John F. Kennedy School in Ferndale, Michigan

“They have an awesome family-style community feeling. Parents are highly encouraged to be involved and to give their input. They also have an excellent green school rating and are working to reduce their urban footprint.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“I went through the Open Classroom program when I was a child when in was taught at Taft Elementary, and I was excited to put my own children in the program 20+ years later. They even have some of the same teachers! The children did great in the Open Classroom program. But, we had to move out of state two years ago and we mourn JFK. Even though both kids are now in a school rated '10' and 'Exemplary', they are bored out of their minds with the traditional rigid classroom structure. We will always miss JFK.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“My daughter attended JFK and I was not very happy with her teacher. Each time I went into the classroom children were never in their seats. Some children were in the classroom, in the corner, under the desks, in the hallway, everywhere but in their seat learning. Maybe it was the teacher, but I took my daughter out of JFK because she was not learning in a structured environment. If your child needs structure, I do not recommend JFK.”
This review was posted by a parent.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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