Parent Testimonials

The teachers at BAL are friendly and welcoming, and my children enjoy going to school there.  The administration at BAL

have been amazing and flexible in their interactions with my family. -S - 2019

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Words cannot express the thanks that my family has for each and every Burlington Academy of Learning teacher and

staff that have been a part of our family for the past 3 years. Everyone there is warm and caring and plays an important

and positive role in the lives of our children. It is reassuring to leave our children in their hands knowing they are well

cared for in every way. There is lots of learning, plenty of playtime, creative projects, encouragement and understanding.

Both of our children have learned and grown so much in these past few year and truly love going to school each day.

Hope you and your family have a happy holiday

Chris and Kristen Cowell - 2018

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Being first time parents, finding the right daycare to send our daughter Mia was not an easy task! From the very first day,

the Junior Academy Staff has made us feel at ease and reassured that Mia is in great hands. Miss Haley in particular has

always been so in tune with Mia, and will let us know if she doesn’t seem herself or if she did something new in her

developments. We LOVE Lifecubby and getting to see pictures and videos throughout the week of her smiling face. We

are so thankful for the loving, caring and accommodating staff at Burlington Academy!!

Thank You,
Mike and Ashley - 2017

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My husband and I could not be happier with the care our children receive at Burlington Academy. My 11 year old daughter,

Madison, has been attending Burlington Academy since 2011, my son, Mikey, since 2013. Kate and Kim are awesome! They are

extremely caring, compassionate and attentive administrators. Mikey attends the 3 year old nursery school full time and has grown

considerably in his speech and cognitive skills since the start of this school year. Madison loves the after school homework club

where she especially enjoys the cooking/baking program offered on Friday afternoons. Another aspect of Burlington Academy

that I have found to be invaluable is the flexibility in their programs. They open early, close late, and are very accommodating to

my last minute schedule changes. Whenever I need extra care hours for my daughter, the message is always, "of course she can

come." We highly recommend the Burlington Academy of Learning to any parents looking for quality care for their children. 

~Marie Hurd, Burlington Resident, Public School Educator and Literacy Coach - 2017

Good morning Katelyn!

I just wanted to say thank you again for all of your help.  Riley has had the best couple of days since starting there. 

He's come home so calm and happy the past couple of days.  At his old school, he would come home so stressed and

closed off, as he needed to decompress from the chaos.  He absolutely loves Miss King and Mr. Scott!  :)

The transition has gone so smoothly so far, and I know it's due to the very inviting environment you have created

there.

My husband I and could not be more pleased.  

Thanks again! And have a great day!

Kate - 2016

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Hello, 
My name is Michelle Machado. My son Geoffrey attended Burlington Academy for 4 years. He has sinced moved on to complete Kindergarten and is now starting first grade. I would like to congratulate the teachers he has had during his time at Burlington Academy. Geoffrey has excelled at school and is actually reading on a third grade level. I believe it has been due to the great curriculum and wonderful teachers! Thank you to all of The Burlington Academy teaching staff.
Sincerely,
Michelle Machado

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Dear Brianna, Margaret, and Scott, 

I wanted to thank you for all the time you spent with Kevin and I last Thursday for Rylee’s conference. We appreciated your thoroughness! It is so great to hear that Rylee is doing so well in your care and that she is so happy there. It has been wonderful to see Rylee interacting with numerous children and staff that are very loving. Thank you again for your dedication and care to our Rylee. It makes us so happy to hear that you enjoy caring for her. 

We wish you a wonderful holiday season! 

Thanks again,

Carissa Eddy

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Dear Kim,
I just wanted to complement the wonderful before school teacher you have in your am program.  Ms. Jenna is fantastic with the children, especially Bret.  My husband has told me too how great she is with the kids too.  She has a soothing and therapeutic handle with the kids.  Kudos to her.  Also , we love Mrs. Thomas too, your new afternoon teacher.  Thanks.  Nancy 

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I am SO impressed with all you do for our children and for us as busy parents! Just amazing.  Thank you for everything! :)

Thank you! Ashley

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Hi Kim,

I had some feedback that I thought would be important to share with you....

I referred a co-worker of mine to your program. She had the pleasure of visiting with her daughter in the classroom with Mrs. Patridge. When she reported to work, she came to see me and she was so impressed with Mrs. Patridge and the curriculum that her daughter was exposed to. She found Mrs. Patridge to be exemplary and commented on a story that was read to the children and their work on recalling details of the story and the fact that Mrs. Patridge made sure to acknowledge each and every child and the art work they also did.

From what she told me, I can tell she found the setting well structured, educational in nature and extremely impressive. She stated that her visit to Mrs. Patridge's classroom made her completely know she made the right decision in switching her daughter to BAL. 

I referred her to your program because I too, am very impressed with the staff. They are invested in early childhood education and maintaining an educational excellence that my children have benefit from.

A program is only as good as its staff and I am very thankful for the teachers that have touched my kids lives at your program.....they simply are the best!

I just thought I would share a positive note and acknowledge the positive feedback that I was able to hear.....

Wendy

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Kim,

And on a totally unrelated note – gotta tell you how amazing you guys are over there and brag a little...Lexie is reading full books to us now and Sophie started writing her own name this past week.  Seriously?  They are 3 and 5!  They both pose some interesting challenges for us, but oh my goodness has BAL given them the most amazing start!  We adore you guys and we tell everybody how amazing the school is.

Laura:)

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Hi Kim, 

We just received Morgan’s first report card and had her first parent teacher conference for Kindergarten.  

I wanted to tell you we are very thankful for everything Mrs. Dauphinee did to help prepare Morgan for  kindergarten.  She is “above grade level” in most areas in the first term and “at grade level” in everything else.  Her reading has really taken off  which I know is due to the strong foundation she received at Burlington Academy.   Mrs. Dauphinee is an outstanding teacher and did a wonderful job with the full day program.  

Sincerely, 

Lorie Maguire

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Good morning, ladies,
I was just reading through the school newsletter and I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you all for the amazing job you are doing, and more specifically, tell you how astounded I am with Lexie’s growth.

A couple days ago, she brought home her solar system book. I started reading through the pages and thought to myself, “wow, this is great for her to learn and maybe sometime in the next year she’ll be able to sight read all these big words like gas-giant and dwarf planet.” Then she sat on my lap and read that book to me cover-to-cover. I nearly fainted. I have clearly underestimated her ability and I think it’s time for her to read me the bedtime stories now, not the other way around. And I was floored by her phrasing. She completely understands that periods stop one thought and begin another, and she reads it with expression and cadence – and frankly I could not be more proud of her. I know we gave her a good start in the literacy department, but clearly whatever you guys have been doing with the kids, it is paying off in spades, and it is so amazing to me that my 5½ year old is reading to me about how Pluto is now a dwarf planet. Are you kidding me?!

I can see from the newsletter that phrasing and fluency are being stressed now in Kindergarten – I was a smart, literate kid in kindergarten, but seriously, your students blow my whole generation out of the water. And the solar system, the rainforest, fractions…Dvorak! My husband and I both work long, strange hours sometimes, and for us to know that our kids are getting this caliber of education is the best feeling ever. And it costs us probably less than $200 a month more than if we had them both in daycare down the street. This is a no-brainer and their tuition is the bill we are most adamant about, second only to the mortgage that keeps a roof over our heads. It is the best decision we ever made coming to Burlington Academy.

Lexie's developing great friendships, and it makes me so happy to see her coming into her own at The Burlington Academy. I am so looking forward to parent teacher conferences; we are committed to doing whatever we need to in order to help her grow emotionally and socially so she can achieve the same level of excellence that she’s achieving now academically. We will miss you all when Lexie moves to Consolidated in the fall…but then you’ll have Sophie for the next year in Jr. Kindergarten, so we’ll have the opportunity to do this all again.

Sorry for rambling – I’m just so happy with everyone at The Burlington Academy and I’m almost choked up with pride when I see how wonderfully my kids are developing. I wish I had time and patience to nurture them the way you all do, but since most parents can’t do that, I’m relieved that I can count on a place like The Burlington Academy to give them the tools they needs to excel as they grows into all the new phases of life that are coming. So thank you again and please never forget what an amazing impact you make in these kids’ lives.

Sincerely, Laura McGuffie

Hi Kim,
I had some feedback that I thought would be important to share with you....

I referred a co-worker of mine to your program. She had the pleasure of visiting with her daughter in the classroom with Ms. Patridge. When she reported to work, she came to see me and she was so impressed with Ms. Patridge and the curriculum that her daughter was exposed to. She found Ms. Patridge to be exemplary and commented on a story that was read to the children and their work on recalling details of the story and the fact that Ms. Patridge made sure to acknowledge each and every child and the art work they also did.

From what she told me, I can tell she found the setting well structured, educational in nature and extremely impressive. She stated that her visit to Ms. Patridge's classroom made her completely know she made the right decision in switching her daughter to The Burlington Academy.

I referred her to your program because I too, am very impressed with the staff. They are invested in early childhood education and maintaining an educational excellence that my children have benefit from.

A program is only as good as its staff and I am very thankful for the teachers that have touched my kids’ lives at your program.....they simply are the best!

I just thought I would share a positive note and acknowledge the positive feedback that I was able to hear.....

Wendy

Hi Tiffany,
I just wanted to send you a warm thank you for everything you have done for Lizzy at The Burlington Academy. Receiving your note today reminded me of why we chose to send Lizzy there and also of how much we like you as a teacher and a person. I do not expect you to take your own lunch time to eat with her and to then help her take her nap by rubbing her back, but I wholeheartedly appreciate it. I also enjoy your daily “ask me” notes, especially today when you mentioned Lizzy choosing sneakers for the frog! All it takes is a couple little visuals like that to calm parents' nerves and remind them that their kids are "okay."
Thanks again!
Ashley (aka, Proud Mommy of Lizzy)

Hi Linda!

Ben has been talking a lot about hibernation and adaptation in particular. It's so much fun that he is finally getting to the point where I can figure out what he is learning in school without the Spanish Inquisition! The other day he was playing in the sink and I asked him what he was doing! His replied, "adapting!"...I died laughing. He is so funny and is clearly absorbing what you are teaching. Thanks for all you do.

Jen

P.S. I am excited that Ben can identify almost all the letters of the alphabet by sight now. That's a huge improvement!

Paul and I wanted to thank you again for EVERYTHING.  We can't say enough about you, your family, and the staff at BAL.  You don't know how comforting it is to know that our kids are safe at school and the staff is so caring, loving, and patient.  There is absolutely no other school that we would trust with our children.  We are forever grateful.

Chris

Good Morning,

I just wanted to write you a note in reference to Nathan's Kindergarten Enrichment class with Mrs. Zygiel. We are so pleased with how he is doing. He just loves the class. I know with parent teacher conferences right around the corner, that we tend to look only at the child. But truly, I think we have to look at the teachers. Mrs. Zygiel is an exceptional teacher. She really knows her students and makes that connection as to how they learn well. She has done wonders with Nathan and I believe that is why he enjoys the class so much. That is what teaching is all about.

At first I thought this was due to the lower teacher to student ratio that The Burlington Academy has versus the public school. But as time has passed on...I believe it has more to do with the way he is taught in the Kindergarten Enrichment class. Every subject he learns, he does so with enthusiasm. He comes home and just babbles on about school at The Academy. I've realize just how much he enjoys it there. I wanted to say thank you! I only hope his love of learning continues as he moves on to first grade.

The Burlington Academy has done so much to meet the needs of our children. You all have worked very hard at finding the right spot or solving a problem. I cannot thank you enough.

Have a wonderful day and please pass this on to the teachers that really work so hard to enrich my kids’ lives!!

Diane and David Biega

Hi Kim!
I just wanted to let you know that my husband and I have been EXTREMELY impressed with what Alex is learning there, and it's only October. I don’t know what the teachers are doing or if other preschools are like this but Alex comes home with so much enthusiasm about school and he is demonstrating so much of what he's learning.

We are the kind of parents who try to provide him with learning tools but we do not want to push him until he is ready. We've had a lot of the art and letters and numbers and music around our home but it hasn’t been since he started PreK at The Academy that he has picked these things up and is enthusiastic about them.

He's doing art on a regular basis on his own, he loves to build, we talk to him about the music, he loves puzzles, mazes, dot to dot, writing his letters, learning his numbers, the weather, the days of the week, being patient and honest, there's so much, I could go on and on. He asks good questions. I'm not saying that he has a full grasp on everything but he is just loving it all and talking about it and doing it.

When my sister attended Special Persons Day, she came home and said "They learn A LOT in such a short period of time".
I just want to say "Thank You" to you. You've put together an amazing program. And to let you know the teachers are superior. Also, Amy is always extremely helpful. You've got a Great Program and Staff.

Thanks!
Thuy Tien Le

Hi Amy,

We had Ella's parent teacher conference at Union School yesterday and she is doing wonderful. We knew she was doing well from casual feedback and from her report card but the conference really illustrated how well she is doing. This was a kid who we weren't sure should even attend Kindergarten. I credit her 2 wonderful Kindergarten teachers - her teacher at Union School and Mrs Zygiel.

The KE program really reinforces and expands on what she is learning in kindergarten. I love that it is different so she's not bored and she's getting more learning opportunities but at the same time how the class structure (circle time, centers) is similar to her kindergarten environment.

I'm also one of those people who believe that the outside play time is so important for kindergarten children - she gets to go outside every day because of KE and get all of her energy out and come back to the classroom refreshed and ready to learn. Farmington cut foreign language out of their elementary curriculum with budget cuts so that's another thing I love that she gets at KE - both Spanish and Sign Language (which helps with reading skills). And one of my favorite things is the Handwriting Without Tears program. Ella is fine motor delayed but as I've learned from her Occupation Therapist any child (with or without fine motor issues) can really benefit from the HWT program.

Ella has really blossomed this year and the structure of the KE program has given her the confidence she needed to succeed in kindergarten.

I could go into more detail and go on and on about how great the program is and how much it actually helps but I think you get the idea.

Debbie

Linda,

Thank you so much for the wonderful and informative updates you send. We love hearing about all the things that you are teaching.....we typically get Avery's updates daily - but hearing everything that is being taught is so nice! I must say, I wondered why Avery had been asking for Latkes for breakfast every morning and was asking that I omit the blueberries and add potatoes to her pancakes! haha!!

You are such and amazing teacher, we are VERY fortunate to have you to help mold the little lives of these little children!

Thank you for everything you do!

Shayna Hansen :)

Hi Kim,

I just wanted to send you a quick note….I am already so happy with the program. Davis and Carter are doing great, in large part due to your excellent staff. Everyone from Amy, to their individual teachers, to Heather and Matthew have been terrific.

Day One, Amy was so accommodating – she brought in a car seat for Davis for the van! I ended up not using it but greatly appreciated her effort.

Carter is having a hard time without a nap. I talked with Heather about it yesterday and today I called to talk with one of Carter’s nursery school teachers. Heather had already communicated the message to Mrs. Angers who was putting Carter down for a nap at that exact moment! I realize that naps aren’t part of your scheduled day, but I appreciate the flexibility to accommodate my daughter.

Everyone seems to go above and beyond, they are responsive, upbeat, positive, fun…Just what kids (and parents) need. Thank you! Thank you!

Please pass on my kudos to everyone.

Alison

Hi Kim,

I really wanted to take a moment to say "thank you" and tell you how much I appreciate The Burlington Academy.

My husband and I have an offer to move out of the area, so we are planning to move from Burlington the end of October. Over these past couple of weeks, I have been researching other nursery school programs. I have spoken with a dozen different facilities and toured about six, ranging from child care centers to local church nursery schools - and I have to share with you, NOT ONE place even comes close to your staff, the academics or the classrooms at your school. From the professionalism of the teachers all the way to the cleanliness of the buildings, Burlington Academy soars above the rest.

We have always been happy there, but I don't feel that I had a true appreciation until I had to step outside.

From the bottom of our hearts, we thank each one of you. You are extraordinary people who come together to make a wonderful team.

Sincerely,
Cheryl

Morning Kim,

Just wanted to let you know what a HIT "Kids Night Out" was in our household! Harry talked all the way home about the wonderful things he did and continued when we woke up this morning. Please pass on my many thanks to Heather and Katelyn. Great idea and we will definitely be seeing you at the next one.

Kind Regards,
Amy Winks

Hello All,

I am a loss for words (which never happens!). We are so happy with BAL! He loves it, the teachers, the children, the environment, everything. He never complains about going to school. I cannot turned back time and erase last year. I can only look at this moment and we are thrilled! Christina, your comment to me a few weeks ago about Alex's ideas and insights into classroom discussions, made me cry. Finally, teachers are "hearing" Alex. He is a bright child and definitely looks outside the box. He is a very sensitive child too, a wonderful trait for a boy. I have expressed too many around town how happy we are with his placement and your program. THANK YOU, THANK YOU for all you do each day, we are so grateful :)
Best-Sheila

Dear Ginger and Katy,
I just wanted to let you know that the other day Jennifer was really having a meltdown about something and Nate said, "Mommy, I am being tolerant today, my teachers taught me that word at school." I thought it was great that he said it so clearly and used it in the right context :) You both are so wonderful and I feel bad I don't tell you that often enough and I appreciate all you do. Seeing Nathan's growth thus far is a reflection of all your hard work. Thanks for all you do.
Liz

From the time I first visited The Burlington Academy and met Kim and some of the teachers, until the end of the school year, I felt a warm, relaxed feeling towards the people who make up the school. I visited several other schools, but that "feeling" that comes when people are sincere and dedicated, was not always there. Apart from this, I liked many other things including the philosophy which encompasses the social as well as the academic development of children and stresses the importance of virtues: patience, honesty, respect, generosity, responsibility, fairness, courtesy, gratitude, determination, and love...
Through the year, with my children in two different classes, I’ve always felt that my children were in capable, dedicated, caring hands. Can anything beat that? I think we're very lucky to have our children come here and feel we cannot do enough to thank the dedicated teachers and staff.
-From the mother of two children attending The Burlington Academy of Learning

Hi Ginger! I just want to let you know that the pancakes today were a BIG hit! Tyler loved it- he talked more about his day at school today than ever, which I think is just great. He has so much fun in your class-you and Katie are doing such a great job!

Christy

Dear Kim,
I would like to thank you and your wonderful staff for making Gabriella's first years of school so memorable and enjoyable. Before Gabriella began Nursery School she had been with only family. It was such a stressful experience for me to find the "perfect" school and to leave her for the first time. You and your remarkable staff made us comfortable right from our very first meeting. You made it easy to trust you because everyone has always made it clear that the children come first.
Your nursery school and Pre-K programs are so impressive and it’s clear that it is the teachers that make it so. Each teacher has proven how much they enjoy teaching and how serious they are in developing each child. Every child is encouraged to participate, have fun and be themselves.
In Nursery School, Gabriella learned letters, colors, numbers and how to share from Mrs. Bakaysa and Mrs. Jennetta. They assisted her in becoming comfortable playing with her peers. She began to test the waters and to stand up for herself.
In Preschool, Mrs. Patridge and Mrs. Jennetta satisfied that tremendous thirst for knowledge that all children have. They taught her to write, prereading basics, math, Spanish, music, painting, drawing and how to work things out with her peers and that is just the beginning. Gabriella was part of the Tuesday/Thursday all day Pre-K and it was a wonderful suggestion that your staff recommended for her development. Gabriella has learned and grown up so much in the last year. What's most amazing is that Gabriella can read some small books to me.
In addition, I have to comment on the manners your staff has instilled in the children. I have received many comments on Gabriella's good manners and behavior and I give Burlington Academy a lot of credit.
Gabriella and I are looking forward to beginning our new life, but I know I will cry on Pre-K graduation day because I will miss your school and the warmth that has come from you and the people you have working with you.
You have an amazing school and I wish you luck. In my eyes, nothing can match my experience with The Burlington Academy of Learning. The staff, education, socialization and love my daughter has felt in your school has had such a positive influence on her development.
Sincerely,
Leslie

Dear Ginger, I just wanted to send you a quick note to thank you for everything you do.  No one let me make one of those "I'm thankful for..." turkeys, but if they had, I would have written "Olivia's teachers" on one of my feathers :) You put so much time, energy and love into your teaching, and it really shows.

This morning, you said to me that teaching "keeps you young"...well, I'm fairly young, and I honestly know that I would not be able to manage a classroom of 16 4 year olds so gracefully and patiently!  You and Sheila are amazing women and we are so fortunate to have you play such an important role in our child's life. I know that your work is incredibly challenging, both with dealing with the children and also with the crazy parents, like me! 

Please know just how much we truly appreciate you and what you are doing for Olivia (and all of her classmates, of course).  I hope you and your family have a wonderful Thanksgiving. Hope you are able to enjoy a few days to yourself to relax! 

Amy

Thank you so much for sending out the email reminding parents about the dangers of food allergies.  I really appreciate it.  You guys are awesome at addressing this issue.  This is one of the first reasons I chose to send my children to The Burlington Academy.  Being a mom who has to watch out for food allergies, I am totally, 100% comfortable with leaving my children with your staff. The teachers have been phenominal in raising awareness and having everybody on board.  In turn, it has caused the parents to have a postiive response, thereby creating a very supportive and safe community for everyone.  I can't express enough how grateful I am.  We don't have to spend as much time worrying about an allergy and can focus more on the positives - our children's growth, progress and overall well-being.

