Munsey Park Elementary School - Manhasset, NY

Munsey Park School is a large public elementary school in Manhasset, NY, with a small school feeling. Its family of children, teachers/staff, and parents live the motto, "We Care." All reach out to care about others. Genuine collaboration at Munsey Park resulted in "Xtended Xtras," extensive playground landscaping, SMART Boards, support for all school initiatives such as: new report cards, its "Community Read" project, character and curriculum development aligned with Common Core Learning Standards. The staff are highly educated, experienced, kind and caring; teams led by the principal ensured this quality through rapid enrollment growth from 500 to approximately 900 students. As the school grew, it succeeded in facing the challenge to develop a new focused community of learners. It developed a Transition Team to participate, guide, and brainstorm room utilization, scheduling, articulation of student needs, and all aspects of ensuring that all children feel they belong to the Munsey Park School family. Students' individual needs are addressed; accomplishments are evident in academics, music/arts, and citizenship. The staff are proud to remark that at Munsey Park everyone brings their "A game." Together, they secured grants from local businesses for tutoring for disadvantaged students and collaborated with the Village Mayor for a new, safer walkway in front of the school. The principal is in her 20th year at the school. She partners with all. The Munsey Park School embodies a palpable, warm, and supportive learning environment. Its commitment to a focus on learning and tradition of excellence is continuous.