mentality.
When I was a school director we had lots of challenging behaviors. We accomplished so much by being thoroughly trained in a Positive Behavioral Approach to behavioral management. Part of that approach was being very clear with what behaviors were expected as well as what consequence ranges were likely. Those went a long way towards the spirit of the IDEA guidelines. More importantly it made for a more positive atmosphere.
Another point worth considering: Does retention as a practice actually produce positive results over time? I’ve not seen one study that validates this as a practice.
Sanford, I am rephrasing your question:
“Where do you draw lines with school directors of students with disabilities and expected behaviors? Given that the school director’s behavior impacts other teachers as well as students, should school directors of students with disabilities abide by the same behavorial expectations as another school director? If not, how should they differ?”
The school director in question here answers to no one, not the board of ed, not her board of directors. Her retention is guaranteed, unlike other school directors. Referring to above post #86, amazing and wonderful things did happen while my child was in the lower grades at TCS. The picture changed dramatically once he went into the high school, and the Former Staff’s post, about being concerned about the high school students at TCS, rings loud and clear.
I have been in the field of services to people with disabilities for many years and I have had multiple experiences in other “special education” schools (professionally and personally). The experience that I have had thus far at The Child School has no comparison. Every “principal” or “director” has their way of “doing things” but other “leaders” have not belittled parents, staff or students as “a method of approach” and, I think, Maari’s approach reflects someone with a serious Personality Disorder. She knows that she has no serious consequences to fear and, consequently, her behavior continues and escalates……. Any psychologist wil be able to tell you that intermittent reinforcers are the most powerful. If the Board of Directors had a serious procedure and process for assessing her they would, at the least, be able to “reign in” her inappropriate and unacceptable behavior. She would know that “someone” was going to check on her and, being the bright person that she is, would then modify her behavior or, at the very least, keep it more in check. Whether this would lead to a better long-term prognosis for TCS/LHS is questionable but, in the short term, at least the present students, staff and parent body would be spared her outrageous pomposity, condescension, humiliation and need for control.
I firmly believe that the answer lies in the Board of Directors and their oversight responsibility. Liability issues for them are just a matter of time unless they step forward and……. step IN!!!
Referring to post #88–I will clarify my statement. I was, indeed, referring to the elementary grades, as that is the only set of grades with which I have experience. I have no knowledge of the high school students or staff. My hat is off to the staff who works so hard there to do so much under such conditions. Grace under fire is a phrase that comes to mind…
I have read the entire blog on The Child School / Legacy High School and must ditto many of the negative comments. My child was student at both schools. I feel comfortable writing these comments since my child has graduated.
Although the schools have tremendous potential, the director and founder created many problems for the schools. Due to the founder/director, a significant number of staff has left. The founder/director will speak about high academic standard and yet most nights my child did not have homework. There certainly was never homework on weekends. I had to personally pay a tutor for additional instructions on writing and math projects.
Over the years, the director / founder took selective children on international trips leaving most poor children of color back in the classrooms. The founder/director and selective children stayed at 5 stars resorts. When these trips were taken, the children who remained at school had very light academic days.
The founder / director had one parent who was a supporter to write checks from the PA account. During the time that my child was there, parents never received a full accounting report of the PA expenditures… even those parents were pushed to pay significant dues. The State Department of Education should have a full investigation on how monies were spent.
I’m sure the founder/director will denied all charges but if the investigators do their job, I am confident that the founder / director would be removed.
The schools’ board of directors have not taken any action even when parents alerted them to many of the issues of the school. The domestic partner of the director/founder who works for a major cosmetics firm is on the board of directors. That in itself is a major conflict. Although the founder/director’s domestic partner has a separate address in Manhattan, he lives fulltime with the founder/director. Also, they co-own a weekend house in CT.
Although I sincerely would like the school to succeed, the school must be held accountable.
Lastly, I have been deeply disturbed by the founder/director’s inappropriate behavior regarding race, class and sexual orientation. The founder/director has on more than one occasion violated NYC and NYS human rights laws.
My response to the staff member who wrote the comments in support of the school administration, “WHAT FLAVOR WAS THE COOL-AID?” Supporting this problematic founder/director clearly shows very poor judgment.
Lastly, until the founder/director is removed or resigns, I CAN NOT in good conscience recommend these schools!
I am addressing this to John Lockwood (comment#72…..who is NOW a Former Teacher)…
John,
I have heard that you now will be working elsewhere….Can you find it in your heart (as I know that you are a good person) to honestly give feedback at this time about Maari since you are employed elsewhere?
I sincerely cannot belive that you are feeling OK about the manner in which she behaves towards staff, students and parents but……I am mature enough to be surprised.
Good Luck in your future professional opportunities…..
Present Parent (who cannot yet name themself)
Some of these comments are unsettling. I have heard the good and the bad in conversations with parents over the years. I knew when we were applying, there was contention. My advice: Apply anyway, get involved, and form your own opinions.
Years ago, when nobody else cared about and wanted my child, he was accepted into The Child School. John was his first teacher. What a blessing. Thereafter my son occasionally had bad years with some lackluster teachers and some bullying students. (I would not call it a gang). But then again, my other son,a non TCS student, experienced lackluster teachers and bullies once in awhile too, as he attended a private school. Parents at that school complained about that administration also. Maari took care of the bullying over the course of the year. Those bullying my other son belonged to prosperous parents, and I always wondered if that was a reason nobody ever intervened on my other (non attending TCS) son’s behalf. Who knows?
My TCS child went on to occasional tumultuos years and some good years too. He’s consistently approached with kindness but yes,very firmly.
Was I disappointed that some of the most dynamic teachers weren’t staying longer? Yes.
I’ve never had an issue with Maari, so what is wrong with me? I will say that I have volunteered and have showed my support of the academic efforts as much as possible, and I have gone along with their suggestions, as much as possible too. Maari and her staff seem to know I support the school.
There is always something new being tried at TCS/Legacy. This year all the grades in Legacy will be placed together, Regents mixed in with non Regents students, rather than in two separate buildings. My child doesn’t support this, now that he is in Legacy; he says kids in the other programs are bullies, and he will be picked on. I think it’s terrific that an elitism factor will be addressed. I am worried about bullying too. There is always a wrinkle. I assume Maari knows what she is doing and is prepared.
Are there issues mentioned above that should be addressed at TCS? You bet. Who has to come to the conclusion to evaluate the ongoing concerns and resolve issues? Maari and her Board of Trustees. For the rest of us, let’s try not to denigrate the entire establishment, disregarding the ongoing innovations and efforts. Maari seems to be passionate about developing and enhancing educational programs, focused on students with diverse strengths and weaknesses. Some of her students have parents who are prosperous. Some have parents who are not. They all get to go to TCS. And that ain’t bad.
As a Student Council member, I have to mention that it was Maari’s goal to bring the two buildings together (either metaphorically or physically I do not know). I, personally, do not support the idea, but it’s the only choice to bring the two buildings together as every other idea has failed (pretty much accomplishing nothing but bringing separate cliques together).
I, personally, am concerned for the status of the Student Council, as I feel it is mature enough to stand on it’s own two feet without John’s guidance. But without a teacher it might end.
I’d just like to add:
1) the Elementary school psychologist, who signs all paperwork as such, is in fact a lay psychoanalyst, that is, she specifically lacks training in psychology and specifically barred by the laws of the State of NY from either calling herself a psychologist, or treating anyone with neurological disorders including ADHD (THANK you, NYS online license verification!). Given the population of the school (very large # of students with Asperger’s and ADHD) this is not only outrageous, but indeed captures the disrespect alluded to above.Of course, said “psychologist” could lose the license she does have (for psychoanalysis only) but as she’s retirement age, it certainly doesn’t seem like much of a sanction.
2) the Parent Organization fee is $250. You will be called repeatedly about paying this, but again, there is no parent organization and absolutely no accountability. Since they do raise money for the PTT as a 501(c)3, yes, this is an investigation waiting to happen…
3) People are afraid because they are viciously threatened. Case in point: Maari’s vow that she will see that the family is investigated by CPS … because they are BAD parents. I have only heard of this threat being made to impoverished parents (reduced price or free lunch) or one’s who were not native English speakers…still, this is just sadistic. I had to explain to one family that if Maari thought she had reason to involve CPS, she was duty bound to do so, but to threaten to do so, over time and only in a pinch, was just extreme bullying and not to be taken seriously.
This could be a great school..but it needs real, professional administration. My child is wait listed at two other schools and then I’ll be able to use my name, until then, please, just “Current Parent”
My response is in regard to comment#93 by “Still Yet Another Parent”.
Your committment and involvement in the school is to be admired but, that, in and of itself, does not shield you from the capricious response of “The Director”. My own opinion is that you have been “lucky” that your child’s disability and issues of self-esteem associated with the awareness of disability and being a teenager, has not been evidenced by what is sometimes usual for teens with disabilities, acting out and projecting out as a result of feelings of low self-esteem. It sounds like your child’s self-esteem issues are directed inward, which Maari has an easier time dealing with. I would also venture to guess that your child is not a child of color. I have come to believe that THAT makes a difference as far as Maari is concerned.
Just so you know I am a parent who has been and continues to be involved. I have given time, energy and money, as you have, because I wanted to give back to the school. But my conclusion, based on my own experience, what I have heard from others and my opinion / feelings related to that, lead me to a different conclusion. The school needs to go on, but the Leadership needs to change. And…when I say “Leadership”, I mean “Maari”. There are many talented staff and many wonderful parents and students at this school. TCS/LHS needs to remain as an option to students with disabilities but not with Maari as it’s “Head”.
The lack of appropriate educational options is definitely a component for us all and I would venture, even for you (”Still Yet Another Parent”).
Until there is a “change” all each of us can do is to hope that it is not “our child” who Maari decides to focus on. Let’s keep our fingers crossed, because you and I know that her inappropriate and condescending behavior towards students and staff can be directed to ANYONE and ANYTIME!
THIS COMMENT IS ABOUT THE PREVIOUS PARAGRAPH!
You guys make it seem like Maari targets a child and starts firing ammunition in hopes to eliminate any hope of survival. If I added onto that impression, then I take fault in it too. But we have got some things to clear out here first.
Regardless of what you think, Maari is human. Until science proves that we are actually animals and everything we have learned is incorrect, Maari is human. That includes the faults that come with every biologically formed biped that can speak a complex language and clothe themselves (except for those who refuse to act their human part or have limited abilities that prevent them from fitting into the social ‘norm’, if there is any).
That means that Maari can and will make mistakes and her actions will look silly/crazy to some but make sense to others. I do not want to take sides, because so far I seem to have taken two polar opposites in a way. Disregard any comment I might have said before that made me sound like I said everything she did was for the sole purpose of being cruel.
Though I might not be sure about that. But who in this world can?
THIS COMMENT IS ABOUT THE LACK OF APPROPRIATE EDUCATIONAL OPTIONS (comment 96)!
I don’t have much to say about this except that I do find the options lacking in comparison to the other high schools that I have heard about. There is a new idea being brought about which I would title “Wacky Wednesday” though it kills me inside to utter such a title. It introduces a new refreshing start to the Wednesday hump day by throwing in mostly extra classes that satisfy the interests of groups who share a certain career in mind. Though what bothers me is that there are still a couple of students who would rather have different variations of academical classes they will already be receiving along with their Wednesday, or so I think. But this I strongly believe will happen regardless, as I have studied the pattern of the school and how they go about their new plans. And I hardly seen the school throw away a whole day for the sake of uncredited education.
All in all, I have to say (in this department for now) that this school’s educational options are growing and shrinking rapidly. You can say that this school lacks appropriate options, but from my experience, that is a wavering statement.
Of course Maari is human. I for one would never imply that she isn’t — indeed, I think the one hope that the school has is to let her leave (for help) before the outrage and sanctions that are going to be coming descend and destroy the school entirely (shut down) — TOO, too many laws have been and are being broken, too many parents know and it is a matter of time only before she and the school find themselves in the midst of scandal. As in, where is the oversight for these non-public publicly funded schools? or, “phony shrink bills state for counseling that she can’t legally provide” etc. etc. The lay psychoanalyst misrepresenting herself and Maari and the staff and administration of the Child School colluding in misreprenting her as the “school psychologist” when this is just illegal is outrageous for a population of kids with Asperger’s and ADHD. All of you know that there are serious violations going on, and Maari — and the Board of directors who do have liablity here — are hiding behind the children AS HUMAN SHIELDS. Personally, I’ve been advised that my efforts to transfer my child (waitlisted as I said) were “a good idea” as the school may not be on the funded list beyond the next year or two — because the violations are just too flagrant. Too blatant were the words. How many kids will suffer then, because of the mismanagement and mal-administration? Then there are the WTF were they thinking aspects — eg, taking the very competant elementary speech therapist, taking him OUT of speech therapy (and ST coming to a grinding halt for most of the kids) and turning him into an administrator to manage what Maari’s not handling, BUT he’s not a good administrator, he has no training as such, in fact he was a superb (licensed) speech therapist who’s been transmogrified into an incompetant adminstrator — what are they thinking? what is going on? WHEN IS NYS GOING TO INVESTIGATE? Let me be blunt: current parents are little better than hostages…as are their children. Does anyone care? Any City Council members? Somebody? Because these kids deserve to get services that the law and IEPs provide for. They ALL DESERVE BETTER THAN THIS.
Current Parent #95, I understand where you are coming from. It’s #96 that almost made her seem inhuman. The way I read his/her comment would go something like…
“When Maari get’s upset, she throws kids in garbage chutes. When she’s calm, she throws kids in garbage chutes.” (Of course this is metaphorical)
Now with your comments, I have no problem with. They aren’t unnecessary bashing comments for the sake of bashing.
I’m new to this site and have read all the comments. For a long time, I thought I was the only one who was angry at the school and at Maari. My daughter and I also had painful issues with this school. About three years ago I tried looking for another school. Nothing showed itself as much better and the only school I really wanted did not have room.
Once, at a CSE meeting, one of the people there told me, honestly, that the district,(#2), was glad to have a place where they can put the kids. I had contacted the regional associate office a few times and was told that as long my daughter was not physically touched by anyone in the school, there was nothing I can do. The general attitude was if we were unhappy to switch to another school. This is not easily done, particularly with a child who did not take change well. It is not a compliment to the CS that parents kept their children here because they couldn’t find anything else. It means that they felt trapped.
I also want to add that there is nothing wrong with expressing anger (bashing) and venting here as long as it’s polite. So far, it seems to be just that. Apparently there are alot of people here who have been badly hurt, and it’s a relief to find out you’re not alone.
That comment is a little disturbing, to find relief in the fact that the case isn’t isolated. Not that I find you disturbing, but if you feel that way for something that is still bad, then there is something wrong.
Also, the bashing that I was talking about was with the last paragraph of comment #96, which really wasn’t necessary. The anger could have been expressed in a way that doesn’t make make Maari seem like a beast who can run rampant through the Child School/Legacy High School hallways at any time and injure any student.
Most of the time, there is a reason why Maari has to talk to students and staff. There has hardly been a time that a teacher or student has been scolded at for no reason. Also, it is hardly possible for the parent to know that anyway unless he or she actually sits in the hallway and watches how the school is run from 7:30 in the morning to 6:30 in the afternoon for more than half of the school year. Which means either he or she does attend the school for most of the time or is simply exaggerating what is actually going on in this school just because he or she has the ability to, with or without proper support to back the statement up.
I highly doubt this parent goes to this school most of the time, as it would have been brought up by every student by the second day in.
To “New Former Parent” (#101),
No….You are not alone and have not been alone…..though you may have felt alone and isolated as a result of the structure that was imposed by Maari and specific support staff (i.e. Leanne Bloom who was put in charge of the structuring of the PA and Curtis, who is the “Comptroller”) in regard to how the PA communicates, functions and accounts for its’ funds. Trying to develop the PA, as a separate and distinct entity to support the school, has been an uphill struggle. Maari wants the PA to do what SHE wants done…fundraise without any significant and general input as to how the funds are used and distributed and to assist in the “special events” that SHE deems worthy of supporting. That is ALL!!!! This is done without providing the PA and general parent body with an accountability for how the funds are used. The PA, as we know a PA or PTA, is a “joke”. It is not like any other PA that “we” (as parents) have had the opportunity to be exposed to (if we have ever had an opportunity to be involved in any other PA/PTA). It needs to be investigated by the NYS Attorney General’s Office and NYS ED and NYS VESID, especially as it relates to how the funds have been accounted for and utilized. It is unfortuante that this may be the first opportunity that “we”, as parents, have in communicating our experiences and common concerns BUT…at least this is a beginning. WE (present and former parents, present and former staff and students) are now rising up to communicate our concerns in the hope that the Board will do SOMETHING to change how the school is administered and, at the very least to reign in Maari and hold her accountable or ….. WE will need to go further….Time will tell. I hope that your child is better situated educationally at this time and in an environment that supports the strengths of students with disabilities rather than focusing on their areas of weakness and further development.
Hang in there!
Present Parent Post #104, thank you. I truly hope that something can be done about Maari. She has very serious ego and emotional problems. My daughter is in a much better place but we are taking it one day at a time.
Steven Foster, I’m going to assume that you are truly a CS student. I read all your posts and you seemed to have taken a complete turn around after your earlier posts about what Maari had you do in her office. I can only conclude that you are either being pressured by Maari and/or by staff or parent members that get something out of supporting her. You have been abused, Steven, and based on your posts, Maari did the abuse. If your parents won’t report it to the proper authorities, I hope you can.
To be honest, I am not pressured at all. Just bringing up what I feel is proper to bring up at whatever time. In fact, I am also unaffected by the fact that I am probably the only student who has continuously commented on what is actually going on within this school while using my real name.
The conclusion you reached is interesting to say the least, as my recent comments have taken a strange turn. But I am not easy to convert.
I have two opposite feelings that I am holding for this school. One that gives full support for what the school has done for me, and another that has as much distaste as you parents have. The thing is, this school had MANY chances to kick me out. The fact that Maari actually tolerated with my outbursts all the way up to my senior year which I am currently attending is greatly appreciated and it would be an insult to let comments that depict her as a monster alone when I already made myself known as a frequent here on LD.
But there is also the negative that I choose to contribute as well, as there have been issues I have gathered from my sources and experienced from this school that prevent me from fully supporting this school. This explains why I made and will make comments that will and will not support the school.
I refuse to make up stories here, as it does not benefit me or anybody else. I will correct statements that I know are incorrect or exaggerated, and I will give my negative and positive input. I am also easily annoyed when people give negative input when they hardly know what they’re talking about, which explains why I am speaking against #96 and not anybody else.
So don’t worry, #105. I am not scarred forever (um, kind of), and I have not been pressured or persuaded by parents who could get anything out of supporting her. Just a bit conflicted is all.
And now a word from your sponsor:
Here’s a tip for you “parents” posting here. Look at Steve Foster’s post just before this one. He uses paragraphs to break his thoughts into more readable chunks. Not all of you are doing this. I have to say as one who reads a lot of stuff on the internet and off, it undermines your credibility when you write long rants in a single block.
Also, please avoid typing in UPPER CASE. On the internet this is considered SHOUTING. I realize that many of you want to shout about this situation but the way you’re using upper case is not helping your credibility.
Lastly, if you are new here then it is your responsibility to at least skim this long comment string before you post your comment. The long paragraphs make this harder, I’m sorry about that but you’ve created this monster.
You would do yourselves a service if, before you posted your comments, you proofread them and cut them down in size. If you want others to read them fully then you need to tighten them up and make your points more clearly.
I was hoping that this long comment rant could turn into something constructive for you, for the school and for an agency that might evaluate the school. Please keep this in mind as you post new comments.
Thank you.
After reading the many, many comments regarding the running of the Child School by its director Maari de Souza, I would like to say that yes, there are certain issues that need to be brought forth regarding the treatment of students and teachers. A special meeting should be called to order attended by all parents and teachers in which everyone is able to express their honest opinions of what should be done to make this school more tolerable for both students, teachers and parents. I’m sure if Maari knew how the majority of parents and teachers felt there would be a reorganization of some sorts that would make everyone happy. She is always up to listening to parents and getting their feedback and trying to work with them.She does mean well and cares very much regarding the education of all the students.
I would like to address parent #95. I really don’t understand what your problem is with the Elementary Psychologist. You obviously don’t know her well and haven’t seen her with the kids. She does amazing things with and for those kids- and she also “protects” many of them from the “wrath” of Maari. Her care and her devotion to them is apparent (maybe not if you don’t work there).
Just so you know- you can’t get her certification info. (as a School Psychologist) from the NYS site- it won’t show anything.
For school psychologists and administrators you can check their status on this site:
http://eservices.nysed.gov/teach/certhelp/CpPersonSearchExternal.jsp?trgAction=INQUIRY
If you also type in Maari’s name- there is no information for her. Therefore- if you want to say something “accurate” about someone- it should be about the non-qualified director, not the certified School Psychologist!
Out of curiosity, Former Staff Member, why is it that you are refusing to reveal your first name or initials?
Infact, the “Former Parent/Present Parent” title has gotten a little old and makes me kind of question who is who and who is really a parent and who isn’t. I mean, it’s best to identify yourself (Present Parents and Staff) by adding your initial comment number in the “Change” button under “Post a New Comment” so people wouldn’t get confused, but for people who used to be associated with this school, doesn’t it seem kinda silly to hide your possibly common surname now?
Actually Mr. Foster, I am in the process of getting some information together about my time at TCS/Legacy to pass on to someone that will hopefully have success in getting someone, somewhere to listen and finally deal with the “power that is” and so (at this point) I can not yet reveal my name- I don’t have a problem doing it, as soon as I can, I will.
My former comments were #20 and 40. I have been watching the site weekly- and do find much of it repetative- we’ve all said the problem- Maari. We probably can all give thousands of stories about her- but what does it do? (I have to say that my original post did relieve some built up frustration- but now it doesn’t matter to me).
I only commented above because of the untrue comment regarding the Elementary Psychologist. I have many a story about Maari- and even some about Lalig for that matter, however, the rest of the staff (or the vast majority of them) are really for the kids, work hard for not near as much money as they could be making somewhere else, and tolerate a hell of abuse from Maari in the process. Only dedicated individuals to you kids would stay at that place- so as much as the teachers and specialists can be a pain in the butt… the majority of them are there because of you guys- to make a difference in your life, and you can take it from me (and all the many former staff members)… the only reason to stay there is for you kids- nothing else! You all are great and have amazing potential! Good luck in your senior year Steve!
I find it really hard to take comments with spelling and grammatical errors seriously.
x: this web site is called LD Resources and it is for all people with and without learning disabilities, good writers and less than good writers.
I’m glad you posted your comment, I was thinking of deleting it but instead I’m going to use it to make a point.
I agree with you that people with and without language based learning disabilities ought to proof read, spell check, and edit their comments, even in informal threads like this one. Clear writing helps credibility.
However, given the nature of the issues this web site supports, language based and other types of LD, we attempt to be supportive of people who take a chance and share their thoughts publicly in writing, no matter what their skill level.
The way to become a better writer is to write more so we want to encourage people to post comments, even if their spelling and grammar isn’t perfect.
I almost didn’t make the comment I made about paragraphs and upper case above because I know that many people with poor writing skills use upper case as a way to avoid knowing which letters to capitalize in a sentence, and they write in one long paragraph (with very long run-on sentences) to avoid knowing when to beak thoughts into smaller chunks (paragraphs).
This has been one of the issues with this web site since it’s beginning and it’s a hard judgement to make. As an LD adult myself who struggled long and hard to develop decent writing skills, I’m sensitive to both sides of the issue.
Thank you for making the point but let’s try to look through the spelling and grammar to the underlying sentiment.
Now, as long as I have the floor, I’m going to make an offer to those reading here who feel they might be up to this task:
We need to move this discussion along. I think there is enough information in this comment string coupled with what some of you know about this history of this school and its administration to write a short article on:
1. The history and mission of the school and its place in the NY system
2. How the school has evolved over time, both good and bad
3. A short bio on the director
4. A list of the various controversial aspects of the school and its director.
If we had such an article (no more than a page long) we could use it to move this discussion along, it’s getting stale and it’s time to clean it up.
You will have to use your full, real name on it and you and I will have to talk on the phone to confirm that you are who you say you are. I have no problem with this coming from a parent (former or present), faculty, or a student.
If you’re serious about doing this and have the skills to do it right (no anger please, just an article), send me a precis and we’ll talk via email.
rwanderman at gmail.com
Excuse the off-topic comment here, but I noticed you used HTML codes to quote other comments and bold your own. I would like to ask how that was done for future reference.
Also, regarding your article request, I would like to know how this would move things along.
Steve: I’d rather not publicize the use of html in comments, we have enough problems with typos, caps, and the like and I’d rather not be fixing broken code. Also, you may be capable of using bold or italics sparingly but not everyone is. Do as you like, I’ll edit as I need to.
I think a concise piece of writing on this topic from an objective observer would move things along and be useful for all concerned. And, if people are serious about changing this situation, a serious piece of writing that might be shared beyond this web site would be a tool for that.
To all students and faculty at TCS: Remain independent thinkers, follow your own path. You know the deal and have expressed it well. Still, you hang in and do your best. I miss you, Steve and Dorian and others who go unnamed! Congratulations John Lockwood! Happy senior year to those I knew in 10th grade~
Though my son is no longer attending the Child School/Legacy H.S. and is now in a good college, he did express to me that he was verbally subjected to anti-semitic remarks from certain students while in school, out of school and riding on the school bus. This would upset him terribly and he did not understand why they would be saying anti-Jewish insults to him.
The teachers knew about these insults but seemed to turn their heads the other way. Nothing was even reported to Maari.
Children learn to hate other ethnic groups, religions and nationalities from their parents. The kids will never know about tolerance when they grow up with such ignorant, hateful parents.
Whoa. Sorry your son went through that but how have you decided it was the parents’ fault.
In answer to your qustion Mt. Shapiro, we all know that children are not born being prejudice or hateful. This form of intolerance towards certain groups of people usually begins at home.
When my son asked why they were saying these degrading remarks about Jews - they said they heard it from their parents.
Dear former parent,
I’m not questioning your son’s bad experience or his perception of where the kids heard from their parents.
As someone who was bar mitvah’d myself, I’ve certainly experienced my share of anti-semitic crap. What I am questioning in general is this:
1. Though I generally agree that bad behavior is learned, I’ve seen horrendously destructive behavior by some kids that has no source from parents. In fact for some parents of kids with behavioral problems, they have to get past the myth that “good parents mean good kids.” It’s not always the case.
Glad your son is doing well now.
Mr Shapiro I agree with you that bad behavior is not always attributed to the parents. However, when the child continually hears the parents making derogatory remarks against certain ethnic or religious groups the child in turn picks up on these statements and uses them against other children.
This was the case with my son. They overheard their parents saying these awful things and they repeated it back to my son.