You guys have a wonderful reputation in addressing these issues.

Thanks again, Jen

Hi Kim, I realized on the night of the picnic that I didn't mention anything about how wonderful the nursery school program is as well as the pre-k program.  I knew that the program is exceptional, but now seeing how much my child is prepared to progress I realize just how EXTRAORDINARY it is as well.  I have had the pleasure of interacting with all of the NS teachers and they are all so wonderful.  Mrs. Krasner really held my hand through the whole "letting go" process and created a warm nurturing environment along with Mrs. Bakaysa, Mrs. Toscano and Mrs. Angers.

Each month I watched Sarah grow more and more confident.  This team of teachers is dynamite at helping the little 3 year olds turn into big 4 year olds.  By the end of the school year Sarah was thriving!!  The warm nurturing environment along with the great academic program has produced a positive, strong, capable and healthy child.  I honestly don't think that Sarah would have been ready for the PRE-K program if she attended any other nursery school.  I don't know of any other program that offers Spanish and movement with certified teachers. 

I don't know how they did it, but when Sarah was learning about the body she was able to tell me where her brain was and how her heart works and that the lines on her arms are veins!!  Sarah just loved her teachers and she loves her PRE-K teachers as well. 

Thank you for both an awesome program and staff.  It really says something when all the children and parents are so happy.

Sincerely,

Jen

I wanted to let you know how pleased I am with your school!  I've worked at Environmental Learning Centers of CT (Indian Rock & Barnes Nature Center) for over ten years and have interacted with hundreds of different schools and daycares from across the state.  There are a few that stick out in my mind as being exceptional, and yours is one of them.

Thank you!

Lola

Dear Kim, I just wanted you to know how satisfied I am with the educational services provided by your dedicated teachers.
They run a top-notch classroom and I am very pleased that Caroline has the opportunity to participate in it. Not only do these teachers provide excellent learning programs for her but they also provide a nurturing, warm and caring environment which is perhaps more important and harder to find since such abilities cannot be "taught". The classroom is always neat and clean and is decorated in a manner that is bright, cheerful and stimulating - even for adults! The classroom is an extension of the kind of people they are. Caroline loves being there.
It is clear that your teachers put a lot of effort into their work, the value of which, on Caroline's behalf, I am very grateful for. I don't know what they are paid but they are worth every penny and are a large factor in making BAL a great place to send a child.
I hope you share my perception of their work.
Sincerely,
Alan

Hi, I just wanted to wish everyone a great school year and to again thank you so much for all you gave to Madeline. I think so much of her self-confidence and general knowledge came from spending her days with all of you.
Ginny

Dear Parents, The staff at Burlington Academy has helped to shape our daughter Nicole who is entering Kindergarten this year and our past experiences with The Academy have been wonderful. In addition, they are a Peanut Free pre-school which has allowed us to send Alex for the same rewarding experiences. The Academy is aware of Alex's allergies and is very supportive in keeping our son safe.
Janice and Sean

Dear Kim, I have been so thrilled that Mrs. Bakaysa and Mrs. Forbes have been Cameron's teachers this year.  They have shown incredible kindness, support, and encouragement towards him and myself.  The two teachers together have been a phenomenal combination for him.  Thank you for all your efforts.
Jesse

Dear Mrs. Bakaysa, Thank you for all of your hard work, dedication and love you show to all of the children. It makes it much easier to leave Colleen, knowing how much you care. Have a wonderful holiday season!
Love, Diane, Ray, Colleen & Jack too!

Linda, Sheila and Jodi!

I think I speak for all of us parents when I say THANK YOU for loving our children as if they were your own! I feel blessed to be lucky enough to have all of you in my daughter's life to help teach and guide her.

Happy Valentine's Day to each of you as well. Get some rest as you will need your energy when the kids get back!

Take care,
Lisa DesJardin

Linda,

I just love these e-mails from you. Although Trey always says that his morning was great, he seems to leave out most details. I really look forward to these wonderful comments and thank you for your kind words. You are such a wonderful teacher and always have such beautiful things to say about all of the children. Enjoy your weekend!

Joanne

Kim and Mike, 

My husband, daughter Trinity and I have had a great start to another year at Burlington Academy! After only 3 weeks my entire family ADORES your new pre-kindergarten teacher Ms. Cragin. Trinity LOVES Ms. Cragin. At home, Trinity giggles and smiles when she talks about the "pretty teacher with the ponytail."

In my interactions with Ms. Cragin, I have been impressed with her confidence, friendliness, professionalism and love of the children. Excellent choice in hiring Ms. Cragin. She is a WONDERFUL addition to your staff!

Lisa

Dear Mrs. Sfikas and Mrs. Patridge, Thank you so much for such a wonderful year! Matthew loved Pre-K and the progress he made over the year is amazing. Matthew's school career is off to a great start and the transition to kindergarten should be easy for him. You have a wonderful way with children. Matthew is very fortunate to have had you for a teacher-especially at an age when it is so important for school to be a good/positive experience. Thank you again! Enjoy your summer. We'll be back to visit.
Sincerely,
(name withheld to protect privacy) 

Hi Mike and Jodi,
 

          I have been wanting to write for a while now to let you know how happy I am with how this school year has gone for Tyler....and tonight Tyler gave me the perfect reason to finally sit down and do it. We were talking to Will about how Will is going to nursery school at BAL next year, and Will seemed a bit "uneasy" about the whole school idea. Tyler comes over to Will and says (very enthusiastically) "I tried it, and I really love Burlington Academy. It is so much fun."

What I loved about this is that it was totally unsolicited by me- just came straight from Tyler. Figured I would pass that along to you, since you probably get your feedback primarily from parents and not children. I'm sure it is great to hear-straight from the kids-how much they love BAL!
 

I also want to pass along to you that, as with last year, I am just so pleased with how well this school year has gone. What a huge difference between nursery school and pre k- wow, how they have grown! It is amazing to me how much Tyler, and all of the children, have learned and really "blossomed" in so many ways. Ginger and Katy have done a wonderful job with all of the children. I really appreciate the way in which they have gotten to know the children, their sensitivity, and the way in which they maintain structure while also adapting to individual child's needs when necessary/appropriate. It is so clear that they really want these kids to enjoy their school experience. And it is very obvious that Ginger and Katy have worked hard at getting the kids excited about learning so many different things.

As a parent, it is so amazing to see Tyler so excited about learning to write his letters (he wouldn't write anything when he first started pre k- now he is so excited to show me the letters he can write-I think that is AWESOME!) And to see Tyler so excited about the whole "idea" of being able to read a word is so great. We were in a store today and he said "Look Mommy that says "old."" I asked him, "how do you spell that?" and he said "o-l-d.” I thought that was amazing. Even more amazing is how happy and excited he is about his accomplishments and all that he has learned. I have watched his confidence grow so much. And it is such a great feeling to know how much he loves his friends and teachers at BAL. It has been such a positive place for us, and I can't tell you how much we appreciate it. We are excited for Will to begin at BAL next year!

I just want to let you know that Brian and I really appreciate the great work that you all do!

Christy

Mrs. Coffman,

Thank you so much for the emails you send us.  Ethan showed me a book he was working on last night and I was so impressed.  Hearing what you wrote to us in the email you sent today makes us so proud.     Thank you for the great job you do with him each day. It's greatly appreciated.

Kathlene

Hi Jodi!
I hope this note finds you well.  I wanted to share some good news regarding Dominic.  He was selected as Student of the Month @ St. Joseph's School!  The Principle selected him based on his polite manners and good behavior as well as his friendliness and diligence in his work!  He is so proud and happy.   And I have to tell you the first thing I told them was that he had gotten such a wonderful start at Burlington Academy...it all started there!   Remember when he first started he really didn't know much about sharing and caring for his little friends!  Now...it's amazing he really is a polite and friendly little guy!!!!  So once again, thank you for the great foundation you provided to Dominic!!!!
Best Regards,
Donna

Hi Kirstin,
I can't thank you enough for the e-mails you send to keep us updated.  While the girls and Mona both do a nice job updating me on their day to day activities it is really special and meaningful to hear from you too!  As a working mom I think the hardest part for me is missing out on the pickup and drop off at school.  Your e-mails help to alleviate that!  
The girls are having a great time this year too!  Their confidence is growing day by day and their math and language skills have improved so much. We have been spending a lot of time reading together and they just can't wait to show you their January Book Logs..they are almost full already.  Thankfully, they also love homework.  Let's hope this lasts for the next 17 years. We are so proud of them!  
Thanks so much to both you and Mrs. Schultz for guiding them during this impressionable time in their lives. We really appreciate it.
Sincerely,
Ginny & Geoff

Dear Mrs. Sfikas and Mrs. Patridge,
It's so wonderful that Rachel has been blessed enough to have a truly wonderful teacher. Thank you. Rachel has blossomed and is returning to her energetic and outgoing self. We feel you have played a significant role in her re-development. Thank you!
John and Sharon

Hi Shelia, I just wanted to let you know that my Mother-in-Law truly enjoyed Special Person Day.  She thought that you, your classroom and your students were WONDERFUL!!

You are doing such a great job with our Mikey this year.  We feel blessed that he is back with you at Burlington Academy.

Thank you so much for all of your hard work!!  Have a great day-

Rachele

Dear Mike, I just want to let you know how enormously grateful we are to Ginger and Kirstin for alerting us to the problems (name withheld) was experiencing in school.  After hearing their assessment this past fall, both (name withheld) and I went back to our car and cried. How could parents that are so active in their child’s life be as ignorant as to what was truly going on?  Guilt, sadness, etc… was replaced by Ginger and Kirstin’s professional, encouraging and optimistic words.  All year, they have gone the extra mile to work with (name withheld) and continually advise us of his progress.  As you may know, (name withheld) has been in occupational and socialization therapy as a result of their feedback and has made enormous progress.  There is still more work to be done but he is on the right path and we sincerely believe that none of this would have happened if it wasn’t for Ginger and Kirstin.    They are truly AMAZING teachers and we will always be grateful to them and the Burlington Academy.  
 
All the best,
(names withheld to protect family privacy)

Hi Kim, I just wanted to take a moment and tell you how impressed I am with the pre-k program.
First of all, the teachers are absolutely wonderful.  I feel so comfortable with both Mrs. Aldieri and Mrs. Patridge.  They have made it easy for me to work with Sarah at home to get the most out of her classroom experience.  The tools and ideas given are invaluable and I feel like I am getting an education along with Sarah.
Second of all Sarah is SO happy; when I ask her if there is anything she doesn't like about school she gives me a big "nope".  She is having so much fun and as a parent interested in my child's education I am having a blast.  You have all made learning so much fun for all of us.  Thank you for a program that offers so much.  I feel like not only is learning fun, but teaching is fun as well.  I have learned a different approach in how to educate my children in a very fun and loving way.  We are all benefiting from Sarah's experience and I know it will last a lifetime.
I really like the maturity of this program.  I like how you have raised the bar just enough to encourage kids to elevate without any pressure or discouragement.  I had no idea how great this was going to be.  To say the least what I have observed in these past two weeks makes me so excited for the rest of the school year.  Thank you for caring for our children the way that you all do.

Sincerely,
Jen

Hi Jodi and Kellee, Just want to pass along a couple of things, and I thought I would send an email, otherwise I might forget by Tuesday!

Last night, when I came home from parent orientation, my husband asked "what is 1-2-3 eyes on me?" I guess Tyler was trying to get his attention, and finally had to resort to "1-2-3 eyes on me!" Brian said Tyler was very serious about it, too. So we got a kick out of that-apparently, Tyler is trying to teach us better listening skills!

Another thing Tyler has been doing since he came home from school yesterday is asking me to “share" with him at times where he normally would just play on his own. An example of this is when he plays with his favorite car/truck, he will ask if I would like to share with him and pass the truck back and forth. So, clearly the lessons you are teaching are making a difference and sinking in....and that is wonderful!

There are little things he does during the day that show me he is learning very important lessons in your classroom, and Brian and I really appreciate the work you are doing!

Christy

Dear Kim,
I am writing this letter to tell you how happy my husband, Corey and I have been with our son Nathan's first year of school. Pam Forbes and Shannon Bakaysa have truly done a remarkable job teaching our son and his fellow classmates. They are both wonderful teachers and so kind with the children.
Having worked in daycare/nursery schools, I know how difficult it is to find good teachers. You have been fortunate to have found an entire staff of very good teachers!
Pam and Shannon have made Nathan feel very comfortable at school. They have helped him learn so much while he has lots of fun too, which is so important at this age. It makes me feel very happy to know that Nathan is in such good hands while he is away from me.
Many times people are quick to complain when things go wrong, so I felt that I needed to write this to share something good. I really cannot say enough about Pam and Shannon. Kudos to both of them for their hard work and dedication and for their love of children. They are truly an asset to the Burlington Academy!
Sincerely,
Melanie

Good morning, ladies,
I was just reading through the school newsletter and I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you all for the amazing job you are doing, and more specifically, tell you how astounded I am with Lexie’s growth.

A couple days ago, she brought home her solar system book. I started reading through the pages and thought to myself, “wow, this is great for her to learn and maybe sometime in the next year she’ll be able to sight read all these big words like gas-giant and dwarf planet.” Then she sat on my lap and read that book to me cover-to-cover. I nearly fainted. I have clearly underestimated her ability and I think it’s time for her to read me the bedtime stories now, not the other way around. And I was floored by her phrasing. She completely understands that periods stop one thought and begin another, and she reads it with expression and cadence – and frankly I could not be more proud of her. I know we gave her a good start in the literacy department, but clearly whatever you guys have been doing with the kids, it is paying off in spades, and it is so amazing to me that my 5½ year old is reading to me about how Pluto is now a dwarf planet. Are you kidding me?!

I can see from the newsletter that phrasing and fluency are being stressed now in Kindergarten – I was a smart, literate kid in kindergarten, but seriously, your students blow my whole generation out of the water. And the solar system, the rainforest, fractions…Dvorak! My husband and I both work long, strange hours sometimes, and for us to know that our kids are getting this caliber of education is the best feeling ever. And it costs us probably less than $200 a month more than if we had them both in daycare down the street. This is a no-brainer and their tuition is the bill we are most adamant about, second only to the mortgage that keeps a roof over our heads. It is the best decision we ever made coming to Burlington Academy.

Lexie's developing great friendships, and it makes me so happy to see her coming into her own at The Burlington Academy. I am so looking forward to parent teacher conferences; we are committed to doing whatever we need to in order to help her grow emotionally and socially so she can achieve the same level of excellence that she’s achieving now academically. We will miss you all when Lexie moves to Consolidated in the fall…but then you’ll have Sophie for the next year in Jr. Kindergarten, so we’ll have the opportunity to do this all again.

Sorry for rambling – I’m just so happy with everyone at The Burlington Academy and I’m almost choked up with pride when I see how wonderfully my kids are developing. I wish I had time and patience to nurture them the way you all do, but since most parents can’t do that, I’m relieved that I can count on a place like The Burlington Academy to give them the tools they needs to excel as they grows into all the new phases of life that are coming. So thank you again and please never forget what an amazing impact you make in these kids’ lives.

Sincerely, Laura McGuffie

Hi Kim,
I had some feedback that I thought would be important to share with you....

I referred a co-worker of mine to your program. She had the pleasure of visiting with her daughter in the classroom with Ms. Patridge. When she reported to work, she came to see me and she was so impressed with Ms. Patridge and the curriculum that her daughter was exposed to. She found Ms. Patridge to be exemplary and commented on a story that was read to the children and their work on recalling details of the story and the fact that Ms. Patridge made sure to acknowledge each and every child and the art work they also did.

From what she told me, I can tell she found the setting well structured, educational in nature and extremely impressive. She stated that her visit to Ms. Patridge's classroom made her completely know she made the right decision in switching her daughter to The Burlington Academy.

I referred her to your program because I too, am very impressed with the staff. They are invested in early childhood education and maintaining an educational excellence that my children have benefit from.

A program is only as good as its staff and I am very thankful for the teachers that have touched my kids’ lives at your program.....they simply are the best!

I just thought I would share a positive note and acknowledge the positive feedback that I was able to hear.....

Wendy

Hi Tiffany,
I just wanted to send you a warm thank you for everything you have done for Lizzy at The Burlington Academy. Receiving your note today reminded me of why we chose to send Lizzy there and also of how much we like you as a teacher and a person. I do not expect you to take your own lunch time to eat with her and to then help her take her nap by rubbing her back, but I wholeheartedly appreciate it. I also enjoy your daily “ask me” notes, especially today when you mentioned Lizzy choosing sneakers for the frog! All it takes is a couple little visuals like that to calm parents' nerves and remind them that their kids are "okay."
Thanks again!
Ashley (aka, Proud Mommy of Lizzy)

Hi Linda!

Ben has been talking a lot about hibernation and adaptation in particular. It's so much fun that he is finally getting to the point where I can figure out what he is learning in school without the Spanish Inquisition! The other day he was playing in the sink and I asked him what he was doing! His replied, "adapting!"...I died laughing. He is so funny and is clearly absorbing what you are teaching. Thanks for all you do.

Jen

P.S. I am excited that Ben can identify almost all the letters of the alphabet by sight now. That's a huge improvement!

Paul and I wanted to thank you again for EVERYTHING.  We can't say enough about you, your family, and the staff at BAL.  You don't know how comforting it is to know that our kids are safe at school and the staff is so caring, loving, and patient.  There is absolutely no other school that we would trust with our children.  We are forever grateful.

Chris

Good Morning,

I just wanted to write you a note in reference to Nathan's Kindergarten Enrichment class with Mrs. Zygiel. We are so pleased with how he is doing. He just loves the class. I know with parent teacher conferences right around the corner, that we tend to look only at the child. But truly, I think we have to look at the teachers. Mrs. Zygiel is an exceptional teacher. She really knows her students and makes that connection as to how they learn well. She has done wonders with Nathan and I believe that is why he enjoys the class so much. That is what teaching is all about.

At first I thought this was due to the lower teacher to student ratio that The Burlington Academy has versus the public school. But as time has passed on...I believe it has more to do with the way he is taught in the Kindergarten Enrichment class. Every subject he learns, he does so with enthusiasm. He comes home and just babbles on about school at The Academy. I've realize just how much he enjoys it there. I wanted to say thank you! I only hope his love of learning continues as he moves on to first grade.

The Burlington Academy has done so much to meet the needs of our children. You all have worked very hard at finding the right spot or solving a problem. I cannot thank you enough.

Have a wonderful day and please pass this on to the teachers that really work so hard to enrich my kids’ lives!!

Diane and David Biega

Hi Kim!
I just wanted to let you know that my husband and I have been EXTREMELY impressed with what Alex is learning there, and it's only October. I don’t know what the teachers are doing or if other preschools are like this but Alex comes home with so much enthusiasm about school and he is demonstrating so much of what he's learning.

We are the kind of parents who try to provide him with learning tools but we do not want to push him until he is ready. We've had a lot of the art and letters and numbers and music around our home but it hasn’t been since he started PreK at The Academy that he has picked these things up and is enthusiastic about them.

He's doing art on a regular basis on his own, he loves to build, we talk to him about the music, he loves puzzles, mazes, dot to dot, writing his letters, learning his numbers, the weather, the days of the week, being patient and honest, there's so much, I could go on and on. He asks good questions. I'm not saying that he has a full grasp on everything but he is just loving it all and talking about it and doing it.

When my sister attended Special Persons Day, she came home and said "They learn A LOT in such a short period of time".
I just want to say "Thank You" to you. You've put together an amazing program. And to let you know the teachers are superior. Also, Amy is always extremely helpful. You've got a Great Program and Staff.

Thanks!

Thuy Tien Le

Hi Amy,

We had Ella's parent teacher conference at Union School yesterday and she is doing wonderful. We knew she was doing well from casual feedback and from her report card but the conference really illustrated how well she is doing. This was a kid who we weren't sure should even attend Kindergarten. I credit her 2 wonderful Kindergarten teachers - her teacher at Union School and Mrs Zygiel.

The KE program really reinforces and expands on what she is learning in kindergarten. I love that it is different so she's not bored and she's getting more learning opportunities but at the same time how the class structure (circle time, centers) is similar to her kindergarten environment.

I'm also one of those people who believe that the outside play time is so important for kindergarten children - she gets to go outside every day because of KE and get all of her energy out and come back to the classroom refreshed and ready to learn. Farmington cut foreign language out of their elementary curriculum with budget cuts so that's another thing I love that she gets at KE - both Spanish and Sign Language (which helps with reading skills). And one of my favorite things is the Handwriting Without Tears program. Ella is fine motor delayed but as I've learned from her Occupation Therapist any child (with or without fine motor issues) can really benefit from the HWT program.

Ella has really blossomed this year and the structure of the KE program has given her the confidence she needed to succeed in kindergarten.

I could go into more detail and go on and on about how great the program is and how much it actually helps but I think you get the idea.

