Barnstable Academy in Oakland NJ has drastically declined under its current leadership. What was…read moreonce an inclusive and supportive environment is now overrun by bullying, intolerance, and widespread drug issues. Students openly admit to gossiping with staff, and the culture among faculty is equally toxic--judgmental, unprofessional, and in some cases, outright inappropriate. One new teacher was even caught vaping marijuana during school hours. The administration turns a blind eye to serious concerns in favor of maintaining a false image of perfection. They refuse to address problematic behavior unless pressured to do so. Their so-called "Upstander Pledge' is meaningless--a performance that doesn't reflect the school's actual values. While they're obsessed with monitoring students on cameras, they ignore the root issues until forced to act. It is a shame because it started off as a great school environment, but over the years I feel as though it is no longer a safe or healthy environment for students as it once was. I can say all this based on personal experience and my personal opinion.

This school was terrible for my son. They do a pretty thorough evaluation before admitting your…read morechild and we were very honest so I can only guess they said my child was a good fit to get the money. My son is academically gifted but has severe anxiety and low frustration tolerance. He is also a loyal friend, lots of fun and loves learning - but he can get frustrated in the classroom. The school offers zero emotional support. And please don't be fooled by their no-bullying slogan. My son was brutally bullied by some real nasty boys while several teachers stood by and watched. We found out from the man who drove him to school. My son was too sweet to know he was being picked on. When we brought it to the attention of the principle TWICE (and her side kick), they did nothing. I assume the other boy's parents had more money because it's all about the bottom line for this corporate owned school. The academics are strong But buyer beware and please protect your kids. (The social worker there is terrible too).

Fuck this place I have been here for three years and hated it there are these annoying ass teachers…read morewho body slam you and don't do shit when you get mad except send you to the reset room.

The staff at the Boro hall is very friendly and helpful. I'm going to miss this town. Great place…read moreto live.

I live in one of the best school districts in NJ but we switched to Holy Spirit School three years…read moreago and I am so happy we did. Wanting "more" for my children, we looked at various private schools in the region that had high levels of academic focus, strong community and that "something extra". After visiting several school we chose Holy Spirit for many reasons but it was the only school that really stood out as having that "something extra". First, their true commitment to growing the children academically in the most personalized manner was incredible. Allowing them to move forward and learn at their own pace and encouraging them to grow not "waiting for the others to catch up" as we saw in public school. But also, when they need help or a little extra, the teachers and staff have gone out of their way to work personally with the children to help them understand and excite them about the learning. The teachers are always available and happy to offer extra tutoring which is wonderful. The kids are nurtured in a "family" environment to care for, respect and help each other. Beyond the academics there is a community of involvement among the parents. The school events and fundraisers are great fun for the extended community, not just the school community. Annually the entire school rallies around the "school play" which is the largest and most incredibly well produced and directed school play I have ever seen. The kids are from 3rd- 8th grade and they blow the socks off many of the high school productions we've seen. For those 4 months of practice and rehearsals, those kids are a part of something wonderful that they will remember and gain skills they will use for the rest of their lives. My children love Holy Spirit and so do we!

Friendly staff, security measures is top notch and scholarships are available. The business office…read morecan pick up on some manners and the constant emails ( I received over 20 reminders to re enroll) was upsetting in the form of automated calls, texts and emails, yet those will all disappear when you have a concern. Some things can be worked on but overall I'd recommend. Sr jeann and petrocelli are down to earth and real. Cally is sweet, kathy wonderful and janet funny as hell​

The school is great on academics. My daughter was in the honors group and they were there to help…read more The only criticism will be that they don't really push you to apply to A great University . They tell the students to go with the safe schools and that is it. My daughter was lucky that she applied on her own and is currently going to UCCON. On sports you have to have done club before getting there or you will no make it. Football players are drafted from public schools and get a full scholarship to go there while we paid the full tuition. There is a problem with cds and that is not being addressed. I guess they figured the rich kids parents don't want to hear that. Other than that they are great on academics .