I have returned to protect the reputation
of my school! I am a student in Legacy
High School. I’m a 9th grader and I would
like to give you a chance to hear the other side of the story.You see I have
been a student for 7 years and I have seen
no sign of gangs or abuse of power.I have
seen a peaceful controlled environment.
That’s unfortunate.
For me, the next part of the discussion would be this: given that children with learning disabilities hear loads of insensitive remarks and are exposed to considerable ignorance, how do we keep them from being incapacitated by the hurt or anger that ensues whenever you’re marginalized?
I don’t mean to slide through too quickly from your original comment, but… the longer I’m in this field the more I understand the legitimate anger many kids with LD feel towards schools in general.
Dear Child School Community,
I couldn’t help notice on this school’s website that there’s a parent survey up and running. In glancing at the survey, there’s certainly room for considerable feedback. I’m sure that many of you who’ve written in expressing no confidence in the school leadership will not buy into this and will see it as window dressing.
It may be a start however, because now you have a legitimate feedback process internal to the school. Afterwards you can lean towards doing something constructive with the surveys. Find someone you have at least some trust with, who will have access to these surveys.
By the way, keep copies of your completed surveys
Hi Mr. Shapiro,
From what I was told, the Survey is not being sent to parents who have removed their children from the school or who have been told that their children will be neeeding to find another school…2 important groups to capture feedback from…..but…….this survey might be a beginning (or it could also be intended as window-dressing). I have kept a copy of my completed survey and look forward to receiving the results of the survey.
Also……I have read your comments about the schools in NY that you have visited. Why have you not written of your impression of TCS/LHS?
I haven’t written about The Child School because it’s not a school that I’ve visited.
By the way, the survey is up online and so I think any past parent can fill it out. I don’t know what they’d do with it but there should (hope) be some board members looking.
Sometimes schools do surveys like this a part of an accreditation process. Is this true for TCS? Are they in the midst of re-accreditation? If so, this would be another window of opportunity for addressing issues with people who can do something.
Dear Mr. Shapiro,
Is there a way to be sure the surveys will not be tampered with?
Thank you.
Comment #121: Again, how can you possibly know that “the child continually hears the parents making derogatory remarks against certain ethnic or religious groups”?
“This was the case with my son. They overheard their parents saying these awful things and they repeated it back to my son.” Again, you’re leaping.
Over 25 years I’ve been in involved in countless situations where kids say hurtful things about race, religion, class, clothes, hairdo’s, you name it, and there’s absolutely no connection to or reflection of parent attitudes.
To be honest, I for one have a continually lingering doubt about many of the comments in this school thread when no one uses names. Sometimes I wonder if kids aren’t writing under assumed guises like “former parent.”
Wasn’t there a request a while back for writers to identify themselves? Yes.
When asked before (to identify yourselves) you claim to be afraid of negative repurcussions. Come on now, if half the things you claim are true then you’re already suffering in a major way!
Dear Mr. Shapiro,
Per your #127 post:
Perhaps I’m over sensitive, but I interpret your remarks as antagonistic. Instead of assuming that the majority of these posts are from students, why don’t you think about why a parent, present or former, would wish to remain anonymous.
Frankly, I would be curious about what parents think of your school, the Bend Learning Center, which is in Oregon, for comparison to what is being stated in these posts.
As you are visiting different schools throughout the country, why not ask to visit The Child School? And, if you do, ask if you can check out the school by yourself without an escort. Maybe then, you’ll understand why we do not use our names.
New Former Parent:
The fact that you claim to be sure that another student’s parents are responsible for teaching (through modeling I assume) that student to use racist language undermines your credibility as an objective observer here.
You have no proof of this accusation yet make it anyway. To me, this undermines your observations on the cause of problems at the Child School.
It’s easy to assume that children are models of their parents but there is considerable data to back up the idea that children model their peers, not their parents. Isn’t it possible that this other student learned the racist language from his friends? No matter where he learned the racist language, you made an assumption and assumptions are not facts.
There may be posts in this thread that are bogus which means that the thread as a whole loses quite a bit of its credibility. What Sanford is trying to let you know is that posing anonymously is not helping matters and the more of you who use pseudonyms the easier it is for people to disguise who they really are.
This thread is not about Sanford’s consulting practice, it’s about The Child School. If this degenerates into an off topic argument I’ll start editing and if necessary, deleting comments.
The problem I have is this: Since all but a handful of comments are ever signed I have trouble “assuming” anything. I don’t assume the writings are ficticious but I don’t assume the reverse either. It’s easier for anyone to know anything about what one reads when you know who the writer is.
How people feel about my work in Bend is not the point, but most people are quite happy with results. Mine is not a school by the way.
My visit schedule was predicated on visiting about 60 schools. The budget was not open ended so I visited schools that had some track record of success, and were specifically for students with learning disabilities. I consulted with lots of people and sources about where to visit. That’s not to say that other schools aren’t good. In fact there are tons of schools I haven’t seen that might/probably are fantastic for the right child.
I hope by reading about the schools I did visit people can see the types of things I focused on. I look at the profile of the students, history to a certain extent and the program highlights that support the remediation of the profile they purport to address. It’s up to parents and professionals to do the real legwork of investigating a school and then decide whether or not it fits the needs of their child.
I guess as far as your sensitivity as to whether I’m being antagonistic I would say this: I was being antagonistic but not in the way you may suspect. I’ve been reading these posts for quite a while. I’m antogonistic in the sense of attempting some of you to be provoked into trying a different tact.
I am troubled by what seems to be a pattern of:
1. continuously restating similar things,
2. over reliance on demonizing the director,
3. lack of accountibility in stating names.
I understand people have the right to be anonymous and if it weren’t so pervasive in this thread it would be less objectionable to me. Out of 128 comments, about 7 have given their first names and about 8 have given full names or clear identification so we know who it is. One of those is Richard, the owner of this site, one is me and one is Tom O’Dell.
I don’t judge any of you. You can do what you want. I’ve worked in enough places and visited so many schools I know issues are usually not one dimensional. Directors good and bad usually get either too much credit or too much blame.
Aren’t there any Child Schoolers who are able to see anything or anyone else at play besides the director? I’ve seen some really bad directors and I’ve always seen that strength in numbers wins out, but not as a lynch mob (but by persistent reasoned and emotional efforts and strategic alliances).
With the longstandingness of anger and complaints do you feel your tactics are effective?
What else can be done to improve the school functioning besides bash the director?
I am troubled by what seems to be a pattern of:
1. continuously restating similar things,
2. over reliance on demonizing the director,
3. lack of accountibility in stating names.
In response to your post #130:
1. People who are badly hurt tend to restate over and over until they feel some resolution in their conflict, or because they feel their won’t be a resolution.
2. Unfortunately, Maari is a major cause of the problem. As I was too angry to participate in the parental end of TCS, others will have to give you more details about what went on to the school. If you read one of my earlier posts, #101 I had said:
“Once, at a CSE meeting, one of the people there told me, honestly, that the district,(#2), was glad to have a place where they can put the kids. I had contacted the regional associate office a few times and was told that as long my daughter was not physically touched by anyone in the school, there was nothing I can do.”
In addition, a number of the staff, though certainly not all of them, take on Maari’s atitude and it shows when we deal with them. Most of the staff, however, seemed genuinely concerned about our daughter.
With your permission, I can email you directly and tell you more of our experiences. Please let me know.
I am sure TCS have helped many of the students and parents there, as long as they don’t question too closely, and as long as their purse is continuously opened.
3. You want names, fine. Understand, faculty and other parents do not and cannot reveal their names because they are still closely linked with the school. I’m Teri Schlesinger and my daughter, Fern, graduated this June.
Dear Teri,
One of the points you make, is #1: that “People who are badly hurt tend to restate over and over until they feel some resolution in their conflict, or because they feel their won’t be a resolution.”
I just wonder, is there’s any sense that restating it over and over again here is not leading to resolution? And, if so, what thought has gone into other tactics.
I agree that many people who feel badly hurt restate and restate. The reason that happens is because they don’t feel heard. It seems to me that initially in this thread there was legitimacy to the school bashing because people needed to be heard, to vent.
But now it’s over 2 years later. If the issues seem the same… I’m saying come on, try something different. When you keep trying the same thing and get the same result…
Hi Mr. Shapiro,
I felt a need to respond to you and the concerns you raise.
By the way, I have identified myself to the person who manages this web-site, in response to his request for a summary. And……I will identify myself on this site when I know that the time is right (which is when I know that my child will not be a possibility for retribution). You may see this as being overly cautious or dramatic….. that is your right, but I have had direct experience and know the possibilities. I also think that other people will soon feel that they can identify themselves. I am confident that progress will be made, though it may not seem so at this point.
Thanks for your patience with us…. (present and former parents, present and former staff and students)
Best of luck.
As a former faculty member of the Child School, I can say that Ms. deSouza rules with an iron fist. Many hours with little pay is her motto. And, if you could not attend after school meetings, etc. (very difficult for working moms), you were ostrasized, hauled on the carpet, and literally shunned by other staff members (probably because the “QUEEN” demanded it). As far a being a “not for profit school”…….check into Ms. deSouza’s annual salary……..QUITE A PROFIT!!
The New York City Board of Ed knows all about this school and its director. At my last CSE meeting, in addition to my own list of grievances endured by my child at this school, I downloaded info about this website and handed out copies of posted comments. This was one year ago. I took my son out, but continue to read these posts. Sounds to me like things have gotten even worse. I am embarassed to sign my name, embarassed I ever allowed my child to be a part of this, and embarassed for the Board of Ed.
Unfortunately there is no accountability for state funds spent by the director. Recently, she threw out furniture in perfectly good condition that was only 4 years old, out into a dumpster, not even donated it to charity. She purchased for her office a chrome and glass conference table, and other executive type of furniture. However, just 4 short years ago, she went on a spree and bought a ton of really good furniture for her office- why spend money so needlessly? This wouldn’t be so problematic, however here’s the problem: the teachers have desks that have drawers that don’t work and chairs that need replacing. Teachers also don’t have computer printers, although they have old computers, just don’t have a cart to put them on. There is also no adaptive tech, or any tech. for that matter…but somehow Maari needs new office furniture!
When Maari gets extra state funds, instead of spending money on things that will enhance the school and further help the students, she goes on these spending sprees. No accountability from anyone… and where may I ask is the state… you’d think they would be checking to see that the money is well spent, not squandered!
Funny you should mention that, there was a school assembly on the state funds thing last summer. It was kinda like what you said, only focused more on positives and somewhat avoiding the fact it didn’t help students as much. Though I don’t know what’s going on with the Media class, which is a new addition to this school.
Limited in Giving Information: Please be careful. If you liked the director I doubt you’d be focusing on the rate that she changes her office furniture. It’s easy to join a lynch mob when we dislike someone. Best not to join a lynch mob ever, like or dislike the person being lynched.
If you think she’s misusing state funds then take the time and report her to the state.
Though it would kinda be invalid now, as I;ve stated that there are new electives that the school hasn’t introduced before.
From what I’ve gathered today, there are new electives, revised textbooks, newer text books (Senior grade Government class is using a really recent college textbook as opposed to the easier textbooks used for six years), and other classroom items for the students (as well as the comfort for the teachers).
I have a question, which is irrelevant to Maari and school funds.
Does a teacher have the right to deny a student access to the bathroom and keep the student in class for the 40 minutes the period takes, even if the student has an emergency and needs (emphasis on “needs”) to go to the bathroom?
This also includes a rule stating that students cannot go to the bathroom during transitioning, but during the class after the hallways have been cleared.
It seems a little out there, but it’s an example of how there are rules that go against the original purpose of other rules/things that the school has introduced.
I don’t think you’ve given us enough information Steve. You and others paint a completely one sided picture here. I’m not defending such a rule but its genesis might have been kids who took advantage of bathroom passes. I have no idea, I’m not there but it seems like there must be a bit more to this scenario.
Again, let’s not build a lynch mob here, it will undermine credibility and frankly, I won’t have it at my site.
Well, actually, there isn’t a “bit more” to this scenario.
A rule is introduced to the school where a student can only be excused to the bathroom in the morning, during lunch, or during the class period, not during the transitioning between both periods. Every teacher follows this rule except for one that seems to interpret the rule differently by not allowing anybody use the bathroom during transitioning to their period or during their class. It’s a somewhat isolated issue, really, and it doesn’t have an impact on the High School/Middle School/Elementary as a whole that would raise a lynch mob against Maari or the school faculty.
Also, the only problem bathroom-related was resolved by having a teacher monitor the bathroom area of the hallway (with a sign-in sheet) so that there isn’t more than one student in the bathroom at once and it is a rule enforced. Every other student is denied access unless they have an emergency in which they can use any of the other stalls/urinals.
Don’t get me wrong, I don’t have an intention to raise an “army” against Maari (well, okay, so I kinda showed that with my first few comments, but I am avoiding that), but I am pointing out that there is something that is unsettling as a student about some things. This being a major-yet-minor (schoolwide) issue.
I think I repeated myself a couple of times.
Hello again. I haven’t posted here in a few months, but today I feel the need to raise certain issues that I can’t put off any longer.
The fact of the matter is, school’s barely into it’s third week, and I am officially at my wit’s end with this place.
For starters, I failed my math regents again. By only two points. And we were supposed to be tutored during summer school, but the math teacher broke her arm and no one bothered to replace her so we can continue our tutoring and help us prepare for this rest. I felt I was not graded on a fair basis because of this, and when I brought this up to her, she said that “One week of no tutoring hardly makes a difference”. How could she say such a thing? She knows that I’ve been struggling in math for three years and that all the help I can possibly aford would be needed in my case, and no effort was made to accomodate me or the other students who needed tutoring. We spent that entire week sitting around playing cards and drawing. If you don’t see anything wrong with this, I pity your lack of logic and intelligence.
Secondly, we used to use our Study Skills period to catch up on homework since many of us travel long distances (I have an over 2 hour bus ride both to and from school) or simply have after-school corriculums that leave little time to focus on work. Now all we do is sit around and read. When I vented my frustations about the school to one of the teachers (one I always up until today very much liked and respected), he said, coldly, “Maybe God has turned his back on you.” The nerve of this comment is astounding. And he said he doesn’t really even believe in God! People may think I’m BS-ing, but I’m completely serious.
Also, we were promised to that Wednesdays would be devoted to our artisitc and creative abilities rather than academics, but we’ve yet to have one and I honestly don’t think it will come into fruition. Maybe we should put a sign on front of the school saying:
The Child School - Founded On Empty Promises.
Or would that turn off potential new students.
I can honestly say at this point that most of the teachers are not concerned with the students any longer. The only teachers I truly still think are caring of the students are (I won’t use names) the new guidance counselors and our High school technology coordinator. The rest I am either neutral on or am disappointed with. I don’t hate anyone here, but I am drastically disappointing with the way things are handled these days.
Anthony, the (unfortunate) reason why the Wednesday plan hasn’t been carried out yet is because there is either a holiday or an event that takes place of Friday. So putting academics ahead of etc., the school chose to move whatever would take place on Friday to Wednesday.
Steve, I LOVE how you sensely disregard the rest of my post. None of that bothers you? Telling an already depressed, frustrated student that God has turned his back on him is okay with you? Carelessly disregarding students’ academic needs and playing cards with them is okay with you? Are you out of your mind?
Actually, I don’t have anything to say against the rest of your post. That’s why I skipped the rest. I don’t think you would want someone to debate against your argument, as it was your personal experience that you feel to share.
Fair enough. But surely you see the problems I present. Surely you don’t think what that teacher said is right. And I’m sure you see the problem with the math tutoring. I hate to sound like a broken record, but I spent the entire summer frustrated at the state of the school (and other things in my personal life) and this year doesn’t seem to be helping things.
Anthony, have you tried talking to your parents about this, or perhaps one of the guidance counselors?
Teri
Anthony: I can’t speak to the quality of the tutoring you got or how much you got vs. how much you missed, but failing the math regents can happen for many reasons, some of which have nothing to do with the Child School.
Many students with learning disabilities related to math do poorly on math tests and sometimes tutoring will help this and sometimes it won’t.
I appreciate your post and the time you took to put it together but I’m not sure your problems with a math test point to institutional problems with The Child School. These kinds of things happen every day at pretty much every school.
I can relate to Anthony’s frustration. Summer school is mandatory at Child School and all sorts of remedial work is promised, allegedly to boost Regents scores. Our experience with summer school was that there was actually very little academic focus. I never saw a text book. My son pleaded with me to stay home, that it was so boring and a waste of time. But that was not an option. And if your child stayed home, you had to reimburse the school for the funding they claimed they lost by the child’s absence. They even posted the daily/weekly “penalty fee” if your child had what they deemed an unexcused absence. I don’t even think that’s legal.
New Former Parent, I spoke with Maari and one of the administrators today about my issues, and we worked things out, at least for now. I still have some qualms, but for the most part I’m trying to make the best of my remaining time there. I’ve come to the conclusion that it’s foolish to leave this late in the game, and to stick it out until graduation.
Anthony, I glad you were able to come to a resolution of sorts. Whatever you worked out in school, make sure your parents know as well. The school year is still new and hopefully, things will be better for you. Make sure, though, that your parents know what is going on in school and within yourself. Good Luck!!
Teri
Dear Withdrew:
“And if your child stayed home, you had to reimburse the school for the funding they claimed they lost by the child’s absence.”
Is that in writing somewhere? If so, I’d save it and anything else you think documents questionable school policies. If it’s not in writing how did you know it?
It was in writing from the school, as part of the package of summer school papers which I had to sign and return. I didn’t keep a copy, as it was our first year and I was just moving along in good faith. With such a stiff penalty overhead, I made sure my child did not miss any time, so I never actually had to write a check. The papers came from the school, not from the board of ed, and were returned to the school office.
Withdrew: I would highly recommend that you attempt to get a copy of that paper you signed and keep it. That sounds like an illegal practice to me and highly unethical.
Richard,
I remember getting those notices from TCS too. For a couple of summers I did not send my daughter to TCS even though she was down for a 12 month schedule in her IEP. The wording was phrased in such a way, I remember, that it didn’t exactly say one “had to” pay the tuition, but it was very strong. I never paid and didn’t have a problem.
Teri
Perhaps, Richard, with your permission, if someone has a scanner and still has the flyer, they can send you a copy. Then you can let us know what you think about it.
Teri
I would like to shed some light into this situation.
You see, the school gets paid $650 or something along that amount for every student that appears for the first and last week of school. For every student not there, the school doesn’t get X amount. They DID require the parents to pay the missing amount if the student were to not attend summer school, but that was dropped around two years ago.
Now you are required to have an academic/beneficial reason to not go to school (camp/Volunteering, jobs do not count) or an extensive essay of any subject you choose to research on.
I, as well as other students, have chosen not to attend summer school during the middle weeks, but most/all of us ended up going regardless for whatever reason. You don’t get punished, but if you are held back during your school year and you don’t attend summer school, you going to end up staying in the grade you were held back in. So it’s best to go through summer school and not repeat the grade.
This is paraphrased from what a supervisor told me as well as a memo I received back in June.
New Former Parent: I’m not a lawyer so I’m not the one to show it to. I just think it’s a good idea to keep track of things like that in written form in case you need proof at some point. Word of mouth sometimes has a hard time holding up.
Steve: So, are you saying that the cash penalty for non-attendance is no longer in effect? I’m not sure I understand your comment.
I was presented those papers to sign for summer session 2003 and 2004. Because I withdrew my son, I have no way of knowing if the cash penalty is still in effect. As a side note…my son was in eighth grade there, and I was charged a $50 application fee to “apply” him to the high school. The Board of Ed had placed him in the school! No comment.
The cash penalty is not in effect. It stopped being in effect the same time your child was removed.
Hi Richard,
I am just writing to lend credibility to the communication from TCS administration to parents regarding the summer school / penalty discussion.
I am referencing the Parent & Student Manual of 2005-2006. The page is titled Summer School and includes:
- “For Elementary students, summer school is optional. For Middle School and High School students who wish to pursue a Regent’s Diploma, Summer School is mandatory.”
- “We understand your desire to send your child to camp and other various activities during the summer, but our staff has to work the entire six weeks of Summer School. If you remove your child from school, we lose funding for your child, putting added financial strain for the school. Unless a note with an excused reason is on file at the school, we request that you make a contributioon equal to the lost tuition ($635.00).
- “There are only three reasons for unexcused absences: 1.Death in the family 2.Family Emergency -child has to take care of parent at home 3.Operaion/Medical. If the above reasons are not your child’s situation, then we will ask you to direct your contribution for lost tuition to the Financial Department.”
I have copies of the previous years Manual and will look to see if the wording is different. Though 2005-2206 does not state that payment is mandatory or required, parents know the “lingo” and the implication. In addition to the page in the Manual there was a form that was included in the “Welcome Packet” that parents were required to sign related to the Summer School policy, which I do not know if I have a copy of.
As I said before, it’s very strongly worded and parents get scared. The word they use is “request.” They do not say “you must.” I think it’s purposely done this way in case someone complains. My daughter did not go to the summer session for her last two years and they did not push me for the money.
Teri
My mom wasn’t threatened or scared by the “request” as she was worried I would wind up being an idiot if I didn’t get some extra education for the summer (she didn’t say that but she did imply that summer school would help me a lot more than screwing around the house for a couple of months). I guess it’s the persuasive language they use that gets to the parents. Note how they say “Financial strain”, which may or may not tell the parents that not paying could put the school at risk of newer/continuing programs and things that they offer at the school.
Regardless, they do not demand, they simply suggest that you pay them back for the money lost.
The reason why summer school exists is to
recap what the students have already learned so they don’t forget, what’s so
wrong with that. I always hear complaints
about going to summer school, I don’t see
the point of any of them.
Why is everyone trying to destroy the school, you know it helps no one. What we
need to do is come together and stop this
policy of factionalism. It is for the greater good.
Recap? Yeah right. There are no academics whatsoever during the summer,its all leisure activities, with the exception of those social cog and higher thinking classes which, to me at least, is a waste of time.
I’ve been told that so many times. The reason why summer school exists is to recap and not forget what you learned. The only people who have received academic classes are the ones who have failed their regents. The classes I got during summer school were…
Drama
Social Cognition
Agency
Attention
Gym
“Baseball” (although that class was broken and didn’t really take off the way it was intended)
There really wasn’t any recapping done. By looking at Anthony’s post from before, it makes perfect sense why he had a problem with how his math issue was shrugged off for a week. The only class that would affect how he gets past his school year stopped for a week, eliminating the point for his going to summer school. Unless there was another class.
Hi Anthony,
I just read your comment about not receiving Math tutorial for one week due to the teacher having broken her arm. Was this summer tutorial stated in your IEP? If so, the IEP is a legal document and not providing you with the stated education plan is breaking the law. For future reference, make sure EVERYTHING TCS says they will provide is stated in your IEP. If the service is NOT provided, then legal action can be taken. Hope this helps!
I don’t know what to say. I love my job, I love the students, and I admire and respect Maari. I would not work in a place that was racist, discriminated against children because of their economic background, degraded children, or ignored their behavioral or academic needs. I have been at TCS for eight years and will remain as long as possible.
It seems that there is a grain of truth in most of the comments but the whole story is distorted because incorrect assumptions are made. As a supervisor, I know how much effort there is to improve curriculum, increase student responsibility, hire and retain excellent staff, and encourage parent involvement to name a few of the issues.
Maari is unfairly attacked, and you notice that she has not rushed in to defend herself, nor she has not sent staff in to her defense. She is careful with all of her decisions and they are made on what she thinks will be best for the school or best for the child. If a student cannot be helped in our setting she will recommend that the parent look for other placement. If she thinks the child needs firmness, she will be firm. If she thinks that the child needs softness she will be soft. I admire the care and concern she shows in each decision that she makes. She may not always be correct but no decision is made to harm a child. She handles the criticism because she knows in her heart that she does her best to take care of the teacher, the child and the school.
The first day of school this year we learned that we had lost Earl, a great man, who worked with Maari for many years. Friday we had a special day of celebration in his memory. Students from all of our graduating classes returned to the school to remember Earl’s life. They came of their own accord. They stood tall at the podium, young men and women to be proud of, and not only eulogized him but gave tribute to the school. Sometimes they teased Maari, sometimes they reminded us that the school was their safe place and it was family. At the end, they all walked over and hugged Maari. This family is Maari’s creation. It was a tribute to her as well as to Earl. We left feeling proud of our graduates and proud of the job that our school does.
I can write a rebuttal to almost every concern or incident highlighted here. I can explain the real reason a staff member left, or tell the other side of the story, but this information is personal. Our silence leads to rumors. That is just how it is in any workplace.
Maari can be difficult to work for. She expects much from us but at the same time she will teach us. Some teachers love the structured environment, others hate it. They leave and many times we hate to say goodbye.
Most of the time Maari is responsive and reasonable. When she is not it is always because she is afraid that we are not taking care of the children. I respect that.
Are we successful in every situation? No. Are we the best school ever, top to bottom. No. Are we infallible? No. I can only tell all of the readers on this site that I wish I had the wisdom of Maari to assist me with raising my own children, and wish they had had such a caring dedicated group of teacher.
To each student who writes on this site: I am proud of the way you can express yourself. I love that you have opinions and have learned to share them - in writing - especially.
Just a quick word about John before I go. He loved the school so much that he tried to commute across the Tappan Zee bridge every day. Now he works blocks from his home. We saw him at Earls’ celebration and he is doing well. We miss him.
The Wednesday schedule has not gone into effect because there are so many new staff that are unfamiliar and unprepared to implement it. More time is being given to help the staff prepare so the program can be given a fair shot at success.
So the cash penalty for missing summer school is no longer in effect. Is the cash application fee for the school to review a high school admissions packet still in effect? If the Board of Ed has placed a student into the Child School’s program, and has been accepted, does the Child School have the right to charge that family a $50 (in our case) application fee to move that child into the next grade? Did anyone else here pay that application fee? I did, it was stated as mandatory.
For post #171 and anyone else: It didn’t really help much but I used to complain to the regional associate from the NY State Board of Regents. If you have any questions or concerns, contact them, as they are suppose to oversee the quality of each approved private school under the Board of Regents. The link below is from their site.
http://www.vesid.nysed.gov/specialed/quality/regassoc.htm
This link are the contact numbers to the regional associates for the New York City area. They are located in Brooklyn. Good Luck!!
Teri
PS. Make sure you write down everything that has taken place with as much detail as possible, and you keep all letters and flyers.
http://www.vesid.nysed.gov/specialed/quality/senycm.htm
I cannot answer your question because I only heard (emphasis on heard) that there was an application fee. I didn’t ask my mom about it or anyone else.
Maximum Thought, it sounds like you’re saying Unexpected Wednesday (let us just roll with that as the name) is a difficult thing to introduce. I have to disagree, for the primary reason why the schedule has not been introduced is because (A) It was the first day of school (B) Rosh Hashanah (C) A Memorial/Celebration of Life for a lost one.