Debbie

Linda,

Thank you so much for the wonderful and informative updates you send. We love hearing about all the things that you are teaching.....we typically get Avery's updates daily - but hearing everything that is being taught is so nice! I must say, I wondered why Avery had been asking for Latkes for breakfast every morning and was asking that I omit the blueberries and add potatoes to her pancakes! haha!!

You are such and amazing teacher, we are VERY fortunate to have you to help mold the little lives of these little children!

Thank you for everything you do!

Shayna Hansen :)

Hi Kim,

I just wanted to send you a quick note….I am already so happy with the program. Davis and Carter are doing great, in large part due to your excellent staff. Everyone from Amy, to their individual teachers, to Heather and Matthew have been terrific.

Day One, Amy was so accommodating – she brought in a car seat for Davis for the van! I ended up not using it but greatly appreciated her effort.

Carter is having a hard time without a nap. I talked with Heather about it yesterday and today I called to talk with one of Carter’s nursery school teachers. Heather had already communicated the message to Mrs. Angers who was putting Carter down for a nap at that exact moment! I realize that naps aren’t part of your scheduled day, but I appreciate the flexibility to accommodate my daughter.

Everyone seems to go above and beyond, they are responsive, up beat, positive, fun…Just what kids (and parents) need. Thank you! Thank you!

Please pass on my kudos to everyone.

Alison

Hi Kim,

I really wanted to take a moment to say "thank you" and tell you how much I appreciate the Burlington Academy.

My husband and I have an offer to move out of the area, so we are planning to move from Burlington the end of October. Over these past couple of weeks, I have been researching other nursery school programs. I have spoken with a dozen different facilities and toured about six, ranging from child care centers to local church nursery schools - and I have to share with you, NOT ONE place even comes close to your staff, the academics or the classrooms at your school. From the professionalism of the teachers all the way to the cleanliness of the buildings, Burlington Academy soars above the rest.

We have always been happy there, but I don't feel that I had a true appreciation until I had to step outside.

From the bottom of our hearts, we thank each one of you. You are extraordinary people who come together to make a wonderful team.

Sincerely,
Cheryl

Morning Kim,

Just wanted to let you know what a HIT "Kids Night Out" was in our household! Harry talked all the way home about the wonderful things he did and continued when we woke up this morning. Please pass on my many thanks to Heather and Katelyn. Great idea and we will definitely be seeing you at the next one.

Kind Regards,
Amy Winks

Hello All,

I am a loss for words (which never happens!). We are so happy with BAL! He loves it, the teachers, the children, the environment, everything. He never complains about going to school. I can not turned back time and erase last year. I can only look at this moment and we are thrilled! Christina, your comment to me a few weeks ago about Alex's ideas and insights into classroom discussions, made me cry. Finally, teachers are "hearing" Alex. He is a bright child and definitely looks outside the box. He is a very sensitive child too, a wonderful trait for a boy. I have expressed to many around town how happy we are with his placement and your program. THANK YOU, THANK YOU for all you do each day, we are so grateful:)
Best-Sheila

Dear Ginger and Katy,
I just wanted to let you know that the other day Jennifer was really having a meltdown about something and Nate said, "Mommy, I am being tolerant today, my teachers taught me that word at school." I thought it was great that he said it so clearly and used it in the right context :) You both are so wonderful and I feel bad I don't tell you that often enough and I appreciate all you do. Seeing Nathan's growth thus far is a reflection of all your hard work. Thanks for all you do.
Liz

From the time I first visited the Burlington Academy and met Kim and some of the teachers, until the end of the school year, I felt a warm, relaxed feeling towards the people who make up the school. I visited several other schools, but that "feeling" that comes when people are sincere and dedicated, was not always there. Apart from this, I liked many other things including the philosophy which encompasses the social as well as the academic development of children and stresses the importance of virtues: patience, honesty, respect, generosity, responsibility, fairness, courtesy, gratitude, determination, and love...
Through the year, with my children in two different classes,I've always felt that my children were in capable, dedicated, caring hands. Can anything beat that? I think we're very lucky to have our children come here and feel we cannot do enough to thank the dedicated teachers and staff.
-From the mother of two children attending the Burlington Academy of Learning

Hi Ginger! I just want to let you know that the pancakes today were a BIG hit! Tyler loved it- he talked more about his day at school today than ever, which I think is just great. He has so much fun in your class-you and Katie are doing such a great job!

Christy

Dear Kim,
I would like to thank you and your wonderful staff for making Gabriella's first years of school so memorable and enjoyable. Before Gabriella began Nursery School she had been with only family. It was such a stressful experience for me to find the "perfect" school and to leave her for the first time. You and your remarkable staff made us comfortable right from our very first meeting. You made it easy to trust you because everyone has always made it clear that the children come first.
Your nursery school and Pre-K programs are so impressive and its clear that it is the teachers that make it so. Each teacher has proven how much they enjoy teaching and how serious they are in developing each child. Every child is encouraged to participate, have fun and be themselves.
In Nursery School, Gabriella learned letters, colors, numbers and how to share from Mrs. Bakaysa and Mrs. Jennetta. They assisted her in becoming comfortable playing with her peers. She began to test the waters and to stand up for herself.
In Preschool, Mrs. Patridge and Mrs. Jennetta satisfied that tremendous thirst for knowledge that all children have. They taught her to write, prereading basics, math, Spanish, music, painting, drawing and how to work things out with her peers and that is just the beginning. Gabriella was part of the Tuesday/Thursday all day Pre-K and it was a wonderful suggestion that your staff recommended for her development. Gabriella has learned and grown up so much in the last year. What's most amazing is that Gabriella can read some small books to me.
In addition, I have to comment on the manners your staff has instilled in the children. I have received many comments on Gabriella's good manners and behavior and I give Burlington Academy a lot of credit.
Gabriella and I are looking forward to beginning our new life, but I know I will cry on Pre-K graduation day because I will miss your school and the warmth that has come from you and the people you have working with you.
You have an amazing school and I wish you luck. In my eyes, nothing can match my experience with The Burlington Academy of Learning. The staff, education, socialization and love my daughter has felt in your school has had such a positive influence on her development.
Sincerely,
Leslie

Dear Ginger,  I just wanted to send you a quick note to thank you for everything you do.  No one let me make one of those "I'm thankful for..." turkeys, but if they had, I would have written "Olivia's teachers" on one of my feathers :) You put so much time, energy and love into your teaching, and it really shows.

This morning, you said to me that teaching "keeps you young"...well, I'm fairly young, and I honestly know that I would not be able to manage a classroom of 16 4 year olds so gracefully and patiently!  You and Sheila are amazing women and we are so fortunate to have you play such an important role in our child's life. I know that your work is incredibly challenging, both with dealing with the children and also with the crazy parents, like me! 

Please know just how much we truly appreciate you and what you are doing for Olivia (and all of her classmates, of course).  I hope you and your family have a wonderful Thanksgiving. Hope you are able to enjoy a few days to yourself to relax! 

Amy

Thank you so much for sending out the email reminding parents about the dangers of food allergies.  I really appreciate it.  You guys are awesome at addressing this issue.  This is one of the first reasons I chose to send my children to The Burlington Academy.  Being a mom who has to watch out for food allergies, I am totally, 100% comfortable with leaving my children with your staff. The teachers have been phenominal in raising awareness and having everybody on board.  In turn, it has caused the parents to have a postiive response, thereby creating a very supportive and safe community for everyone.  I can't express enough how grateful I am.  We don't have to spend as much time worrying about an allergy and can focus more on the positives - our children's growth, progress and overall well-being.

You guys have a wonderful reputation in addressing these issues.

Thanks again, Jen

Hi Kim,  I realized on the night of the picnic that I didn't mention anything about how wonderful the nursery school program is as well as the pre-k program.  I knew that the program is exceptional, but now seeing how much my child is prepared to progress I realize just how EXTRAORDINARY it is as well.  I have had the pleasure of interacting with all of the NS teachers and they are all so wonderful.  Mrs. Krasner really held my hand through the whole "letting go" process and created a warm nurturing environment along with Mrs. Bakaysa, Mrs. Toscano and Mrs. Angers.

Each month I watched Sarah grow more and more confident.  This team of teachers is dynamite at helping the little 3 year olds turn into big 4 year olds.  By the end of the school year Sarah was thriving!!  The warm nurturing environment along with the great academic program has produced a positive, strong, capable and healthy child.  I honestly don't think that Sarah would have been ready for the PRE-K program if she attended any other nursery school.  I don't know of any other program that offers Spanish and movement with certified teachers. 

I don't know how they did it, but when Sarah was learning about the body she was able to tell me where her brain was and how her heart works and that the lines on her arms are veins!!  Sarah just loved her teachers and she loves her PRE-K teachers as well. 

Thank you for both an awesome program and staff.  It really says something when all the children and parents are so happy.

Sincerely,

Jen

I wanted to let you know how pleased I am with your school!  I've worked at Environmental Learning Centers of CT (Indian Rock & Barnes Nature Center) for over ten years and have interacted with hundreds of different schools and daycares from across the state.  There are a few that stick out in my mind as being exceptional, and yours is one of them.

Thank you!

Lola

Dear Kim,  I just wanted you to know how satisfied I am with the educational services provided by your dedicated teachers.
They run a top-notch classroom and I am very pleased that Caroline has the opportunity to participate in it. Not only do these teachers provide excellent learning programs for her but they also provide a nurturing, warm and caring environment which is perhaps more important and harder to find since such abilities cannot be "taught". The classroom is always neat and clean and is decorated in a manner that is bright, cheerful and stimulating - even for adults! The classroom is an extension of the kind of people they are. Caroline loves being there.
It is clear that your teachers put a lot of effort into their work, the value of which, on Caroline's behalf, I am very grateful for. I don't know what they are paid but they are worth every penny and are a large factor in making BAL a great place to send a child.
I hope you share my perception of their work.
Sincerely,
Alan

Hi, I just wanted to wish everyone a great school year and to again thank you so much for all you gave to Madeline. I think so much of her self confidence and general knowledge came from spending her days with all of you.
Ginny

Dear Parents,  The staff at Burlington Academy has helped to shape our daughter Nicole who is entering Kindergarten this year and our past experiences with the Academy have been wonderful. In addition, they are a Peanut Free pre-school which has allowed us to send Alex for the same rewarding experiences. The Academy is aware of Alex's allergies and is very supportive in keeping our son safe.
Janice and Sean

Dear Kim,  I have been so thrilled that Mrs. Bakaysa and Mrs Forbes have been Cameron's teachers this year.  They have shown incredible kindness, support, and encouragement towards him and myself.  The two teachers together have been a phenominal combination for him.  Thank you for all your efforts.
Jesse

Dear Mrs. Bakaysa,  Thank you for all of your hard work, dedication and love you show to all of the children. It makes it much easier to leave Colleen, knowing how much you care. Have a wonderful holiday season!
Love, Diane, Ray, Colleen & Jack too!

Linda, Sheila and Jodi!

I think I speak for all of us parents when I say THANK YOU for loving our children as if they were your own! I feel blessed to be lucky enough to have all of you in my daughter's life to help teach and guide her.

Happy Valentine's Day to each of you as well. Get some rest as you will need your energy when the kids get back!

Take care,
Lisa DesJardin

Linda,

I just love these e-mails from you. Although Trey always says that his morning was great, he seems to leave out most details. I really look forward to these wonderful comments and thank you for your kind words. You are such a wonderful teacher and always have such beautiful things to say about all of the children. Enjoy your weekend!

Joanne

Kim and Mike, 

My husband, daughter Trinity and I have had a great start to another year at Burlington Academy! After only 3 weeks my entire family ADORES your new pre-kindergarten teacher Ms. Cragin. Trinity LOVES Ms. Cragin. At home, Trinity giggles and smiles when she talks about the "pretty teacher with the ponytail."

In my interactions with Ms. Cragin, I have been impressed with her confidence, friendliness, professionalism and love of the children. Excellent choice in hiring Ms. Cragin. She is a WONDERFUL addition to your staff!

Lisa

Dear Mrs. Sfikas and Mrs. Patridge,  Thank you so much for such a wonderful year! Matthew loved Pre-K and the progress he made over the year is amazing. Matthew's school career is off to a great start and the transition to kindergarten should be easy for him. You have a wonderful way with children. Matthew is very fortunate to have had you for a teacher-especially at an age when it is so important for school to be a good/positive experience. Thank you again! Enjoy your summer. We'll be back to visit.
Sincerely,
(name withheld to protect privacy) 

Hi Mike and Jodi,

 

          I have been wanting to write for a while now to let you know how happy I am with how this school year has gone for Tyler....and tonight Tyler gave me the perfect reason to finally sit down and do it. We were talking to Will about how Will is going to nursery school at BAL next year, and Will seemed a bit "uneasy" about the whole school idea. Tyler comes over to Will and says (very enthusiastically) "I tried it, and I really love Burlington Academy. It is so much fun."

What I loved about this is that it was totally unsolicited by me- just came straight from Tyler. Figured I would pass that along to you, since you probably get your feedback primarily from parents and not children. I'm sure it is great to hear-straight from the kids-how much they love BAL!

 

I also want to pass along to you that, as with last year, I am just so pleased with how well this school year has gone. What a huge difference between nursery school and pre k- wow, how they have grown! It is amazing to me how much Tyler, and all of the children, have learned and really "blossomed" in so many ways. Ginger and Katy have done a wonderful job with all of the children. I really appreciate the way in which they have gotten to know the children, their sensitivity, and the way in which they maintain structure while also adapting to individual child's needs when necessary/appropriate. It is so clear that they really want these kids to enjoy their school experience. And it is very obvious that Ginger and Katy have worked hard at getting the kids excited about learning so many different things.

As a parent, it is so amazing to see Tyler so excited about learning to write his letters (he wouldn't write anything when he first started pre k- now he is so excited to show me the letters he can write-I think that is AWESOME!) And to see Tyler so excited about the whole "idea" of being able to read a word is so great. We were in a store today and he said "Look Mommy, that says "old."" I asked him, "how do you spell that?" and he said "o-l-d.". I thought that was amazing. Even more amazing is how happy and excited he is about his accomplishments and all that he has learned. I have watched his confidence grow so much. And it is such a great feeling to know how much he loves his friends and teachers at BAL. It has been such a positive place for us, and I can't tell you how much we appreciate it. We are excited for Will to begin at BAL next year!

I just want to let you know that Brian and I really appreciate the great work that you all do!

Christy

Mrs. Coffman,

Thank you so much for the emails you send us.  Ethan showed me a book he was working on last night and I was so impressed.  Hearing what you wrote to us in the email you sent today makes us so proud.     Thank you for the great job you do with him each day. It's greatly appreciated.

Kathlene

Hi Jodi!
I hope this note finds you well.  I wanted to share some good news regarding Dominic.  He was selected as Student of the Month @ St. Joseph's School!  The Principle selected him based on his polite manners and good behavior as well as his friendliness and diligence in his work!  He is so proud and happy.   And I have to tell you the first thing I told them was that he had gotten such a wonderful start at Burlington Academy...it all started there!   Remember when he first started he really didn't know much about sharing and caring for his little friends!  Now...it's amazing he really is a polite and friendly little guy!!!!  So once again, thank you for the great foundation you provided to Dominic!!!!
Best Regards,
Donna

Hi Kirstin,
I can't thank you enough for the e-mails you send to keep us updated.  While the girls and Mona both do a nice job updating me on their day to day activities it is really special and meaningful to hear from you too!  As a working mom I think the hardest part for me is missing out on the pick up and drop off at school.  Your e-mails help to alleviate that!  
The girls are having a great time this year too!  Their confidence is growing day by day and their math and language skills have improved so much.. We have been spending a lot of time reading together and they  just can't wait to show you their January Book Logs..they are almost full already.  Thankfully, they also love homework.  Let's hope this lasts for the next 17 years.. We are so proud of them !  
Thanks so much  to both you and Mrs. Schultz for guiding them during this impressionable time in their lives. We really appreciate it.
Sincerely,
Ginny & Geoff

Dear Mrs. Sfikas and Mrs. Patridge,
It's so wonderful that Rachel has been blessed enough to have a truly wonderful teacher. Thank you. Rachel has blossomed and is returning to her energetic and outgoing self. We feel you have played a significant role in her re-development. Thank you!
John and Sharon

Hi Shelia,  I just wanted to let you know that my Mother-in-Law truly enjoyed Special Person Day.  She thought that you, your classroom and your students were WONDERFUL!!

You are doing such a great job with our Mikey this year.  We feel blessed that he is back with you at Burlington Academy.

Thank you so much for all of your hard work!!  Have a great day-

Rachele

Dear Mike, I just want to let you know how enormously grateful we are to Ginger and Kirstin for alerting us to the problems (name withheld) was experiencing in school.  After hearing their assessment this past fall, both (name withheld) and I went back to our car and cried. How could parents that are so active in their child’s life be so ignorant as to what was truly going on?  Guilt, sadness, etc… was replaced by Ginger and Kirstin’s professional, encouraging and optimistic words.  All year, they have gone the extra mile to work with (name withheld) and continually advise us of his progress.  As you may know, (name withheld) has been in occupational and socialization therapy as a result of their feedback and has made enormous progress.  There is still more work to be done but he is on the right path and we sincerely believe that none of this would have happened if it wasn’t for Ginger and Kirstin.    They are truly AMAZING teachers and we will always be grateful to them and the Burlington Academy.  
 
All the best,
(names withheld to protect family privacy)

Hi Kim,  I just wanted to take a moment and tell you how impressed I am with the pre-k program.
First of all, the teachers are absolutely wonderful.  I feel so comfortable with both Mrs. Aldieri and Mrs. Patridge.  They have made it easy for me to work with Sarah at home to get the most out of her classroom experience.  The tools and ideas given are invaluable and I feel like I am getting an education along with Sarah.
Second of all Sarah is SO happy; when I ask her if there is anything she doesn't like about school she gives me a big "nope".  She is having so much fun and as a parent interested in my child's education I am having a blast.  You have all made learning so much fun for all of us.  Thank you for a program that offers so much.  I feel like not only is learning fun, but teaching is fun as well.  I have learned a different approach in how to educate my children in a very fun and loving way.  We are all benefiting from Sarah's experience and I know it will last a lifetime.
I really like the maturity of this program.  I like how you have raised the bar just enough to encourage kids to elevate without any pressure or discouragement.  I had no idea how great this was going to be.  To say the least what I have observed in these past two weeks makes me so excited for the rest of the school year.  Thank you for caring for our children the way that you all do.

Sincerely,
Jen

Hi Jodi and Kellee,  Just want to pass along a couple of things, and I thought I would send an email, otherwise I might forget by Tuesday!

Last night, when I came home from parent orientation, my husband asked "what is 1-2-3 eyes on me?" I guess Tyler was trying to get his attention, and finally had to resort to "1-2-3 eyes on me!" Brian said Tyler was very serious about it, too. So we got a kick out of that-apparently, Tyler is trying to teach us better listening skills!

Another thing Tyler has been doing since he came home from school yesterday is asking me to  "share" with him at times where he normally would just play on his own. An example of this is when he plays with his favorite car/truck, he will ask if I would like to share with him and pass the truck back and forth. So, clearly the lessons you are teaching are making a difference and sinking in....and that is wonderful!

There are little things he does during the day that show me he is learning very important lessons in your classroom, and Brian and I really appreciate the work you are doing!

Christy

Dear Kim,
I am writing this letter to tell you how happy my husband, Corey and I have been with our son Nathan's first year of school. Pam Forbes and Shannon Bakaysa have truly done a remarkable job teaching our son and his fellow classmates. They are both wonderful teachers and so kind with the children.
Having worked in daycare/nursery schools, I know how difficult it is to find good teachers. You have been fortunate to have found an entire staff of very good teachers!
Pam and Shannon have made Nathan feel very comfortable at school. They have helped him learn so much while he has lots of fun too, which is so important at this age. It makes me feel very happy to know that Nathan is in such good hands while he is away from me.
Many times people are quick to complain when things things go wrong, so I felt that I needed to write this to share something good. I really cannot say enough about Pam and Shannon. Kudos to both of them for their hard work and dedication and for their love of children. They are truly an asset to the Burlington Academy!
Sincerely,
Melanie

Good morning, ladies,
I was just reading through the school newsletter and I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you all for the amazing job you are doing, and more specifically, tell you how astounded I am with Lexie’s growth.

A couple days ago, she brought home her solar system book. I started reading through the pages and thought to myself, “wow, this is great for her to learn and maybe sometime in the next year she’ll be able to sight read all these big words like gas-giant and dwarf planet.” Then she sat on my lap and read that book to me cover-to-cover. I nearly fainted. I have clearly underestimated her ability and I think it’s time for her to read me the bedtime stories now, not the other way around. And I was floored by her phrasing. She completely understands that periods stop one thought and begin another, and she reads it with expression and cadence – and frankly I could not be more proud of her. I know we gave her a good start in the literacy department, but clearly whatever you guys have been doing with the kids, it is paying off in spades, and it is so amazing to me that my 5½ year old is reading to me about how Pluto is now a dwarf planet. Are you kidding me?!

