We moved out of the Long Branch district because we thought the school was sub-par after touring it. The principal seemed totally flighty and she admitted during the tour that she sent her own child to private school because public school wasn't going to meet his needs! Also, I know a few teachers there who told me that there are many kids on behavior modification plans...more than at other schools. Lastly, the building seemed so shabby! Very little natural light in the classrooms and oddly low ceilings in most of the building.

Our kids both went there, and both were completely prepared for middle school. It is a happy, diverse school. The music program (vocal and instrumental) is great. The librarian is a treasure. Many kids walk and bike to school, and there is lots of playing together after school, both in the after school program and outside of it. Homework burden is totally reasonable. While the students are prepared for SOLs -- and clearly know what they are -- I don't think the focus is any greater than at any other school (and probably less so than many). It really is a nice little school -- nothing super fancy, but just a good little place. The principal is very strong and knows the students and their families well. Good luck with your decision.

I've met the principal and really liked her....seems like a great school that the people in my neighborhood really like. I hear lots of good things...and they get 30 minutes for lunch (I hear it's shorter at some other e-schools).

My son went there. He got a nice education. He was happy there. He was prepared when he reached middle school. The local families send their kids. It is less uptight than the schools further north.

Don't have kids there but a friend does. She is VERY happy there. She has specifically mentioned the principal in a positive light.

Hi all,

I just wanted to see if anyone with experiences at Long Branch elementary, positive or negative or neutral, would share them.

Any thoughts on the principal's leadership?

What is the culture of the school like--do kids play together after school?, how is the homework burden?, how much outside time do kids get? Is there a lot of focus on SOLs?

Thanks very much!