Unexpected Wednesday incorporates most of the electives and some new classes that rolled in. The staff already set the mat out (not literally) and since electives began a couple of weeks ago, it wouldn’t be possible for any of the teachers to temporize this any longer seeing as there is no holiday, no incident, and all the electives have already began working.
That’s all I have to say on your comment.
I have to say that the whole uncommon wednesday thing is a horrible idea. While this school is “special ed” it tries to perpare its students for college, the job market i.e. the real world, and up till now(thanks to its teachers) it has done a relativly good job.
But this wednesday thing is gonna mess this up, what does this teach us to have a break in the middle of the week? Will that happen in the real world? No. absolutly not. It takes us further into the “special ed” and further away from the main stream. Now let me make this perfectly clear,I can see this working for elementry, maybe middle school, but even thats a stretch. I see no reason for having this is high school.
The other problem I have with this is that I fear it will take away from acedemics. When i brought this up in an assembly on the matter Maari stated that there will be some acedemic classes on that day and it will switch. Still this will no doubt cut out some acedemic time, i can’t see how it won’t. This is in particular a sophmore and junior problem. The freshmen have no major exams(regents,RCT). Three seniors in the regents program have 1 regents each. I’m not sure what the situation is in the Senior RCT class but I would imagine, it’s very similar.
But the seniors and the freshman are still hurt in the way i mentioned earlier with the seniors heading off to college or work and the freshman getting thier first taste of high school with wrong impression of what they may see as a huge step toward adulthood.
I know that Maari of course will not listen to me on this, and that the wednesdays will go ahead as planned but i felt the need to say it, to let you guys know how much this thing that seems fun know, is hurting your kids in the long run.
~Shaina
Thank you Sandy (#172), it’s a pleasure hearing from you and I’ll be very interested in the response to your comment, if any.
Richard, here is the first comment to Sandy’s response.
Hello Sandy,
Hope you are well. This is Fern’s mom. In response to your post, #172, I realize that you still work at the school and you must be careful in what you say. Perhaps your experience with Maari has been positive and I truly hope it has been. However, for many of us, it has not. I do not believe you can justify many of the experiences listed here. Make excuses (like saying it’s for the child’s good), certainly, but not justify.
Also, look at some of what you said:
“Maari can be difficult to work for. She expects much from us but at the same time she will teach us. Some teachers love the structured environment, others hate it. They leave and many times we hate to say goodbye.”
I’m sorry, Sandy, but something is wrong if teachers are constantly leaving.
“Most of the time Maari is responsive and reasonable. When she is not it is always because she is afraid that we are not taking care of the children. I respect that.”
So are you saying that Maari is NOT responsive and reasonable when she is afraid you are not taking care of the children? I’m somewhat joking, but seriously, too many teachers and too many staff would not give me answers unless they ran it by Maari first. Why couldn’t they make their own decisions or express their own views?
I cannot tell if everyone on this site is legit or not. However, I was amazed that so many people felt as I did and that I wasn’t alone in my feelings about the school. No matter the program, some people are never going to be satisfied, but when so many people are angry, then something is wrong.
Be well,
Teri
I apologize if this post is too long.
First I would like to say that now I can’t say anything in defense for Uncommon Wednesday as it was “canceled” this week. Though I asked why and it is because the programs are still being set up. So I guess my staff statement still holds true to some extent.
Now, Teri, there is actually a fair amount of teachers leaving, to be honest. Some of which leave for real reasons like their daughter/son moving to different states or something. Though there has been an interesting increase of teachers leaving. That’s all really I have to say on your part.
Shaina, besides the grammar (that I will forever pester you about outside this site), everything else I have to agree to some point. Though the Wednesday plan is hurtful to the student’s academics, it does, in various ways, manage to help students in the future for things that you don’t normally learn in this school.
I’ve picked up some information regarding Wednesday, and from what I’ve gathered, it is meant to expand on student’s interests so that they can continue pursuing (or keep interest) when they enter college. This is why Media class exists, for those who want to pursue their interests in school (and not after school).
Though exchanging the most important (regents/RCT) classes for fun, or what you consider a “break”, isn’t necessarily the best idea when you need to educate a student to be ABLE to enter any college.
Also, Sandy, I don’t think anybody has a problem with John Lockwood. I’ve had him for my last few years in elementary and then again when I entered high school. Learned a lot from him and I am sure everyone else did too.
One last thing. I’ve noticed a couple of comments that sneaked in while I wasn’t looking. Namely comment #168, which is alright and fitting for this part of the site, but the way you’re hiding your identity is… strange. Itachi Uchiha…
I would be very interested in hearing from Sandy on the issue of no IEP meetings. The meetings where parents come and sign off so that school gets funding ,are not IEP meetings.As we are informed by the CSE representatives each year.
Also perhaps she could shed some light on the issue of services(Speech,Ot,and Counseling). Many students do not get the services as described in their IEPs. Parents concerns are brushed off or they are lied to. These services are being signed for,staff are affirming that they are taking place when they are not.As I understand it the school recieves funding based on the number of times a therapist meets with the student. This is not an isolated concern. I have been hearing from a number of parents (and providers) about this recently.
I am the first person to say that the teachers are hard working, compassionate people. They are trying their best.Earl was a wonderful person who was dedicated to the kids. Maari’s personal loss of a fine staff person and I’m sure a freind must be terrible.
It does not mean that we are supposed to scarifice our childern’s educational rights.Her grief has no bearing on her inequaltible treatment of students and their families.
I would be quite suprised to see a response from Maari here. Her anti- technology stance is legendary.She has however asked staff and parents to post.As we see in posts #4,5,6,7- all posted with in hours of each other-by parents who are or were significant finanical supporters of the school.Who also had students who were strong academically,a preferred group for Maari.The fact that this a forum that is beyond Maari’s oversite or control is why so many of these issues are being raised. This site is a “safe” place.
Finally I think its great that students have gotten into this discussion. Perhaps the school will take note and more student input will be developed.
I wish Sandy and her colleagues only the best. I am hopefull that changes will occur that will make posting on this site a treat,not treason.
Funny thing you should mention the technology thing, Interested (and interesting) Parent. Maari was last caught with a cellphone, so she’s not too anti-technology. So I wouldn’t be surprised if Maari suddenly started wanting to use a computer for some reason.
Teri, Maari will not allow staff to talk to parents without filtering everything through her. Even when parents have a phone conference, everything is supposed to be written down and the teachers don’t have any “authority” to speak unless they have cleared it through her first. Maari says this is to “protect” the staff from the parents and anything that can be “misconstrued”, although.. everyone knows the truth! She micromanages EVERY aspect of the school-and if you don’t like to be micro-managed … you leave (thus the high staff turnover rate).
Sandy, I’ve always had the utmost respect for you, I think you are an excellent teacher and you do have a heart for the kids. However, you know as well as well as I do, that Maari treats certain H.S. kids (since you know those kids the best) harshly- and it has nothing to do with the fact that she “cares” for them. Threatening to expose a homosexual student to their family (that doesn’t know their sexual orientation) to the point where the student is in tears, or suspension for it- isn’t care, it’s abusive harrassment. Threats are what she uses to control students- so they do what she wants them to do. That has not happened to only one HS student either-I’ve seen it more than once, and if you are honest- you have too!
Maari wouldn’t send in the staff to counter what was said at this site. Why? I think she knows that people are aware of what is going on at the school. People are getting together and saying the same thing.. over and over again- there are just too many documented stories about unfair treatment (yes, I’ll even say abusive) of students. There are too many people that have reasonable and justifiable complaints- students, former staff, and parents alike… you just can’t tell me that only the people that post on this site are the ones that are disgruntled- no… that would be just too coincidental. The ones that post are the people that feel that enough is enough. The state pays a great deal of money to educate these kids- they have rights to their services and it seems to me that the HS kids are the ones that seem to get the short end of the stick. However, this is probably changing because of this site- so if there is anything that is a positive that will come out of this, is that maybe now the kids at the school will get what they deserve- and there will be a little bit more “fear” regarding mistreatment of them. After all… there is a cyber world watching!
I would like to start off by saying that I have something in common with all you teachers and parents who feel that they have to hide their identities in order to protect themselves. Steve, Shaina, and the others are going to execute me when I walk into school tomorrow because of I what I am going to say here.
Anyway…
People here have stated that they see Maari as some sort of monster, who is ‘Sadistic’ and ‘Rules with an iron fist’. I would normally not speak up in a discussion like this, but these comments strike me as seriously wrong, to the point where I have no choice but to say something. That something is this: Maari loves the students in this school.
Yes, it is an extreme thing to say, or even to think. It is also true. Maari started this school with a single apartment and a handful of students to help people who had problems. The Child School/Legacy High School is her -life- and it owes everything to her, as do the students that have passed through it.She can be heavy-handed at times, but can’t parents be the same way? There are an awful lot of bad stories people have about this school… But there are good ones too.I personally have many good stories about Maari, some of which I know that I share with other students who have posted here.
Once, for example, I was in Middle School, and I was having a horrible yea. I was being picked on by several students in my class, and I was beginning to let it get to me. I went and spoke to Maari about this, How many schools can you go straight to the principal on a whim, with no appointments, no referrals, and speak openly about your problems? Afterlistening to my whole story, she spoke to all of the students doing the teasing, and it stopped. I have always felt secure in this school after that, and I know it is because of her.
I have other fond memories, such as speaking to Maari during one of the School’s trips out of state… Something hard to do, considering that so many students want to do so (Which would be odd, if they are really so afraid of her.) I have a few great memories about things that she has done that have changed my life in awesome ways; those are too private to share.
I cannot seem to reconcile my memories of Maari with the sadistic creature described here. I mean, I have been on the receiving end of many of her ‘Death Speeches’, (As I like to call them) but I still see that she is only doing what she thinks is the appropriate thing to do.
And, considering the number of success stories from this school, I think that what she thinks is the proper thing to do is usually right…
My response is also to Sandy (#172)….
I think that most of the posts that have been critical are focused on Maari, not the quality of the teaching, clinical or support staff. Most concerns stated are in relation to staff retention and the appropriate utilization of clinical support staff. This is very important to be clear about.
Why you feel the need or desire to come to Maari’s defense puzzles me but that is certainly your right. I know that you have seen and heard some of the same things that I have. How you re-frame them or rationalize them is again a puzzle to me.
This is a continuation of the above “Present Parent” statement. Before continuing, though, I want to give my name - Tom Ott.
I was the Co-Chair of the High School PA for 4 years, until my daughter graduated in 6/07, and was active in supporting many of the school acitivites and fund-raisers over the years involved. I am the writer of the comments above that are “Present Parent” and have already explained my reasons for remaining anonymous until now.
I am also a Clinical Social Worker who has worked in the field of developmental disabilities for over 30 years. Though my direct professional involvement has not been with schools for children with disabilities, the positions that I have had and the professional contacts that I have made provided me with a better-than-average exposure and understanding to the special education system and the options available.
At this point I would like to share a little of my journey with Maari and the school….hope you don’t mind.
When it became necessary to investigate non-public school options for my daughter I asked professional colleagues in the education field as well as a lawyer friend of mine who specializes in education and knows the private schools well. The consistent feedback and recommendation was to avoid The Child School and the one consistent reason given was “Maari”. Various non-complimentary words were used to describe her “style” and it was made clear to me that this was HER school. I was told that I would need to relinquish any desire to have a say in my daughter’s education, if I were to consider the school. So…we didn’t consider it, though the Bd. of Ed. referred my daughter. At some point in time someone that I work with advised that I consider it and that I really needed to have a more open mind, as she was quite pleased with it. Based on this, as well as the fact that there were limited options that were satisfactory to us…..we went for the interview and were quite impressed with Maari’s presentation and her clinical /
educational assessment. This, along with a lack of any better option, were
our reasons for trying it. (Of course against the advice of our lawyer and the
other professionals whose opinions I very much trust.)
The first few years were up and down, but generally OK. Then I think
that, possibly due to the need to move and being preoccupied with that, Maari appeared more open to collaboration in some areas. I went from being totally on guard to being more trusting and believing of what she was saying at that time (that she wanted to work WITH parents and HER staff).
As my daughter was starting HS she asked me to develop and to Chair the
HS PA. That experience was my awakening to the reality of the level of control and micro-managing that she obviously needed to exercise.
Leanne was on board as the Development person and she was confident that Maari was really trying to change. I saw some little signs of
change (i.e. when addressing parents at PA Meetings she included staff by saying “we” instead of attributing every idea, innovation and positive move to herself by saying “I”).
I was hopeful. BUT……as time went on, and probably a result of being PA Co-Chair, I heard A LOT from other parents, students, staff and former students, familes and staff. This was in addition to my own direct experience in trying to work collaboratively with her. I feel that I made some good
attempts to try to engage Maari collaboratively and, at times was successful, but in general she gave the message that she runs the school and
makes the decisions.
It was also clear to me and to other parents that staff do not have any sense of security in making decisions without first consulting her.
I truly feel that I gave her a shot
(as I also recommended the school to other people that I knew who were investigating options). I also communicated my more hopeful feelings and opinion to my colleagues and lawyer, but I eventually saw what was the truth and the reality (the original information that I had been provided by my colleagues and lawyer).
I had contemplated what I
> might be able to do and realized whatever it was
> would need to wait until Ari
> had graduated. So…here I am and I would very much
> value whatever
> assistance you can provide.
> My initial direction, I think, will be
> pressuring the Board of Directors,
> as I mentioned that I want the school to continue
> but not Maari.
Tom Ott, again…..sorry for my technical non-sophistication as indicated in the ending of my last statement. But……what I wanted to end with is that I feel very strongly that the school needs to remain as an option for students with learning issues. What I have also come to believe very strongly is that it cannot and should not continue with Maari as its’ head.
Thanks for this opportunity.
Michael (#184): Thank you for your comment. It took some guts to post something positive here and I’m glad you did. Your comment is well written, well structured, well formatted, and easy to read.
Amazing how some students at The Child School are taking the time to think and write careful posts here and format them so they are easy to read. Both you and Steve Foster have excellent writing skills (I wish I wrote as well when I was in high school) and are dealing with this threaded discussion in a mature and open hearted way.
Thank you.
Parents take note: if these two people are in fact students (and there are other articulate Child School students in this thread) it says a lot about the education they’re getting at the school. You may have problems with the director but ultimately it seems like she’s doing some things right because the school is producing students who know how to express themselves.
Richard,
Please don’t be antagonistic to us. Abusive parents will do a few of the right things also.
Teri
Teri I’m sure parents are doing things right here too. And, I’m sure there are real issues here. However, I think it’s ironic that the school that is receiving so much criticism is turning out students who can think and write. Many schools that are highly regarded aren’t doing as well.
I’m not saying this undoes abuse or mistakes, it’s just something to consider.
Sandy, if I were a prospective student and was checking out TCS, I wouldn’t have bothered to call for an interview. Until I read your posting, that is. I’m sorry it is listed all the way down at place #172. Prospective families don’t get your sense of the school, unless they hang in there, and read it all.
This web site is supposed to be about what’s good for students with learning disabilities. Yes? I don’t know how
it is supposed to help the TCS kids by having an public word bashing of their leader. It doesn’t appear to be the appropriate forum. If the #1 issue is what’s good for the kids, that is.
We all know by now the students are reading what we are writing about their leader. Many postings seem rather self righteous and unproductive. If your goal is to improve the education of all our kids, that is.
So let’s talk about the kids. Many students experienced being removed from schools, and being shunned by the “normal” classmates. Parents had to sit through reports from teachers who didn’t have a clue about what was going on with their children. Maari figures out how to give them academic and social structures that will afford them, as she says, “peace at the end of the day, when they come home and close their doors”.
Maari has a huge following of grateful parents. I’ve seen her tolerate parent disrespect with dignity and restraint, a demeanor that reflects good role modeling for her students.
I would wager that Maari is effective in most of her interventions with students, who, after all, other educators gave up on a long time ago. Most of us are not education people and none of us is present for any of these decisions, so how can we objectively judge? We hear second and third hand about the controversial decisions and the interactinos between the parents and Maari.
Maari would be replaced by…who? Someone more acceptable to the community? Someone who will be more open to meeting our goals? Is that going to make TCS students better educated? If there is such a professional out there, gifted with all the qualities some find lacking in Maari, they haven’t independently stepped up and started their school yet, and they shouldn’t wait for Maari. Judging by the resources appropriated and the amount of interest shown by New York State, they have a long, difficult road, and there are plenty of deserving students in NYC waiting.
My son has been attending the Child School/Legacy High School since the age of six. Over the years he has dramatically improved in all aspects of language arts. I personally feel that this is due to the wonderful and caring teaching staff.
Even though I don’t always agree on how the school is being run by its director, this will not take away my admiration for the dedicated staff.
“Maari would be replaced by…who? Someone more acceptable to the community? Someone who will be more open to meeting our goals? Is that going to make TCS students better educated?”
Possibly someone who would not try to cut corners in meeting IEP mandates? Possibly someone who believes in the courtesy and respect philosophy of students and staff members? Possibly someone who doesn’t “stack the deck” of her board of Directors and has a board that holds her accountable for what she does/how she acts/what she says and steps in when they see things going the wrong direction? Possibly someone who is willing to be an overseer and director- having faith in the supervisors, staff members, and teachers to do their jobs without micromanaging every aspect of the school? Possibly someone who isn’t a control freak? Take my word for it- there are many a person like that out there- look at other schools on this site. I’m not saying that they don’t have problems of their own- but how many of them have almost 200 entries about the director- and personal documentation as to “why” there are major problems with her. There are many EXCELLENT teachers and staff at TCS- why do you think the school is still in existence (and the fact that the students who come to this site can read/write/and respond to the issues stated)- it’s definitely because of them and their commitment to the kids, definitely not because of the professional treatment they receive as trained professionals .
In response to #192
It is definitely true: There are a great many teachers that care a great deal about the students in the school, and they do make it a success. But the implication that Maari does not have a commitment to the students at TCS/LHS is both horrible and erroneous.
Maari started this school. You are correct, she is very micromanaging of everything that happens in it… But doesn’t her micromanagement appear to be having good results? The school has gone from a single apartment with 7 students to a four-building campus with over 200. And, through that time, how many students have graduated? How many people have been helped? I may not have been there 10 years ago, but I can say for sure that Maari was behind each and every one of those success stories, in one way or another. If you call up one of those students now, and say her name, they will have personal stories to relate to you.
The simple fact is: There is no Child School or Legacy with no Maari. She may be micromanaging, but that is because she is the heart of the school; she is one of the reasons it all works so well.
To “Anonymous” (#191),
If you feel this way why are you posting your comments in this manner? Why do you feel that you need to be “anonymous”……..?
And……are you someone who has not heard concerns from parents, students or staff that are similar to the ones that are expressed through this thread of comments? I am quite curious and I would be quite surprised if you say that you have not.
Your individual experience (as well as those of some other families) may not be reflective of the whole. As I was told by those “in the know” (those professionals in the field of special education resources)…..everyhting is OK until it is not…..or….in other words….until you have a significant disagreement with Maari. Maybe you have been lucky and, for your child’s and your sake, I hope that your luck holds out until graduation.
Wishing you…the best!
Maari’s managerial style is not for everyone and despite my inability to accept what I perceive as her lack of professionalism, I was initially impressed with the school and still am to this day. I made wonderful friends with the teachers, former teachers and other staff members from The Child School some who I enjoy so much that we stay in contact with each other to this day.
I was equally impressed with the children who I met and overjoyed to meet a bunch of young people with such high aspirations and direction. Many of these children have moved on to college and productive lives, so the school does its job!
In my opinion, anyone who can bring together so many wonderful people cannot be too bad. My initial response to the criticism of Maari is that perhaps she should refine her mannerisms just a bit. It is bad when all the good a person does is turned into bad just because of a thing call personality. On the other hand, who am I to judge? I have my own quirks.
To post #196:
No one is knocking the school. Personally, I always felt the school has alot of potential. Yes, Maari has put together a good school, with staff that truly care about their students, and show it when they are allowed to.
However, her own issues, whatever they might be, have been a detriment to the school as well. And while it is true that there are staff and faculty that stay with TCS for years, the turn over rate is still much higher than it should be. As a former teacher, I’m sure you experienced and saw things that should not have been. Also, too many parents are either disappointed or angry. One also needs to question why the school itself isn’t knocked, but Maari.
I think we are all on the same page here- no one is saying anything about the staff of the school (other than those who have positions without state certification- i.e. supervisor, some teachers, etc.), most all agree that the staff work hard, love the kids, and do a great job educating the kids.
Michael, I want to address you- and I know your mom and your mom gives quite a bit to the school (both in time and $), plus- you are a “higher functioning” student- which are the type of kids Maari wants to fill the school with- if she could. If you read the above posts- there are some positive things said about Maari’s creation of the school- and how for some kids they just thrive in that
environment- it’s not all negative- you just need to read through all the posts.
However… does that negate the problems of the school that need to be addressed (and never are because she refuses to address them- it’s her way or the highway!)? What about kids that aren’t treated like you are? The underprivaleged or “different” students? What about those that have emotional problems and her “therapy” exacerbates their problems instead of helping them? What about students that are supposed to have a teacher in Elementary (or Middle or anywhere for that matter), and a class sits empty for most of the year because a few teachers are hired and either quit or are fired? So… a co-teacher, or a couple of them- “fill- in”: is THAT fair to the students of the school? Is it fair that if a student is supposed to have speech therapy (0r any other therapy)- but the therapist is turned into a supervisor or just pulled to do “other” work, and no one replaces them- so kids don’t get whatever therapies their IEP MANDATE or parents are told their kids don’t need them anymore and urged to sign off on it (because she doesn’t have enough therapists for all the students needs)- is THAT fair? What if it was your mom that was trying to advocate on your behalf- and in “trying” to talk to Maari about the concerns gets a reply of “if you don’t like it- you can take your child out and find another school?” Parents have a hard time finding placements- there aren’t a whole lot of schools out there as options- so they feel “stuck” or in a no win situation- is THAT fair?
So… does this mean that because there are some positive things about the school (or even many positives if want to say), that we should overlook ALL the negative- and totally illegal/discriminating/unethical things going on?
Actually, I really believe if Maari was open to LISTENING to parents & staff who will give their opinions about how to make the school better- the school would flourish (even with her at the helm). However, she can’t. She thinks she holds all knowledge on how to run a school, how to teach kids, how to raise kids, how to do everything that pertains to running a school and kids- and so she won’t listen to most of the parents, won’t listen to most of the staff- but goes around like she knows it all. I believe this site is a reprocussion of that attitude of hers. People will voice their opinions in one way or another- and unfortunately (for her) it’s in a forum like this one.
Dear Former Staff member: Just so you know, there is a lot more to this web site than this discussion; the site is not “a repercussion” [sic] of anything except my willingness to put a lot of information online over twelve years and allow many students and adults with LD to publish their writing in a safe place. For many, this web site holds their first and only published writing. You may not know that as you may never have ventured out of this thread.
This discussion thread might not exist if the school weren’t controversial in some way, absolutely, but as those of us who are looking at it from a distance can probably see, as with any charismatic, opinionated and possibly rigid leader, some will like her, and some will not. This is true of almost any head of a school, any department head, and any manager of people.
I’m not defending anyone here but I do think that it’s good that this discussion thread now has a bit more balance rather than being such a one-sided lynch mob. Lynch mobs make me extremely uncomfortable and no matter who the recipient of the bad words is, I don’t want my web site to support anything like that.
If this discussion can help people find one another, help the school in some way (directly or indirectly) or even put on the record things that people are finding fault with so that someone can sort it out and present it somewhere, then it’s doing some good.
I also think it’s wonderful that various students from the school are weighing in here and to me, it shows that the school is doing a few things right, at least for these students who I’m finding articulate and civil in their discussion of these issues.
After I first read this page, I have to say that I was a little concerned. Were my feelings concerning Maari unique, or were there others who spend their days at the school that support her?
I did not even bother to ask the students; anyone who has gone to the school for over a month knows about the predominantly negative outlook they have toward their director. (But then, how do you expect people to feel about an authority figure who plays an active role in punishment?)
Who I did ask were the staff. Administrators, counselors, teachers, co-teachers… And I have to say that what I heard totally alleviated any fears that I had. In respect to privacy, I will not say who I talked to or exactly what they said, but I will say that the general response of staff members when told about the negative things being said about Maari here was one of shock, and that feelings for her were almost universally supportive.
Now, as for the parents, I cannot say much: I have no contact with them, during the day or on occasion, and I have no means of finding their opinions. I can say, however, that I know about what you are saying, about parents of “Underprivileged” students being made to be “Stuck” by Maari. Again, for sake of privacy, I will not elaborate, beyond saying that the student stayed in the school and is now one of the smartest, calmest, and insightful people that I know.
Generally, I still stand by what I said: Maari does what she does because she sees it as the best way to prepare students for good, full, independent lives. From what I have seen, she has done just that in a great many cases, and from who I have talked to, I know that I am not alone in such thoughts.
I’m amazed at how these comments have grown. Richard you have no clue as to the repercussions of staff, both former and present, and parents naming themselves outrightly after posting negative comments.
It is a beautiful, well organized, clean and mostly safe school. While some of the brilliant and studious students may feel that double periods, and coursework aren’t challenging, others refuse to do their h.w. and study. For many reasons, I’d recommend this school.
Yet, it is best described as a cult in terms of openness, communication and input from staff, parents and adults. Currently “staff in the know” are mute about a daunting problem. There is at least one 2-3 year studious student whose “new” contacts have emboldened him to plan wild repercussions for any “troubling” staff. For many years only emergency counseling was available and thus the fruit is being reaped. The students can and should comment by using their names. The fear is that when told not to do so they’ll return and state the warning and the person as many kids would.
Basically we let Maari decide, and do whatever and many leave via fax, phone call, card etc… in the nick of time.
She rarely issues memos and there is a lot of confusion as to what she wants, means and continues to envision about “special programs” and add’l work duties. In the past, teachers who were never written up once, were terminated without obvious cause. a few have gone on to sue her. Threats to staff’s licenses and other things are known to be stated by Maari.
Michael, do you think that any staff members would actually tell you anything about Maari? No way! It’s their job, their workplace, and their boss (she does sign their checks you know)- you only see and are told what anyone would say- they would never say anything negative to students OR parents about her- that is unprofessional and not your business (or your mom’s)anyway. The staff at TCS are a committed, professional group of people. So if I were you- I wouldn’t exactly be “comforted” of your fears even a little by thinking she has “universal support”- the staff would not have told you anything- you are a student after all!
Former Staff Member, do you think that all the staff members would lie? I don’t want to say you’re lying, but the teachers Michael is talking about might be the ones who actually do have a positive outlook on how Maari runs things. Maybe 1/4th of the teachers have lied, but we can not be sure without checking their pulse and all that fancy lie-detecting stuff.