I can see from the newsletter that phrasing and fluency are being stressed now in Kindergarten – I was a smart, literate kid in kindergarten, but seriously, your students blow my whole generation out of the water. And the solar system, the rainforest, fractions…Dvorak! My husband and I both work long, strange hours sometimes, and for us to know that our kids are getting this caliber of education is the best feeling ever. And it costs us probably less than $200 a month more than if we had them both in daycare down the street. This is a no-brainer and their tuition is the bill we are most adamant about, second only to the mortgage that keeps a roof over our heads. It is the best decision we ever made coming to Burlington Academy.

Lexie's developing great friendships, and it makes me so happy to see her coming into her own at The Burlington Academy. I am so looking forward to parent teacher conferences; we are committed to doing whatever we need to in order to help her grow emotionally and socially so she can achieve the same level of excellence that she’s achieving now academically. We will miss you all when Lexie moves to Consolidated in the fall…but then you’ll have Sophie for the next year in Jr. Kindergarten, so we’ll have the opportunity to do this all again.

Sorry for rambling – I’m just so happy with everyone at The Burlington Academy and I’m almost choked up with pride when I see how wonderfully my kids are developing. I wish I had time and patience to nurture them the way you all do, but since most parents can’t do that, I’m relieved that I can count on a place like The Burlington Academy to give them the tools they needs to excel as they grows into all the new phases of life that are coming. So thank you again and please never forget what an amazing impact you make in these kids’ lives.

Sincerely, Laura McGuffie

Hi Kim,
I had some feedback that I thought would be important to share with you....

I referred a co-worker of mine to your program. She had the pleasure of visiting with her daughter in the classroom with Ms. Patridge. When she reported to work, she came to see me and she was so impressed with Ms. Patridge and the curriculum that her daughter was exposed to. She found Ms. Patridge to be exemplary and commented on a story that was read to the children and their work on recalling details of the story and the fact that Ms. Patridge made sure to acknowledge each and every child and the art work they also did.

From what she told me, I can tell she found the setting well structured, educational in nature and extremely impressive. She stated that her visit to Ms. Patridge's classroom made her completely know she made the right decision in switching her daughter to The Burlington Academy.

I referred her to your program because I too, am very impressed with the staff. They are invested in early childhood education and maintaining an educational excellence that my children have benefit from.

A program is only as good as its staff and I am very thankful for the teachers that have touched my kids lives at your program.....they simply are the best!

I just thought I would share a positive note and acknowledge the positive feedback that I was able to hear.....

Wendy

Hi Tiffany,
I just wanted to send you a warm thank you for everything you have done for Lizzy at The Burlington Academy. Receiving your note today reminded me of why we chose to send Lizzy there and also of how much we like you as a teacher and a person. I do not expect you to take your own lunch time to eat with her and to then help her take her nap by rubbing her back, but I wholeheartedly appreciate it. I also enjoy your daily “ask me” notes, especially today when you mentioned Lizzy choosing sneakers for the frog! All it takes is a couple little visuals like that to calm parents' nerves and remind them that their kids are "okay."
Thanks again!
Ashley (aka, Proud Mommy of Lizzy)

Hi Linda!

Ben has been talking a lot about hibernation and adaptation in particular. It's so much fun that he is finally getting to the point where I can figure out what he is learning in school without the Spanish Inquisition! The other day he was playing in the sink and I asked him what he was doing! His replied, "adapting!"...I died laughing. He is so funny and is clearly absorbing what you are teaching. Thanks for all you do.

Jen

P.S. I am excited that Ben can identify almost all the letters of the alphabet by sight now. That's a huge improvement!

Paul and I wanted to thank you again for EVERYTHING.  We can't say enough about you, your family, and the staff at BAL.  You don't know how comforting it is to know that our kids are safe at school and the staff is so caring, loving, and patient.  There is absolutely no other school that we would trust with our children.  We are forever grateful.

Chris

Good Morning,

I just wanted to write you a note in reference to Nathan's Kindergarten Enrichment class with Mrs. Zygiel. We are so pleased with how he is doing. He just loves the class. I know with parent teacher conferences right around the corner, that we tend to look only at the child. But truly, I think we have to look at the teachers. Mrs. Zygiel is an exceptional teacher. She really knows her students and makes that connection as to how they learn well. She has done wonders with Nathan and I believe that is why he enjoys the class so much. That is what teaching is all about.

At first I thought this was due to the lower teacher to student ratio that The Burlington Academy has versus the public school. But as time has passed on...I believe it has more to due with the way he is taught in the Kindergarten Enrichment class. Every subject he learns, he does so with enthusiasm. He comes home and just babbles on about school at The Academy. I've realize just how much he enjoys it there. I wanted to say thank you! I only hope his love of learning continues as he moves on to first grade.

The Burlington Academy has done so much to meet the needs of our children. You all have worked very hard at finding the right spot or solving a problem. I can not thank you enough.

Have a wonderful day and please pass this on to the teachers that really work so hard to enrich my kids lives!!

Diane and David Biega

Hi Kim!
I just wanted to let you know that my husband and I have been EXTREMELY impressed with what Alex is learning there, and it's only October. I don’t know what the teachers are doing or if other preschools are like this but Alex comes home with so much enthusiasm about school and he is demonstrating so much of what he's learning.

We are the kind of parents who try to provide him with learning tools but we do not want to push him until he is ready. We've had a lot of the art and letters and numbers and music around our home but it hasn’t been since he started PreK at The Academy that he has picked these things up and is enthusiastic about them.

He's doing art on a regular basis on his own, he loves to build, we talk to him about the music, he loves puzzles, mazes, dot to dot, writing his letters, learning his numbers, the weather, the days of the week, being patient and honest, there's so much, I could go on and on. He asks good questions. I'm not saying that he has a full grasp on everything but he is just loving it all and talking about it and doing it.

When my sister attended Special Persons Day, she came home and said "They learn A LOT in such a short period of time".
I just want to say "Thank You" to you. You've put together an amazing program. And to let you know the teachers are superior. Also, Amy is always extremely helpful. You've got a Great Program and Staff.

Thanks!

Thuy Tien Le

Hi Amy,

We had Ella's parent teacher conference at Union School yesterday and she is doing wonderful. We knew she was doing well from casual feedback and from her report card but the conference really illustrated how well she is doing. This was a kid who we weren't sure should even attend Kindergarten. I credit her 2 wonderful Kindergarten teachers - her teacher at Union School and Mrs Zygiel.

The KE program really reinforces and expands on what she is learning in kindergarten. I love that it is different so she's not bored and she's getting more learning opportunities but at the same time how the class structure (circle time, centers) is similar to her kindergarten environment.

I'm also one of those people who believe that the outside play time is so important for kindergarten children - she gets to go outside every day because of KE and get all of her energy out and come back to the classroom refreshed and ready to learn. Farmington cut foreign language out of their elementary curriculum with budget cuts so that's another thing I love that she gets at KE - both Spanish and Sign Language (which helps with reading skills). And one of my favorite things is the Handwriting Without Tears program. Ella is fine motor delayed but as I've learned from her Occupation Therapist any child (with or without fine motor issues) can really benefit from the HWT program.

Ella has really blossomed this year and the structure of the KE program has given her the confidence she needed to succeed in kindergarten.

I could go into more detail and go on and on about how great the program is and how much it actually helps but I think you get the idea.

Debbie

Linda,

Thank you so much for the wonderful and informative updates you send. We love hearing about all the things that you are teaching.....we typically get Avery's updates daily - but hearing everything that is being taught is so nice! I must say, I wondered why Avery had been asking for Latkes for breakfast every morning and was asking that I omit the blueberries and add potatoes to her pancakes! haha!!

You are such and amazing teacher, we are VERY fortunate to have you to help mold the little lives of these little children!

Thank you for everything you do!

Shayna Hansen :)

Hi Kim,

I just wanted to send you a quick note….I am already so happy with the program. Davis and Carter are doing great, in large part due to your excellent staff. Everyone from Amy, to their individual teachers, to Heather and Matthew have been terrific.

Day One, Amy was so accommodating – she brought in a car seat for Davis for the van! I ended up not using it but greatly appreciated her effort.

Carter is having a hard time without a nap. I talked with Heather about it yesterday and today I called to talk with one of Carter’s nursery school teachers. Heather had already communicated the message to Mrs. Angers who was putting Carter down for a nap at that exact moment! I realize that naps aren’t part of your scheduled day, but I appreciate the flexibility to accommodate my daughter.

Everyone seems to go above and beyond, they are responsive, up beat, positive, fun…Just what kids (and parents) need. Thank you! Thank you!

Please pass on my kudos to everyone.

Alison

Hi Kim,

I really wanted to take a moment to say "thank you" and tell you how much I appreciate the Burlington Academy.

My husband and I have an offer to move out of the area, so we are planning to move from Burlington the end of October. Over these past couple of weeks, I have been researching other nursery school programs. I have spoken with a dozen different facilities and toured about six, ranging from child care centers to local church nursery schools - and I have to share with you, NOT ONE place even comes close to your staff, the academics or the classrooms at your school. From the professionalism of the teachers all the way to the cleanliness of the buildings, Burlington Academy soars above the rest.

We have always been happy there, but I don't feel that I had a true appreciation until I had to step outside.

From the bottom of our hearts, we thank each one of you. You are extraordinary people who come together to make a wonderful team.

Sincerely,
Cheryl

Morning Kim,

Just wanted to let you know what a HIT "Kids Night Out" was in our household! Harry talked all the way home about the wonderful things he did and continued when we woke up this morning. Please pass on my many thanks to Heather and Katelyn. Great idea and we will definitely be seeing you at the next one.

Kind Regards,
Amy Winks

Hello All,

I am a loss for words (which never happens!). We are so happy with BAL! He loves it, the teachers, the children, the environment, everything. He never complains about going to school. I can not turned back time and erase last year. I can only look at this moment and we are thrilled! Christina, your comment to me a few weeks ago about Alex's ideas and insights into classroom discussions, made me cry. Finally, teachers are "hearing" Alex. He is a bright child and definitely looks outside the box. He is a very sensitive child too, a wonderful trait for a boy. I have expressed to many around town how happy we are with his placement and your program. THANK YOU, THANK YOU for all you do each day, we are so grateful:)
Best-Sheila

Dear Ginger and Katy,
I just wanted to let you know that the other day Jennifer was really having a meltdown about something and Nate said, "Mommy, I am being tolerant today, my teachers taught me that word at school." I thought it was great that he said it so clearly and used it in the right context :) You both are so wonderful and I feel bad I don't tell you that often enough and I appreciate all you do. Seeing Nathan's growth thus far is a reflection of all your hard work. Thanks for all you do.
Liz

From the time I first visited the Burlington Academy and met Kim and some of the teachers, until the end of the school year, I felt a warm, relaxed feeling towards the people who make up the school. I visited several other schools, but that "feeling" that comes when people are sincere and dedicated, was not always there. Apart from this, I liked many other things including the philosophy which encompasses the social as well as the academic development of children and stresses the importance of virtues: patience, honesty, respect, generosity, responsibility, fairness, courtesy, gratitude, determination, and love...
Through the year, with my children in two different classes,I've always felt that my children were in capable, dedicated, caring hands. Can anything beat that? I think we're very lucky to have our children come here and feel we cannot do enough to thank the dedicated teachers and staff.
-From the mother of two children attending the Burlington Academy of Learning

Hi Ginger! I just want to let you know that the pancakes today were a BIG hit! Tyler loved it- he talked more about his day at school today than ever, which I think is just great. He has so much fun in your class-you and Katie are doing such a great job!

Christy

Dear Kim,
I would like to thank you and your wonderful staff for making Gabriella's first years of school so memorable and enjoyable. Before Gabriella began Nursery School she had been with only family. It was such a stressful experience for me to find the "perfect" school and to leave her for the first time. You and your remarkable staff made us comfortable right from our very first meeting. You made it easy to trust you because everyone has always made it clear that the children come first.
Your nursery school and Pre-K programs are so impressive and its clear that it is the teachers that make it so. Each teacher has proven how much they enjoy teaching and how serious they are in developing each child. Every child is encouraged to participate, have fun and be themselves.
In Nursery School, Gabriella learned letters, colors, numbers and how to share from Mrs. Bakaysa and Mrs. Jennetta. They assisted her in becoming comfortable playing with her peers. She began to test the waters and to stand up for herself.
In Preschool, Mrs. Patridge and Mrs. Jennetta satisfied that tremendous thirst for knowledge that all children have. They taught her to write, prereading basics, math, Spanish, music, painting, drawing and how to work things out with her peers and that is just the beginning. Gabriella was part of the Tuesday/Thursday all day Pre-K and it was a wonderful suggestion that your staff recommended for her development. Gabriella has learned and grown up so much in the last year. What's most amazing is that Gabriella can read some small books to me.
In addition, I have to comment on the manners your staff has instilled in the children. I have received many comments on Gabriella's good manners and behavior and I give Burlington Academy a lot of credit.
Gabriella and I are looking forward to beginning our new life, but I know I will cry on Pre-K graduation day because I will miss your school and the warmth that has come from you and the people you have working with you.
You have an amazing school and I wish you luck. In my eyes, nothing can match my experience with The Burlington Academy of Learning. The staff, education, socialization and love my daughter has felt in your school has had such a positive influence on her development.
Sincerely,
Leslie

Dear Ginger,  I just wanted to send you a quick note to thank you for everything you do.  No one let me make one of those "I'm thankful for..." turkeys, but if they had, I would have written "Olivia's teachers" on one of my feathers :) You put so much time, energy and love into your teaching, and it really shows.

This morning, you said to me that teaching "keeps you young"...well, I'm fairly young, and I honestly know that I would not be able to manage a classroom of 16 4 year olds so gracefully and patiently!  You and Sheila are amazing women and we are so fortunate to have you play such an important role in our child's life. I know that your work is incredibly challenging, both with dealing with the children and also with the crazy parents, like me! 

Please know just how much we truly appreciate you and what you are doing for Olivia (and all of her classmates, of course).  I hope you and your family have a wonderful Thanksgiving. Hope you are able to enjoy a few days to yourself to relax! 

Amy

Thank you so much for sending out the email reminding parents about the dangers of food allergies.  I really appreciate it.  You guys are awesome at addressing this issue.  This is one of the first reasons I chose to send my children to The Burlington Academy.  Being a mom who has to watch out for food allergies, I am totally, 100% comfortable with leaving my children with your staff. The teachers have been phenominal in raising awareness and having everybody on board.  In turn, it has caused the parents to have a postiive response, thereby creating a very supportive and safe community for everyone.  I can't express enough how grateful I am.  We don't have to spend as much time worrying about an allergy and can focus more on the positives - our children's growth, progress and overall well-being.

You guys have a wonderful reputation in addressing these issues.

Thanks again, Jen

Hi Kim,  I realized on the night of the picnic that I didn't mention anything about how wonderful the nursery school program is as well as the pre-k program.  I knew that the program is exceptional, but now seeing how much my child is prepared to progress I realize just how EXTRAORDINARY it is as well.  I have had the pleasure of interacting with all of the NS teachers and they are all so wonderful.  Mrs. Krasner really held my hand through the whole "letting go" process and created a warm nurturing environment along with Mrs. Bakaysa, Mrs. Toscano and Mrs. Angers.

Each month I watched Sarah grow more and more confident.  This team of teachers is dynamite at helping the little 3 year olds turn into big 4 year olds.  By the end of the school year Sarah was thriving!!  The warm nurturing environment along with the great academic program has produced a positive, strong, capable and healthy child.  I honestly don't think that Sarah would have been ready for the PRE-K program if she attended any other nursery school.  I don't know of any other program that offers Spanish and movement with certified teachers. 

I don't know how they did it, but when Sarah was learning about the body she was able to tell me where her brain was and how her heart works and that the lines on her arms are veins!!  Sarah just loved her teachers and she loves her PRE-K teachers as well. 

Thank you for both an awesome program and staff.  It really says something when all the children and parents are so happy.

Sincerely,

Jen

I wanted to let you know how pleased I am with your school!  I've worked at Environmental Learning Centers of CT (Indian Rock & Barnes Nature Center) for over ten years and have interacted with hundreds of different schools and daycares from across the state.  There are a few that stick out in my mind as being exceptional, and yours is one of them.

Thank you!

Lola

Dear Kim,  I just wanted you to know how satisfied I am with the educational services provided by your dedicated teachers.
They run a top-notch classroom and I am very pleased that Caroline has the opportunity to participate in it. Not only do these teachers provide excellent learning programs for her but they also provide a nurturing, warm and caring environment which is perhaps more important and harder to find since such abilities cannot be "taught". The classroom is always neat and clean and is decorated in a manner that is bright, cheerful and stimulating - even for adults! The classroom is an extension of the kind of people they are. Caroline loves being there.
It is clear that your teachers put a lot of effort into their work, the value of which, on Caroline's behalf, I am very grateful for. I don't know what they are paid but they are worth every penny and are a large factor in making BAL a great place to send a child.
I hope you share my perception of their work.
Sincerely,
Alan

Hi, I just wanted to wish everyone a great school year and to again thank you so much for all you gave to Madeline. I think so much of her self confidence and general knowledge came from spending her days with all of you.
Ginny

Dear Parents,  The staff at Burlington Academy has helped to shape our daughter Nicole who is entering Kindergarten this year and our past experiences with the Academy have been wonderful. In addition, they are a Peanut Free pre-school which has allowed us to send Alex for the same rewarding experiences. The Academy is aware of Alex's allergies and is very supportive in keeping our son safe.
Janice and Sean

Dear Kim,  I have been so thrilled that Mrs. Bakaysa and Mrs Forbes have been Cameron's teachers this year.  They have shown incredible kindness, support, and encouragement towards him and myself.  The two teachers together have been a phenominal combination for him.  Thank you for all your efforts.
Jesse

Dear Mrs. Bakaysa,  Thank you for all of your hard work, dedication and love you show to all of the children. It makes it much easier to leave Colleen, knowing how much you care. Have a wonderful holiday season!
Love, Diane, Ray, Colleen & Jack too!

Linda, Sheila and Jodi!

I think I speak for all of us parents when I say THANK YOU for loving our children as if they were your own! I feel blessed to be lucky enough to have all of you in my daughter's life to help teach and guide her.

Happy Valentine's Day to each of you as well. Get some rest as you will need your energy when the kids get back!

Take care,
Lisa DesJardin

Linda,

I just love these e-mails from you. Although Trey always says that his morning was great, he seems to leave out most details. I really look forward to these wonderful comments and thank you for your kind words. You are such a wonderful teacher and always have such beautiful things to say about all of the children. Enjoy your weekend!

Joanne

Kim and Mike, 

My husband, daughter Trinity and I have had a great start to another year at Burlington Academy! After only 3 weeks my entire family ADORES your new pre-kindergarten teacher Ms. Cragin. Trinity LOVES Ms. Cragin. At home, Trinity giggles and smiles when she talks about the "pretty teacher with the ponytail."

In my interactions with Ms. Cragin, I have been impressed with her confidence, friendliness, professionalism and love of the children. Excellent choice in hiring Ms. Cragin. She is a WONDERFUL addition to your staff!

Lisa

Dear Mrs. Sfikas and Mrs. Patridge,  Thank you so much for such a wonderful year! Matthew loved Pre-K and the progress he made over the year is amazing. Matthew's school career is off to a great start and the transition to kindergarten should be easy for him. You have a wonderful way with children. Matthew is very fortunate to have had you for a teacher-especially at an age when it is so important for school to be a good/positive experience. Thank you again! Enjoy your summer. We'll be back to visit.
Sincerely,
(name withheld to protect privacy) 

Hi Mike and Jodi,

 

          I have been wanting to write for a while now to let you know how happy I am with how this school year has gone for Tyler....and tonight Tyler gave me the perfect reason to finally sit down and do it. We were talking to Will about how Will is going to nursery school at BAL next year, and Will seemed a bit "uneasy" about the whole school idea. Tyler comes over to Will and says (very enthusiastically) "I tried it, and I really love Burlington Academy. It is so much fun."

What I loved about this is that it was totally unsolicited by me- just came straight from Tyler. Figured I would pass that along to you, since you probably get your feedback primarily from parents and not children. I'm sure it is great to hear-straight from the kids-how much they love BAL!

 

I also want to pass along to you that, as with last year, I am just so pleased with how well this school year has gone. What a huge difference between nursery school and pre k- wow, how they have grown! It is amazing to me how much Tyler, and all of the children, have learned and really "blossomed" in so many ways. Ginger and Katy have done a wonderful job with all of the children. I really appreciate the way in which they have gotten to know the children, their sensitivity, and the way in which they maintain structure while also adapting to individual child's needs when necessary/appropriate. It is so clear that they really want these kids to enjoy their school experience. And it is very obvious that Ginger and Katy have worked hard at getting the kids excited about learning so many different things.

As a parent, it is so amazing to see Tyler so excited about learning to write his letters (he wouldn't write anything when he first started pre k- now he is so excited to show me the letters he can write-I think that is AWESOME!) And to see Tyler so excited about the whole "idea" of being able to read a word is so great. We were in a store today and he said "Look Mommy, that says "old."" I asked him, "how do you spell that?" and he said "o-l-d.". I thought that was amazing. Even more amazing is how happy and excited he is about his accomplishments and all that he has learned. I have watched his confidence grow so much. And it is such a great feeling to know how much he loves his friends and teachers at BAL. It has been such a positive place for us, and I can't tell you how much we appreciate it. We are excited for Will to begin at BAL next year!