Besides, there are teachers who would say something negative about Maari. Then again, these teachers left the school on their own, negatively powered, will. So I wouldn’t tell a student that what he heard was a lie. If a teacher has a problem, they would share it honestly. If the teacher doesn’t want to share it, they don’t. And before you respond to what I said, I have known these teachers in high school for a while now. There are at least two teachers who would be vague and/or misleading to the question. The rest would tell it like it is or say “I don’t feel like sharing it.”
Steve, it has nothing to do with lying. It has to do with the fact that usually (in most cases) staff do not show disrespect/dishonor toward their boss. I know that you may not believe me, however all the parents reading this thread will understand what I’m talking about if they are in the workplace. Yes, some teachers/staff at TCS may openly in front of kids make certain comments about Maari-although most won’t share that information- especially not with parents and students- why would they? Do you not think there would be repercussions after what they said spread to other people? (We all know that word spreads) It’s not what wise adults would do(or what most would do). I know you guys think that you know all about the staff because it’s a very open environment and most kids have good relationships with the staff- HOWEVER, staff will not “totally” tell it like it is to you- don’t be fooled to think they will, especially when it comes to opinions about their employer. It’s a good lesson you are going to need to learn- you have to be wise about what you say, especially in the workplace!
Also, I believe that if what Michael (or his parent-who I’m more led to believe wrote that)said was true, and so many staff members were “universally supportive” and “shocked” by the comments made in this thread, then don’t you think that there would be very little staff turnover? If people “support” and enjoy their workplace, even for much less money you would find many people who just stay and are happy- no matter what the school is lacking in salaries and benefits - because they “enjoy” working in that environment. TCS has more staff turnover rates than most schools (and I believe have a harder time of filling spots because of the reputation of the director throughout the city)- most don’t lose staff at such an alarming rate. If you don’t think I’m right, go back and look at an old yearbook from a couple of years ago-and count how many staff are no longer there. Give some staff the credit of moving or leaving for other reasons (Like John L.), but what you will find is a large amount of staff who just left (or were fired) because of “irreconcilable differences”. Although, for many who stayed, it has little to do with Maari (when you work there you hear the “true” comments about Maari), it has to do with either them not wanting to work in public schools and deal with the large class sizes and lack of discipline with the students (which I already credited TCS as excellent as far as), or just the fact that like some kids- change isn’t easy for some adults either. We all become comfortable in our “place”- even when we don’t like it- change isn’t easy for most people. As I already said, most of the staff at TCS are wonderful people, and when you have close friends it’s not easy to up and leave them. However, for some, leaving isn’t hard at all- and they get out of there at the first opportunity that they get!
I’m also not saying that all of the staff feel the same way about Maari- there are varying degrees of liking/dislike. I’m sure that some of them would say that they support her and she does what she thinks is best (but also are well aware of her flaws which they may not be willing to jump and share). I’m not saying that everything she does is horrible- because that’s not the point of the comments on this thread (believe it or not). We all know that she’s done much good, her whole development of the school has helped countless students. For students like you, Shaina, Michael, Anthony (even with your complaints about her), high functioning kids will THRIVE at TCS- you learn easier than most ld students and you guys do well handling yourselves in school. Although, what about the students that really struggle to learn or are on Maari’s radar behaviorally? They wouldn’t be so free to share their true thoughts about her (even here obviously- because we know they have internet and probably read this thread, although they don’t write in it) and so it’s the same with the staff. Some will freely and openly support her (acknowledging that she has flaws) and others who have encountered more of her temperment will have stronger opinions about her, although most of them will be wise about whom they share their thoughts with. To a student or a parent, most would not openly say anything to disrespect her- or at least they really shouldn’t!
“Richard you have no clue as to the repercussions of staff, both former and present, and parents naming themselves outrightly after posting negative comments.”
Comment #201, Staff. So, give me a clue. What would happen to you if you used your real name? And, who would do it?
Oh, I was so happy to hear from Staff and Former Staff, both of whom gave credibility to so many of the ongoing negative issues:
1.) The lawsuits. I am involved in a lawsuit, and as advised by my atty…”until resoved, remain anonymous.”
2.) “Michael’s” post — the strong suspicion that it was written by Michael’s mother.
3.) Steve! Your own post, #70, gives credence to why a teacher or student would no longer want any affiliation with the school. Bravo to you for recovering from this situation. My child would not have been able to.
4.) Description as a “mostly” safe environment — acknowledging that it is not always safe! Certainly wasn’t safe for my child.
5.) Negative consequences for a student speaking negatively against the school — Yes! Happened to my child.
6.) Confusion as to what she wants.
7.) Threats.
8.) Emergency counselling only, as opposed to ongoing counselling as mandated by IEP.
9.) Staff firing, not voluntary staff resignation.
10.) And the number one reason on the top ten list…hearing it described by a staff member as a cult.
Richard, there are many current staff that will not post here because they are worried that somehow their email addresses will be connected to the post (even though only you have the addresses). Maybe you could alleviate some of the fears- and get them more willing to post their comments.
Former Staff: Sure, glad to.
Patriot Act aside, I will never, and I mean never, divulge an email or IP address of anyone who comments on any of my web sites. I would delete the comment and any trace of it before I’d give up private information.
And, on a side-note, for every comment you see here I delete two that are over the top inappropriate. Some of these seem to be from students, some from adults. No way to know for sure.
I don’t edit them, I don’t get in touch with the poster, I just delete them before they go live.
I believe in freedom of speech but that freedom has to be used responsibly.
Well in light of comment #201 I have to say I’m still waiting for Sandy to “clear” up those misconceptions. Here we have staff reporting that serivces are not be delivered and the potential problems that might arise.
So I ask again what possible explination is there for no IEP meetings , No serivecs,and endless wholesale changes ( not adjustments,or additions)every year. After nearly thiry years I don’t think its untreasonable to expect more continuity and less chaos.
Thank you Richard for reminding everyone of your comitment to posters privacy.
Regarding post #206, I had often thought over the years that a cult like atmosphere was encourage at the school. Perhaps others had thought this as well.
Teri
That is a word that came up frequently when asking around about the school, before I even decided to send my child there. During our years there, yes, the word frequently came to mind based on observation and experiences. Post #201, from Staff, was the first time I heard it used by someone still within the school itself, which I believes carries even heavier weight.
That being said, when I look back at the long roster of teachers who educated my two children over the course of their elementary and high school years — at least six of the teachers here at Legacy have been among the finest, most nurturing, compassionate, unforgettable educators I have had the privilege to know.
Which I know brings us right back to the “she must be doing something right” stance, but back to the fact that over half of them are no longer there.
I had a busy weekend, so I was not able to get over her and see what was going on. I have to say that, now that I have, I am quite alarmed…
Firstly, #202 and #204, Former Staff Member
I would like to point out here that I totally trust every staff member that I asked my question too: And that more than one of them did not want to speak about their thoughts until we had a chance to talk in private. I have seen these staff around the school and outside of it, and I can say that their replies to my question always seemed to reflect the attitudes that they normally had.
On a less cordial note, I want to mention that I am very *spoon*ed off about the notion that my mother ghost-wrote for me. Seriously, if you know me and my mother as well as you have said/implied, or hell, if you had ever even heard about either of us, you would know a lot better than to make such a *spoon* idiotic comment.
For that matter, who the *spoon* are you? if you are a ‘Former’ staff member, then what reason do you have to hide your identity?
By the way, I have posted my counter-argument to the ‘This school is for high-functioning students’ already, however, I would like to add the fact that I myself was asked to leave my old school for bad behavior. My first year at this school was punctuated by meetings with Maari. I am not that way anymore, and I owe it all to this school.
Secondly: #206 and #211, Gone
May I ask who you are, if not for a name, then at least in relationship to the school?
Final Note:
I replaced swear words with *spoon* in this post, however the ‘expletive’ sense of the word remains the same. Sorry for the aggressive undertone of this post, but I am get really annoyed at people who insult my intelligence when all I do is say my views on a controversial issue (Though it is to be expected)
I would like to vouch for Michael as I was pretty irritated a bit by how Gone questioned Michael’s posts. I would like to mention that even if Michael’s mom posted for him, I doubt she would change “I hate this school” to “I love this school”. Any and all honest opinions coming from him are uncensored, only the grammatical errors that might be added on or removed.
To latch onto Michael’s post, I honestly don’t know why, how, or when it happened. But when I got into this school, I was a beast. I mean, I would throw tantrums for every tiny thing. Though I still misbehave for the most part, it has decreased by tenfold.
Finally, I cannot take most of the Former Staff Member comments as truth because if you are indeed a former staff member, there wouldn’t be a need to use that as your name. You are an adult who has moved on from this school and we (the school) can not target you and hurt your chances of getting another/better job. You’re just hurting your credibility by not posting at least your first name.
Dear Former Teacher, #204,
Thank you for the compliment, but Michael’s posting is composed of his own opinions, in his own words, not ours.
Karen
This is how I feel about The Child School, to paraphrase Winston Churchill:
“It is a riddle, wrapped in a mystery, inside an enigma.”
Some things work very well, others do not. Some students flourish, others do not. Ideally, a school environment enables a child to flourish academically and emotionally. When it is clear that the environment is hindering and damaging emotional development, it is time to move on. I am the parent of a former student, a student nowhere near as capable as Steve, or Michael, or Shaina, or Hannah, a child who could not handle the physical or psychological bullying.
Forgive me, Michael, for insinuating that your parent wrote your comments…indeed, in my few years at the school, I never, ever saw a child express himself, in thought or in correct use of the constructs of composition, as you. You certainly do the school proud.
Maybe pride is a key word here. There came a day when my child was no longer proud to be there, no longer proud of his own capabilities as a successful student at Child School. As counselling was minimal — although it had been mandated — I had to find a more supportive environment. An environment in which demeaning language did not originate in the director’s office.
You guys are, as the expression goes, on the right side of the coin. Not all students there are as lucky.
Michael, Okay, believe what you want about staff talking against Maari, the adults reading this post will know the truth of speaking against an employer, especially to a student.
I do know your mom and you- quite well as a matter of fact. The language of your post seemed to change the last time- I’m sorry if it really was you. I do know that your mom already sent out an email (which obviously has hit major circulation since even I got it) that was similar in written form:
“The web site LD Resources 179 comments have been placed on the web site since 2005, but especially recently, and mostly negative about Maari. (Other schools have a handful of comments, ie 0-12). Does this web site affect TCS recruitment?
Positive comments solicit negative ones and the statements (paraphrased) abound: The School may not even be around in a year or two, because the State may close it down for violations, and Maari then may have the opportunity to take off for treatment. Yesterday
Sandy Cox wrote a comment, obviously heartfelt (see #172) and hers is confronted with “I know you have to be careful about what you say, since you work there”, a usual response when a teacher responds positively. The HS students read the LD Resources web site about TCS/Legacy. One of the web-masters (Shapiro) suggested all the
responders complete the TCS survey, if they want to voice comments, and the response to him was who knows if the survey will or won’t be fixed. Students are e-mailing the web site also. e.g. One ninth grader tries to defend Legacy. Another doesn’t like the new Wednesday activity that allegedly supplants academics ( but which is similar to the types of activities NYC independent schools are introducing
to their schedules).
I was referred to the site in the past few weeks by a parent and by
my son, who last night asked me, “Do you think Maari cares about the
students?” His friends discuss the situation at length. He thinks
Maari cares, and plans to defend Maari and the School. I asked him
not to write an e-mail yet. I expect contentious responses and want
him to prepare for them, if he sends out an e-mail.” Sorry, but it seemed very similar, I’m sorry that I made you so upset, you are a good thinker/writer. What grade are you in now?
I do wonder though, why aren’t more people posting and countering all the negative untrue posts if they believe that what is said above is untrue? Also… I’m still waiting for you to answer my post #193 paragraph #3.
Lastly, I’ve already explained why I can’t tell who I am, but be sure I will as soon as I can. You will just have to read through the above “former staff” posts and find my reasoning!
I don’t think most people know whether or not the possibly untrue statements are indeed true or just going with the mood and adding onto the hype. I remember hearing all the time back in elementary that Maari had multiple cars on Roosevelt Island. One for each day of the month and all. I found it hard to believe but that’s how the river flows in Middle School (this was about eight years ago) and from what I remember, it just kept on building from there. This might be just another example.
Hi All,
I have been in touch with Richard - the LD Resources web-master to let him know that I cannot respond to his request and give a comprehensive, overall and historical, one-page summary of TCS. I also informed him that I do not think that any ONE person can. Maari’s version, as she is probably the only one person who can summarize from the beginning to present….would be exactly that… “Maari’s Version”.
So this web-site serves a vital purpose, open communication between and among present and former staff, present and former parents, and present and former students…..something that was never possible for the period of time that I had involvement in TCS.
I have informed him that I am soon hoping to have a site that I can refer everyone to that will have space for parents, for staff and for students, commenting both positively and negatively about TCS and their experiences. For now this is what we have and….thank you, Richard, for this opportunity. As you can see the “flood-gates” have opened!
I hope that this is appropriate, Richard, and, if not, I am assuming that you will edit it out but I wanted to offer my e-mail address to anyone who has specific instances that may assist me in documenting why it is absolutely necessary to push Maari to resign or for her to be removed from her leadership position at TCS. I will definitely be pursuing this and need the assistance of staff, parents and students. If you have witnessed or experienced something that relates to this, please forward your detailed and specific examples to me at Tomoto2@aol.com
Thanks for providing everyone with this forum, Richard. You can see by the number of comments how important it is.
It is true, looking back, that my syntax did change from my first post to my second… Strange, I do not remember making so many mistakes on the first; but then again, I started writing my posts in notepad starting with the second, which I find easier.
Anyway, the following refers to #198, paragraph #3 (Which is what I assume that you meant, there is no paragraph #3 in #193, and paragraph #2 is a statement, rather than a question.
Firstly, I have to say that I was not aware that IEP Mandates were not being met: My personal experience thus far this year includes having both group therapy with two other students, and having in-class therapy where the psychiatrist sits in the class room. Are you sure that things have not changed since you last gathered information on the matter? I will have to check when I am in school tomorow.
On the subject of teacher problems, it was my understanding that the situation last year was abnormally hectic in that regard. We had some trouble with music teachers a few years before that, but nothing compared to the mass-exodus of last year’s staff. My knowledge on the situation in Elementary and Middle schools is limited, as is my knowledge of the High School situation last year; I was not present at that time (I was having major problems and was on temporary home instruction.)
Now, about Maari’s treatment of ‘different’ students. From my (again, limited) knowledge of the situation, Maari does indeed tend to use ultimatums to deal with concerned parents. I said in post #200 that I had knowledge of one student in such as situation, and that I would not elaborate for the sake of that students privacy. As I said before, that student stayed in Legacy, despite Maari’s harsh treatment, and he/she developed into someone who I respect more than most others. That student was one of these who were ’stuck’ by Maari, but, if he/she never was, then who knows what kind of person he/she would be now.
Finally, about more people not being able to say their piece here, I have to say that it is true that there are not many students who would be willing to support their director. She is an authority figure, and one who both plays a role in punishment as well as who makes rules that are not exactly popular in the student body (Uniform, cell-phones etc.) About staff members, I am not sure how many (other than those who I talked to) actually know about this page, and out of those, how many would be willing to contribute to it (Out of lack of technological savviness, or just out of an aversion to internet communication.) Parents, as I have said so many times before, are a group of people who I know very little about.
In response to #218, Tom Ott
I noticed that you ask that people only contact you if they have information that may lead to Maari’s impeachment, rather than if they have information in general about Maari’s treatment of the students, staff, and parents at TCS/LHS. The reference to a ‘Lynch Mob’ has been made before in this overly-long comments page, and I feel that, while having the ability to express opinions is both important and a basic human right, only allowing one side of the story to show through really is not very fair; to Maari, the school, and to everybody who is involved in it.
Just my two cents…
Michael,
I have not responded to you or to other students because I honestly do feel that my goal (removing Maari) is a parent/caregiver and staff issue to pursue. And….I agree with your mom in that ideally, students would not be directly involved in this but…as I stated above, this is the first opportunity for truly free and open communication.
You can feel free to compile documentation that supports how you feel and supports your belief. That is your right. That is not my objective, though.
There have been enough situations that I have experienced and heard about that lead me in this direction. If you have had a good experience I feel that you are lucky and hope that it continues in this way for you until your graduation. I have already expressed my hope in this regard to your mom.
Good luck. Please do not feel slighted but I do not want to get into a back and forth with you about this. I wanted to give you a response but feel that it is best to leave it this way. You can proceed in whatever way you think is right based on what you believe.
Take care and say Hi to your mom for me,
Tom
Michael, yes, that’s the number I meant, I have a hard time seeing the post numbers- for some reason they run into the word “Posted”, so yes,that was the number.
I know you were not aware that IEP mandates were not being met. Not many people are. In HS, less kids have mandates that need meeting for one, and do you think they would say “oh yes, we are short specialists!”. I’m in a Special Ed. school currently- with 125 students. We have 5 Psychologists, 7 Speech and Language therapists, 8 Occupational Therapists and many Physical Therapists. One Educational Supervisor, one Speech Supervisor and one Social supervisor- the director DIRECTS- not micromanages- doesn’t do “counseling”, “teacher supervising” etc. Now, let me just say- we do have 1 class (8 kids) of autistic children- so all of them get most all of the services. I actually have documentation from the time I was there (and it doesn’t matter if she’s doing things right CURRENTLY- what about the TONS of kids that suffered in the past because she took funds from the state and didn’t provide the services? Although… I doubt before this thread became so “popular” at the school (I believe her development person reads it daily) that she actually met mandated services anyway- I know she’s “working harder” now to do the “legal” thing) about the kids that were mandated for services and the amount of specialists we had. I can’t tell you how short the list of specialists were. Then, of course, she took one of the Speech guys (and the elementary Psychologist) and made them supervisors- without replacing them for a long time. (Although for the Psychologist it didn’t last long). She also pulled a MS Psychologist, made her a supervisor- taking a long time before she replaced her original therapy position (all these “supervisors” by the way don’t have state certification- neither do the 2 Regents and 1 Patterson supervisors for that matter). I know the state has regulations and special training for those people who are directors of a school, as well as those that are in supervisory positions. Doesn’t that make you wonder why Maari refuses to abide by the state regulations? Of course, I’m sure she would have to “pay” people that are really trained that would be in those positions. However, that says something about her “ethics” and “abiding by the regulations and laws of the state” right there. Doesn’t she want you guys to abide by her rules? How about local civil rules? Or how about laws given by our government? Also, when I got my new job- I had to be fingerprinted and also have a background check for child abuse-NEITHER of those things happened while I was at TCS- which is a little scary for the sake of the students, especially in this day and age!
Staff turnover was not just a problem last year. I worked there a long time- and I can tell you that this was a problem every year- not just last. I would say that your building has the most stability of the school (which doesn’t say much) as far as staff, it’s the Elementary kids who I believe suffer the most losing their teachers and being left without any! Of couse, maybe if she’d stop yelling at them and treating them like professionals, they would stop leaving!
As far as the treatment of Maari to some students. Yes, I’d agree that for some the “harsh” treatment makes them who they are. However, I’ve known some kids she’s pushed to the limits so much they ended up in residential or in a psych ward. A few of them threatened to commit suicide (and one of them meant it- thank God for outside intervention!)- does “harshness” help all of them? It certainly doesn’t- especially when you are dealing with Emotionally disturbed kids- who have instability to begin with!
As far as other students commenting on this thread- we aren’t talking about Maari just being an “authority figure”. We are talking about her “abusive”, “harsh”, “unfair”,
“predjudiced”, and “illegal” ways of doing things at TCS- thankfully not affecting most of you guys that have posted here- but we all KNOW that it affects other students at the school- and it’s for all of those reasons- she needs to be removed!
You know, Former Staff Member, I think I might just know who you are. If I am right, then I have to say I am greatly surprised…
Whatever.
Anyway, all I can say about this school and Maari are my personal opinions, observations, and conclusions. I have said these in posts #184,#194, and #200. Even after all of the negative comments written here, and after all of the terrible things said, I still stand by what I said before. It just keeps coming back to a few things for me:
Maari founded this school to help people, and she has done so in so many cases. It is her life. I just cant see her caring as little about the students as is implied by the posts above. She has always been harsh yes, but parents can be harsh too; and I have personally seen her be soft with a troubling student when the situation merits it.
Maari’s micromanagement has always seemed to have a positive impact to me. Her relationships with each and every student in this school, her understanding of each and every student, have allowed her to understand just what has to be done for them. I once asked her why she did not try to make the school larger. She answered that she was afraid that she would not be able to help the students as much if there were any more of them (along with other reasons.)
Maari has helped me. Ok, maybe my personal experience is not a reflection of the experiences of everybody, but I still have to say it. I went into this school as a horrible brat, who had been cast away from everywhere else. She changed me, even if it did take harsh measures. Last year, after I had walked out on her and had a mental breakdown outside of school, she welcomed me back with open arms. I just can’t see this same person as being so uncaring of so many other students.
Maari’s staff have helped me. Above you mentioned several instances of ‘unqualified supervisors’. Well, I have to say that I do not give a *spoon*, because I am pretty sure that every single one of those people have been uniquely involved in helping me to overcome my problems and face the world.
Maari is human, and, being human, has problems. Even if she may have gone too far once or twice, (I refuse to believe that your description of wholesale horror are true,) it is only understandable. I really cannot think of any way to elaborate on this.
I really do not want to keep on going with this anymore. I have said my piece and really do not think that an argument will help anybody with anything.
(Plus, if you are who I think you are, I have no desire to argue with you.)
As a parent whose child attends Legacy, I really don’t care what Maari’s policies are, or how she controls the school. My only concern is that my child receives the best academic education possible, and that he is able to pass all of his regents subjects and obtain a suitable score on his scholastic aptitude test when the time comes.
As of now, he is doing exceptionally well, better than I would ever expect.
I’m lucky that he has had marvelous teachers throughout these years, though some of his favorite and my favorite teachers have suddenly disappeared from the scene.
He does complain a lot about how he thinks many rules and regulations are too primitive, but at least he knows as much academically, if not more, than most of his friends’ who attend mainstream schools.
“You know, Former Staff Member, I think I might just know who you are. If I am right, then I have to say I am greatly surprised…”
Doubt it, because if you were right, you wouldn’t be surprised~
Michael, you do bring up some good points. Some people definitely are taking this too far. I will willingly admit that I’ve jumped on the “Let’s Demonize Maari!” bandwagon during my tenure at this forum, but today me and three other students (all of whom have posted here) met with her, and I can only deem the meeting as refreshing. I cannot say that I’ve done a complete 180-degree turnaround in regards to my view of her (there are some things here that have been said about her that do bother me, and consider I’ve been on the receiving end of Maari’s more stringent repremands, I cannot outright dismiss them as bunk), but today’s meeting has definitely got me doing a reassessment of her. I got a good vibe from her that I had not felt in a long time. I don’t know if we’ve been misreading her this whole time or that certain events of the past school year, changed her a bit, but I felt really good being in her presence today as well as my meeting with her a few weeks ago.
Also, Former Staff Member, we’re pretty sure of who you are, so you might as well reveal yourself. You are not under the jurisdiction of Maari, so you won’t be penalized. Also, if you are truly trying to help your argument and dissuade potential new alumni, you’d reveal yourself under your professional name rather than hiding behind a random e-guise. It’s somewhat cowardly.
Anthony, Former Staff Member’s identity could remain secret. My feelings about this extremely minor problem have been settled and I do feel that it’s better for us not to pester her/him about revealing their identity if they don’t want to. Because it won’t make the process faster.
I will reply to the more concerning issues of this mini-thread in a moment. I just needed to say this now before things escalate to unnecessary points.
I have to agree with “Former staff member” on alot of his points. When I was younger I was supposed to have O.T. At first I did not receive it and my mom was told that “We could not get through a day without it” meaning that it was incorporated into the classroom. After a while i did receive it but only for a short time. For students who really need these services this can cause problems. And this could certainly be made better.
And she doesn’t always know how to deal with the students. Often she makes them feel worse and nothing comes of it.
However in trying to score his (her?) point he goes too far. Maari does run a relatively good school and cares about the kids. She should definitely NOT be removed. Without her there would be no child school.
Posted by Interested Parent, Sep 25, 2007 at 5:14 PM
“I would be very interested in hearing from Sandy on the issue of no IEP meetings. The meetings where parents come and sign off so that school gets funding ,are not IEP meetings.As we are informed by the CSE representatives each year.
Also perhaps she could shed some light on the issue of services(Speech,Ot,and Counseling). Many students do not get the services as described in their IEPs. Parents concerns are brushed off or they are lied to. These services are being signed for,staff are affirming that they are taking place when they are not.As I understand it the school recieves funding based on the number of times a therapist meets with the student. This is not an isolated concern. I have been hearing from a number of parents (and providers) about this recently.”
Sandy, or anyone who supports the school, could you please reply to these questions? As a prospective parent, I’m looking for assurance.
Post #229,
I know what it’s like to look for a school that will fulfill the needs of your child. It is very difficult. Unless you don’t mind being isolated from your child’s education and made to feel something is wrong with you if you question something, I strongly suggest you look at other schools. And when you do, find out how parent friendly that school is. It will make all the difference in both yours and your child’s experience with that school.
Good luck!!
Teri
Response to #229,
I would agree with the response above, unfortunately. Though there are some great staff and the facility is appealing I would exhaust all other possibilities before looking further into TCS.
As you can see, even from the posts above that might be considered positive in regards to Maari (the Director), she is the consummate micro-manager who is not psychologically or emotionally comfortable in delegating and, consequently, staff are petrified to make decisions on their own.
It is clear to the students and parents / families as well that Maari is the first, last and middle word in everything. Even if she was more emotionally secure and directed in this manner it would not be positive because no school or organization’s successful operation should be dependent on one person. This, unfortunately is the case at TCS.
Addition to response for #229….
Just wanted to add…..The way that Maari’s micromanaging plays out in regard to Related Services (Speech, OT, PT, Counseling)authorized by the IEP is that clinicians do what Maari tells them to.
3 clinicians have told me (and documented) that she will disregard the specific recommendations and instruct the clinicians on what to do and how to do it, often leaving them in precarious professional positions as they know that the IEP mandates are not being fulfilled.
She has also instructed teaching and clinical staff to direct students to HER for individual and group counseling rather than permitting the clinicians in the divisions (Elementary, Middle and HS) to do this.
On many different levels…this is NOT OK but, think about the message that this gives to the clinician in regard to her opinion of their ability and competence.
A lot to consider and think about before considering the school NOW for your child. Good Luck!
I have been following the comments on this board and felt compelled to share our family’s experience at TCS.
By way of background, I am a special education and disability rights professional with over 20 years in the field. My son attended TCS for 7 years through Middle School. He left to attend a competitive mainstream high school for which he was very well prepared by TCS. During the 7 years my son attended TCS we never for one moment regretted that decision.
I find the villification of Maari to be extremely troubling. Unlike most of the special ed schools in the city, Maari does not cherry pick the students she accepts. She willingly accepts the children with social emotional problems that most other schools take a pass on. In making an admission decision she does not care how wealthy or connected a family is, she only cares about whether she can help the child. Having accepted a child she becomes committed to his welfare. When my son left after 8th grade she let us know that she would be there for him, I have no reason to doubt it.
I have always been impressed by Maari’s ability to intuit what makes a child tick and how to help him. It was a tremendous relief to us when our son attended TCS after several years in a ms private school. It made it possible for us to place his education in the hands of a professional and let us concentrate on being parents. Maari was there for our son and for us.
My son’s issues were predominately in the realm of the social emotional. Unlike a number of other special ed schools TCS was able to meet his academic needs. Maari frequently developed special ways to make sure he was academically challenged. He entered high school and was placed in 10th grade math. His grades have been excellent and he is applying to very competitive colleges. I credit Maari and TCS for the preparation they provided him with. Without the intervention on the social emotional side he would not have been able to transition to a ms high school.
I understand that there is staff turnover at the school. However, this problem is not confined to TCS. Schools like TCS, approved special eduation schools, receive a tuition per pupil that is set by the NY State Education Department pursuant to a formula. The formula does not permit the payment of fair market salaries to staff. Many staff prefer to teach at these schools so they put up with the disparity between salaries at the Board of Ed and private schools. However, there reaches a point when the disparity is so great that many teachers opt for a job in the public sector. Parents’ energies would be better spent lobbying their state reprentatives for funds in the reimbursement formula to raise teacher salaries.
I am troubled by the notion that all concerns will be solved by having Maari removed. I can assure you that Maari is responsible for what is good about TCS. Removing her will be the end of the school. Perhaps a move toward getting her some additional administrative help would be more effective.
In addition, the parents here who are so quick to complain should ask themselves what they have done to help the school. Do they attend PTT meetings? Do they support the school in other ways, particularly fund raising. Other approved special ed schools make it clear that they expect a substantial contribution from families to make up the inadequacies in the tuition formula. Unfortunately, Maari has never aggresively sought that sort of help from families. Our family continues to contribute to TCS although our son has been gone for more then 3 years. If we can help, so can you.
I know of no school that is without flaws, but constructive efforts by families are more effective then the witch hunt on this board.
Thank you former parent #233- I like that you cleared up some things. Why don’t you give your name though? These “former” people posts are irritating.
Did your son have services? Were they given like his IEP said? Did you have IEP meetings every year to discuss what was contained in the IEP with staff and a CSE worker?
You said your son went to TCS for 7 years, leaving after 8th grade, but then said “It was a tremendous relief to us when our son attended TCS after several years in a ms private school”. I don’t understand.
As the parent of a child who progressed from elementary school, to middle school, then into the high school (in 2004), I believe that the years after 2004 were all downhill. Many of these posts are specific to the high school experience at Legacy, not the younger grades. Their was a period of great expansion, greatly increasing the number of high school students, combined with a disorienting move from Manhattan to Roosevelt Island. It is in the handling of the high school student that I believe most of the problems lie, and where many of my son’s mandated services were cut short. And a high school population of primarily boys is extremely challenging. I feel this is the population for which Maari is presently most ill-equipped, emotionally and psychologically. As I’ve said before on this thread, it was only once my son started high school that things started to devolve, and IEP liberties started to amass. Prior to 2004 — I was satisfied with the school, and so was my son.
Parent #233, I am almost 100% sure I know who you are and I am not surprised by your post. I don’t think I am even surprised by your son’s progress either, as he did not only maintain a higher level of knowledge compared to most of the class, but he also was able to fit in and talk with any student he felt like talking to.
If my guess is correct about this parent, then what he/she has said holds true in so many ways. If you contribute to this school by at least attending the PTT meetings or having been with this school when #233’s son attended, you would know that this isn’t just another stranger/student who is posting made up stuff covered in fancy adult-like language.
“And a high school population of primarily boys is extremely challenging. I feel this is the population for which Maari is presently most ill-equipped, emotionally and psychologically. As I’ve said before on this thread, it was only once my son started high school that things started to devolve”
Former parnent, then why doesn’t the director get someone who “is equipped emotionally and psychologically” to operate the HS? My son is in 7th grade and I wouldn’t want to start him in a school if it will be a problem once he gets into HS.
My son is in now in his first term in Legacy H.S. He has been in the Child School for seven years and has over the years progressed tremendously.
He was very lucky to have teachers who were willing to go that extra mile to help him. He is now in a regents program and has never failed any courses in all these years.
I have never had any problems or issues with how Maari runs her show. He has gotten whatever was written on his IEP. I made sure of that!
If I felt he was not getting any of the services that he needed I would have taken him out of the school in a minute.
To Former Parent #233 (1996-2004),
You commented………
“Removing her will be the end of the school. Perhaps a move toward getting her some additional administrative help would be more effective.”
I would say that it sounds like you and your child were quite lucky in your experience and it certainly sounds like your child has had successes, which is great.
But, with your statement above I would just like to ask…Isn’t there something significantly wrong if the future of the school is hinging on ANY ONE person? Administrative supports have been provided to Maari throughout the years of my association with TCS and some significant people have either left or have been asked to leave (I cannot pretend to know the facts or the circumstances). But, to my knowledge, noone has ever been officially designated and groomed as an Assistant. It is possible that some of those that I know of and who have left were in that position informally but…we know that they are no longer employed there.
So…..whether one feels that they can support her as Director or not, the situation needs to be looked into. As you state….if the school will end without her, then The Board (which is the body that has oversight responsibility and accountability) needs to do some serious work in figuring out how to address this…..ASAP. Anything can happen to anyone at any time. This is not how a school of approximately 250 students should be administered, even if it were being administered under the best of circumstances.
And…a P.S. to your comment about those who are complaining (”In addition, the parents here who are so quick to complain should ask themselves what they have done to help the school. Do they attend PTT meetings? Do they support the school in other ways, particularly fund raising.”)
During the years of my daughter attending TCS / LHS I had always been involved and supportive of the administration, staff, parent and student body. Not only attended PA Meetings but I co-facilitated the HS PA……Not only volunteered at and attended fund-raisers but contributed what I was able……I always tried to offer what I could……..So…..the concerns I raise are not only based on what my experience is but are grounded in my desire for the school to be successful and to be a significant resource for children with learning disabilities.
But…..just because a parent may not have the same time availability or income does not mean that they should remain quiet and just be grateful to have their child be in the school. ANY parent, family member or student should be able to have a voice and respond to concerns of disrespect and abuse or the non-implementation of mandated services.
“Isn’t there something significantly wrong if the future of the school is hinging on ANY ONE person?”
Many, many successful schools were founded by charismatic, visionary and possibly eccentric people. An example other than Child is Kildonan School in upstate NY, founded by Diana King who is still involved although in her 80s. There are many others.
Many times a single vision rather than a school run by committee, is the most effective way to go forward. It may not be the most democratic, but it may be the best for the school and kids.
What I hear in many of these comments is that Maari rubs parents the wrong way but does great things for the school and certainly many of the kids. That makes things hard for parents who already are concerned for their kids’ education and well being but it may, in fact, not be such a bad thing for the school or kids.
If parents can back off enough to consider this as a possibility it might take some of the tension out of the situation.
Richard,
Re your post #240, most parents understand that as their children become older, they must be allowed to “try their wings.” Even in the best of situations it is often hard for a parent to sit back and let a school manage their child’s issues. However, most parents eventually get it and allow their children to mature.
In the case of special-ed, our children do not emotionally and socially mature at the same rate as others. The maturity level is often several years younger than most of their peers. Because of this, special-ed parents are even more concerned (and at times scared) about their children’s future.
We are a special lot, us special-ed parents. We are vulnerable, plagued with guilt (could of, should of), judged by strangers (and even family) to be lacking in parenting skills, and often need a great deal of assurance. We forever look for that magic pill that would solve our children’s disabilities over night, knowing that that is impossible. So yes, we cling on to our children, are more over-protective of them then most, and need to know we are making the right decisions regarding their education and future.
TCS, in my experience, does not support special-ed parents in this regard. We are made to feel that something is wrong with us if we question something in our children’s education. If a child had a bad day in school, such as a meltdown, we are not informed of it. TCS has a philosophy that parents must embrace it and allow it to do what it needs to do. Nothing is every said or implied, as far as I can tell, about the school embracing the parents. There is no teamwork here. It’s the school’s way or get out.
One other thing, those of you looking for a school for your child, need to find out how parent friendly that school is. If the school isolates their parents, it’s time to look elsewhere.
Teri
Teri: Could it be that some of this is because some parents, special ed kids or not, are “helicopter parents” who need to make a bit more space between themselves and their kids?
Richard,
Most likely. You’ll find helicopter parents in any school or institution. However, most parents, special-ed or not, want to have a trustful relationship with their child’s school.
Teri
When I found out that my son was not getting certain services stated on his IEP I called for a meeting to discuss this matter. Maari, his homeroom teacher and the guidance counselor all attended.
I was very vocal and informed all of them that I would pull him out of the school if these services weren’t met immediately.
The next day my son informed me that he had started to get his speech and ot. This was given to him twice a week for the next couple of years, until it was no longer needed.
I guess the only way to get anything done is to sometimes rant and rave. I personally do not like to cause a scene. However, it seems like this was the only way to get things done the way they should have been in the first place.
I will not be intimidated by the director, the Board of Education or any of the staff members. If I need to scream, wave my arms, or threaten to get rights for my child, so be it!
Post #245…
And that’s the problem. You should not had to have that meeting, and you should not had to become angry to get what should have been automatic from day one. That is the whole point.
Teri
“I will not be intimidated by the director, the Board of Education or any of the staff members. If I need to scream, wave my arms, or threaten to get rights for my child, so be it!”
And the reason you did not post your name is…..?
I must say that was nicely timed Former Parent. Though may I ask, why haven’t you posted your name either?
With ongoing litigation, per my attorney’s instruction, so as to avoid defamation, my posting is anonymous. Having left Child School, my child is finally getting the mandated services on his IEP, and unlike Present Parent (post 245) it is occurring without any ranting and raving, screaming, threatening or waving of the arms, on my part. Interested Parents, take heed.
The only reason I haven’t posted my name is that I no longer give my name or any personal information on the internet.
Besides, what does my name have to do with my child finally getting his mandated IEP services?
Why would you have to rant and scream to get your child’s services anyway? Isn’t this a special ed school and they are paid by the state to provide services? How is it that Former Parent #233 didn’t have a problem until her son got into H.S.?
You are obviously missing the point. The reason I had gotten loud was because I did like the school and had no desire at that point to pull him out. He has been getting an excellent academic education and is very happy there.
All I wanted was for him to get his other mandated IEP services which he did. Of course, if that did not happen, I probabily would have started shopping around for another school.
My son is now in H.S. and I have not experienced any problems. I cannot tell you why some parents have these problems and others not.
They just have to work it out like I did if they really want their child to continue in this school.
“Why would you have to rant and scream to get your child’s services anyway? Isn’t this a special ed school and they are paid by the state to provide services? How is it that Former Parent #233 didn’t have a problem until her son got into H.S.?”
Wondering: I would think that the reason that she didn’t have the amount of problems that most parents have is because her husband is a member of the TCS board. I would assume that had something to do with why her son got his services and many other kids don’t.
I don;t know what you are talking about. I am not married. I am a single mom.
I am also glad that I made a big fuss because my son received all his necessary services. As I have said previously he is progressing exceptionally well.
I no longer have any complaints. He is very happy and that makes me happy!
Anyways, this incident happened when he was in middle school and not in high school.
What does former parents’ problem have to do with mine?
My post was in reply to “Wondering” regarding Former Parent #233, who is married to a Board member.
Listen, good for you that you stood up to her to get what your kid needed, however many parents aren’t as “bold” as you were- some are more timid- so it’s harder for them.
Still, and here’s the main fact of the matter, there should be no reason for ANY parent to have to fight for services for their child that a special ed. school is supposed to provide!
Re: #233 former parent 1996-2004
Thank you for stating this:
I understand that there is staff turnover at the school. However, this problem is not confined to TCS. Schools like TCS, approved special education schools, receive a tuition per pupil that is set by the NY State Education Department pursuant to a formula. The formula does not permit the payment of fair market salaries to staff. Many staff prefer to teach at these schools so they put up with the disparity between salaries at the Board of Ed and private schools. However, there reaches a point when the disparity is so great that many teachers opt for a job in the public sector. Parents’ energies would be better spent lobbying their state representatives for funds in the reimbursement formula to raise teacher salaries.
In my opinion:
TCS parents/students/staff should become involved in lobbying for 853 schools parity salary and benefits in Albany. Parent #233, I know that you can get the ball rolling on this.
I have been following the lobbying efforts of the Coalition of 853 Schools for 4 years. James Purcell is executive director of the NY State Coalition of 853 Schools and the Council of Family and Child Caring Agencies. His testimony before the assembly ways and means senate finance committees on Feb 27 2007, can be read on http://www.cofcca.org Select: Public testimony and legislative issues
New York State United Teachers, the state teachers union runs articles on the inequity of 853 staff salary and benefits. They lobby for all 853 staff to be considered public employees; pension, insurance etc.. May 2007, the state legislature did pass an 853 bill. This was for money for building improvements only. No money was slated for staff salary/ benefits to ease the burden of recruitment and retention. http://www.nysut.org search: 853
Parent #233, I am not surprised by your empathy. You have stated the facts. I am sure that you will use your professional knowledge to quickly get our lobbying efforts started.
All past, present and future parents, students and staff, let us combine our positive energies and lobby Albany for fair market salaries and benefits for all 853 staff.
And, Wonderful Teacher, what would you also like everyone to do regarding all the other issues discuss on this site?
Teri
There is something odd about that “wonderful teacher” post (256). Odd in that we are waiting for someone from TCS to explain the rationale for Maari’s reinterpretation of IEP mandates, staff signing off for services that are not received, etc. and Wonderful Teacher takes the opportunity to discuss fair market teacher salaries and benefits.
Most responders to this thread are here because our children are being, or have been, underserved at TCS. I find it odd that there is no recognition of that in the post, or compassion for the cause, and I find it offensive that the poster has taken the opportunity to present TCS teachers as the underserved.
Leading me to believe that Wonderful Teacher has probably never actually taught at TCS, and is probably not the parent of a child with an unmet IEP.
But please feel free to disabuse me of that notion — and to shed similar in-depth, four-year analysis on the other issues discussed on this thread, which goes back only two years.
Wonderful Teacher, I have got to say that I have no objection with lobbying Albany for fair market salaries for 853 staff. As I’ve stated before, the majority of the TCS/Legacy staff are fabulous, committed and great people. They tolerate a great deal for the kids sake, and do marvelous things with and for them. However, Teri, that doesn’t negate all the other issues and problems. We can lobby for increased wages, while at the same time be speaking out to get these problems changed at TCS so the staff that eventually get paid more market value salaries will have positions that they want to keep because they have a director who treats them like professional educators! This will cause more stability and a quality environment for learning for the students, which is the goal of all of us here!
Post #259.
Thank you, Former Staff Member. I instantly thought “bait and switch” when I read that post. Personally, I feel that teachers should be treated with much more dignity and respect, with a much higher salary to match. It’s disgusting how education, such as NCLB, is used as a political football with no real solutions.
That being said, we need to remain focused on the reasons this site has become so long.
To Former Parent (1996-2004)
I am very happy that you as a parent and your son received the full benefit that TCS had to offer. Remember one thing, which is very important in this matter, you had knowledge and experience in special education and disability rights. Maari would most definitely be reluctant in not providing your son the services that he so desperately needed.
My son started TCS in 1993 and graduated from LHS in 2006. When we went to the initial interview at the school, my son did not make it and we were not given an official reason as to why. We had to call the school on several occasions to find out the reason and they still would not tell us anything.
TCS was our last choice due to the fact that not many schools had the qualifications that we needed for our son who had behavorial problems that his present school was not addressing.
After calling the Board of Ed and obtaining a lawyer, we were able to get him into a better school environment which he needed which we thought was TCS. To this day when confronted with this situation of not accepting our son into her school, Maari still does not remember.
While our son attended school, my husband and I attended every PTT meeting, volunteered for various events, showed our support as much as possible. At these PTT occasions, Maari would socialize more with the special interests parents that she preferred before the meetings commenced. Usually these parents were socially, educationally and economically more acceptable to her, but mainly you were judged according to how much and what capacity you could do for the school.
For example, she did not have too much to say to my husband and I at these gatherings.
The subject of getting TCS/LHS on Roosevelt Island where she and my family lives became an important quest to her. My husband and I are very politically active in our comunity, and at the time, when Maari was trying to get the schools on the island, my husband was elected First Vice-President of the Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA).
RIRA represents community organizations and developments that exist on the island; through them one can present their requests to The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp. (RIOC) a state org. which governs certain parts of the island. Being from the island herself and knowing this,she began to socialize with us more, even starting the conversations with us first, whereas, before we had to get her attention. To make a long story short, Maari is a fourteen carat phoney. You do not know what you are getting with her.
Parent No. 239, Mr. Tom Ott and myself co-chaired the PTT meetings from 2003-2006. We were strong, attentive and more than willing to give our services and to assist in making TCS/LHS the best for parents and staff. When we had private meetings with Maari, we did not know which way the wind would blow with her. At one of these meetings, Tom made the suggestion and had information for travel training. Maari acted like he had three heads. Now this year at the school, I understand that travel training will be a topic of discussion by Maari. Her way or the highway tactic is how she is with staff and students. Also she has her favorites.
With many of the children not getting their IEP regarding psychological sessions, they were placed in two categories of meetings with Maari. Boys, at one meeting and girls at another. According to my son, these meetings were gatherings that allowed Maari to be verbally, psychologically and emotionally abusive to the students. Pointing her middle finger in their face and calling them out of their name, such as the “n” word because most of the students were African-American. The girls she would call “b’s” and “h’s”, especially, one young lady that was affiliated with my son. She was white and he African-American. My husband and I were very popular with the staff and students and they would come back and complain about this.
At the PTT meetings she was so concerned about our kids,in private with them she was the devil incarnate.
Another problem of many,the juvenile academia that existed in LHS when subjects such as Math and Science is heavily needed to succeed in college. There was no emphasis placed on these subjects and parents had to send their kids to other schools to get college bound credits. This problem had been mentioned to Maari by me, my husband, Tom and many other parents, but to no avail.
Many excellent teachers have passed through TCS/LHS, but they became discouraged because they were not supported. Concerned parents and staff are addressing these porblems now that most staff and children are out of the school because Maari is unstable and would take things out on the child and this is why so many concerned parents and staff are doing somthing about this situation.
Either get rid of Maari, not the school because the SCHOOL IS NEEDED,replaced by someone who can administrate appropriately, or get someone to supervise her.
#258 wrote: “Odd in that we are waiting for someone from TCS to explain the rationale for Maari’s reinterpretation of IEP mandates, staff signing off for services that are not received, etc.”
Old former parent, I wouldn’t hold our breath here. If someone from TCS acknowledges that on this site- it’s like saying “yes, we are guilty”- Maari wouldn’t allow it (nor would any supervisor/staff member want to take that on themselves- especially knowing the TRUTH of the matter).
Responding to the following quote which was in a recent e-mail communication from the Development Director at TCS / LHS to the parent body.
“A solid majority of respondents are pleased with the education their child is receiving. There is also clearly room for improvement. The administration is already hard at work to address Parent Concerns. Two immediate improvements will focus on IEPs/Related Services and Travel Training. We will keep you posted about future plans to strengthen areas where parents see need.”
The IEP is the “roadmap” and the Related Services are one of the cornerstones of what is “special” about
special education. Travel Training has been incorporated into the specific language of what defines “special education”. WHY DOES IT TAKE THE COMMENTS ON LDRESOURCES AND PRESSURE TO PUSH MAARI TO DO WHAT SHOULD HAVE BEEN DONE ALL ALONG??
In my opinion…because she does what SHE wants to do, sometimes in disregard of regulations, recommendations, mandates etc.
TCS / LHS should have been following IEP recommendations ALL ALONG, not just working on compliance with them NOW!
Parents should not have to be investigating whether their child is receiving mandated services, outlined specifically in regard to frequency and time in the IEP. And…..if there are realistic issues that come up (i.e. an OT or Speech Therapist not being available) then the parents deserve a contact and to be consulted as to what the service options may be. Blatantly disregarding or improperly responding to IEP mandates is NOT OK!
And……TRAVEL TRAINING (TT)………
As stated before TT is now incorporated into the language of “special education”. A private, state-approved and funded special education school (TCS / LHS), that is serving students of Middle School and High School age, is not providing the students with the preparation they need for ANY post HS option when TT is not available to those who need it. Again, Maari’s late (she was aware of this at least 2-3 years ago) response in beginning to meet this vital service need of some MS and HS students is a result of the pressure she has gotten from parents on this web-site and elsewhere. Otherwise the MS and HS students would still not have the possibility of receiving this service, even if it was mentioned in the TRANSITION PLAN page of their IEP. I am aware of staff who had been recommending this for at least 2 years and Maari was, at best, disinterested.
That is how things go at TCS / LHS….
So…it is NOT an option to disregard IEP service recommendations and the provision of Travel Training. I am glad that Maari has been forced to look at this. It is in the best interest of the students and it does not put clinicians in compromising positions, as they know what they should be doing to meet those IEP recommendations.
My child’s weakness is in the Speech/Language area, and his IEP specified several weekly one-to-one therapy sessions, as well as therapy in a group. In February of the school year, I received a notice from the Speech Therapist joyfully announcing he no longer needed speech therapy, so would I please sign off and discontinue the services. As I had seen no discernable difference, I asked to see the testing which would show that he no longer required it. I asked, and asked. No testing was ever produced for me to review, so I said I wouldn’t sign off on the therapy. Well, it was discontinued anyway, without my signature and against my wishes, but more importantly, with no testing to prove that he no longer needed the services. All his one-to-one speech services were dropped, but I was heartily reassured he was receiving speech therapy “in the group classroom setting.” Whatever that meant. That’s why IEPs at this school, as stated before, are not really IEPs. Your signature is not required for Maari to change the services after they have been put in place by the CSE. Scarey.
Tom, Margaret, others: please work to make your comments shorter, they will be read more accurately and taken more seriously. One of two short paragraphs please. Thank you.
#266 states: “I received a notice from the Speech Therapist joyfully announcing he no longer needed speech therapy, so would I please sign off and discontinue the services.”
The speech therapist was required to do administrative work in the office, do curriculum for the entire elementary, oversee new teachers, and cover and teach in classrooms because of classroom teachers resigning. This didn’t leave time to give IEP services. He resigned a few weeks ago. Maari was in his life 24 hours a day. He was an excellent speech therapist. Your child’s loss is because Maari wouldn’t let him do his original job.
Why would a speech therapist of this quality treat you and your child with such professional disregard?
You need to know about Maari’s indentured servant program. She brought over Indian teachers and a speech therapist in a loophole in the law in 2003.
Check the dates on your paper work because the speech therapist was NOT NYS licensed until recently. He started working for the school sept. 2003.
http://op.nysed.gov/opsearches
nys professional license ; speech language pathology 11/26/06
http://eservices.nysed.gov/teach/certhelp
Speech And Language Disabilities Initial Certificate 02/01/2007 01/31/2012
An addition to #265 above……
The reason for emphasizing the non-compliance with the IEP mandates and Travel Training, aside from their obvious importance in and of themselves, is to emphasize that Maari decides WHAT is provided and HOW it is (or isn’t) provided. And….that is not how ANY school should be administered, but especially one of those rare gems….a publicly funded, private school for children with speacial needs!
Some clinical specialists have left because they have not wanted to jeapordize their license (and career!). Maybe this is one reason for the shortage of Specialists at TCS?
This needs to be looked into by TCS/LHS Board of Directors. As I mentioned before, Exit Interviews with departing staff conducted by a Human Resources sub-committee of The Board (with confidentiality assured) may truly help.
What I would like to know is where have the DOE been all these years? None of the issues here are new. I complained for two years to the regional associate to no avail, and then gave up. When I spoke with them, and with district 2 CSE, I was always told to switch if I wasn’t happy with TCS. As they are receiving public funds for incoming special-ed students, why isn’t there tougher oversight on the private, non-public schools?
Well Teri, maybe the DOE did look into the school and it passed their scrutiny. There is another side here and that’s the folks who are content with the school.
All of you who are finding fault with the director and the school are talking like there’s a unanimous group who thinks this director should be fired and the school changed but in fact, there is not and opinions are mixed.
I’m not going to point fingers here but there are numerous recent posts that I don’t like the tone of and if this continues I’m going to start editing heavily. I’ve already deleted numerous inappropriate posts in the moderation que and I will continue do so.
And, if you keep it up, I’ll close the thread and delete the posts.
I will not let you use this thread as a way to organize a lynch mob and if that’s what Tom’s new site will be then there will be no link to it here, ever. Be warned, I will help facilitate communication that helps the school but not communication that is solely aimed at firing the head or smearing her.
Have a nice Sunday.
Richard,
There are SO MANY people who think that TCS/Legacy should have a new director in order to be a healthy and appropriate learning environment. In my opinion, the posts on your site have only touched the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the different levels of abuse students, staff and parents have experienced with her.
I understand your desire to have a fair and balanced discussion but that will not be possible if you censure the people who are finally willing to say who they are and tell the whole truth as they experienced it and see it.
Yes, there are those who have had positive experiences. That is as it should be - we send our children to school to have good experiences. But, no amount of good experiences can justify the terrible things that have happened. The situation is critical and that’s why people are speaking out on your site.
From what I hear from current parents, it appears that your forum has contributed (along with families leaving and complaining to the relevant authorities) to making the school start to correct some of the most blatant abuses related to IEP’s. However, the piece that you have to consider is that there have been significant problems with Maari for years. As an example, I know someone who went to apply for a job about 10 years ago who heard her use the “N” word (not realizing there was an applicant within earshot). The situation has simply reached a critical mass.
I do not consider myself to be a part of a lynch mob. I think that TCS/Legacy has the potential to be a fabulous, nurturing place and I want to see the school continue and prosper. I simply do not think that can happen with a person at the helm who has a long history of abusive interactions with students, staff and parents.
Outta: I’m glad to provide a forum for improving the situation and allowing you all to find each other. But, again, even if you are all right and Maari is all wrong there are civil ways to go about making the situation better and in doing things civilly and ethically you set a better example for all who are watching.
As many of you have said about Maari, anger and edgy behavior has marginalized her in your eyes. If you display the same kind of behavior here you marginalize yourselves in the eyes of all who are watching and in the end, you may get your way but you will be hurt in the process.
Abusing the abuser is abuse.
Hi Everyone,
As we have seen from the volume of comments so far (271 and still counting), a forum to discuss and express thouhts, opinions and experiences of TCS / LHS, has been needed and is of much value.