I just want to let you know that Brian and I really appreciate the great work that you all do!

Christy

Mrs. Coffman,

Thank you so much for the emails you send us.  Ethan showed me a book he was working on last night and I was so impressed.  Hearing what you wrote to us in the email you sent today makes us so proud.     Thank you for the great job you do with him each day. It's greatly appreciated.

Kathlene

Hi Jodi!
I hope this note finds you well.  I wanted to share some good news regarding Dominic.  He was selected as Student of the Month @ St. Joseph's School!  The Principle selected him based on his polite manners and good behavior as well as his friendliness and diligence in his work!  He is so proud and happy.   And I have to tell you the first thing I told them was that he had gotten such a wonderful start at Burlington Academy...it all started there!   Remember when he first started he really didn't know much about sharing and caring for his little friends!  Now...it's amazing he really is a polite and friendly little guy!!!!  So once again, thank you for the great foundation you provided to Dominic!!!!
Best Regards,
Donna

Hi Kirstin,
I can't thank you enough for the e-mails you send to keep us updated.  While the girls and Mona both do a nice job updating me on their day to day activities it is really special and meaningful to hear from you too!  As a working mom I think the hardest part for me is missing out on the pick up and drop off at school.  Your e-mails help to alleviate that!  
The girls are having a great time this year too!  Their confidence is growing day by day and their math and language skills have improved so much.. We have been spending a lot of time reading together and they  just can't wait to show you their January Book Logs..they are almost full already.  Thankfully, they also love homework.  Let's hope this lasts for the next 17 years.. We are so proud of them !  
Thanks so much  to both you and Mrs. Schultz for guiding them during this impressionable time in their lives. We really appreciate it.
Sincerely,
Ginny & Geoff

Dear Mrs. Sfikas and Mrs. Patridge,
It's so wonderful that Rachel has been blessed enough to have a truly wonderful teacher. Thank you. Rachel has blossomed and is returning to her energetic and outgoing self. We feel you have played a significant role in her re-development. Thank you!
John and Sharon

Hi Shelia,  I just wanted to let you know that my Mother-in-Law truly enjoyed Special Person Day.  She thought that you, your classroom and your students were WONDERFUL!!

You are doing such a great job with our Mikey this year.  We feel blessed that he is back with you at Burlington Academy.

Thank you so much for all of your hard work!!  Have a great day-

Rachele

Dear Mike, I just want to let you know how enormously grateful we are to Ginger and Kirstin for alerting us to the problems (name withheld) was experiencing in school.  After hearing their assessment this past fall, both (name withheld) and I went back to our car and cried. How could parents that are so active in their child’s life be so ignorant as to what was truly going on?  Guilt, sadness, etc… was replaced by Ginger and Kirstin’s professional, encouraging and optimistic words.  All year, they have gone the extra mile to work with (name withheld) and continually advise us of his progress.  As you may know, (name withheld) has been in occupational and socialization therapy as a result of their feedback and has made enormous progress.  There is still more work to be done but he is on the right path and we sincerely believe that none of this would have happened if it wasn’t for Ginger and Kirstin.    They are truly AMAZING teachers and we will always be grateful to them and the Burlington Academy.  
 
All the best,
(names withheld to protect family privacy)

Hi Kim,  I just wanted to take a moment and tell you how impressed I am with the pre-k program.
First of all, the teachers are absolutely wonderful.  I feel so comfortable with both Mrs. Aldieri and Mrs. Patridge.  They have made it easy for me to work with Sarah at home to get the most out of her classroom experience.  The tools and ideas given are invaluable and I feel like I am getting an education along with Sarah.
Second of all Sarah is SO happy; when I ask her if there is anything she doesn't like about school she gives me a big "nope".  She is having so much fun and as a parent interested in my child's education I am having a blast.  You have all made learning so much fun for all of us.  Thank you for a program that offers so much.  I feel like not only is learning fun, but teaching is fun as well.  I have learned a different approach in how to educate my children in a very fun and loving way.  We are all benefiting from Sarah's experience and I know it will last a lifetime.
I really like the maturity of this program.  I like how you have raised the bar just enough to encourage kids to elevate without any pressure or discouragement.  I had no idea how great this was going to be.  To say the least what I have observed in these past two weeks makes me so excited for the rest of the school year.  Thank you for caring for our children the way that you all do.

Sincerely,
Jen

Hi Jodi and Kellee,  Just want to pass along a couple of things, and I thought I would send an email, otherwise I might forget by Tuesday!

Last night, when I came home from parent orientation, my husband asked "what is 1-2-3 eyes on me?" I guess Tyler was trying to get his attention, and finally had to resort to "1-2-3 eyes on me!" Brian said Tyler was very serious about it, too. So we got a kick out of that-apparently, Tyler is trying to teach us better listening skills!

Another thing Tyler has been doing since he came home from school yesterday is asking me to  "share" with him at times where he normally would just play on his own. An example of this is when he plays with his favorite car/truck, he will ask if I would like to share with him and pass the truck back and forth. So, clearly the lessons you are teaching are making a difference and sinking in....and that is wonderful!

There are little things he does during the day that show me he is learning very important lessons in your classroom, and Brian and I really appreciate the work you are doing!

Christy

Dear Kim,
I am writing this letter to tell you how happy my husband, Corey and I have been with our son Nathan's first year of school. Pam Forbes and Shannon Bakaysa have truly done a remarkable job teaching our son and his fellow classmates. They are both wonderful teachers and so kind with the children.
Having worked in daycare/nursery schools, I know how difficult it is to find good teachers. You have been fortunate to have found an entire staff of very good teachers!
Pam and Shannon have made Nathan feel very comfortable at school. They have helped him learn so much while he has lots of fun too, which is so important at this age. It makes me feel very happy to know that Nathan is in such good hands while he is away from me.
Many times people are quick to complain when things things go wrong, so I felt that I needed to write this to share something good. I really cannot say enough about Pam and Shannon. Kudos to both of them for their hard work and dedication and for their love of children. They are truly an asset to the Burlington Academy!
Sincerely,
Melanie

Good morning, ladies,
I was just reading through the school newsletter and I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you all for the amazing job you are doing, and more specifically, tell you how astounded I am with Lexie’s growth.

A couple days ago, she brought home her solar system book. I started reading through the pages and thought to myself, “wow, this is great for her to learn and maybe sometime in the next year she’ll be able to sight read all these big words like gas-giant and dwarf planet.” Then she sat on my lap and read that book to me cover-to-cover. I nearly fainted. I have clearly underestimated her ability and I think it’s time for her to read me the bedtime stories now, not the other way around. And I was floored by her phrasing. She completely understands that periods stop one thought and begin another, and she reads it with expression and cadence – and frankly I could not be more proud of her. I know we gave her a good start in the literacy department, but clearly whatever you guys have been doing with the kids, it is paying off in spades, and it is so amazing to me that my 5½ year old is reading to me about how Pluto is now a dwarf planet. Are you kidding me?!

I can see from the newsletter that phrasing and fluency are being stressed now in Kindergarten – I was a smart, literate kid in kindergarten, but seriously, your students blow my whole generation out of the water. And the solar system, the rainforest, fractions…Dvorak! My husband and I both work long, strange hours sometimes, and for us to know that our kids are getting this caliber of education is the best feeling ever. And it costs us probably less than $200 a month more than if we had them both in daycare down the street. This is a no-brainer and their tuition is the bill we are most adamant about, second only to the mortgage that keeps a roof over our heads. It is the best decision we ever made coming to Burlington Academy.

Lexie's developing great friendships, and it makes me so happy to see her coming into her own at The Burlington Academy. I am so looking forward to parent teacher conferences; we are committed to doing whatever we need to in order to help her grow emotionally and socially so she can achieve the same level of excellence that she’s achieving now academically. We will miss you all when Lexie moves to Consolidated in the fall…but then you’ll have Sophie for the next year in Jr. Kindergarten, so we’ll have the opportunity to do this all again.

Sorry for rambling – I’m just so happy with everyone at The Burlington Academy and I’m almost choked up with pride when I see how wonderfully my kids are developing. I wish I had time and patience to nurture them the way you all do, but since most parents can’t do that, I’m relieved that I can count on a place like The Burlington Academy to give them the tools they needs to excel as they grows into all the new phases of life that are coming. So thank you again and please never forget what an amazing impact you make in these kids’ lives.

Sincerely, Laura McGuffie

Hi Kim,
I had some feedback that I thought would be important to share with you....

I referred a co-worker of mine to your program. She had the pleasure of visiting with her daughter in the classroom with Ms. Patridge. When she reported to work, she came to see me and she was so impressed with Ms. Patridge and the curriculum that her daughter was exposed to. She found Ms. Patridge to be exemplary and commented on a story that was read to the children and their work on recalling details of the story and the fact that Ms. Patridge made sure to acknowledge each and every child and the art work they also did.

From what she told me, I can tell she found the setting well structured, educational in nature and extremely impressive. She stated that her visit to Ms. Patridge's classroom made her completely know she made the right decision in switching her daughter to The Burlington Academy.

I referred her to your program because I too, am very impressed with the staff. They are invested in early childhood education and maintaining an educational excellence that my children have benefit from.

A program is only as good as its staff and I am very thankful for the teachers that have touched my kids lives at your program.....they simply are the best!

I just thought I would share a positive note and acknowledge the positive feedback that I was able to hear.....

Wendy

Hi Tiffany,
I just wanted to send you a warm thank you for everything you have done for Lizzy at The Burlington Academy. Receiving your note today reminded me of why we chose to send Lizzy there and also of how much we like you as a teacher and a person. I do not expect you to take your own lunch time to eat with her and to then help her take her nap by rubbing her back, but I wholeheartedly appreciate it. I also enjoy your daily “ask me” notes, especially today when you mentioned Lizzy choosing sneakers for the frog! All it takes is a couple little visuals like that to calm parents' nerves and remind them that their kids are "okay."
Thanks again!
Ashley (aka, Proud Mommy of Lizzy)

Hi Linda!

Ben has been talking a lot about hibernation and adaptation in particular. It's so much fun that he is finally getting to the point where I can figure out what he is learning in school without the Spanish Inquisition! The other day he was playing in the sink and I asked him what he was doing! His replied, "adapting!"...I died laughing. He is so funny and is clearly absorbing what you are teaching. Thanks for all you do.

Jen

P.S. I am excited that Ben can identify almost all the letters of the alphabet by sight now. That's a huge improvement!

Paul and I wanted to thank you again for EVERYTHING.  We can't say enough about you, your family, and the staff at BAL.  You don't know how comforting it is to know that our kids are safe at school and the staff is so caring, loving, and patient.  There is absolutely no other school that we would trust with our children.  We are forever grateful.

Chris

Good Morning,

I just wanted to write you a note in reference to Nathan's Kindergarten Enrichment class with Mrs. Zygiel. We are so pleased with how he is doing. He just loves the class. I know with parent teacher conferences right around the corner, that we tend to look only at the child. But truly, I think we have to look at the teachers. Mrs. Zygiel is an exceptional teacher. She really knows her students and makes that connection as to how they learn well. She has done wonders with Nathan and I believe that is why he enjoys the class so much. That is what teaching is all about.

At first I thought this was due to the lower teacher to student ratio that The Burlington Academy has versus the public school. But as time has passed on...I believe it has more to due with the way he is taught in the Kindergarten Enrichment class. Every subject he learns, he does so with enthusiasm. He comes home and just babbles on about school at The Academy. I've realize just how much he enjoys it there. I wanted to say thank you! I only hope his love of learning continues as he moves on to first grade.

The Burlington Academy has done so much to meet the needs of our children. You all have worked very hard at finding the right spot or solving a problem. I can not thank you enough.

Have a wonderful day and please pass this on to the teachers that really work so hard to enrich my kids lives!!

Diane and David Biega

Hi Kim!
I just wanted to let you know that my husband and I have been EXTREMELY impressed with what Alex is learning there, and it's only October. I don’t know what the teachers are doing or if other preschools are like this but Alex comes home with so much enthusiasm about school and he is demonstrating so much of what he's learning.

We are the kind of parents who try to provide him with learning tools but we do not want to push him until he is ready. We've had a lot of the art and letters and numbers and music around our home but it hasn’t been since he started PreK at The Academy that he has picked these things up and is enthusiastic about them.

He's doing art on a regular basis on his own, he loves to build, we talk to him about the music, he loves puzzles, mazes, dot to dot, writing his letters, learning his numbers, the weather, the days of the week, being patient and honest, there's so much, I could go on and on. He asks good questions. I'm not saying that he has a full grasp on everything but he is just loving it all and talking about it and doing it.

When my sister attended Special Persons Day, she came home and said "They learn A LOT in such a short period of time".
I just want to say "Thank You" to you. You've put together an amazing program. And to let you know the teachers are superior. Also, Amy is always extremely helpful. You've got a Great Program and Staff.

Thanks!

Thuy Tien Le

Hi Amy,

We had Ella's parent teacher conference at Union School yesterday and she is doing wonderful. We knew she was doing well from casual feedback and from her report card but the conference really illustrated how well she is doing. This was a kid who we weren't sure should even attend Kindergarten. I credit her 2 wonderful Kindergarten teachers - her teacher at Union School and Mrs Zygiel.

The KE program really reinforces and expands on what she is learning in kindergarten. I love that it is different so she's not bored and she's getting more learning opportunities but at the same time how the class structure (circle time, centers) is similar to her kindergarten environment.

I'm also one of those people who believe that the outside play time is so important for kindergarten children - she gets to go outside every day because of KE and get all of her energy out and come back to the classroom refreshed and ready to learn. Farmington cut foreign language out of their elementary curriculum with budget cuts so that's another thing I love that she gets at KE - both Spanish and Sign Language (which helps with reading skills). And one of my favorite things is the Handwriting Without Tears program. Ella is fine motor delayed but as I've learned from her Occupation Therapist any child (with or without fine motor issues) can really benefit from the HWT program.

Ella has really blossomed this year and the structure of the KE program has given her the confidence she needed to succeed in kindergarten.

I could go into more detail and go on and on about how great the program is and how much it actually helps but I think you get the idea.

Debbie

Linda,

Thank you so much for the wonderful and informative updates you send. We love hearing about all the things that you are teaching.....we typically get Avery's updates daily - but hearing everything that is being taught is so nice! I must say, I wondered why Avery had been asking for Latkes for breakfast every morning and was asking that I omit the blueberries and add potatoes to her pancakes! haha!!

You are such and amazing teacher, we are VERY fortunate to have you to help mold the little lives of these little children!

Thank you for everything you do!

Shayna Hansen :)

Hi Kim,

I just wanted to send you a quick note….I am already so happy with the program. Davis and Carter are doing great, in large part due to your excellent staff. Everyone from Amy, to their individual teachers, to Heather and Matthew have been terrific.

Day One, Amy was so accommodating – she brought in a car seat for Davis for the van! I ended up not using it but greatly appreciated her effort.

Carter is having a hard time without a nap. I talked with Heather about it yesterday and today I called to talk with one of Carter’s nursery school teachers. Heather had already communicated the message to Mrs. Angers who was putting Carter down for a nap at that exact moment! I realize that naps aren’t part of your scheduled day, but I appreciate the flexibility to accommodate my daughter.

Everyone seems to go above and beyond, they are responsive, up beat, positive, fun…Just what kids (and parents) need. Thank you! Thank you!

Please pass on my kudos to everyone.

Alison

Hi Kim,

I really wanted to take a moment to say "thank you" and tell you how much I appreciate the Burlington Academy.

My husband and I have an offer to move out of the area, so we are planning to move from Burlington the end of October. Over these past couple of weeks, I have been researching other nursery school programs. I have spoken with a dozen different facilities and toured about six, ranging from child care centers to local church nursery schools - and I have to share with you, NOT ONE place even comes close to your staff, the academics or the classrooms at your school. From the professionalism of the teachers all the way to the cleanliness of the buildings, Burlington Academy soars above the rest.

We have always been happy there, but I don't feel that I had a true appreciation until I had to step outside.

From the bottom of our hearts, we thank each one of you. You are extraordinary people who come together to make a wonderful team.

Sincerely,
Cheryl

Morning Kim,

Just wanted to let you know what a HIT "Kids Night Out" was in our household! Harry talked all the way home about the wonderful things he did and continued when we woke up this morning. Please pass on my many thanks to Heather and Katelyn. Great idea and we will definitely be seeing you at the next one.

Kind Regards,
Amy Winks

Hello All,

I am a loss for words (which never happens!). We are so happy with BAL! He loves it, the teachers, the children, the environment, everything. He never complains about going to school. I can not turned back time and erase last year. I can only look at this moment and we are thrilled! Christina, your comment to me a few weeks ago about Alex's ideas and insights into classroom discussions, made me cry. Finally, teachers are "hearing" Alex. He is a bright child and definitely looks outside the box. He is a very sensitive child too, a wonderful trait for a boy. I have expressed to many around town how happy we are with his placement and your program. THANK YOU, THANK YOU for all you do each day, we are so grateful:)
Best-Sheila

Dear Ginger and Katy,
I just wanted to let you know that the other day Jennifer was really having a meltdown about something and Nate said, "Mommy, I am being tolerant today, my teachers taught me that word at school." I thought it was great that he said it so clearly and used it in the right context :) You both are so wonderful and I feel bad I don't tell you that often enough and I appreciate all you do. Seeing Nathan's growth thus far is a reflection of all your hard work. Thanks for all you do.
Liz

From the time I first visited the Burlington Academy and met Kim and some of the teachers, until the end of the school year, I felt a warm, relaxed feeling towards the people who make up the school. I visited several other schools, but that "feeling" that comes when people are sincere and dedicated, was not always there. Apart from this, I liked many other things including the philosophy which encompasses the social as well as the academic development of children and stresses the importance of virtues: patience, honesty, respect, generosity, responsibility, fairness, courtesy, gratitude, determination, and love...
Through the year, with my children in two different classes,I've always felt that my children were in capable, dedicated, caring hands. Can anything beat that? I think we're very lucky to have our children come here and feel we cannot do enough to thank the dedicated teachers and staff.
-From the mother of two children attending the Burlington Academy of Learning

Hi Ginger! I just want to let you know that the pancakes today were a BIG hit! Tyler loved it- he talked more about his day at school today than ever, which I think is just great. He has so much fun in your class-you and Katie are doing such a great job!

Christy

Dear Kim,
I would like to thank you and your wonderful staff for making Gabriella's first years of school so memorable and enjoyable. Before Gabriella began Nursery School she had been with only family. It was such a stressful experience for me to find the "perfect" school and to leave her for the first time. You and your remarkable staff made us comfortable right from our very first meeting. You made it easy to trust you because everyone has always made it clear that the children come first.
Your nursery school and Pre-K programs are so impressive and its clear that it is the teachers that make it so. Each teacher has proven how much they enjoy teaching and how serious they are in developing each child. Every child is encouraged to participate, have fun and be themselves.
In Nursery School, Gabriella learned letters, colors, numbers and how to share from Mrs. Bakaysa and Mrs. Jennetta. They assisted her in becoming comfortable playing with her peers. She began to test the waters and to stand up for herself.
In Preschool, Mrs. Patridge and Mrs. Jennetta satisfied that tremendous thirst for knowledge that all children have. They taught her to write, prereading basics, math, Spanish, music, painting, drawing and how to work things out with her peers and that is just the beginning. Gabriella was part of the Tuesday/Thursday all day Pre-K and it was a wonderful suggestion that your staff recommended for her development. Gabriella has learned and grown up so much in the last year. What's most amazing is that Gabriella can read some small books to me.
In addition, I have to comment on the manners your staff has instilled in the children. I have received many comments on Gabriella's good manners and behavior and I give Burlington Academy a lot of credit.
Gabriella and I are looking forward to beginning our new life, but I know I will cry on Pre-K graduation day because I will miss your school and the warmth that has come from you and the people you have working with you.
You have an amazing school and I wish you luck. In my eyes, nothing can match my experience with The Burlington Academy of Learning. The staff, education, socialization and love my daughter has felt in your school has had such a positive influence on her development.
Sincerely,
Leslie

Dear Ginger,  I just wanted to send you a quick note to thank you for everything you do.  No one let me make one of those "I'm thankful for..." turkeys, but if they had, I would have written "Olivia's teachers" on one of my feathers :) You put so much time, energy and love into your teaching, and it really shows.

This morning, you said to me that teaching "keeps you young"...well, I'm fairly young, and I honestly know that I would not be able to manage a classroom of 16 4 year olds so gracefully and patiently!  You and Sheila are amazing women and we are so fortunate to have you play such an important role in our child's life. I know that your work is incredibly challenging, both with dealing with the children and also with the crazy parents, like me! 

Please know just how much we truly appreciate you and what you are doing for Olivia (and all of her classmates, of course).  I hope you and your family have a wonderful Thanksgiving. Hope you are able to enjoy a few days to yourself to relax! 

Amy

Thank you so much for sending out the email reminding parents about the dangers of food allergies.  I really appreciate it.  You guys are awesome at addressing this issue.  This is one of the first reasons I chose to send my children to The Burlington Academy.  Being a mom who has to watch out for food allergies, I am totally, 100% comfortable with leaving my children with your staff. The teachers have been phenominal in raising awareness and having everybody on board.  In turn, it has caused the parents to have a postiive response, thereby creating a very supportive and safe community for everyone.  I can't express enough how grateful I am.  We don't have to spend as much time worrying about an allergy and can focus more on the positives - our children's growth, progress and overall well-being.

You guys have a wonderful reputation in addressing these issues.

Thanks again, Jen

Hi Kim,  I realized on the night of the picnic that I didn't mention anything about how wonderful the nursery school program is as well as the pre-k program.  I knew that the program is exceptional, but now seeing how much my child is prepared to progress I realize just how EXTRAORDINARY it is as well.  I have had the pleasure of interacting with all of the NS teachers and they are all so wonderful.  Mrs. Krasner really held my hand through the whole "letting go" process and created a warm nurturing environment along with Mrs. Bakaysa, Mrs. Toscano and Mrs. Angers.

Each month I watched Sarah grow more and more confident.  This team of teachers is dynamite at helping the little 3 year olds turn into big 4 year olds.  By the end of the school year Sarah was thriving!!  The warm nurturing environment along with the great academic program has produced a positive, strong, capable and healthy child.  I honestly don't think that Sarah would have been ready for the PRE-K program if she attended any other nursery school.  I don't know of any other program that offers Spanish and movement with certified teachers. 

I don't know how they did it, but when Sarah was learning about the body she was able to tell me where her brain was and how her heart works and that the lines on her arms are veins!!  Sarah just loved her teachers and she loves her PRE-K teachers as well. 

Thank you for both an awesome program and staff.  It really says something when all the children and parents are so happy.

Sincerely,

Jen

I wanted to let you know how pleased I am with your school!  I've worked at Environmental Learning Centers of CT (Indian Rock & Barnes Nature Center) for over ten years and have interacted with hundreds of different schools and daycares from across the state.  There are a few that stick out in my mind as being exceptional, and yours is one of them.

Thank you!

Lola

Dear Kim,  I just wanted you to know how satisfied I am with the educational services provided by your dedicated teachers.
They run a top-notch classroom and I am very pleased that Caroline has the opportunity to participate in it. Not only do these teachers provide excellent learning programs for her but they also provide a nurturing, warm and caring environment which is perhaps more important and harder to find since such abilities cannot be "taught". The classroom is always neat and clean and is decorated in a manner that is bright, cheerful and stimulating - even for adults! The classroom is an extension of the kind of people they are. Caroline loves being there.
It is clear that your teachers put a lot of effort into their work, the value of which, on Caroline's behalf, I am very grateful for. I don't know what they are paid but they are worth every penny and are a large factor in making BAL a great place to send a child.
I hope you share my perception of their work.
Sincerely,
Alan

Hi, I just wanted to wish everyone a great school year and to again thank you so much for all you gave to Madeline. I think so much of her self confidence and general knowledge came from spending her days with all of you.
Ginny

Dear Parents,  The staff at Burlington Academy has helped to shape our daughter Nicole who is entering Kindergarten this year and our past experiences with the Academy have been wonderful. In addition, they are a Peanut Free pre-school which has allowed us to send Alex for the same rewarding experiences. The Academy is aware of Alex's allergies and is very supportive in keeping our son safe.
Janice and Sean

Dear Kim,  I have been so thrilled that Mrs. Bakaysa and Mrs Forbes have been Cameron's teachers this year.  They have shown incredible kindness, support, and encouragement towards him and myself.  The two teachers together have been a phenominal combination for him.  Thank you for all your efforts.
Jesse

Dear Mrs. Bakaysa,  Thank you for all of your hard work, dedication and love you show to all of the children. It makes it much easier to leave Colleen, knowing how much you care. Have a wonderful holiday season!
Love, Diane, Ray, Colleen & Jack too!

Linda, Sheila and Jodi!

I think I speak for all of us parents when I say THANK YOU for loving our children as if they were your own! I feel blessed to be lucky enough to have all of you in my daughter's life to help teach and guide her.

Happy Valentine's Day to each of you as well. Get some rest as you will need your energy when the kids get back!

Take care,
Lisa DesJardin

Linda,

I just love these e-mails from you. Although Trey always says that his morning was great, he seems to leave out most details. I really look forward to these wonderful comments and thank you for your kind words. You are such a wonderful teacher and always have such beautiful things to say about all of the children. Enjoy your weekend!

Joanne

Kim and Mike, 

My husband, daughter Trinity and I have had a great start to another year at Burlington Academy! After only 3 weeks my entire family ADORES your new pre-kindergarten teacher Ms. Cragin. Trinity LOVES Ms. Cragin. At home, Trinity giggles and smiles when she talks about the "pretty teacher with the ponytail."

In my interactions with Ms. Cragin, I have been impressed with her confidence, friendliness, professionalism and love of the children. Excellent choice in hiring Ms. Cragin. She is a WONDERFUL addition to your staff!

Lisa

Dear Mrs. Sfikas and Mrs. Patridge,  Thank you so much for such a wonderful year! Matthew loved Pre-K and the progress he made over the year is amazing. Matthew's school career is off to a great start and the transition to kindergarten should be easy for him. You have a wonderful way with children. Matthew is very fortunate to have had you for a teacher-especially at an age when it is so important for school to be a good/positive experience. Thank you again! Enjoy your summer. We'll be back to visit.
Sincerely,
(name withheld to protect privacy) 

Hi Mike and Jodi,

 

          I have been wanting to write for a while now to let you know how happy I am with how this school year has gone for Tyler....and tonight Tyler gave me the perfect reason to finally sit down and do it. We were talking to Will about how Will is going to nursery school at BAL next year, and Will seemed a bit "uneasy" about the whole school idea. Tyler comes over to Will and says (very enthusiastically) "I tried it, and I really love Burlington Academy. It is so much fun."

What I loved about this is that it was totally unsolicited by me- just came straight from Tyler. Figured I would pass that along to you, since you probably get your feedback primarily from parents and not children. I'm sure it is great to hear-straight from the kids-how much they love BAL!

 

I also want to pass along to you that, as with last year, I am just so pleased with how well this school year has gone. What a huge difference between nursery school and pre k- wow, how they have grown! It is amazing to me how much Tyler, and all of the children, have learned and really "blossomed" in so many ways. Ginger and Katy have done a wonderful job with all of the children. I really appreciate the way in which they have gotten to know the children, their sensitivity, and the way in which they maintain structure while also adapting to individual child's needs when necessary/appropriate. It is so clear that they really want these kids to enjoy their school experience. And it is very obvious that Ginger and Katy have worked hard at getting the kids excited about learning so many different things.

As a parent, it is so amazing to see Tyler so excited about learning to write his letters (he wouldn't write anything when he first started pre k- now he is so excited to show me the letters he can write-I think that is AWESOME!) And to see Tyler so excited about the whole "idea" of being able to read a word is so great. We were in a store today and he said "Look Mommy, that says "old."" I asked him, "how do you spell that?" and he said "o-l-d.". I thought that was amazing. Even more amazing is how happy and excited he is about his accomplishments and all that he has learned. I have watched his confidence grow so much. And it is such a great feeling to know how much he loves his friends and teachers at BAL. It has been such a positive place for us, and I can't tell you how much we appreciate it. We are excited for Will to begin at BAL next year!

I just want to let you know that Brian and I really appreciate the great work that you all do!

Christy

Mrs. Coffman,

Thank you so much for the emails you send us.  Ethan showed me a book he was working on last night and I was so impressed.  Hearing what you wrote to us in the email you sent today makes us so proud.     Thank you for the great job you do with him each day. It's greatly appreciated.

Kathlene

Hi Jodi!
I hope this note finds you well.  I wanted to share some good news regarding Dominic.  He was selected as Student of the Month @ St. Joseph's School!  The Principle selected him based on his polite manners and good behavior as well as his friendliness and diligence in his work!  He is so proud and happy.   And I have to tell you the first thing I told them was that he had gotten such a wonderful start at Burlington Academy...it all started there!   Remember when he first started he really didn't know much about sharing and caring for his little friends!  Now...it's amazing he really is a polite and friendly little guy!!!!  So once again, thank you for the great foundation you provided to Dominic!!!!
Best Regards,
Donna

Hi Kirstin,
I can't thank you enough for the e-mails you send to keep us updated.  While the girls and Mona both do a nice job updating me on their day to day activities it is really special and meaningful to hear from you too!  As a working mom I think the hardest part for me is missing out on the pick up and drop off at school.  Your e-mails help to alleviate that!  
The girls are having a great time this year too!  Their confidence is growing day by day and their math and language skills have improved so much.. We have been spending a lot of time reading together and they  just can't wait to show you their January Book Logs..they are almost full already.  Thankfully, they also love homework.  Let's hope this lasts for the next 17 years.. We are so proud of them !  
Thanks so much  to both you and Mrs. Schultz for guiding them during this impressionable time in their lives. We really appreciate it.
Sincerely,
Ginny & Geoff

Dear Mrs. Sfikas and Mrs. Patridge,
It's so wonderful that Rachel has been blessed enough to have a truly wonderful teacher. Thank you. Rachel has blossomed and is returning to her energetic and outgoing self. We feel you have played a significant role in her re-development. Thank you!
John and Sharon

Hi Shelia,  I just wanted to let you know that my Mother-in-Law truly enjoyed Special Person Day.  She thought that you, your classroom and your students were WONDERFUL!!

You are doing such a great job with our Mikey this year.  We feel blessed that he is back with you at Burlington Academy.

Thank you so much for all of your hard work!!  Have a great day-

Rachele

Dear Mike, I just want to let you know how enormously grateful we are to Ginger and Kirstin for alerting us to the problems (name withheld) was experiencing in school.  After hearing their assessment this past fall, both (name withheld) and I went back to our car and cried. How could parents that are so active in their child’s life be so ignorant as to what was truly going on?  Guilt, sadness, etc… was replaced by Ginger and Kirstin’s professional, encouraging and optimistic words.  All year, they have gone the extra mile to work with (name withheld) and continually advise us of his progress.  As you may know, (name withheld) has been in occupational and socialization therapy as a result of their feedback and has made enormous progress.  There is still more work to be done but he is on the right path and we sincerely believe that none of this would have happened if it wasn’t for Ginger and Kirstin.    They are truly AMAZING teachers and we will always be grateful to them and the Burlington Academy.  
 
All the best,
(names withheld to protect family privacy)

Hi Kim,  I just wanted to take a moment and tell you how impressed I am with the pre-k program.
First of all, the teachers are absolutely wonderful.  I feel so comfortable with both Mrs. Aldieri and Mrs. Patridge.  They have made it easy for me to work with Sarah at home to get the most out of her classroom experience.  The tools and ideas given are invaluable and I feel like I am getting an education along with Sarah.
Second of all Sarah is SO happy; when I ask her if there is anything she doesn't like about school she gives me a big "nope".  She is having so much fun and as a parent interested in my child's education I am having a blast.  You have all made learning so much fun for all of us.  Thank you for a program that offers so much.  I feel like not only is learning fun, but teaching is fun as well.  I have learned a different approach in how to educate my children in a very fun and loving way.  We are all benefiting from Sarah's experience and I know it will last a lifetime.
I really like the maturity of this program.  I like how you have raised the bar just enough to encourage kids to elevate without any pressure or discouragement.  I had no idea how great this was going to be.  To say the least what I have observed in these past two weeks makes me so excited for the rest of the school year.  Thank you for caring for our children the way that you all do.

Sincerely,
Jen

Hi Jodi and Kellee,  Just want to pass along a couple of things, and I thought I would send an email, otherwise I might forget by Tuesday!

Last night, when I came home from parent orientation, my husband asked "what is 1-2-3 eyes on me?" I guess Tyler was trying to get his attention, and finally had to resort to "1-2-3 eyes on me!" Brian said Tyler was very serious about it, too. So we got a kick out of that-apparently, Tyler is trying to teach us better listening skills!

Another thing Tyler has been doing since he came home from school yesterday is asking me to  "share" with him at times where he normally would just play on his own. An example of this is when he plays with his favorite car/truck, he will ask if I would like to share with him and pass the truck back and forth. So, clearly the lessons you are teaching are making a difference and sinking in....and that is wonderful!

There are little things he does during the day that show me he is learning very important lessons in your classroom, and Brian and I really appreciate the work you are doing!

Christy

Dear Kim,
I am writing this letter to tell you how happy my husband, Corey and I have been with our son Nathan's first year of school. Pam Forbes and Shannon Bakaysa have truly done a remarkable job teaching our son and his fellow classmates. They are both wonderful teachers and so kind with the children.
Having worked in daycare/nursery schools, I know how difficult it is to find good teachers. You have been fortunate to have found an entire staff of very good teachers!
Pam and Shannon have made Nathan feel very comfortable at school. They have helped him learn so much while he has lots of fun too, which is so important at this age. It makes me feel very happy to know that Nathan is in such good hands while he is away from me.
Many times people are quick to complain when things things go wrong, so I felt that I needed to write this to share something good. I really cannot say enough about Pam and Shannon. Kudos to both of them for their hard work and dedication and for their love of children. They are truly an asset to the Burlington Academy!
Sincerely,
Melanie

Good morning, ladies,
I was just reading through the school newsletter and I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you all for the amazing job you are doing, and more specifically, tell you how astounded I am with Lexie’s growth.

A couple days ago, she brought home her solar system book. I started reading through the pages and thought to myself, “wow, this is great for her to learn and maybe sometime in the next year she’ll be able to sight read all these big words like gas-giant and dwarf planet.” Then she sat on my lap and read that book to me cover-to-cover. I nearly fainted. I have clearly underestimated her ability and I think it’s time for her to read me the bedtime stories now, not the other way around. And I was floored by her phrasing. She completely understands that periods stop one thought and begin another, and she reads it with expression and cadence – and frankly I could not be more proud of her. I know we gave her a good start in the literacy department, but clearly whatever you guys have been doing with the kids, it is paying off in spades, and it is so amazing to me that my 5½ year old is reading to me about how Pluto is now a dwarf planet. Are you kidding me?!

I can see from the newsletter that phrasing and fluency are being stressed now in Kindergarten – I was a smart, literate kid in kindergarten, but seriously, your students blow my whole generation out of the water. And the solar system, the rainforest, fractions…Dvorak! My husband and I both work long, strange hours sometimes, and for us to know that our kids are getting this caliber of education is the best feeling ever. And it costs us probably less than $200 a month more than if we had them both in daycare down the street. This is a no-brainer and their tuition is the bill we are most adamant about, second only to the mortgage that keeps a roof over our heads. It is the best decision we ever made coming to Burlington Academy.

Lexie's developing great friendships, and it makes me so happy to see her coming into her own at The Burlington Academy. I am so looking forward to parent teacher conferences; we are committed to doing whatever we need to in order to help her grow emotionally and socially so she can achieve the same level of excellence that she’s achieving now academically. We will miss you all when Lexie moves to Consolidated in the fall…but then you’ll have Sophie for the next year in Jr. Kindergarten, so we’ll have the opportunity to do this all again.

Sorry for rambling – I’m just so happy with everyone at The Burlington Academy and I’m almost choked up with pride when I see how wonderfully my kids are developing. I wish I had time and patience to nurture them the way you all do, but since most parents can’t do that, I’m relieved that I can count on a place like The Burlington Academy to give them the tools they needs to excel as they grows into all the new phases of life that are coming. So thank you again and please never forget what an amazing impact you make in these kids’ lives.

Sincerely, Laura McGuffie

Hi Kim,
I had some feedback that I thought would be important to share with you....

I referred a co-worker of mine to your program. She had the pleasure of visiting with her daughter in the classroom with Ms. Patridge. When she reported to work, she came to see me and she was so impressed with Ms. Patridge and the curriculum that her daughter was exposed to. She found Ms. Patridge to be exemplary and commented on a story that was read to the children and their work on recalling details of the story and the fact that Ms. Patridge made sure to acknowledge each and every child and the art work they also did.

From what she told me, I can tell she found the setting well structured, educational in nature and extremely impressive. She stated that her visit to Ms. Patridge's classroom made her completely know she made the right decision in switching her daughter to The Burlington Academy.

I referred her to your program because I too, am very impressed with the staff. They are invested in early childhood education and maintaining an educational excellence that my children have benefit from.

A program is only as good as its staff and I am very thankful for the teachers that have touched my kids lives at your program.....they simply are the best!

I just thought I would share a positive note and acknowledge the positive feedback that I was able to hear.....

Wendy

Hi Tiffany,
I just wanted to send you a warm thank you for everything you have done for Lizzy at The Burlington Academy. Receiving your note today reminded me of why we chose to send Lizzy there and also of how much we like you as a teacher and a person. I do not expect you to take your own lunch time to eat with her and to then help her take her nap by rubbing her back, but I wholeheartedly appreciate it. I also enjoy your daily “ask me” notes, especially today when you mentioned Lizzy choosing sneakers for the frog! All it takes is a couple little visuals like that to calm parents' nerves and remind them that their kids are "okay."
Thanks again!
Ashley (aka, Proud Mommy of Lizzy)

Hi Linda!

Ben has been talking a lot about hibernation and adaptation in particular. It's so much fun that he is finally getting to the point where I can figure out what he is learning in school without the Spanish Inquisition! The other day he was playing in the sink and I asked him what he was doing! His replied, "adapting!"...I died laughing. He is so funny and is clearly absorbing what you are teaching. Thanks for all you do.

Jen

P.S. I am excited that Ben can identify almost all the letters of the alphabet by sight now. That's a huge improvement!

Paul and I wanted to thank you again for EVERYTHING.  We can't say enough about you, your family, and the staff at BAL.  You don't know how comforting it is to know that our kids are safe at school and the staff is so caring, loving, and patient.  There is absolutely no other school that we would trust with our children.  We are forever grateful.

Chris

Good Morning,

I just wanted to write you a note in reference to Nathan's Kindergarten Enrichment class with Mrs. Zygiel. We are so pleased with how he is doing. He just loves the class. I know with parent teacher conferences right around the corner, that we tend to look only at the child. But truly, I think we have to look at the teachers. Mrs. Zygiel is an exceptional teacher. She really knows her students and makes that connection as to how they learn well. She has done wonders with Nathan and I believe that is why he enjoys the class so much. That is what teaching is all about.

At first I thought this was due to the lower teacher to student ratio that The Burlington Academy has versus the public school. But as time has passed on...I believe it has more to due with the way he is taught in the Kindergarten Enrichment class. Every subject he learns, he does so with enthusiasm. He comes home and just babbles on about school at The Academy. I've realize just how much he enjoys it there. I wanted to say thank you! I only hope his love of learning continues as he moves on to first grade.

The Burlington Academy has done so much to meet the needs of our children. You all have worked very hard at finding the right spot or solving a problem. I can not thank you enough.

Have a wonderful day and please pass this on to the teachers that really work so hard to enrich my kids lives!!

Diane and David Biega

Hi Kim!
I just wanted to let you know that my husband and I have been EXTREMELY impressed with what Alex is learning there, and it's only October. I don’t know what the teachers are doing or if other preschools are like this but Alex comes home with so much enthusiasm about school and he is demonstrating so much of what he's learning.

We are the kind of parents who try to provide him with learning tools but we do not want to push him until he is ready. We've had a lot of the art and letters and numbers and music around our home but it hasn’t been since he started PreK at The Academy that he has picked these things up and is enthusiastic about them.

He's doing art on a regular basis on his own, he loves to build, we talk to him about the music, he loves puzzles, mazes, dot to dot, writing his letters, learning his numbers, the weather, the days of the week, being patient and honest, there's so much, I could go on and on. He asks good questions. I'm not saying that he has a full grasp on everything but he is just loving it all and talking about it and doing it.

When my sister attended Special Persons Day, she came home and said "They learn A LOT in such a short period of time".
I just want to say "Thank You" to you. You've put together an amazing program. And to let you know the teachers are superior. Also, Amy is always extremely helpful. You've got a Great Program and Staff.

Thanks!

Thuy Tien Le

Hi Amy,

We had Ella's parent teacher conference at Union School yesterday and she is doing wonderful. We knew she was doing well from casual feedback and from her report card but the conference really illustrated how well she is doing. This was a kid who we weren't sure should even attend Kindergarten. I credit her 2 wonderful Kindergarten teachers - her teacher at Union School and Mrs Zygiel.

The KE program really reinforces and expands on what she is learning in kindergarten. I love that it is different so she's not bored and she's getting more learning opportunities but at the same time how the class structure (circle time, centers) is similar to her kindergarten environment.

I'm also one of those people who believe that the outside play time is so important for kindergarten children - she gets to go outside every day because of KE and get all of her energy out and come back to the classroom refreshed and ready to learn. Farmington cut foreign language out of their elementary curriculum with budget cuts so that's another thing I love that she gets at KE - both Spanish and Sign Language (which helps with reading skills). And one of my favorite things is the Handwriting Without Tears program. Ella is fine motor delayed but as I've learned from her Occupation Therapist any child (with or without fine motor issues) can really benefit from the HWT program.

Ella has really blossomed this year and the structure of the KE program has given her the confidence she needed to succeed in kindergarten.