Just to inform you that a blog has been set up to discuss The Child School / Legacy High School. You are free to comment, express your concerns, share your opinion and make suggestions.
You can find it here:
http://childschool.blogspot.com/
Thanks,
Tom
Hopefully this blog won’t have as much “Hate” as the recent set of comments, right? Because if there is an issue, it’s better to discuss how to rectify it than to continue spreading “hate” and using its momentum to remove Maari from her seat of power. That is kinda what this thread has turned into, despite Richard’s warning to close down the thread.
Steve,
I am so sorry that you feel this thread has kinda turned into hate. Parents who know that their children have really suffered at TCS/Legacy do have strong feelings and have expressed their distress. The expression of that distress may be angry, and rightfully so, but hate is something else that I simply do not see here.
Anger, pain, sorrow, disgust, strong emotions - yes, I see all of that here. Hate - no. I see parents finally feeling empowered enough to speak up! That’s a good thing. I see staff members released from the shame of silence! That’s a good thing. I see a community that wants things to be right! That’s a really good thing.
The fact that there is no consensus on how to rectify the problems doesn’t mean that those who want the director removed are haters. There is simply no consensus.
But enough already, talk to me on the new blog. I’m sure Richard is tired of us and our little community has imposed on his good will for long enough. Thank you Richard for hosting this discussion for so long!
I understand that there is more anger, pain, and other negative feelings and that’s the emotional case these comments are coming in, which is why I used quotation marks for the word hate.
Hello. I have followed this thread for some time, and I feel compelled to post a comment at this point. I am a former parent, an attorney, and a professional in the disabilites field for 30 years.
Thanks to ldresources for allowing such an honest and open discussion to take place here. Yes, there are strong feelings all around. However, the point is that there is no forum for such discussion within the context of the formal school community, hence all the activity here.
My son started Legacy High School in 2005, as a freshman. Prior to attending Legacy he attended The Parkside School, and a public middle school in Westchester county. Both placements were very successful. I withdrew him from Legacy this past spring and placed him at another non-public Regents high school program in NYC for LD kids, where he is excelling and very happy.
My son and I were never completely happy with Legacy, but things seemed to deteriorate significantly this past year. Staff turnover reached an all time high, with staff leaving mid-year with little or no exlplanation. My son was not consistently provided with the accomodations required by his IEP, particularly a scribe and extended time. He received no speech or occupational therapy services, though mandated, and his category of disability is speech impaired. His mid-term report card was inaccurate because one of the teachers who resigned mysteriously allegedly did not submit her grades. I made several formal complaints to the Legacy High administration, verbally and in writing. I believe there was retaliatory disciplinary action taken against my son as a result. I have made formal complaints to VESID and the CSE.
I am actually ashamed of myself for leaving him there so long, but as we all know there are inadequate placements for high school age ld kids in NYC. I eventually begged my way into another school last April. Had I not been able to facilitate another placement here in NYC, I was ready to move to another state.
Public dollars are being used here and services are not being provided. Perhaps this was not the case in the past, but it was the case last year in the high school. The school’s board of directors should take their legal responsibility seriously and figure out what is going on here, and why so many parents are upset enough to take time from their busy lives, parenting a kid with a disability, to register their dissatisfaction, even after the children graduate and/or take their kid out of the school.
My child has suffered at TCS and I know she is not gettig the services that she has been allocated in her IEP. Last year, Maari threatend my daughter that she will not be accepted back in the school this year. My daughter cried and felt extremely uncomfortable going to school every morning.
I challenged Maari and my daughter is still at TCS. It is so sad that some of us have not taken the action to speak up. Some parents are intimidated by Maari. This is not about hatred but about wanting the best for our children.
Two years ago, another parent witnessed my daugher being pulled by her arm by one of the assistant teachers. My daughter was screaming and the parent was appalled at the situation.
It took this parent a while to let me know what happened. This parent eventually removed her child out of the TCS.
Since that incident, I have firmly told to the staff members that if anybody hurst physically or verbally my child, I would make sure to bring charges against him or her.
Why don’t we unite and file a class action lawsuit and/or bring the issue to the School Board?
I determined that there will be legal consequences for the harm that has been done to our children. Also, we must unite to have Maari replaced by someone, who can really care and take action for our children.
Thanks for sharing your experiences. They really confirm my feelings all along.
Post #277 - Go to Tom Ott’s post #272. He is working to do just that.
Barbara, thank you for a well written historical account of what happened to your son at this school.
As I’ve said, I’m delighted to offer a forum for parents and students to find each other and discuss their experiences. The only piece I can’t tolerate is abusive language about the director or anyone, including me.
I’ve just deleted four abusive posts from the moderation que, all aimed at me for editing and deleting posts. Calling me names may feel good for the moment, just like abusing Maari, but it’s not going to get you where you want to go. I urge you all to continue to write your experiences down and post them here, but please respect human rights and feelings. I realize that this is an emotional issue and many people are upset, but upsetting me will not help your cause.
Have a great week and hopefully wherever you are you can see a bit of fall color.
As posted above, the question TCS will not like to hear: I want to observe my child in school. Can someone tell me if I can visit the school since it is a state mandated school?
Barbara;
Please tell me where your child is currently?
Post #t 4 comments sounds like they are words Maar would sayi. Read it and you will realize it sounds like her.
As a former staff member from VERY long ago, I logged on to this website to see what’s “new”. I was saddened to read that Earl passed away. Can anyone tell me when and how this happened. He was a wonderful teacher assistant during my time at TCS, as well as a wonderful guest at my home. We lost touch after I left TCS…………please post a message in regards to his passing.
THANKS!
Regarding Post#276 and adding to my previous comments regarding the responsibility of The Board of Directors………..
I have recently asked a few times for the names of the current Board Members, as well as their preferred method of contact. The Development Director (Leanne) e-mailed me and said that Maari “was willing” to give me this information but, before she would, wanted to know what I would be contacting them about.
I have checked the information on TCS web-site (www.thechildschool.org) and found the listing for The Board but do not know how current this information is. There is also no way to contact them indicated.
If the list is accurate and there are only 5 active Board Members I must mention that I have been told by quite a few people that one of them is Maari’s companion of many years. This would seem to be a conflict of interest, I think…….
This could be one explaination for the complacency that seems to be how this Board “governs”.
So, Barbara, I wouldn’t hold my breath about their investigation,involvement and oversight. But…..one can always hope………
The web site contains a few questionable “facts”. One that caught my eye was that all the teachers have thier masters. This is not the case,some don’t have NYS cert.They maybe working towards it but they don’t have it.
The issues of turn over- I think it would be a great idea for parents to get together and help the teachers lobby.But before I can put my energy into that I have to see that my childs basic educational rights are not trampled. Teachers can leave if things get to bad ,even if they have to take a job in another field. Our children don’t have that choice. This is about thier future.
Theres been a lot of talk about changes at the school lately. Yet my child isn’t getting services and I don’t get consulted about some of the programming that the director has put in place.Somethings just appear and other never appear.
So Sandy ( I’m just asking Sandy inparticular because she posted anyone from the school could respond) are we going to be getting a date for our IEP meetings? Will the Therapists notes and reports be available? will there been a disscusion about transition from school to post Hs school?
I’m still waiting for answers here and in real time!
I know I’m going to take the oppourtuntity Tom Ott has offered. I hope others will as well there is safety in numbers. I feel that there will be less of a chance of repurcussions ( directed at my child) if I speak up with the support of others. This has been a long disscussion (on this site) but it started even furhter back ( years back).
We’ve come to a piont that requires action.
Tom: I’ve consulted with hundreds of schools and unlike public companies, schools rarely if ever make lists of their board members available to the public. It’s not done and I can see why; those people are not involved in the day to day issues of the school but rather, are there to provide big picture guidance. It’s also not unheard of for the head of a school to choose some and in rare cases, all of the members of a board. Again, this is not the way public companies are run and I’m not defending the practice, just giving you a heads up that what you see here is not unique to this school.
My guess is that in order to achieve the results you are after you’ll need to go outside the school. Have you considered investigative journalism? If you could find a credible journalist to put all of this information together and do a piece on it (you’d have to let go and let them write it as they see it) that might move this process a bit further.
About New York State’s certification requirements for teachers and teaching assistants, please refer to http://www.highered.nysed.gov/tcert/.
Part A Teachers Subject to the NCLB
A1. Which teachers are subject to the NCLB?
The NCLB applies to all teachers employed by public elementary, middle and secondary schools to teach classes in “core academic subjects.” These teachers must be both: certified by New York State for each teaching assignment – with the exception of certain charter school teachers who are not certified as permitted by the Education Law section 2854(3)(a-1); and
“highly qualified” as defined by the NCLB, by the deadlines in the NCLB.
A2. What is a “public school” for the NCLB’s teacher quality requirements?
The NCLB’s teacher quality requirements apply to teachers in elementary, middle and secondary schools who are employees of school districts, Boards of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES), charter schools, the State schools at Batavia and Rome and Special Act School Districts defined in section 4001 of the Education Law. These are “public schools” in New York State for the purpose of the NCLB’s teacher quality requirements.
1 The NCLB does not apply to teachers employed by approved special education private schools (commonly refer to as 853 schools), even when private schools are authorized by section 4201 of the Education Law or approved by the Commissioner of Education to provide services to children with disabilities. [34 CFR 200.57(d)] Teachers employed by these private schools must be certified by New York State for their teaching assignments and must meet federal teacher quality standards in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
A3. What is the definition of “core academic subjects” for NCLB purposes?
The NCLB defines “core academic subjects” as: English; reading; language arts; mathematics; science; history; geography; economics; civics and government; foreign languages; and the arts. [NCLB 9101(11)]
Thanks for your thoughts, Richard, regarding The Board (#286) and suggesting I consider outside contacts for intervention and oversight.
I am familiar with Boards (as I have worked in the non-profit world for over 30 years) and know the variations on how they are established and configured. But….the members of a Board are not just “window-dressing” and are not just fundraisers.
Ultimately they bear responsibility for the practices of their Chief Operating Officer, who in this case is the Director of TCS.
I know that the Board President has been contacted in the past. Whether he has communicated these contacts to other Board members I do not know. Whether any investigation or action has been taken I also do not know.
Whether and how he / they decide to proceed in regards to what they know, even if all they know is the information on this web-thread (as I know that it is being read) is their responsibility to figure out.
Dear Tom and those on this comment list:
First of all Tom, I hope that you and your family are doing well. It has been a while since we last spoke. As you may know, I have remained active at TCS within the parents’ association both on the steering committee as well as on the fundraising committee. At the time you resigned last year, as I am sure you will recall, I had reached out to you to meet with you and/or engage in some lengthy conversation(s) regarding your experiences and thoughts, both positive and negative, in order that incoming parents such as myself could appreciate those issues and move toward seeking improvements in any necessary areas. You advised me that at that juncture you were extremely involved in your daughter’s transition from TCS and would not have time for any extended discussions although you directed me to the proposed by laws and some prior steering committee meeting minutes. It appears that now, however, you have plenty of spare time and again I offer you the opportunity to address any issues that you feel may benefit the students at TCS. Some of those receiving copies of this e mail may find it surprising that there is a current, involved parent willing to listen to issues and even if appropriate raise topics at future steering committee meetings if in fact constructive issues that will benefit our children can be addressed. After all Tom, we have always professed to have the children’s best interests as our sole focal point and thus again I offer a platform for issue discussions. As an attorney, I value so deeply the process in which one can express one’s views and criticisms in a professional and positive manner. Needless to say, I would not be taking the time to furnish these thoughts if I did not truly value that process and everyone’s right to be heard especially if there can be a benefit to my child or any other child or person with or without special needs.
With that said, I would like to bring you up to date on what a wonderful year we have enjoyed at TCS. First of all, thanks to the arduous efforts of our predecessors such as you Tom, the steering committee has met and enjoyed a tremendously successful initial meeting. We actually had a 100% turnout. Every single issue we discussed was not only decided by consensus, if I remember a very important facet of your prior leadership, but with unanimity as well. It is just unbelievable how open, caring, and expressive the parents associated with the steering committee have been. The fact that we enjoyed such a great turnout is well reflective of how well this year’s parents association can expect to function. We have accomplished so much, so quickly, it is truly difficult to comprehend. Again, without the trail blazers before us, positive results would be so much more difficult to achieve.
Apart from our turnout, we have worked very hard in advising all members of the parents association that they are not only welcomed, but are encouraged to attend the steering committee meetings. Maari was kind enough to provide me with a forum to discuss same at curriculum night which was again an unbelievable success. Not only was the gymnasium packed, but the parents association had the opportunity to present our general philosophy and goals for the upcoming year. Advanced notices of the steering committee meetings are now published well in advance and in different venues to encourage as much participation and parent input as possible. With Maari and the staff’s support, this, in my opinion, led to what might have been the most successful first event in the history of the parents’ association.
Tom, you may find this hard to believe, but the Oktoberfest celebration for the kids attracted over 40 parent volunteers. When Maari allowed us to address the parents as a group and seek volunteers for our various events, never in a million years, would I have expected such a response for an event held during business working hours. The TCS student population had a blast and even though we ran into a snag initially over the process of placing the initial orders for the event, the smiles on the kids’ faces certainly made up for any inconveniences (incidentally, we have already added to the next steering committee’s agenda a discussion on appropriation issues so that we will finally have a written policy and guideline as to future events in order to avoid any other snafus).
At curriculum night, we also learned of the wonderful changes that Maari and the staff have effectuated for the students. After the success the parents’ association had with last year’s phon a thon, as advertised, we were able to open the media lab. The state of the art equipment and the response of the students who have been introduced to the media lab is phenomenal. Maari would even like to initiate a TCS radio station. From the students I have talked to, there is a great deal of excitement regarding the development of the media lab. So many of the students love movies, believe that they can broadcast or direct, and have other strong interests in what the media lab can develop. Thus, I was able to announce at curriculum night that this year’s phon a thon will again seek to raise funds to improve the media lab.
Tom, you timing is impeccable. With such a strong list of parents and supporters of TCS which this e mail can reach, I would like to divert for just a moment and address that forum. With a selfless plug, this year’s phon a thon will be run the week of October 22nd. Consequently, anyone who wishes to help the parents association raise money for the school in a non controversial fashion (the only benefit will be to the children who can truly use a fully equipped media lab and benefit from other worthy projects), please feel free to hop on board. You can e mail me, and I will be happy to attach a form for any current parent whose child is willing to (or can be convinced) to participate.
By means of background, the phon a thon became an idea raised out of the parents association’s fundraising committee. It was entirely devised by parents and presented to the staff and administration who welcomed the idea with open arms. This will be the third phon a thon. With the help of the specialists, teachers, administration and parents, it is the only event at TCS which truly intimately involves every branch of the TCS family. After all, who is going to say no to a child from TCS who makes the effort to solicit contributions for his/her benefit? The idea is for the parents to contact friends and family members by providing a list of names and phone numbers to a child’s home room teacher. The child will then call those individuals on the list during a specific time during the week of October 22nd. These participants guarantee that every call will result in a positive response. There are no “cold” solicitations.
There has been a great deal of emphasis placed on advising parents that it is not the number of people a child will call or the amount of the contribution that will make a difference. Rather, we seek to include as many students as possible in order that they can share in the wonderful sense of accomplishment and giving that is so vital in our society. Thus, even if a child makes one call to one parent or guardian for $5, that child is treated with as much encouragement and support as any other child in the process.
Meanwhile, educationally and socially, all of the staff and specialists work at having students create a suitable script (writing), practice phone etiquette if necessary, involve the students with tallying the responses (math), work on articulation for the phone call, develop a strong sense of teamwork, etc. Tom, thank you so much for providing such an easy forum to reach out to right before the event. If anyone on this list does not have a student currently enrolled, but would like to participate, you can e mail me your name and phone number and I would be honored to have my son contact you Wednesday morning October 24th. The students who participate have a ball planning, calling and totaling the contributions. Anyone who would like to assist, is certainly welcome. Incidentally, we are well ahead of last year’s pace in terms of participants and once again the school has been unbelievably cooperative in providing publicity and assistance for the phon a thon. It is such a wonderful experience when everyone works so well together for the benefit of the children.
Tom, there are so many other exciting changes and developments at TCS I would like to share with everyone. Unfortunately, I took testimony all day today and will be doing so all week. I had written up to about this point last evening when my home system crashed and thus I had to start again whenever I took a short break. However, your comments are certainly important enough for me to comment further upon with respect to at least some of the other developments.
At curriculum night all of the parents were exposed to the wonderful developments at TCS. I know I will be omitting several items, but from foreign language options including Spanish and Japanese to the purchasing of new maps and globes, to the highly successful art and music departments, to yoga and the school store, to the technology classes and advancements, and to even a course in travel training, our children continue to thrive with the opportunities to advance themselves in such a broad and diverse academic and nurturing way. The opportunity for these children to grow not just academically, which one can attain in any proper educational institution, but socially and emotionally, where so many of the students struggle or demonstrate deficits, is just wonderful.
Tom, since you left, the school decided to institute a parent survey to obtain even more input as to parents’ concerns. The reaction to the input has been phenomenal. I believe you were intimately involved (if not I am having a senior moment and it was a concern of other prior steering committee members) with the issue of communication vis a vis parents/parents, parents/teachers, and administration/parents. The changes that have occurred would absolutely warm your heart and bring a huge smile to your face.
First of all, as you recall, Maari had instituted a program under which parents could call into teachers or specialists at a given time. This system was the focus of constructive criticism (there is such an avenue clearly available at TCS for those who take the time to follow proper avenues) amongst a large number of parents. I know that you may find this to be an even more amazing development, but Maari announced at curriculum night that she had taken those comments to heart and even though she expressed reservations over the suggestions, agreed to adopt an e mail communication system for parents and teachers to utilize. A parent can still call the school to discuss issues, but now will also have an e mail forum which so many parents had sought. Just as significantly, the protocol or policy statement associated with the e mail system has been entrusted to the parents by referring the issue to the steering committee. I and other members of the committee will encourage all parents to join in the discussion and we will, hopefully before the holidays, provide the school with a written policy. Thereafter, designated parents will meet with the staff and make any necessary changes to allow the implementation of the system to be applied fairly and judiciously in order to bring about the best possible result in increasing communications between parents and teachers.
Also, I hope that you have had the opportunity to review the new school website. Needless to say, we have picked up the torch with regard to communication issues and carried it a long way. Our parent directory is now complete and parents can communicate with other parents so much more easily than ever before. Also, Tom, another development in this arena was the appointment of class parents who turned out in high numbers to support that system as well. The class parents and coordinators are working wonderfully this year in improving communications and keeping parents abreast of classroom developments. Yet, this is only one year removed from facing serious problems of parent apathy and a lack of filling all the class parent positions.
The parent survey brought about yet another wonderful development. Parents, as you probably know, had concerns over the method utilized for specialist treatment. Although Maari had preferred an integrated system, many parents asked for a more traditional approach. You will very pleased to know that Tom that once again Maari agreed to accept parental input and opportunities for individual specialist sessions are once again afforded. In other words Tom, as has always been my experience at TCS, even if I disagreed with the approach or a decision as to my child, the staff and administration will always opt for the course of action that best suits the individual need of the child.
I also want to let everyone know who may no longer be affiliated with TCS about Maari’s open hours. The program was commenced last academic school year to foster even more parental input by allowing regularly scheduled individual or group discussion sessions with Maari. The program was a stunning success although I wish more parents would have taken advantage of the opportunity to attend.
Maari allowed and in fact insisted on the parents setting the agenda and raising subjects for discussion that they wished to address. I only attended the middle school sessions last year, but the extraordinary efforts Maari undertook to bring parents into the decision making process despite her unbelievably busy schedule was so much appreciated by those who attended. As just one example of how that process brought about a significant change, I will share with you one idea which came to fruition from those sessions. As undoubtedly everyone receiving this message will realize, the issue of socialization is paramount to the concerns of almost every parent with a child at TCS. In light of the New York State stringent requirements regarding obtaining a regents diploma, parents were very concerned that after struggling to foster friendships, a non regents student might not have any interaction with a regents student who he/she had befriended. Again, and I know this will bring a great big smile to your face, Maari adopted the parents suggestion lock, stock and barrel and agreed to house all 9th and 10th grade students at Patterson and all 11th and 12th grade students at Island House. Once again, the openness and cooperation amongst the staff, administration and parents has never been greater and just look at the results of the new and improved relationships; simply amazing. More and most importantly, it is the kids who have and will benefit from this type of dialogue and approach which is all that really matters in the end. I might add parenthetically that from my personal suggestions, I am probably running at about a 40% acceptance rating with Maari which in all honesty would have led me toward a career with the New York Yankees if this correlated to my high school or post high school batting average, but I am very, very satisfied with these results as a mere parent who was thereby forced to forego a lucrative sports career and become a lawyer instead.
I know I can go on and on about all the wonderful developments at TCS and within the parents association already this year, but at some stage I would like to return to my law practice and spend some time with my son before he goes to bed. However, I certainly wanted to respond to your individual inquiries.
You mentioned change which as a student leader and remnant of the 60’s will always be an issue close at heart. Needless to say, there have been wonderful changes at TCS this year, only some of which I have mentioned in this reply. Certainly, there is room for improvement and with more creative and positive input all of us who have some role at the school will always seek to provide a forum for new ideas and positive changes. Again, I offer you or any other concerned individual a forum to discuss issues and ideas and to the extent that the present steering committee or other forum may wish to pursue those constructive ideas and suggestions, quite frankly, I will seek out such a forum. After all, and although I only speak for myself and not for any other parent or committee member, I and all of my present colleagues only wish to provide the best for our children. Any idea from any source which can further that goal, when raised in a proper, ethical, and appropriate manner will always have my ear.
You also mentioned turnover. I am very happy to report, and I know that you will be just as delighted to learn, that the turnover issue from at least my perspective is not an existing issue this year. Again, speaking from only my area of knowledge, which would be the middle school, we lost one co teacher who is seeking to further his educational pursuits toward a higher degree on a full time basis. I also know that the science teacher left the middle school, but fortunately she is now once again teaching my son and she has been assigned to the high school. I find this to be a very fortunate change of circumstances as my son loves science and absolutely thrives with this innovative and extremely involved teacher. Again, perhaps there has been turnover issues that I am unaware of, but I have seen nothing out of the ordinary in my personal experiences at TCS and also believe that there is far less turnover than what my son experienced in a very high priced main stream private school or during the years he attended a main stream parochial school for that matter as well.
As to your astute summary of leadership abilities, I believe I have demonstrated, and trust me if I had the time I could add several more pages of examples, of a school director who has fostered a partnership of corroboration amongst parents, staff and administrators. In fact, Maari, who you may have unintentionally omitted from your message by name, but whom I assume was the subject of certain pejorative remarks, has instilled this vision amongst her staff. I cannot even put into words what a pleasure it was to work with Tina who was the head of the middle school while I was the middle school parent liaison last year. Tina’s support and vision to bring the principles of Mel Levine and the school’s vision to implement those standards in a creative, cutting edge manner has to be applauded by even the most circumspect parent. I am truly sorry Tom that your daughter graduated just at a time when the level of cooperation, “collaboration and constructive input and ideas” have permeated the TCS family with such wonderful results as set forth herein. Yet I know that you take pride in learning that so many of your wishes and hopes have come to life.
As to your request to “state specifics and identify yourself” I hope that I have met your requirements in this reply. Again, I can certainly offer many more examples of leadership at all levels and amongst all categories at TCS which have arisen and led “effectively via a strength-based, positive, honest and supportive approach.” Again, you will be so happy to note that your wishes are alive and well with so many concrete examples as set forth herein and elsewhere (incidentally how great is the updated web site with issues of What Every Parent Needs to Know, upcoming events, etc.)
Finally, you listed four general areas from which you are “presently compiling and categorizing documentation.” Firstly, I know of no instances of verbal, emotional, psychological intimidation or abuse of any student at TCS, but thanks for asking. As a lawyer and officer of the court, I would not hesitate for a second in reporting any such occurrence. On the other hand, the improvement in my son’s self esteem and sense of worth, which I see in so many of his friends at TCS, has been nothing short of miraculous. To think that my son began taking the subway independently this summer without incident, has kept possession of and used his cell phone judiciously and appropriately, has managed to keep his metro card funded, etc., all at the age of 14, is so warmly appreciated, I cannot even begin to put into words what a wonderful success story I have been able to monitor in terms of self esteem. My son has always responded extremely well to positive reinforcement and so poorly to aversive discipline. I emphasized this fact with Maari in my school interview. After my son was rendered so ill from a devastating, insidious disease which he contracted, he needed a nurturing environment under which his sense of self worth and accomplishment could flourish. With my son, academics has never been an issue with the exception of math. However, issues of self-esteem are very close to me and I could not be more grateful for what TCS has done for my child. My son, my wife, and I are truly blessed by the caring, sensitive, and nurturing environment at TCS.
Secondly, I know of no instance of any abusive interactions with a parent, guardian or staff member. Thirdly, I know of no instances of non-compliance with any service mandate set forth in a student’s IEP. Finally, although I truly would like to share so many other relevant examples you have sought in your closing remarks, the hour is late and my son awaits me. Tom, thank you again so much for the opportunity to address these issues and I hope to speak to you real soon about any constructive suggestions you might wish for me to address. Sincerely, Gary Rome
Earl passed away in his sleep from a heart attack sometime in August. A memorial was done in September. The school paid a tribute to Earl. I’ve known Earl for many years, was wonderful to us and it is very sad he died. He will be missed.
Barbara, I am interested to know where your child attends school. I am becoming quite frustrated with the school and don’t want to wait any longer.
I have no problem in elementary, but the frustration some parents feel is that nothing is getting done. I see that parents want options available to them so to compare if TCS/Legacy is the best option for their child. It is important that the parent visit the school and discuss points that are important.
The general and driving force is that we must work together in school for the benefit of the child. To hear the above blogs of negativity concerns me what will happen when my child is in H.S. We must address during the next PTT meeting.
Interested Parent #285:
Don’t let the web site fool you: here’s an ad running now for a teacher and well as a Science Teacher- if they ONLY had people with masters degrees- they wouldn’t have this ad posted:
Teacher Required in NYC school for students with learning and
emotional difficulties. Job Responsibility includes teaching students
in grades 5 to 12 by modifying general education curriculum and using
a variety of instructional techniques in the classroom to cater to
their specific needs. Required BA/Child Development with 5 yrs exp.
Send resume to Ms. Lalig Vartanian, The Child School/Legacy High
School, 587 Main Street, Roosevelt Island, NY 10044.
Science teachers required in NYC for grades 5-12. The teaching job
responsibility includes modifying the science education curriculum
for special needs students based upon a variety of instructional
techniques and technology. Required BS with 5 yrs exp. Mail resume to
Ms. Lalig Vartanian, The Child School/Legacy High School, 587 Main
Street, Roosevelt Island, NY 10044.