I could go into more detail and go on and on about how great the program is and how much it actually helps but I think you get the idea.

Debbie

Linda,

Thank you so much for the wonderful and informative updates you send. We love hearing about all the things that you are teaching.....we typically get Avery's updates daily - but hearing everything that is being taught is so nice! I must say, I wondered why Avery had been asking for Latkes for breakfast every morning and was asking that I omit the blueberries and add potatoes to her pancakes! haha!!

You are such and amazing teacher, we are VERY fortunate to have you to help mold the little lives of these little children!

Thank you for everything you do!

Shayna Hansen :)

Hi Kim,

I just wanted to send you a quick note….I am already so happy with the program. Davis and Carter are doing great, in large part due to your excellent staff. Everyone from Amy, to their individual teachers, to Heather and Matthew have been terrific.

Day One, Amy was so accommodating – she brought in a car seat for Davis for the van! I ended up not using it but greatly appreciated her effort.

Carter is having a hard time without a nap. I talked with Heather about it yesterday and today I called to talk with one of Carter’s nursery school teachers. Heather had already communicated the message to Mrs. Angers who was putting Carter down for a nap at that exact moment! I realize that naps aren’t part of your scheduled day, but I appreciate the flexibility to accommodate my daughter.

Everyone seems to go above and beyond, they are responsive, up beat, positive, fun…Just what kids (and parents) need. Thank you! Thank you!

Please pass on my kudos to everyone.

Alison

Hi Kim,

I really wanted to take a moment to say "thank you" and tell you how much I appreciate the Burlington Academy.

My husband and I have an offer to move out of the area, so we are planning to move from Burlington the end of October. Over these past couple of weeks, I have been researching other nursery school programs. I have spoken with a dozen different facilities and toured about six, ranging from child care centers to local church nursery schools - and I have to share with you, NOT ONE place even comes close to your staff, the academics or the classrooms at your school. From the professionalism of the teachers all the way to the cleanliness of the buildings, Burlington Academy soars above the rest.

We have always been happy there, but I don't feel that I had a true appreciation until I had to step outside.

From the bottom of our hearts, we thank each one of you. You are extraordinary people who come together to make a wonderful team.

Sincerely,
Cheryl

Morning Kim,

Just wanted to let you know what a HIT "Kids Night Out" was in our household! Harry talked all the way home about the wonderful things he did and continued when we woke up this morning. Please pass on my many thanks to Heather and Katelyn. Great idea and we will definitely be seeing you at the next one.

Kind Regards,
Amy Winks

Hello All,

I am a loss for words (which never happens!). We are so happy with BAL! He loves it, the teachers, the children, the environment, everything. He never complains about going to school. I can not turned back time and erase last year. I can only look at this moment and we are thrilled! Christina, your comment to me a few weeks ago about Alex's ideas and insights into classroom discussions, made me cry. Finally, teachers are "hearing" Alex. He is a bright child and definitely looks outside the box. He is a very sensitive child too, a wonderful trait for a boy. I have expressed to many around town how happy we are with his placement and your program. THANK YOU, THANK YOU for all you do each day, we are so grateful:)
Best-Sheila

Dear Ginger and Katy,
I just wanted to let you know that the other day Jennifer was really having a meltdown about something and Nate said, "Mommy, I am being tolerant today, my teachers taught me that word at school." I thought it was great that he said it so clearly and used it in the right context :) You both are so wonderful and I feel bad I don't tell you that often enough and I appreciate all you do. Seeing Nathan's growth thus far is a reflection of all your hard work. Thanks for all you do.
Liz

From the time I first visited the Burlington Academy and met Kim and some of the teachers, until the end of the school year, I felt a warm, relaxed feeling towards the people who make up the school. I visited several other schools, but that "feeling" that comes when people are sincere and dedicated, was not always there. Apart from this, I liked many other things including the philosophy which encompasses the social as well as the academic development of children and stresses the importance of virtues: patience, honesty, respect, generosity, responsibility, fairness, courtesy, gratitude, determination, and love...
Through the year, with my children in two different classes,I've always felt that my children were in capable, dedicated, caring hands. Can anything beat that? I think we're very lucky to have our children come here and feel we cannot do enough to thank the dedicated teachers and staff.
-From the mother of two children attending the Burlington Academy of Learning

Hi Ginger! I just want to let you know that the pancakes today were a BIG hit! Tyler loved it- he talked more about his day at school today than ever, which I think is just great. He has so much fun in your class-you and Katie are doing such a great job!

Christy

Dear Kim,
I would like to thank you and your wonderful staff for making Gabriella's first years of school so memorable and enjoyable. Before Gabriella began Nursery School she had been with only family. It was such a stressful experience for me to find the "perfect" school and to leave her for the first time. You and your remarkable staff made us comfortable right from our very first meeting. You made it easy to trust you because everyone has always made it clear that the children come first.
Your nursery school and Pre-K programs are so impressive and its clear that it is the teachers that make it so. Each teacher has proven how much they enjoy teaching and how serious they are in developing each child. Every child is encouraged to participate, have fun and be themselves.
In Nursery School, Gabriella learned letters, colors, numbers and how to share from Mrs. Bakaysa and Mrs. Jennetta. They assisted her in becoming comfortable playing with her peers. She began to test the waters and to stand up for herself.
In Preschool, Mrs. Patridge and Mrs. Jennetta satisfied that tremendous thirst for knowledge that all children have. They taught her to write, prereading basics, math, Spanish, music, painting, drawing and how to work things out with her peers and that is just the beginning. Gabriella was part of the Tuesday/Thursday all day Pre-K and it was a wonderful suggestion that your staff recommended for her development. Gabriella has learned and grown up so much in the last year. What's most amazing is that Gabriella can read some small books to me.
In addition, I have to comment on the manners your staff has instilled in the children. I have received many comments on Gabriella's good manners and behavior and I give Burlington Academy a lot of credit.
Gabriella and I are looking forward to beginning our new life, but I know I will cry on Pre-K graduation day because I will miss your school and the warmth that has come from you and the people you have working with you.
You have an amazing school and I wish you luck. In my eyes, nothing can match my experience with The Burlington Academy of Learning. The staff, education, socialization and love my daughter has felt in your school has had such a positive influence on her development.
Sincerely,
Leslie

Dear Ginger,  I just wanted to send you a quick note to thank you for everything you do.  No one let me make one of those "I'm thankful for..." turkeys, but if they had, I would have written "Olivia's teachers" on one of my feathers :) You put so much time, energy and love into your teaching, and it really shows.

This morning, you said to me that teaching "keeps you young"...well, I'm fairly young, and I honestly know that I would not be able to manage a classroom of 16 4 year olds so gracefully and patiently!  You and Sheila are amazing women and we are so fortunate to have you play such an important role in our child's life. I know that your work is incredibly challenging, both with dealing with the children and also with the crazy parents, like me! 

Please know just how much we truly appreciate you and what you are doing for Olivia (and all of her classmates, of course).  I hope you and your family have a wonderful Thanksgiving. Hope you are able to enjoy a few days to yourself to relax! 

Amy

Thank you so much for sending out the email reminding parents about the dangers of food allergies.  I really appreciate it.  You guys are awesome at addressing this issue.  This is one of the first reasons I chose to send my children to The Burlington Academy.  Being a mom who has to watch out for food allergies, I am totally, 100% comfortable with leaving my children with your staff. The teachers have been phenominal in raising awareness and having everybody on board.  In turn, it has caused the parents to have a postiive response, thereby creating a very supportive and safe community for everyone.  I can't express enough how grateful I am.  We don't have to spend as much time worrying about an allergy and can focus more on the positives - our children's growth, progress and overall well-being.

You guys have a wonderful reputation in addressing these issues.

Thanks again, Jen

Hi Kim,  I realized on the night of the picnic that I didn't mention anything about how wonderful the nursery school program is as well as the pre-k program.  I knew that the program is exceptional, but now seeing how much my child is prepared to progress I realize just how EXTRAORDINARY it is as well.  I have had the pleasure of interacting with all of the NS teachers and they are all so wonderful.  Mrs. Krasner really held my hand through the whole "letting go" process and created a warm nurturing environment along with Mrs. Bakaysa, Mrs. Toscano and Mrs. Angers.

Each month I watched Sarah grow more and more confident.  This team of teachers is dynamite at helping the little 3 year olds turn into big 4 year olds.  By the end of the school year Sarah was thriving!!  The warm nurturing environment along with the great academic program has produced a positive, strong, capable and healthy child.  I honestly don't think that Sarah would have been ready for the PRE-K program if she attended any other nursery school.  I don't know of any other program that offers Spanish and movement with certified teachers. 

I don't know how they did it, but when Sarah was learning about the body she was able to tell me where her brain was and how her heart works and that the lines on her arms are veins!!  Sarah just loved her teachers and she loves her PRE-K teachers as well. 

Thank you for both an awesome program and staff.  It really says something when all the children and parents are so happy.

Sincerely,

Jen

I wanted to let you know how pleased I am with your school!  I've worked at Environmental Learning Centers of CT (Indian Rock & Barnes Nature Center) for over ten years and have interacted with hundreds of different schools and daycares from across the state.  There are a few that stick out in my mind as being exceptional, and yours is one of them.

Thank you!

Lola

Dear Kim,  I just wanted you to know how satisfied I am with the educational services provided by your dedicated teachers.
They run a top-notch classroom and I am very pleased that Caroline has the opportunity to participate in it. Not only do these teachers provide excellent learning programs for her but they also provide a nurturing, warm and caring environment which is perhaps more important and harder to find since such abilities cannot be "taught". The classroom is always neat and clean and is decorated in a manner that is bright, cheerful and stimulating - even for adults! The classroom is an extension of the kind of people they are. Caroline loves being there.
It is clear that your teachers put a lot of effort into their work, the value of which, on Caroline's behalf, I am very grateful for. I don't know what they are paid but they are worth every penny and are a large factor in making BAL a great place to send a child.
I hope you share my perception of their work.
Sincerely,
Alan

Hi, I just wanted to wish everyone a great school year and to again thank you so much for all you gave to Madeline. I think so much of her self confidence and general knowledge came from spending her days with all of you.
Ginny

Dear Parents,  The staff at Burlington Academy has helped to shape our daughter Nicole who is entering Kindergarten this year and our past experiences with the Academy have been wonderful. In addition, they are a Peanut Free pre-school which has allowed us to send Alex for the same rewarding experiences. The Academy is aware of Alex's allergies and is very supportive in keeping our son safe.
Janice and Sean

Dear Kim,  I have been so thrilled that Mrs. Bakaysa and Mrs Forbes have been Cameron's teachers this year.  They have shown incredible kindness, support, and encouragement towards him and myself.  The two teachers together have been a phenominal combination for him.  Thank you for all your efforts.
Jesse

Dear Mrs. Bakaysa,  Thank you for all of your hard work, dedication and love you show to all of the children. It makes it much easier to leave Colleen, knowing how much you care. Have a wonderful holiday season!
Love, Diane, Ray, Colleen & Jack too!

Linda, Sheila and Jodi!

I think I speak for all of us parents when I say THANK YOU for loving our children as if they were your own! I feel blessed to be lucky enough to have all of you in my daughter's life to help teach and guide her.

Happy Valentine's Day to each of you as well. Get some rest as you will need your energy when the kids get back!

Take care,
Lisa DesJardin

Linda,

I just love these e-mails from you. Although Trey always says that his morning was great, he seems to leave out most details. I really look forward to these wonderful comments and thank you for your kind words. You are such a wonderful teacher and always have such beautiful things to say about all of the children. Enjoy your weekend!

Joanne

Kim and Mike, 

My husband, daughter Trinity and I have had a great start to another year at Burlington Academy! After only 3 weeks my entire family ADORES your new pre-kindergarten teacher Ms. Cragin. Trinity LOVES Ms. Cragin. At home, Trinity giggles and smiles when she talks about the "pretty teacher with the ponytail."

In my interactions with Ms. Cragin, I have been impressed with her confidence, friendliness, professionalism and love of the children. Excellent choice in hiring Ms. Cragin. She is a WONDERFUL addition to your staff!

Lisa

Dear Mrs. Sfikas and Mrs. Patridge,  Thank you so much for such a wonderful year! Matthew loved Pre-K and the progress he made over the year is amazing. Matthew's school career is off to a great start and the transition to kindergarten should be easy for him. You have a wonderful way with children. Matthew is very fortunate to have had you for a teacher-especially at an age when it is so important for school to be a good/positive experience. Thank you again! Enjoy your summer. We'll be back to visit.
Sincerely,
(name withheld to protect privacy) 

Hi Mike and Jodi,

 

          I have been wanting to write for a while now to let you know how happy I am with how this school year has gone for Tyler....and tonight Tyler gave me the perfect reason to finally sit down and do it. We were talking to Will about how Will is going to nursery school at BAL next year, and Will seemed a bit "uneasy" about the whole school idea. Tyler comes over to Will and says (very enthusiastically) "I tried it, and I really love Burlington Academy. It is so much fun."

What I loved about this is that it was totally unsolicited by me- just came straight from Tyler. Figured I would pass that along to you, since you probably get your feedback primarily from parents and not children. I'm sure it is great to hear-straight from the kids-how much they love BAL!

 

I also want to pass along to you that, as with last year, I am just so pleased with how well this school year has gone. What a huge difference between nursery school and pre k- wow, how they have grown! It is amazing to me how much Tyler, and all of the children, have learned and really "blossomed" in so many ways. Ginger and Katy have done a wonderful job with all of the children. I really appreciate the way in which they have gotten to know the children, their sensitivity, and the way in which they maintain structure while also adapting to individual child's needs when necessary/appropriate. It is so clear that they really want these kids to enjoy their school experience. And it is very obvious that Ginger and Katy have worked hard at getting the kids excited about learning so many different things.

As a parent, it is so amazing to see Tyler so excited about learning to write his letters (he wouldn't write anything when he first started pre k- now he is so excited to show me the letters he can write-I think that is AWESOME!) And to see Tyler so excited about the whole "idea" of being able to read a word is so great. We were in a store today and he said "Look Mommy, that says "old."" I asked him, "how do you spell that?" and he said "o-l-d.". I thought that was amazing. Even more amazing is how happy and excited he is about his accomplishments and all that he has learned. I have watched his confidence grow so much. And it is such a great feeling to know how much he loves his friends and teachers at BAL. It has been such a positive place for us, and I can't tell you how much we appreciate it. We are excited for Will to begin at BAL next year!

I just want to let you know that Brian and I really appreciate the great work that you all do!

Christy

Mrs. Coffman,

Thank you so much for the emails you send us.  Ethan showed me a book he was working on last night and I was so impressed.  Hearing what you wrote to us in the email you sent today makes us so proud.     Thank you for the great job you do with him each day. It's greatly appreciated.

Kathlene

Hi Jodi!
I hope this note finds you well.  I wanted to share some good news regarding Dominic.  He was selected as Student of the Month @ St. Joseph's School!  The Principle selected him based on his polite manners and good behavior as well as his friendliness and diligence in his work!  He is so proud and happy.   And I have to tell you the first thing I told them was that he had gotten such a wonderful start at Burlington Academy...it all started there!   Remember when he first started he really didn't know much about sharing and caring for his little friends!  Now...it's amazing he really is a polite and friendly little guy!!!!  So once again, thank you for the great foundation you provided to Dominic!!!!
Best Regards,
Donna

Hi Kirstin,
I can't thank you enough for the e-mails you send to keep us updated.  While the girls and Mona both do a nice job updating me on their day to day activities it is really special and meaningful to hear from you too!  As a working mom I think the hardest part for me is missing out on the pick up and drop off at school.  Your e-mails help to alleviate that!  
The girls are having a great time this year too!  Their confidence is growing day by day and their math and language skills have improved so much.. We have been spending a lot of time reading together and they  just can't wait to show you their January Book Logs..they are almost full already.  Thankfully, they also love homework.  Let's hope this lasts for the next 17 years.. We are so proud of them !  
Thanks so much  to both you and Mrs. Schultz for guiding them during this impressionable time in their lives. We really appreciate it.
Sincerely,
Ginny & Geoff

Dear Mrs. Sfikas and Mrs. Patridge,
It's so wonderful that Rachel has been blessed enough to have a truly wonderful teacher. Thank you. Rachel has blossomed and is returning to her energetic and outgoing self. We feel you have played a significant role in her re-development. Thank you!
John and Sharon

Hi Shelia,  I just wanted to let you know that my Mother-in-Law truly enjoyed Special Person Day.  She thought that you, your classroom and your students were WONDERFUL!!

You are doing such a great job with our Mikey this year.  We feel blessed that he is back with you at Burlington Academy.

Thank you so much for all of your hard work!!  Have a great day-

Rachele

Dear Mike, I just want to let you know how enormously grateful we are to Ginger and Kirstin for alerting us to the problems (name withheld) was experiencing in school.  After hearing their assessment this past fall, both (name withheld) and I went back to our car and cried. How could parents that are so active in their child’s life be so ignorant as to what was truly going on?  Guilt, sadness, etc… was replaced by Ginger and Kirstin’s professional, encouraging and optimistic words.  All year, they have gone the extra mile to work with (name withheld) and continually advise us of his progress.  As you may know, (name withheld) has been in occupational and socialization therapy as a result of their feedback and has made enormous progress.  There is still more work to be done but he is on the right path and we sincerely believe that none of this would have happened if it wasn’t for Ginger and Kirstin.    They are truly AMAZING teachers and we will always be grateful to them and the Burlington Academy.  
 
All the best,
(names withheld to protect family privacy)

Hi Kim,  I just wanted to take a moment and tell you how impressed I am with the pre-k program.
First of all, the teachers are absolutely wonderful.  I feel so comfortable with both Mrs. Aldieri and Mrs. Patridge.  They have made it easy for me to work with Sarah at home to get the most out of her classroom experience.  The tools and ideas given are invaluable and I feel like I am getting an education along with Sarah.
Second of all Sarah is SO happy; when I ask her if there is anything she doesn't like about school she gives me a big "nope".  She is having so much fun and as a parent interested in my child's education I am having a blast.  You have all made learning so much fun for all of us.  Thank you for a program that offers so much.  I feel like not only is learning fun, but teaching is fun as well.  I have learned a different approach in how to educate my children in a very fun and loving way.  We are all benefiting from Sarah's experience and I know it will last a lifetime.
I really like the maturity of this program.  I like how you have raised the bar just enough to encourage kids to elevate without any pressure or discouragement.  I had no idea how great this was going to be.  To say the least what I have observed in these past two weeks makes me so excited for the rest of the school year.  Thank you for caring for our children the way that you all do.

Sincerely,
Jen

Hi Jodi and Kellee,  Just want to pass along a couple of things, and I thought I would send an email, otherwise I might forget by Tuesday!

Last night, when I came home from parent orientation, my husband asked "what is 1-2-3 eyes on me?" I guess Tyler was trying to get his attention, and finally had to resort to "1-2-3 eyes on me!" Brian said Tyler was very serious about it, too. So we got a kick out of that-apparently, Tyler is trying to teach us better listening skills!

Another thing Tyler has been doing since he came home from school yesterday is asking me to  "share" with him at times where he normally would just play on his own. An example of this is when he plays with his favorite car/truck, he will ask if I would like to share with him and pass the truck back and forth. So, clearly the lessons you are teaching are making a difference and sinking in....and that is wonderful!

There are little things he does during the day that show me he is learning very important lessons in your classroom, and Brian and I really appreciate the work you are doing!

Christy

Dear Kim,
I am writing this letter to tell you how happy my husband, Corey and I have been with our son Nathan's first year of school. Pam Forbes and Shannon Bakaysa have truly done a remarkable job teaching our son and his fellow classmates. They are both wonderful teachers and so kind with the children.
Having worked in daycare/nursery schools, I know how difficult it is to find good teachers. You have been fortunate to have found an entire staff of very good teachers!
Pam and Shannon have made Nathan feel very comfortable at school. They have helped him learn so much while he has lots of fun too, which is so important at this age. It makes me feel very happy to know that Nathan is in such good hands while he is away from me.
Many times people are quick to complain when things things go wrong, so I felt that I needed to write this to share something good. I really cannot say enough about Pam and Shannon. Kudos to both of them for their hard work and dedication and for their love of children. They are truly an asset to the Burlington Academy!
Sincerely,
Melanie

Good morning, ladies,
I was just reading through the school newsletter and I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you all for the amazing job you are doing, and more specifically, tell you how astounded I am with Lexie’s growth.

A couple days ago, she brought home her solar system book. I started reading through the pages and thought to myself, “wow, this is great for her to learn and maybe sometime in the next year she’ll be able to sight read all these big words like gas-giant and dwarf planet.” Then she sat on my lap and read that book to me cover-to-cover. I nearly fainted. I have clearly underestimated her ability and I think it’s time for her to read me the bedtime stories now, not the other way around. And I was floored by her phrasing. She completely understands that periods stop one thought and begin another, and she reads it with expression and cadence – and frankly I could not be more proud of her. I know we gave her a good start in the literacy department, but clearly whatever you guys have been doing with the kids, it is paying off in spades, and it is so amazing to me that my 5½ year old is reading to me about how Pluto is now a dwarf planet. Are you kidding me?!