Sorry all, I was holding Gary’s comment in moderation as it was so long and I wasn’t sure what to do with it but I decided to let it through because it represents a totally different viewpoint and from inside the school.
Please, Gary and everyone else, keep your comments short and to the point. Poof and edit your comments so that they are clear and easy for all of us to read.
Thank you.
Thanks for your comment, Gary Rome, Attorney, as you pointed out numerous times in your post. Surely, you realize that the powers-that-be are smart enough not to “mess” with your child, or with you, for that matter. Your Child School experience is protected by your position and your loquaciousness. As for so many wonderful changes in so short a period of time…my guess is that because there is now an awareness of a growing group of angry parents on the trail, we will be seeing impeccable behavior and compliance for a while.
Congratulations on your idyllic TCS experience. Have you bothered to read the former 288 posts? Based on my personal experience, and the experience of many other posters, my guess is that in addition to being used, you are being snookered. There is a long history at TCS of catering to the child with the “elite” parent. Beware. As they say…if something looks too good to be true…it probably is.
And why are you touting the “no turnover as yet” victory. We’re only one month into the school year. I hardly see that as validation of any sort.
Your post was blindingly bedazzling. But it is all Maari-speak, and I don’t believe it for a minute. Sorry. How many years are you at the school? If it’s less than two — you have barely begun to fight.
Re Gary Rome’s comment about the phon-a-thon: Who is going to say no to a child from TCS who makes the effort to solicit contributions for his/her benefit?
I found this concept distasteful when I was at the school, and said I would not let my child participate, but I was in the minority, and it went through.
I say let the parents and the school’s development director do the fund-raising. Having children make the actual phone-calls…even though the parents have set everything up ahead of time…
I found the whole thing dubious and, sorry to say, unethical.
A teacher resigned from the elementary school yesterday.
First, let me preface this message by writing that I was not requested by TCS to write this. Some people are under the misguided notion that if someone writes something positive about Maari or the school that we were requested to do so. I am writing this because I was on the recipient listing along with the other 190 people Tom sent an email to. Hmm…I thought that when we provided our personal information to the school, it was only suppose to be used for directly related school info.
My child was at TCS for quite a few years. However, voluntarily we placed him in another school. This wasn’t due to Maari or the school. We were not asked to leave. My son required additional help that the school could not provide. No school is perfect and instead of blaming the school or Maari, I accepted the fact that it had to do with my son’s issues. Maari helped him to make the transition by calling him into her office and talking to him about the change he was about to make because he did not want to leave The Child School.
Over the years, I always had my son involved with various therapies outside of the school. Under the law, a student is not to be removed from their class for too much time (i.e. being pull out for services) if it is going to interfere with their education. For children without special needs, it is like having a tutor after school. Just because a student is not doing well in a subject does not mean that it is the school’s fault. You wouldn’t remove your child from the school – you supplement it with what they require.
Many parents need to remind themselves that when they had no other placement, Maari accepted their child. This was not due to few openings at other schools but due to the fact that the other schools had rejected the student. She is willing to work with them. For students who were asked to find other placements, it was usually because TCS could not provide the help that the student required. If she kept the student at TCS, she would be doing not only the parents a disservice but more importantly, the student.
Many of the parents who have written something on this thread, their children are now in college. Wouldn’t you consider that a success story? There are many other parents like me who are (were) happy with the school. They are not bothering to write anything because their child is happy and making progress at the school. They are being taught by dedicated teachers and staff which is what a good school is all about.
Parents who no longer have their child at the school, it is time to move on and spend your energy where it should be – helping your child at the present time.
Gary,
I am quite happy for you and your son that the TCS experience has been so positive. As a previous parent noted in her post..you never know what the future can hold in regard to your interaction with Maari so beware. One of the consistent threads communicated to me by professionals in the field about Maari is that….all is OK until all is not OK. And, after having truly given her the benefit of my doubt over the years she (Maari) has convinced me that this is true.
A lengthy point-by-point response to your e-mail to me, which has now doubled as your posting on LDResources, is not my intention or desire. I know what I have contributed and what I tried to contribute to the school and Maari, parents and staff know that as well. TCS / LHS was the 4th school that I had been involved in on behalf of my daughter. Trying to do what I can to contribute and help in the schools she has attended has been a consistent thread for me. I was quite involved in the PTA of her pre-school, co-chaired the PTA in her public elementary school and also was on the PTA of the school she attended prior to TCS / LHS. The collaborative work with those principals, parents and school staff was not perfect and there was healthy disagreement at times, but everyone was willing and able to move forward together…..and….we did!
Maari has led me to my decision to do what I can on behalf of students, parents / families and staff. Nothing you or anyone else may say to defend her and/or denigrate me will convince me otherwise. I have seen too much and I have heard too much (from a wide variety of parents, staff and students). And, as you pointed out in your e-mail, I now have some time to be able to devote to it.
I wish you continued good luck with TCS and your son’s education there. Maybe he will be one of the lucky ones who receives the type of education he is entitled to and deserves. Maari will make sure that he receives all the mandated services he is supposed to receive based on his IEP, as well as insure that he will not be addressed in an abusive, condescending and ego-deflating manner. And….I know why she will insure that, as you sound like you represent her more than she represents herself.
Again, good luck.
Tom
#297- she just left and faxed her resignation letter.
I have read some of the recent comments and wish to address just a few issues. First and foremost, all of my personal activity is geared toward furthering the interests of those students at TCS. I have no agenda, nor do I care about the source of any constructive ideas as to additional programs or activities that the parents association can consider to benefit the children. As I mentioned to Tom Ott, you have a forum to provide creative suggestions and programs you may believe might be helpful. As this will probably be my last comment in this forum, if Tom is willing to summarize those ideas and e mail me at work, I would be happy to raise any or all of the concrete, positive suggestions for future consideration.
Secondly, as many may not realize, I raised no personal attacks as to Tom or anyone else for that matter. If anyone ever attended any High School PA meeting that Tom organized, one could never deny the tremendous effort he extended in finding relevant topics and speakers. I hate to speak for anyone else, but I cannot imagaine any parent who did not walk away with a wealth of helpful information from any of those meetings and although my time with Tom on the steering committee was too short, I enjoyed our exchanges even though we are certainly on as opposite a position as possible as to our evaluations of TCS.
Accordingly, if Tom is willing, I would be happy to read over any positive suggestions he or anyone reading this comment may have that would benefit the children. Experessing displeasure with attorneys (I have many great self deprecating lawyer jokes which I will save for another time), hoping that the phon a thon will end without another alternative to raise self esteem, phone skills, etc (again this was totally parent created), believing that all the wonderful changes were in response to the current waive of angry parents (these changes arose from hard work and planning which began no later than last year and often earlier), believing that I or others who try to bring about positive changes are snookered and brainwashed, asserting that because we are commencing our fifth year at TCS does not qualify me to comment (I absolutely admit I do not have all or even close to a majority of suggestions as to how we can institute additional changes to benefit the children), or believing that the empirical information I provided such as the new programs, parent attendance and participation, etc. is simply a total fabrication and never occurred, simply does not allow me to consider well founded, positive suggestions as to new programs or activities which can benefit the children. Consequently, from herein, I will defer to all others for comments, although if it helps someone to vent and issue personal attacks as to myself or viewpoints, please feel free; it is far less than what I face in my (I won’t mention by name) carreer. Tom, I hope that you or others take the opportunity to gather concrete suggestions which I and of course other involved parents can consider. I hope that irrespective of our opposite viewpoints, for the sake of the children, we can create a forum for a free expression of ideas for programs or events which will bring about even more beneficial change and advancement than we have accomplished so far. There is always room for improvement and if something positive and beneficial to the children can arise from the issues that have been raised herein, we will all be better served. Gary Rome
As a parent of an L/D child (diagnosed in 5th grade), I can only say that from the first time I went to The Child School to conduct my observation(s), I could only pray that my daughter would be accepted (and she was). I had a child that became so withdrawn she would barely speak to anyone (including me). Her life had become that difficult in school. She started her “new” life at TCS during summer of her 7th grade. By the end of that summer, I had already seen progress in her emotional well being for which I am forever grateful. In public school she did not pass one math test in 5th grade. Math has now become one of her stronger subjects. Last year she even joined the soccer team and was in the June play which, in my opinion, were both milestones. She still had a long way to go in classroom participation, but we were finally getting somewhere. I’m happy to report that the last progress report in her reading class showed an “A” in participation. This has lifted my hope and spirit to no end. As such, I was upset when I read the e:mail below and just wanted to share my personal experience.
While we all know we don’t live in a perfect world, no school will or can be perfect either. Again, my observation from Curriculum Night is that it was very well thought out and organized event. I have attended the last few since my daughter was accepted and they always seem to get better each time.
I have a child who came to The Child School in 6th grade and is now in his senior year of High School. I have read the many comments, negative and positive, from the students, parents and teachers (present and former) about their experiences at the school and although usually silent, I would just like to add my few words to the list. I cannot disagree with the people who feel that Maari is controlling, intimidating, domineering, etc.. I’m not sure that Maari wouldn’t say that she agreed with them too. I was welcomed to the school by Maari during my son’s first month there. She invited me to meet with her to provide the school with insight into my son, David. My meeting with Maari ended with her telling me that she wished she could have taken my son from me at birth and raised him herself. I left that meeting with the clear message of who was in control of my son’s educational future as long as he was at The Child School and either I was going to cooperate or take my son someplace else. I decided to cooperate and I’ve never regretted my decision. My son still has a long road ahead of him, but it would have been a much more difficult journey if it wasn’t for The Child School. Yes, the school has some wonderfully gifted teachers, but you have to credit Maari with instilling in them her passion and her educational philosophy which she accomplishes through her close oversight of the program. I know of no other school that my son could have attended where he would have received the academic AND social education that he received at TCS.
My son, a child who is easily intimidated, has no problem with speaking to Maari ( and during his first two years at the school he spent plenty of time in Maari’s office). And even though I have not always agreed with her I have never felt threatened or intimidated by her.
I feel that those people who believe that the school would be better off without Maari are mistaken. She is the reason why kids, like my son, are going to have a good shot at having meaningful and fulfilling future. She may need to tone down her style and be more open to suggestions and criticism, but her leadership is essential
My son lost his teacher
no notice, no nothing
just a fax of resignation
There’s something wrong with this picture. I have a feeling we don’t know the whole story.
#300 But why?
To everyone concerned:
My name is John Fisher. My son Thomas, diagnosed with PDD when he was 3, attended TCS/LHS beginning in kindergarten and continuing through 10th grade. Thanks in no small part to Maari and TCS/LHS, he now attends an academically rigorous college prep boarding school in Connecticut where he is doing very well academically and socially. He did not leave TCS/LHS because of any dissatisfaction with the school on his or his mother’s or my part. He left because Maari’s and the school’s success with him enabled him to move ahead.
The reason I’m adding my voice to this dialog is because I’m disturbed, leery of hidden agendas I know nothing about, and, frankly, creeped out that it’s taking place at all.
When Thomas’s mother and I were looking for a school for Thomas, we visited several schools that are designed to serve the needs of kids with developmental and neurological problems like his. Each of these schools had a unique environment. Our mood while searching for the right school for Thomas could best be described as one of desperation because he wasn’t speaking or showing signs of progressing towards speaking. We decided that TCS would be a wonderful place for him based almost entirely on talking to Maari. When we decided that TCS was the best place for Thomas, we had already gotten a sense of the school’s philosophy and way of operating, as well as a sense of what kind of person and director Maari is, and we feel that the sense we received then has been more than validated over the years. We were thrilled that our son was accepted there. Certainly we have never regretted his attending TCS/LHS. In fact I shudder to think where Thomas would be without having had the benefit of the unique insights and caring, comprehensive nurture that Maari and the school afforded him. Maari took a chance on Thomas, even though he still wasn’t speaking when he started TCS at 5. Thanks to her and the wonderful teachers and staff at the school working under her direction, during his time at TCS/LHS, Thomas learned to talk, to read and write, to study and communicate his ideas well enough to take Regents, aim for college and, currently, thrive in a demanding boarding school environment.
I have had considerable experience with schools that are organized around specific missions and needs. What I have seen, again and again, is that the best of them have been very much the product of their founder’s and/or director’s passionate vision. Certainly Maari is a person with a passionate vision - one of the best I have ever encountered. Does she follow exactly the same path that other heads of school may follow? Thank God the answer is no. But who among us didn’t realize that upon first meeting her? It’s not as if she makes any secret about the way she operates. What has always impressed me more than anything about her is that she gets our kids with profound insight and caring; she sees right into their minds and souls, and she responds to them in ways that almost always work. Is she perfect? I’m sure she’d be the first to tell you that she isn’t. BUT, does she deserve our respect and admiration? In my book she always will.
I think that all of us responding to this issue share something with each other and Tom. There isn’t one of us who hasn’t struggled in ways that people who don’t have our kids’ particular set of issues and problems can only guess at. At times it’s been so hard for me that I’ve become angry. Angry at who? God maybe. Angry that life for me and Thomas and the rest of our family couldn’t be easier . . . more hopeful. Angry that it has to be the way it is. I suppose that I, not unlike many people I know, have even at times looked for a scapegoat - someone else I could blame and direct my anger at. Good people, I’m not a mind reader, but I’m telling you that I have to wonder if something like scapegoating isn’t going on here. If so, it should stop. Certainly, none of us with an ounce of gratitude for what Maari and the school have afforded our kids would be wise to get caught up in someone else’s personal issue.
I hope that all of us can find ways not to engage in innuendoes and, instead of giving in to negative impulses, think about positive ways we can support Maari and TCS/LHS.
John
Regarding post #304, yet another teacher have left suddenly in the middle of the school year without an explanation. Anyone have a reason why this took place?
I am very happy with my son’s experience at the Child School.
The academics, social aspects, and communication with the school have all been positive.
I’ve seen my son at Oktoberfest, Basketball, the Valentines Day party, and the school play, and his experience was incredibly positive — clearly this school is doing alot of things right.
The school has also been much more open to my involvement than my son’s previous school.
Joe Verdon
No IEPs,No services,No accountability in terms of money being spent.(see all the new office furnishings yet money had to be sent back???) Maari’s “personal style” aside.
Heres an important reminder from post #287
Teachers employed by these private schools must be certified by New York State for their teaching assignments and must meet federal teacher quality standards in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
A3. What is the definition of “core academic subjects” for NCLB purposes?
The NCLB defines “core academic subjects” as: English; reading; language arts; mathematics; science; history; geography; economics; civics and government; foreign languages; and the arts. [NCLB 9101(11)]
There are teachers there now who are not certified and this has been going for quite some time. Many have No SPED trainning let alone a license.
FYI recent ads in the classifieds state the school is only looking for a BA in applicants!NOT A LICENSE (see#293)
Kudos to the teachers who find themselves in this bizzarre situation, and push on for the benifit of the kids.
Still what the school promises and what the school supplies ( for student and staff alike!)are two different things.
I don’t want to get into the mess that seems to be building up here. So avoid my argument if you just want to keep up mentioning IEPs and services and everything else that is the hot topic for now.
John Fisher, I am defending your argument regarding your son and the help he received in this school, because I was his friend for the years I got into this school to when he left (and I have been attending this school for more than 10 years now). He too showed incredible development. I am not saying development as a teacher would. The way I see it, most of the people who I have been with in this school for more than half of my time here have shown a lot of progress. I almost feel like I am not improving myself compared to them.
If there is one thing I gotta settle, it’s the progress the students make. There may be a lot of other thing that are going on according to the other posts, but one thing that can’t be argued against is the fact that there is progress among the students. I don’t know if it is the staff or whatever, but it does happen.
I guess that’s all I can contribute to this thread now.
“The perfect is the enemy of the good” Voltaire.
Wow what a shake up! Thanks to all involved in getting this site up and running (props Richard) and those who have stirred the ?@#$ pot to encourage inter”blog”action (props Tom)
Firstly, right off the bat I’m a fan of The Child School, a former educator (in a previous life) and share a profession with Gary Rome (though in what I like to think of as a kinder, gentler branch thereof). I’m involved in school activities and a member of the school’s steering committee.
My child now attends the Middle School (2nd year) and spent three years in the Elementary School. Believe me if I had, from my perspective, even an inkling of what has been negativly alleged or implied within these posts he would be out of there in a “New York” minute. Alas, I don’t live other people’s lives and can’t comment on their experiences however, the image of roving gangs in the halls of TCS/LHS and a cadre of abusive staff, teachers and administrators just baffles me. I haven’t seen any indication thereof.
I do not now or have I ever felt in fear of retribution, trapped or intimidated in any way by the Child School staff, administration (including the director, Maari) or its educators. I don’t react well to same and am not shy about advertising my level of tolerance.
QUITE THE CONTRARY, I have encountered extreme courtesy, cooperation, concern and understanding from all those involved in my child’s education. I have been free to disagree without any fear of retribution and have had intense dialogue with teachers, administrators (including Maari) and parents. I’m not always thrilled with the education policies, programs and personnel choices the school makes. I choose not to be silent about any trepidation I may have. I have consistently found the school to present to me a respectful “ear” for my concerns and a willingness to work with me in addressing any issue I raise. Sometimes I don’t agree with the outcome or the speed with which change is implemented, however all has always worked out to my child’s benefit! The staff and faculty are exemplary. I am in constant communication with the staff and several of his teachers. I would prefer less turnover but understand that, given its nature, turnover is endemic to the profession.
Does Maari “intimidate” some..I’d say yes, either intentionally or unintentionally some have found her so. She does not have that effect on me. I suspect that her control “issues” have arisen out of her having, for so long, to bear the burden of being chief cook and bottle washer (educator, therapist, administrator, care giver, surrogate parent, ethicist, diagnostician, etc.) to the children as each of their particular needs demanded. In the early days, Maari, more comfortable making reservations than a sandwich, actually cooked lunch for the kids. Thankfully, for all concerned, she has let that task be passed on. Maari has had to successfully delegate many of her duties for TCS/LHS to continue to survive. The school’s growth and success is a testament to that.
My experience with her, particularly at the times I have disagreed with her analysis, plans, assessments or whatever has been an impression that no matter what decisions she makes, she makes them with the best interests of the students at heart.
Wait a minute..if this is interpreted by TCS/LHS as complimentary should I now expect “favorable” treatment for me and my child….I don’t think so. I suspect that the treatment he will get is that which he has always received competent, good (not perfect) nurturing care which will allow him to develop into the person for which I hope.
To respond to some of the comments and e-mails I have received I wanted to post parts of my previous entries on the blog:
Post#31
Some might ask why I have not looked into other schools. To those people I would answer……..”You then do not know that there are too few educational resources for the number of children who require better special educational services than the NYC Dept. Of Education can offer. That is why this Director can continue as she has been doing for this many years
Given the size of the school at this time (250 or so students) it is clear that a “healthy” administration would foster the decision-making process of designated staff based on a clear philosophy and accountability structure.
Post#36
There is a very real, concrete and identifiable “thread” that connects the many negative comments. That “thread” is the Director, Maari de Souza. Maari was a pioneer in her time, 25 or so years ago when she started the school, and there is no doubt that she is a very bright and determined person.
There have been (and are) many talented professional and non-professional support staff in the school. At this point in time I firmly believe that the gifted staff who are there will not be there for long (turnover is an issue in any school but……at TCS/LHS I believe it is a much more significant issue) and that many of those who were there, left as a result of being treated in a disrespectful, degrading and condescending manner.
The Board of Directors has a real and significant responsibility to the present and future students and they do not appear to have intervened in any significant manner. “Exit Interviews” of departing staff are a standard in schools that are committed to quality service. The “Board” should be conducting them, at the very least interviewing staff that have remained at least 1 year. They should be confidential and held after letters of recommendation have been provided to the staff person, as fear of getting a good reference can impact on honest feedback.
The school needs to go on, especially given how few options exist for students with these types of learning challenges. But……Maari’s “style” and behavior are common enough knowledge at this point in time for there to be a clear recognition that someone else needs to take the helm.
Post#104
WE (present and former parents, present and former staff and students) are now rising up to communicate our concerns in the hope that the Board will do SOMETHING to change how the school is administered and, at the very least to reign in Maari and hold her accountable or ….. WE will need to go further….Time will tell.
Post#185
I think that most of the posts that have been critical are focused on Maari, not the quality of the teaching, clinical or support staff. Most concerns stated are in relation to staff retention and the appropriate utilization of clinical support staff. This is very important to be clear about.
(I agree with everyone who believes that TCS needs to go on and to move on. What we may disagree about is Maari continuing to lead the school.
I plan to provide the documentation that I accumulate to the proper oversight, regulatory and auditing bodies. THEY will determine their validity and decide whether to investigate further. THEY will make their assessment and recommendations based on this. I feel very clear in what I need to do and I respect the follow-up that will result. If these various allegations and incidents are deemed credible what will occur is a result of what Maari has or has not done, not what any one other person has or has not done. I will end with the following from a previous post.)
Post#195
Your individual experience (as well as those of some other families) may not be reflective of the whole. As I was told by those “in the know” (those professionals in the field of special education resources)…..everyhting is OK until it is not…..or….in other words….until you have a significant disagreement with Maari. Maybe you have been lucky and, for your child’s and your sake, I hope that your luck holds out until graduation.
Wishing you…the best!
Tom
I know of no staff member, having left the school, who has ever received any type of letter of recommendation or even verification of salary. As to why the latest teacher left, let me quote Tom Ott from #310, “many of those who were there left as a result of being treated in a disrespectful, degrading and condescending manner.”
My name is Annette Berkowitz, and my son is currently attending his 5th year at TCS, Upper Elementary. I am responding to Tom Ott’ s email.
My son started TCS, diagnosed as ADHD, & PDD: a hyperactive, anxiety-ridden child, unable to learn in environments where he was bullied, unable to express or assert himself, and unable to have or maintain friendships. I remember very vividly the pangs of pain I felt when he came home from his old school, knowing in my heart that he was slipping more and more behind academically, and especially emotionally and socially. It was a tough, long road to find the right school for him. I am grateful, every single day, that he was accepted at TCS.
At TCS, my son has been flourishing in every way. From Day One, when he was afraid
to go into his classroom, and sat on a bench for a while outside Maari’s office, his life changed. I remember our joy, the very first month at TCS when my son finally started to read. It’s hard to describe, and painful to remember! Nor will I forget the first
year we sent him on the yearly 10-day Spring trip overseas when he was 8, his acute anxiety on the way to the airport, and then barely saying goodbye to me when he saw Maari’s face at the airport!! In Maari, he found an educator and a mentor, someone he loves and relies on to guide him not only in his academic learning, but also in his life learning. At TCS, my son has found a supportive and nurturing environment where he has felt safe enough to learn, to make friends and to grow.
As to Maari, I have profound admiration for her. From my direct experience, and my contact with other parents at the school, it is a very well known fact that Maari is very hands-on, knows every single child inside and out, and is demanding of the staff because of her exacting standards for the same level of passion, caring and commitment to our kids. While I have heard parents complain and disagree with Maari, there is one unquestionable fact that everyone agrees on and respects: her passion, caring and unwavering commitment to our kids. Maari is not infallible, but to think of Maari as abusive to the kids is preposterous and out-of-character.
Thanks to Maari, and the amazing staff at TCS/LHS, the school has grown and expanded, and, it has become increasingly difficult to maintain the same level of
hands-on management than was possible earlier. I see that Maari is well aware of her limitations, and seems to struggle with the balance that she needs to set, in order to perpetuate the quality of TCS/LHS with the demands of growth and expansion of the school. No school is perfect, and this is an ongoing process of growth, that we, as parents need to nurture, help and assist, for our kids.
In my effort to give something back to the school for what its giving my son, this year, I have joined the Parent Association Steering Committee. There is a lot of trial and error, but the PA has gotten off to a fantastic start, as it hopes to become a viable vehicle through which an expanding parent body can navigate, be heard and respected, and support Maari and the staff, for the benefit of our kids. Gary Rome eloquently described in his email, all of the exciting changes going on at TCS/LHS. This is what
I am looking forward to hearing more of!
Annette Berkowitz
——————————————————————————–
See what’s
Maximum thought: In your experience, thinking maximally, have you actually met every staff member who has ever taught and then left the Child School? Is it possible, that a staff member who left did receive a letter of recommendation and you didn’t know about it?
But, that aside, what are you trying to say? If in fact no letter of recommendation has ever come out of the Child School, does that make it a bad place for kids or for that matter, for teachers working there or even leaving there?
There may be a lot wrong with the school but keeping track of these sorts of things is not going to improve matters.
Interestingly, I’ve worked for some schools that did tremendous work for kids and yet, senior management had a policy that you were not to write letters of recommendations. That way the school was protected against potential lawsuits arising from say, giving a good rec for a staff that then does something bad at another place.
Perhaps that’s unfortunate but that’s the way it goes sometimes. That type of policy (if that’s what happens at TCS) had nothing to do with respect or lack of, towards faculty, nor did it make the school less effective.
Richard re:#314: Good point. However, of the pool of teachers I have known, I am correct. Granted, a small number. Does that make it a bad place for kids? No, but it affects morale, which affects teachers, which affects kids. The point was, that teachers leaving the school deserve the professional regard to be granted letters of recommendation or salary verification when they leave. I hope that is being done. Not all teachers leave in stealth mode for unclear reasons. For those leaving in good standing, this is considered a standard professional practice.
MT: Again, I disagree, it might be that some teachers leaving the school do not deserve a letter of recommendation. Not everyone does and not everyone who leaves leaves because they disagree with the way Maari is running the place. And, might it be that the pool of teachers you know happen to feel negatively about Maari? A rather unrepresentative sample, don’t you think?
The assumption that collecting these types of details paints a picture of a poorly run school or that Maari and her staff are monsters is a mistake. As Sanford says above, there are many styles of dealing with teachers and students and in my experience (possibly a bit broader than yours in this regard) there is no coincidence between supporting teachers after they leave and success in running a school day to day.
I can see the picture you are trying to paint and no doubt Maari is an eccentric head of school who does not do everything the way many would like, and she may, as many do, play favorites with both students and teachers, however, this fact even coupled with others stated here (if they are in fact facts) does not mean that Child is not doing its job for kids or that she’s not doing her job to run the school.
Which leads me to this (again), aimed at all of you folks who are ranting here about Maari:
What are you trying to do? It looks to me like you care more about hurting Maari and taking her down than you do about making the Child school a better place. You seem to be thinking that if you could just get rid of her all of your (and the school’s) problems would be solved. This is called scapegoating. Think about it.
So, because you are so single-minded about this, anything goes to get rid of this woman. That makes you part of a lynch mob. You may not see it that way, but as an outsider, I do. Just think about that for a moment. Cool down and think about it.
Your process of abusing a person who you say is abusing you makes you part of the problem, not the solution. By yelling and calling her names you marginalize your viewpoint and any legitimate concerns that might help make the school, and Maari better.
Your behavior is a reflection of you. If you act badly it marginalizes (undermines) your message.
This seems to me to be a tempest in a tea pot. We as parents all know how concern for our children can color our perceptive. We worry. I toke my son to the Developmentalist today.
She told me she had several patients that go to the child school and how well they all prosper at TCS. Now this is not the first time a private doctor or therapist has said this to me.
From my own experience I can tell you that my children have grown and prospered at the Child School.
Is it the perfect place for Every child, every parent? Maybe not, but that is where as parents we have to make the tough calls. I have meet parents who removed their child because the school did not meet the needs of the child, and having said that I can also say they had nothing bad to say about the school. They felt there was something their child need that the school could not provide. Fair enough.
This issue seems to be more about tar and feathering than anything constructive.
Maari is the school director not Henry Kissinger. She does not always have the patients to hold and coddle the parents and staff. They are adults.She never seems to lack the understanding and time for the children. That my friends is the bottom line.
Quite frankly she can disagree with me, she can yell at me and call me all kinds of a fool if she so wanted to. The bottom line is that the children are happy. They are learning. Their development both socially and scholastically can not be questioned. If you truly disagree with that opinion then you have the right and the responsibility to constructive solution for yourself and your child. New school, work with the school, other parents and staff, add outside therapy, ect. Those are really your only choices short of finding a new school.
This witch hunt mentality does not does not seem to help if anything it is behaviour we would not condone in our children.
Could anyone please help me. I have a son who has been diagnosed with PDD and ADHD last year. He is in fourth grade and begninning to struggle academically in a mainstream classroom. I am trying to find him an appropriate private school, but I can’t tell which ones are suitable for a “high functioning” kid with PDD. Please-does anyone have any suggestions for the NY metropolitan area including Westchester, NYC, LI NJ and CT.
I am happy to hear some of the parents who have had success with their kids with PDD. It gives me so much hope to hold on to. I just don’t know which schools to begin to look at.
Richard,
To be clear……When you are talking about allegations of abuse (verbal, psychological and emotional, primarily) the “action” then needs to be targeted specifically.
I can only speak for myself in saying that……I am not trying to “scapegoat” anyone…..it is a needed action to address allegations related to children, teens and staff.
I cannot disagree with you more in your above characterization of it. But, as with everyone else, you are entitled to your opinion. It does not change what needs to be done….reporting these allegations (as well as other, less important issues related to educational rights) to the proper authorities. They will investigate and make a determination.
And, I agree with you. I do believe that my behavior is a reflection of me. Ethically, morally, personally and professionally I am at peace with my behavior in regard to proceeding.
No more needs to be said to explain the reasons for moving ahead.
Wow, I’m amazed at some of the things being said here. To be honest, I have not read ALL the postings. I also was not going to even post because some of the things I have read IMO are so far *off the mark* that I didn’t want to justify most of these remarks with a response. I have reconsidered because it has been brought to my attention that since prospective new parents may be reading this and they deserve to hear both sides of the story.
I will try to keep this brief. The first time I met Maari I was drawn to her passion for the school and the kids. I realize not everyone sees things her way or understands her passion, but she is determined to help each and every child enrolled in TCS.
My son has just started his 2nd year and is now in Middle School. Maari knows she is not perfect. When my son started there last year, he was placed in a class that was not a good *fit* for him. His teacher, the supervisor, and therapists brought this to Maari’s attention and he was switched to a more appropriate class. Maari did not hesitate to listen to her staff and act on their recommendations. My son did amazingly well and was able to graduate to Middle School.
I am very happy with TCS. I know I made the right choice for my son.
i think the school is good for the younger children in the elementary school butat the same time in the high school buildings there isn’y that much learning going on and there are a lot of friendships being made
Accountability seems to be a good way to refocus this discussion. Parents who speak of thier positive experiences don’t mention the issue of IEPs,or services. Some parents don’t feel these are too terribly important,while things are going smoothly.
This is not about a witch hunt or mindless mob - it is about a school that does not follow through on the most basic,fundmental ,mandated requirements. The satilite concerns may not directly involve the students.They do contribute to the tensions.
Additionally I’ve noticed that parents and staff with concerns ( in general) have no problem acknowledging other’s positve experiences. While the school’s most vocal supporters seem bent on making light or dismissing the concerned.
I agree with post #320, particularly with the last paragraph. I am very happy that so many parents feel that their children have had positive experiences in TCS. My daughter had positive experiences too; however, they were overshadowed by too many of the negatives.
I realize many feel that this is a witch hunt or blame game against Maari. Maari is not being blamed for every bad thing that has happened to our children at TCS. Negative experiences will happen at any school.
Personally, I feel that the city and/or state should change the way they do oversite of all the private schools that accept funds (taxpayers’ money) to fulfill the IEP’s of public school students. While private schools are autonomous, provided they fulfill state curricular requirements, I feel they must be answerable for the treatment of the IEP students who attend them and of their families. The directors/principals of these private schools, (listed as non-public at the VESID site), should have the same accountability to their city’s school system as the public ones, if they are going to accept public funds.
To Queensmother, Post #320. Re: Schools for PDD/ADHD.
Some NYC schools you might want to look into are:
Andrus, The Child School, Churchill, Community School, Gateway, Gillen Brewer, League School, Learning Springs, Parkside, Reese School, Herbert Birch. You can also visit the Resources with Special Needs website to get a listing. Or go to http://vesid.nysed.gov/specialed/privateschools
I believe Hallen School is in Westchester and Forum School in NJ. I would suggest you begin calling the schools now to go to their open houses. Visit the schools and you will figure out which one you think is the best fit for your child. Also, if you are seeking funding from NYC, now is the time to get the ball rolling with them.
Come on former and current TCS parents, let’s get out of our “me” mode for a moment, and give this parent some guidance. We have all been there where she is at right now. We all claim we have a child’s best interest in mind.
To Queensmother, Post #320 Re: Schools for PDD/ADHD
Richard, the moderator of this website, has listed quite a few of the schools which I had listed under my previous post. I know these schools accept students with PDD/ADHD. Go the to K-12 school listing link on this site and you can search by state.
Also, read Sanford Shapiro’s reviews. The reviews give you some insight on what to look for in a school and he is very objective.
First, I feel very strongly that this site should not even be allowed to continue if people are not going to use their real names.
My daughter went to both public school and private school - always in search of the right school (which TCS is for her). Was her IEP ever followed in public school, NO. The teacher(s) looked at me like I had 2 heads when I handed it to them. In public school I finally resorted to getting a notebook for the therapist(s) to sign so I would know if she was getting the services. That was a joke and what class do they miss to get the therapy if there was a therapist? When I finally made a complaint to the Board of Ed, they had o/t the next week. The prinicpal told me it was too hard and if I didn’t like it, I could bus my child to another school. They never ever told you your kid wasn’t getting services. It was a complete nightmare. I went to another school to check out their services when we were “recommended” to go to that school - while I was in the “special ed” dept. - a girl sat there for 45 minutes waiting for a therapist who strolled in with coffee saying “oh, I’ll just take her later”. So, the kid missed her class along with the scheduled therapy just to sit there and do nothing.
At TCS last year. I received a notice saying services were being changed to 1x a week from 2x. I actually called the therapist and disagreed with her and said I would not sign. We had a very lengthy conversation, and I don’t know, call me crazy, but she knew my daughter very well, so she must have been getting services. We were not penalized for going against this! Let’s talk about teachers, in private school within a period of 5 months my daughter have 3 different math teachers. The principal was teaching 1st grade because that teacher was pulled for Resource Room. Turnover happens everyday in every facet of life.
I spoke to my daughter about gangs, academics and school life because of these comments. The answer I received was that gangs could not exist in this school even if they tried (and the kids did an extensive reports on gang’s last year). She also said she is doing as much work as she did in any other school. I could see from the State test results last year that she is still above grade level so I leave that as a testament to the education being provided. All you have to do is look at the curiculum provided by each teacher.
Thank you for your time and attention.
Theresa: Thanks for your comment. Remember, there is more to “this site” than the Child School listing. Maybe you meant “this comment thread” ought not continue with people posting anonymously.
Beyond this comment thread and this web site, many people don’t like giving their real names on the internet and I respect that although in this case I don’t think it adds credibility to sharp comments to toss them anonymously. Technically I can’t force people to use their real names so that’s that. This is a lesson in civics for all of us and we’ll just have to let it go and see how things work out.
So using your name (real name be it first or last) will “Add points” to the credibility of your post, right? Don’t mean to state the obvious, but just making it clear here that if someone does raise an issue, they’re better off stating their name so that their issue would be discussed,
Also, Theresa, the earlier comments about there being gangs was probably denied in the earlier posts. I don’t know if it was directly said, but there is as much of a gang here as there is on a kids show from PBS.
THeresa you got a notice from some one at TVCS about a change in the services they were suppling? NEVER in all the years We’ve been at the school have ever been informed of anything. My child’s class was changed at on at least two occassions . We didn’t find out untill we sat through the wrong teachers night presentation. The response from the school…oops!So I guess your daughter is percieved as more deserving of concern them mine.
Are you saying that becuse many public schools are not living up to thier mandate its ok for TCS not to?
your daughter is doing well academically thats going to be a big plus for at the school. Inequitable treatment,and division of resources, based on how academically successfull a child maybe is a problem.
Your right there are not any gangs at school …but the administration encourages the preception that non-regents student are a bad influnence and less capable across the board. untill this year the two groups were not encouraged to mix.
I won’t use my name because my child was subjected to inappropriate and nasty comments in retailiation after I spoke up to the adiminstration.
Steve is a very eloquent young man who I hope can understand that protecting ones children is the first job of a parent.
Also after just attending the PA meeting I learned from the speaker an NYPD officer that giving out personal information isn’t something you should do on the web with out careful consideration.
onces again what steps do satisfied parents want to take to help disatisfied parents get equitable treatment for their children at the school?
Theresa, I’ve seen many special ed children get their services in public schools, so that isn’t a problem with everyone (just like TCS isn’t a problem for everyone).
Plus, when the state finally decides that public school isn’t going to help a child enough, they willingly pay tuition (and extra money for the amount of services that a child gets) to get the child help that he/she needs according to the mandates stated on his/her IEP. Not providing services, or cutting back when children NEED them, isn’t what special education is about.
Turnover does happen in every school, on regular basis. However, when teachers are belittled and demoralized… there will be a higher “rate” of turnover. If you look back at how many staff have left TCS over the years, you will see that it’s at a much “higher” rate than normal.
And… satisfied former parent (Kim) were you REALLY satisfied when your son had a revolving door of classroom teachers one year in Elementary? Either they would be fired or would just quit, leaving the classroom without a teacher for the majority of the year? I know that he also was shorted services, so is that satisfying to you? He (as well as other students in that class that year) had multiple behavioral problems during that “tumultuous” time… and why wouldn’t they, there was absolutely no stability.
Finally, Richard, I think this thread is a marvelous thing. Currently there is a meeting offered:
Calendar
Open Dialogue
Date: Tuesday - October 30, 2007
Time: 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM
All parents are invited to gather for an open dialogue.
Brainstorming and discussion are encouraged,
M.P. President of the Board of Directors
will be in attendance.
RSVP 212-223-5055
I’m pretty sure this is a meeting because of the comments running on this thread, I don’t think the head of the Board has ever been before parents before. Everyone on this entire thread can thank Richard (especially current parents), because we know that there are many valid concerns/complaints on this thread, and at least this has forced them to take these seriously- there truly is strength in numbers!
OK, I predict most people in this thread will blow past what I’m about to put forth. Either that or it’ll be like educational blasphemy.
I think the emphasis on compliance with state mandated services or IEP components is way too one-sided. Here’s my perspective. A kid is often at an independent school like TCS because the system has failed him or her. So the drive to then recreate the same ideas for remediation/education but in a different setting always has seemed to me to be missing a crucial point.
The thing to be striving for is providing the education the kid needs not compliance to a system that already failed him or her.
This is not just pollyanna pie in the sky. I understand completely that for a parent, most often the IEP is the leverage to get just that (what the kid needs). I get it (I’ve been there with my own kid). What I’m saying is that the main thing at play here is for some people the trust is gone (for Maari and her decisions). Believe it or not a school head might see that there are other things not in an IEP, that will more likely ensure the success of a child.
Let me give an example: An IEP may get created which calls for 2 days per week of social language pragmatics to be delivered by an instructor with all the right credentials. A certain school might see that another person in the school would deliver that service but in an embedded way (rather than a separate “class”) by a talented PE teacher. It would be way out of compliance but might, just might be in better service to the child. Is that at all possible?
Sometimes a visionary bull-headed, micro managing tough founder has better instincts than many about kid success. The amazing ones can even pull this off and still get a measure of consensus or at least communicate an idea like what I presented above in a way that a parent will come to appreciate.
Rather than debate me using some example where being out of IEP compliance is harmful (there are many examples), let’s proceed with the idea that people who are dissatisfied don’t trust TCS system or personnel. If you did you’d back off.
If that’s the issue, then address that.
With all of the students who seem to be demonstrating huge growth (reflected in their comments), that’s what’s speaking loudly to me.
Personally I do see parts of this thread as a lynch mob. In some ways that’s understandable given how you feel. I’ve been involved with and consulted with schools with similar dynamics: aspects of Founder’s Syndrome. Part of the effects of dynamics like these is polarization and demonization.
Focus on solutions at your meetings. Be dogged in your self-examination not just slinging stones. Develop plans to address issues of communication and be open to listening. The more you model intense active listening at your upcoming meeting the more you increase that capacity in “the other side.”
OK. Let me have it.
Response to parents regarding my suggestions and recommendations:
I have already outlines numerous times what I see (and what many others see) as the “fallout” related to Maari so there is no need to repeat any of those.
My intent is to support TCS /LHS and its’ continuation as an option for students and parents.
I will assume that you (who are asking) are serious and I will suggest a few things that, in my opinion, should be priorities to focus on:
1. The Board and PA should, at the very least, work to establish an interim administrative accountability and oversight plan to be in effect during the period of investigation and fact-finding. As noone can predict when this will occur, it will occur and will require much attention on the part of Maari. In addition, noone can predict what the end result will be, so if a plan is in place, there is always the option of its’ continuation, whether on a temporary or more permanent basis.
2. Generally, no matter “who” administrates, TCS / LHS needs to be able to functionally address the needs of the students that it has accepted into the school. Specifically, from what I have seen, there needs to be much focus and development in a few realms:
a. MS and HS needs to be much more focused in their curriculum and training offerings as it relates to transition planning and to the post TCS/LHS life of the students. In my opinion (and, I am not an educator but do know the adult service options and systems for graduates) the curriculum should be geared for ALL students to attempt acquisition of a Regents or Regents Competency Diploma NOT an IEP Certificate. IEP Certificates can be issued for any student who cannot pass the Regents or RCT’s at any time up to the students 21st birthday school year.
b. enhanced academic opportunities and supports for those who are pursuing Regents and Regents Competency Diplomas. This seems to be a present focus but staff need to be treated with respect and given positive support if any of the new opportunities are to really take hold.
c. “true” transition-type supports and services for all students, based on their needs (Travel Training. Vocational Training / Internships / Externships) and REMEMBER….students with disabilities have a legal right to a free and appropriate education until age 21 so…….gearing the academic curriculum for Regents and RCT’s would not be wasting a student’s time even if they ultimately cannot achieve this. There should then be a period (18-21, maybe) when those students could have the focus be on vocational options, if the school feels that they can properly meet those needs.
Students who think they are graduating with an academic diploma and DO NOT should not have to face much more limited options when they have used up valuable time at TCS/LHS.
(P.S….Maari was quite upset with me when I first spoke to her about informing parents more clearly as to what an IEP Certificate meant. I was told it would only upset them. Well..what do YOU think is more upsetting to a parent? ome initial anxiety that leads to appropriate planning with knowledge and accurate information or finding out, almost after the fact, that valuable time and potential options for your child have been wasted?
Yes, I agree with you!…..and because of that we made that type of information sharing a major part of the HS PA Meeting) Parents AND students should know where they are headed and what the choices are. If a student does not have the ability to pass the Regents and RCT’s one option may be to attend a private school that is not governed by that NYS requirement. I know that this may be easier for financially well-off families but there are also scholarships available that those with limited incomes might be able to look into as well. There are also some very good vocational transition programs that are sponsored by the NYC DOE and students and parents could access those as well BUT NOT if it is too late, age-wise.
My experience of TCS / LHS has been MS and HS, as my daughter attended other schools prior, so I cannot comment about ES but, my opinion about how ANY student should be approached, spoken to, counseled and treated is the same.
My best in the further development of TCS / LHS,
Tom
Thank you #332, I appreciate your kind words.
I’ll be interested in hearing how many in this thread will make the time to attend the meeting and I’ll also be interested in hearing how the meeting goes, from many perspectives.
I would like to recommend to TCS that they hire an outside professional facilitator to run the meeting. Given the kinds of emotions running here, it will be very rough if someone from the school runs it. Plus, an outside person who is good at what they do will help guide the group to a a place of consensus. I’m not volunteering, just recommending that you do it this way.
Everyone: we’re creeping up into long comment land again. Be careful. As many students know, when you’re done writing the real work begins. proofread your comments, edit them, keep them short.
Looking forward to attending the open dialogue meeting. This meeting with the president of the Board of Directors should have been called for a long time ago. I will be going with three other parents and I’m sure we will all have plenty to say.
I hope many parents can make this important meeting. If it turns out to be a success, this can be just the beginning of making important changes so that our children can start to get the services they need and deserve.
If you are interested in the views of a present student. She made this video for a “30 Voices of LD” Competition sponsored by the National Center For Learning Disabilities.
My Little Dyslexic World
I personally do not find anything very wrong with TCS/Legacy HS. My child is doing very well. He can read, write, spell, excells in math and science and is above average in many of his courses. He has made many friends and he feels very safe and secure there.
If there were any issues that bothered me I spoke to Maari about them. She was very understanding and took care of these matters immediately.
Can anyone verify that an outside professional facilitator will be used during the 10/30 meeting? Richard is very correct in his post #335 in mentioning it. The emotions from all directions are going to be very high.
Hello,
I hope everyone had a nice weekend. I was reading thru the thread again and just wanted to respond to those that addressed me.
Richard (329). Yes, (sorry), I just meant this thread. However, you had an excellent idea to use a mediator for the meeting (thank you).
Interested Parent (331). Hi - Sorry if I didn’t make that clear - I never at all meant IEP’s should not be followed. My child’s IEP was not followed (for the most part) in public school which is why I was upset. She was supposed to get separate location for testing and when I questioned the teacher about it, she said I have no place else to put her and I can’t worry about 1 kid. So my child failed math tests the whole year. When report card time came, I wrote down I don’t accept the mark because she was not given test(s) at seperate location. That didn’t help, but it was in writing. It wasn’t until this time that I started educating myself about IEP’s because I felt my daughter was being set up for failure. So I blame myself because I relied on the system. I’m sorry if you got the wrong impression.
332 (former staff member). Hi - I can only say that once I did educate myself, I paid 2 professional(s) to do an evalution on my daugher, hired a child advocate (which cost me thousands of dollars) - about 10 IEP meetings later, I finally got my daughter into TCS. It didn’t come free or cheap. So more or less I forced the state to recognize her disabilities. They had pointed me to the nearest public school 3 times (because no one would take the time to find out where she should actually be). I turned down this placement each time because I went to see services (as I mentioned). Then I was told that since my daughter was doing well in the private school, why didn’t I leaver her there (but they also said they were not paying for it). I’m not saying this to invalidate your response, each and everyone one of us has a different story to tell. I can only tell you how helpless I felt and that is certainly what the parent(s) who are not pleased with the school are probably feeling. Unfortunately, everyone’s experience at the school are not all going to be good. Those that have experienced bad should definitely be heard, and what is needed is to find a solution on how to make it better.
Everyone’s feelings are very real and emotional at this time. I hope it will be worked out for everyone’s best interest.
Kim:
Thank you very much for the information. I will also look at the k-12 lists in this web page.
Hi All,
The forum being held on Tuesday, October 30th at 6:00 PM is very important for all to attend who have concerns about the treatment of TCS / LHS students and the general administration of the scool. Nothing will change unless people have courage and speak up!
The best,
Tom
I agree with Tom, everyone who is concerned one way or another should attend this meeting if possible.
I urge you all to follow whatever rules are in place for civil discussion and respect everyone who is there, including Maari.
I’ll be thinking of you all and hoping it works out well for all concerned.
Are parents of former students welcome at this meeting? I did not get that impression, but I would go if I knew I would not be turned away at the door (as the school has been known to do in the past).
Maybe the thing to do is call the school and ask. Can’t hurt. If you do, please post what you find out here. Thanks.
Approximately 2 years ago I made my first and the first post here, on what is now known as the infamous “blog”. My primary goal in what I did then was to create a chain of events that would lead up to something that would help change the school. And now that time has arrived, tommorow (Oct. 30th) @ 6pm we will finally have the chance to create change. There will be a meeting to discuss what has been posted here and i feel it is imperative that everyone who can attends and speaks out about the outrages that have been committed, not only for ourselves, but for our children, our friends and our families.
I know that standing up to such a menacing figure can be difficult but please don’t back down, now is the moment to take action to right the wrongs which we have all suffered for years.
Called Monday afternoon. Just got voice mail. Left message. As of Monday night, no one has called back. Will try again Tues., day of meeting.
Did anyone tracking this thread go to the meeting? If yes, can you give us a rundown of what happened? If no, why not?
Hi Richard,
I cannot give an accounting because, to my knowledge, notices / invitations were not sent to former parents, based on my not having received one. I saw the information about the meeting on this blog and it was not posted by an official from the school. Consequently I did not attend.
Tom
I went.
It was set up to discourage any real negative comments.How could that be?
Well the board of Directors was there but they were not introduced. they were seated and silent through out the “dialouge”. Maari was present which is a problem that has been discussed here–parents know that she can retailate through their children.
Then there were teachers sitting all around the edge of the room. surrounding Maari. With no one to direct comments,with out any real two way communication I don’t think people felt to encouraged to make any critisims.Basically people stood up and testified to the wondeful things Maari had done for them and how she was a strong personality. All true but it didn’t move anything forward. There was one parent who stood up - she had no problem with the academics but with her older son she had real trouble dealing with Maari. She stated that she had written to ALL the Board members and recived NO reply- once the Board did Indentify themselves they were going to leave with out answering her- but another parent asked them what the Board was going to do about her letters. The Pres. said he didn’t recall seeing her letter.He apologized –he did not her ask to stay and speak with them as far as I know- No one seemed concerned that this woman’s son was hassrassed , that he was subjected to an illegal search - NO COMMENT FROM THE DIRECOTORS- So it was a little trip back in time when PTT mtgs were basically cult of Maari mtgs. Past parents were there I guess they were invited.
There is going to be a parent committee to develope suggestions for a greivance process.
THe rest of the mtg was spent calling people who posted any critisisms as “attacking” Maari and the school. Mr Ott was called “a man with an agenda” with a suspisious motivations– the posts on the this thread constitute a “witch hunt”. THey talk ed about why couldn’t they shut the site down. This luckily not something that they persued.
Other things parents brought up that No one responded to were- questions about certifcation,Ieps,teacher turn over.Related services well theres something coming up - we’ll get a letter. There wasn’t enough time to explain the differences between push in - and pull out?? I felt that it was really a very civil( the moderator was a good idea) but they only alotted an hour for the whole mtg.- PA mtgs last 2-It was as I said it set up to be awhole lot massaging Maari’s ego- and nothing concrete.
Considering that the CSE/DOe dosn’t feel the need to enforce the most basic regulations and the school dosn’t seem all that concrened(The Baord said the fully support Maari) - should the press be alerted.
Richard,
I couldn’t get up the emotional energy to go. Personally, I didn’t expect anything positive to come of the meeting, and if Interested Parent, post #350, is correct, nothing positive happened.
Teri
my comments are simply this as a former graduated student of the child school, I overcame alot I am now a LPN and I must say these parents are making excuses for their children, the only way the problem can be fix is if your child makes a stand for themselves to learn the material and at least try to past state mandate exams as such the regents and rct diploma. I didi it and I am proud to say that I am a LPN nurse not because of maari , the child school or the staff beacause I woke up and knew that I had my math disability that needed to be fixed and for the record Maari is not superwoman she cannot tend to your child’s every needs ypu as the student , by the time you reach to legacy hs you should have a clearly understanding what you need to do to make sure that you are trying to past your regents exam. Maari can only take us but so far. It is you as the student that need to focus stop throwing the disability card in front of your problems and face it head on. If I as a former child school/ legacy hs alumini can do you surely can, and parents stoping making excuses for your child. They need someone like Maari to help you as well as a child face to truth. Good luck and god bless. Parents stop sheltering your child.
To Former Student, Post #352,
You may not realize it but your entire post underlines everything that we have been complaining about regarding The Child School. Hope your life is a happy one.
Teri
interested Parent (comment 350): What did YOU stand up and say? Did you comment on any of the things that were brought up that you disagreed with?
I was told that the school brought in a facilitator to run the meeting. What did that person do to solicit all viewpoints and ideas?
As far as Tom and Teri not attending this meeting, I think you both made a tactical and ethical mistake. The school isn’t going to offer up a formal invite, you just have to go and see what happens. If it’s important enough to put all this time into, the least you can do is show up at the meeting, even if they don’t let you in (that would have been good fodder too).
You would have given your arguments much more credibility had you attended and made your arguments publicly and civilly in front of the board. Hiding in the shadows and organizing may feed some need you have to paint Maari and the board as the enemies but in the end it doesn’t do the school (and your argument) much good and it puts them in a defensive posture against you.
As far as the school closing this comment thread down, if they have a lawyer who can prove libelous intent, and I’m quite sure some of the posts fit this description, they could certainly force me to remove those posts and knowing the legal system, close the thread. That’s why I’m hinting that you all try to keep your comments civil and accurate. Name calling may seem easy in the anonymity of the internet but it can have real consequences.
Former Student (comment 352): I think your comment is universal: all of us with learning issues have to make our own way, learning how to best use the resources around us to move on with our lives.
There is no best path or easy path, there is just the path and moving along it toward self-confidence and independence is something each of us has to work hard on and keep track of in our own way.
Many people, institutions, and events influenced my life but in the end, I made my life, I made the choices and decided which turns to take in the path. One thing I chose early on was not to become a “professional victim.” I knew I had to make things happen for me, not blame the world for my lot in life. That choice I have to keep making each time it seems the world is conspiring to get in my face.
I’m still making my life and the further I get along the path, the more I know that the most important driving force is me.
It sounds to me like you are off to a great start and I wish you my best in making a great life for yourself.
Dear Prospective Students and Parents,
Students, TCS/Legacy remains a very good school to come and visit and consider as a place to make friends and get a good education. Please consider and interview and then experience the environment for yourselves. Check out the way teachers and students talk to each other, what students are studying, what else they get interested in at