I can see from the newsletter that phrasing and fluency are being stressed now in Kindergarten – I was a smart, literate kid in kindergarten, but seriously, your students blow my whole generation out of the water. And the solar system, the rainforest, fractions…Dvorak! My husband and I both work long, strange hours sometimes, and for us to know that our kids are getting this caliber of education is the best feeling ever. And it costs us probably less than $200 a month more than if we had them both in daycare down the street. This is a no-brainer and their tuition is the bill we are most adamant about, second only to the mortgage that keeps a roof over our heads. It is the best decision we ever made coming to Burlington Academy.

Lexie's developing great friendships, and it makes me so happy to see her coming into her own at The Burlington Academy. I am so looking forward to parent teacher conferences; we are committed to doing whatever we need to in order to help her grow emotionally and socially so she can achieve the same level of excellence that she’s achieving now academically. We will miss you all when Lexie moves to Consolidated in the fall…but then you’ll have Sophie for the next year in Jr. Kindergarten, so we’ll have the opportunity to do this all again.

Sorry for rambling – I’m just so happy with everyone at The Burlington Academy and I’m almost choked up with pride when I see how wonderfully my kids are developing. I wish I had time and patience to nurture them the way you all do, but since most parents can’t do that, I’m relieved that I can count on a place like The Burlington Academy to give them the tools they needs to excel as they grows into all the new phases of life that are coming. So thank you again and please never forget what an amazing impact you make in these kids’ lives.

Sincerely, Laura McGuffie

Hi Kim,
I had some feedback that I thought would be important to share with you....

I referred a co-worker of mine to your program. She had the pleasure of visiting with her daughter in the classroom with Ms. Patridge. When she reported to work, she came to see me and she was so impressed with Ms. Patridge and the curriculum that her daughter was exposed to. She found Ms. Patridge to be exemplary and commented on a story that was read to the children and their work on recalling details of the story and the fact that Ms. Patridge made sure to acknowledge each and every child and the art work they also did.

From what she told me, I can tell she found the setting well structured, educational in nature and extremely impressive. She stated that her visit to Ms. Patridge's classroom made her completely know she made the right decision in switching her daughter to The Burlington Academy.

I referred her to your program because I too, am very impressed with the staff. They are invested in early childhood education and maintaining an educational excellence that my children have benefit from.

A program is only as good as its staff and I am very thankful for the teachers that have touched my kids lives at your program.....they simply are the best!

I just thought I would share a positive note and acknowledge the positive feedback that I was able to hear.....

Wendy

Hi Tiffany,
I just wanted to send you a warm thank you for everything you have done for Lizzy at The Burlington Academy. Receiving your note today reminded me of why we chose to send Lizzy there and also of how much we like you as a teacher and a person. I do not expect you to take your own lunch time to eat with her and to then help her take her nap by rubbing her back, but I wholeheartedly appreciate it. I also enjoy your daily “ask me” notes, especially today when you mentioned Lizzy choosing sneakers for the frog! All it takes is a couple little visuals like that to calm parents' nerves and remind them that their kids are "okay."
Thanks again!
Ashley (aka, Proud Mommy of Lizzy)

Hi Linda!

Ben has been talking a lot about hibernation and adaptation in particular. It's so much fun that he is finally getting to the point where I can figure out what he is learning in school without the Spanish Inquisition! The other day he was playing in the sink and I asked him what he was doing! His replied, "adapting!"...I died laughing. He is so funny and is clearly absorbing what you are teaching. Thanks for all you do.

Jen

P.S. I am excited that Ben can identify almost all the letters of the alphabet by sight now. That's a huge improvement!

Paul and I wanted to thank you again for EVERYTHING.  We can't say enough about you, your family, and the staff at BAL.  You don't know how comforting it is to know that our kids are safe at school and the staff is so caring, loving, and patient.  There is absolutely no other school that we would trust with our children.  We are forever grateful.

Chris

Good Morning,

I just wanted to write you a note in reference to Nathan's Kindergarten Enrichment class with Mrs. Zygiel. We are so pleased with how he is doing. He just loves the class. I know with parent teacher conferences right around the corner, that we tend to look only at the child. But truly, I think we have to look at the teachers. Mrs. Zygiel is an exceptional teacher. She really knows her students and makes that connection as to how they learn well. She has done wonders with Nathan and I believe that is why he enjoys the class so much. That is what teaching is all about.

At first I thought this was due to the lower teacher to student ratio that The Burlington Academy has versus the public school. But as time has passed on...I believe it has more to due with the way he is taught in the Kindergarten Enrichment class. Every subject he learns, he does so with enthusiasm. He comes home and just babbles on about school at The Academy. I've realize just how much he enjoys it there. I wanted to say thank you! I only hope his love of learning continues as he moves on to first grade.

The Burlington Academy has done so much to meet the needs of our children. You all have worked very hard at finding the right spot or solving a problem. I can not thank you enough.

Have a wonderful day and please pass this on to the teachers that really work so hard to enrich my kids lives!!

Diane and David Biega

Hi Kim!
I just wanted to let you know that my husband and I have been EXTREMELY impressed with what Alex is learning there, and it's only October. I don’t know what the teachers are doing or if other preschools are like this but Alex comes home with so much enthusiasm about school and he is demonstrating so much of what he's learning.

We are the kind of parents who try to provide him with learning tools but we do not want to push him until he is ready. We've had a lot of the art and letters and numbers and music around our home but it hasn’t been since he started PreK at The Academy that he has picked these things up and is enthusiastic about them.

He's doing art on a regular basis on his own, he loves to build, we talk to him about the music, he loves puzzles, mazes, dot to dot, writing his letters, learning his numbers, the weather, the days of the week, being patient and honest, there's so much, I could go on and on. He asks good questions. I'm not saying that he has a full grasp on everything but he is just loving it all and talking about it and doing it.

When my sister attended Special Persons Day, she came home and said "They learn A LOT in such a short period of time".
I just want to say "Thank You" to you. You've put together an amazing program. And to let you know the teachers are superior. Also, Amy is always extremely helpful. You've got a Great Program and Staff.

Thanks!

Thuy Tien Le

Hi Amy,

We had Ella's parent teacher conference at Union School yesterday and she is doing wonderful. We knew she was doing well from casual feedback and from her report card but the conference really illustrated how well she is doing. This was a kid who we weren't sure should even attend Kindergarten. I credit her 2 wonderful Kindergarten teachers - her teacher at Union School and Mrs Zygiel.

The KE program really reinforces and expands on what she is learning in kindergarten. I love that it is different so she's not bored and she's getting more learning opportunities but at the same time how the class structure (circle time, centers) is similar to her kindergarten environment.

I'm also one of those people who believe that the outside play time is so important for kindergarten children - she gets to go outside every day because of KE and get all of her energy out and come back to the classroom refreshed and ready to learn. Farmington cut foreign language out of their elementary curriculum with budget cuts so that's another thing I love that she gets at KE - both Spanish and Sign Language (which helps with reading skills). And one of my favorite things is the Handwriting Without Tears program. Ella is fine motor delayed but as I've learned from her Occupation Therapist any child (with or without fine motor issues) can really benefit from the HWT program.

Ella has really blossomed this year and the structure of the KE program has given her the confidence she needed to succeed in kindergarten.

I could go into more detail and go on and on about how great the program is and how much it actually helps but I think you get the idea.

Debbie

Linda,

Thank you so much for the wonderful and informative updates you send. We love hearing about all the things that you are teaching.....we typically get Avery's updates daily - but hearing everything that is being taught is so nice! I must say, I wondered why Avery had been asking for Latkes for breakfast every morning and was asking that I omit the blueberries and add potatoes to her pancakes! haha!!

You are such and amazing teacher, we are VERY fortunate to have you to help mold the little lives of these little children!

Thank you for everything you do!

Shayna Hansen :)

Hi Kim,

I just wanted to send you a quick note….I am already so happy with the program. Davis and Carter are doing great, in large part due to your excellent staff. Everyone from Amy, to their individual teachers, to Heather and Matthew have been terrific.

Day One, Amy was so accommodating – she brought in a car seat for Davis for the van! I ended up not using it but greatly appreciated her effort.

Carter is having a hard time without a nap. I talked with Heather about it yesterday and today I called to talk with one of Carter’s nursery school teachers. Heather had already communicated the message to Mrs. Angers who was putting Carter down for a nap at that exact moment! I realize that naps aren’t part of your scheduled day, but I appreciate the flexibility to accommodate my daughter.

Everyone seems to go above and beyond, they are responsive, up beat, positive, fun…Just what kids (and parents) need. Thank you! Thank you!

Please pass on my kudos to everyone.

Alison

Hi Kim,

I really wanted to take a moment to say "thank you" and tell you how much I appreciate the Burlington Academy.

My husband and I have an offer to move out of the area, so we are planning to move from Burlington the end of October. Over these past couple of weeks, I have been researching other nursery school programs. I have spoken with a dozen different facilities and toured about six, ranging from child care centers to local church nursery schools - and I have to share with you, NOT ONE place even comes close to your staff, the academics or the classrooms at your school. From the professionalism of the teachers all the way to the cleanliness of the buildings, Burlington Academy soars above the rest.

We have always been happy there, but I don't feel that I had a true appreciation until I had to step outside.

From the bottom of our hearts, we thank each one of you. You are extraordinary people who come together to make a wonderful team.

Sincerely,
Cheryl

Morning Kim,

Just wanted to let you know what a HIT "Kids Night Out" was in our household! Harry talked all the way home about the wonderful things he did and continued when we woke up this morning. Please pass on my many thanks to Heather and Katelyn. Great idea and we will definitely be seeing you at the next one.

Kind Regards,
Amy Winks

Hello All,

I am a loss for words (which never happens!). We are so happy with BAL! He loves it, the teachers, the children, the environment, everything. He never complains about going to school. I can not turned back time and erase last year. I can only look at this moment and we are thrilled! Christina, your comment to me a few weeks ago about Alex's ideas and insights into classroom discussions, made me cry. Finally, teachers are "hearing" Alex. He is a bright child and definitely looks outside the box. He is a very sensitive child too, a wonderful trait for a boy. I have expressed to many around town how happy we are with his placement and your program. THANK YOU, THANK YOU for all you do each day, we are so grateful:)
Best-Sheila

Dear Ginger and Katy,
I just wanted to let you know that the other day Jennifer was really having a meltdown about something and Nate said, "Mommy, I am being tolerant today, my teachers taught me that word at school." I thought it was great that he said it so clearly and used it in the right context :) You both are so wonderful and I feel bad I don't tell you that often enough and I appreciate all you do. Seeing Nathan's growth thus far is a reflection of all your hard work. Thanks for all you do.
Liz

From the time I first visited the Burlington Academy and met Kim and some of the teachers, until the end of the school year, I felt a warm, relaxed feeling towards the people who make up the school. I visited several other schools, but that "feeling" that comes when people are sincere and dedicated, was not always there. Apart from this, I liked many other things including the philosophy which encompasses the social as well as the academic development of children and stresses the importance of virtues: patience, honesty, respect, generosity, responsibility, fairness, courtesy, gratitude, determination, and love...
Through the year, with my children in two different classes,I've always felt that my children were in capable, dedicated, caring hands. Can anything beat that? I think we're very lucky to have our children come here and feel we cannot do enough to thank the dedicated teachers and staff.
-From the mother of two children attending the Burlington Academy of Learning

Hi Ginger! I just want to let you know that the pancakes today were a BIG hit! Tyler loved it- he talked more about his day at school today than ever, which I think is just great. He has so much fun in your class-you and Katie are doing such a great job!

Christy

Dear Kim,
I would like to thank you and your wonderful staff for making Gabriella's first years of school so memorable and enjoyable. Before Gabriella began Nursery School she had been with only family. It was such a stressful experience for me to find the "perfect" school and to leave her for the first time. You and your remarkable staff made us comfortable right from our very first meeting. You made it easy to trust you because everyone has always made it clear that the children come first.
Your nursery school and Pre-K programs are so impressive and its clear that it is the teachers that make it so. Each teacher has proven how much they enjoy teaching and how serious they are in developing each child. Every child is encouraged to participate, have fun and be themselves.
In Nursery School, Gabriella learned letters, colors, numbers and how to share from Mrs. Bakaysa and Mrs. Jennetta. They assisted her in becoming comfortable playing with her peers. She began to test the waters and to stand up for herself.
In Preschool, Mrs. Patridge and Mrs. Jennetta satisfied that tremendous thirst for knowledge that all children have. They taught her to write, prereading basics, math, Spanish, music, painting, drawing and how to work things out with her peers and that is just the beginning. Gabriella was part of the Tuesday/Thursday all day Pre-K and it was a wonderful suggestion that your staff recommended for her development. Gabriella has learned and grown up so much in the last year. What's most amazing is that Gabriella can read some small books to me.
In addition, I have to comment on the manners your staff has instilled in the children. I have received many comments on Gabriella's good manners and behavior and I give Burlington Academy a lot of credit.
Gabriella and I are looking forward to beginning our new life, but I know I will cry on Pre-K graduation day because I will miss your school and the warmth that has come from you and the people you have working with you.
You have an amazing school and I wish you luck. In my eyes, nothing can match my experience with The Burlington Academy of Learning. The staff, education, socialization and love my daughter has felt in your school has had such a positive influence on her development.
Sincerely,
Leslie

Dear Ginger,  I just wanted to send you a quick note to thank you for everything you do.  No one let me make one of those "I'm thankful for..." turkeys, but if they had, I would have written "Olivia's teachers" on one of my feathers :) You put so much time, energy and love into your teaching, and it really shows.

This morning, you said to me that teaching "keeps you young"...well, I'm fairly young, and I honestly know that I would not be able to manage a classroom of 16 4 year olds so gracefully and patiently!  You and Sheila are amazing women and we are so fortunate to have you play such an important role in our child's life. I know that your work is incredibly challenging, both with dealing with the children and also with the crazy parents, like me! 

Please know just how much we truly appreciate you and what you are doing for Olivia (and all of her classmates, of course).  I hope you and your family have a wonderful Thanksgiving. Hope you are able to enjoy a few days to yourself to relax! 

Amy

Thank you so much for sending out the email reminding parents about the dangers of food allergies.  I really appreciate it.  You guys are awesome at addressing this issue.  This is one of the first reasons I chose to send my children to The Burlington Academy.  Being a mom who has to watch out for food allergies, I am totally, 100% comfortable with leaving my children with your staff. The teachers have been phenominal in raising awareness and having everybody on board.  In turn, it has caused the parents to have a postiive response, thereby creating a very supportive and safe community for everyone.  I can't express enough how grateful I am.  We don't have to spend as much time worrying about an allergy and can focus more on the positives - our children's growth, progress and overall well-being.

You guys have a wonderful reputation in addressing these issues.

Thanks again, Jen

Hi Kim,  I realized on the night of the picnic that I didn't mention anything about how wonderful the nursery school program is as well as the pre-k program.  I knew that the program is exceptional, but now seeing how much my child is prepared to progress I realize just how EXTRAORDINARY it is as well.  I have had the pleasure of interacting with all of the NS teachers and they are all so wonderful.  Mrs. Krasner really held my hand through the whole "letting go" process and created a warm nurturing environment along with Mrs. Bakaysa, Mrs. Toscano and Mrs. Angers.

Each month I watched Sarah grow more and more confident.  This team of teachers is dynamite at helping the little 3 year olds turn into big 4 year olds.  By the end of the school year Sarah was thriving!!  The warm nurturing environment along with the great academic program has produced a positive, strong, capable and healthy child.  I honestly don't think that Sarah would have been ready for the PRE-K program if she attended any other nursery school.  I don't know of any other program that offers Spanish and movement with certified teachers. 

I don't know how they did it, but when Sarah was learning about the body she was able to tell me where her brain was and how her heart works and that the lines on her arms are veins!!  Sarah just loved her teachers and she loves her PRE-K teachers as well. 

Thank you for both an awesome program and staff.  It really says something when all the children and parents are so happy.

Sincerely,

Jen

I wanted to let you know how pleased I am with your school!  I've worked at Environmental Learning Centers of CT (Indian Rock & Barnes Nature Center) for over ten years and have interacted with hundreds of different schools and daycares from across the state.  There are a few that stick out in my mind as being exceptional, and yours is one of them.

Thank you!

Lola

Dear Kim,  I just wanted you to know how satisfied I am with the educational services provided by your dedicated teachers.
They run a top-notch classroom and I am very pleased that Caroline has the opportunity to participate in it. Not only do these teachers provide excellent learning programs for her but they also provide a nurturing, warm and caring environment which is perhaps more important and harder to find since such abilities cannot be "taught". The classroom is always neat and clean and is decorated in a manner that is bright, cheerful and stimulating - even for adults! The classroom is an extension of the kind of people they are. Caroline loves being there.
It is clear that your teachers put a lot of effort into their work, the value of which, on Caroline's behalf, I am very grateful for. I don't know what they are paid but they are worth every penny and are a large factor in making BAL a great place to send a child.
I hope you share my perception of their work.
Sincerely,
Alan

Hi, I just wanted to wish everyone a great school year and to again thank you so much for all you gave to Madeline. I think so much of her self confidence and general knowledge came from spending her days with all of you.
Ginny

Dear Parents,  The staff at Burlington Academy has helped to shape our daughter Nicole who is entering Kindergarten this year and our past experiences with the Academy have been wonderful. In addition, they are a Peanut Free pre-school which has allowed us to send Alex for the same rewarding experiences. The Academy is aware of Alex's allergies and is very supportive in keeping our son safe.
Janice and Sean

Dear Kim,  I have been so thrilled that Mrs. Bakaysa and Mrs Forbes have been Cameron's teachers this year.  They have shown incredible kindness, support, and encouragement towards him and myself.  The two teachers together have been a phenominal combination for him.  Thank you for all your efforts.
Jesse

Dear Mrs. Bakaysa,  Thank you for all of your hard work, dedication and love you show to all of the children. It makes it much easier to leave Colleen, knowing how much you care. Have a wonderful holiday season!
Love, Diane, Ray, Colleen & Jack too!

Linda, Sheila and Jodi!

I think I speak for all of us parents when I say THANK YOU for loving our children as if they were your own! I feel blessed to be lucky enough to have all of you in my daughter's life to help teach and guide her.

Happy Valentine's Day to each of you as well. Get some rest as you will need your energy when the kids get back!

Take care,
Lisa DesJardin

Linda,

I just love these e-mails from you. Although Trey always says that his morning was great, he seems to leave out most details. I really look forward to these wonderful comments and thank you for your kind words. You are such a wonderful teacher and always have such beautiful things to say about all of the children. Enjoy your weekend!

Joanne

Kim and Mike, 

My husband, daughter Trinity and I have had a great start to another year at Burlington Academy! After only 3 weeks my entire family ADORES your new pre-kindergarten teacher Ms. Cragin. Trinity LOVES Ms. Cragin. At home, Trinity giggles and smiles when she talks about the "pretty teacher with the ponytail."

In my interactions with Ms. Cragin, I have been impressed with her confidence, friendliness, professionalism and love of the children. Excellent choice in hiring Ms. Cragin. She is a WONDERFUL addition to your staff!

Lisa

Dear Mrs. Sfikas and Mrs. Patridge,  Thank you so much for such a wonderful year! Matthew loved Pre-K and the progress he made over the year is amazing. Matthew's school career is off to a great start and the transition to kindergarten should be easy for him. You have a wonderful way with children. Matthew is very fortunate to have had you for a teacher-especially at an age when it is so important for school to be a good/positive experience. Thank you again! Enjoy your summer. We'll be back to visit.
Sincerely,
(name withheld to protect privacy) 

Hi Mike and Jodi,

 

          I have been wanting to write for a while now to let you know how happy I am with how this school year has gone for Tyler....and tonight Tyler gave me the perfect reason to finally sit down and do it. We were talking to Will about how Will is going to nursery school at BAL next year, and Will seemed a bit "uneasy" about the whole school idea. Tyler comes over to Will and says (very enthusiastically) "I tried it, and I really love Burlington Academy. It is so much fun."

What I loved about this is that it was totally unsolicited by me- just came straight from Tyler. Figured I would pass that along to you, since you probably get your feedback primarily from parents and not children. I'm sure it is great to hear-straight from the kids-how much they love BAL!

 

I also want to pass along to you that, as with last year, I am just so pleased with how well this school year has gone. What a huge difference between nursery school and pre k- wow, how they have grown! It is amazing to me how much Tyler, and all of the children, have learned and really "blossomed" in so many ways. Ginger and Katy have done a wonderful job with all of the children. I really appreciate the way in which they have gotten to know the children, their sensitivity, and the way in which they maintain structure while also adapting to individual child's needs when necessary/appropriate. It is so clear that they really want these kids to enjoy their school experience. And it is very obvious that Ginger and Katy have worked hard at getting the kids excited about learning so many different things.

As a parent, it is so amazing to see Tyler so excited about learning to write his letters (he wouldn't write anything when he first started pre k- now he is so excited to show me the letters he can write-I think that is AWESOME!) And to see Tyler so excited about the whole "idea" of being able to read a word is so great. We were in a store today and he said "Look Mommy, that says "old."" I asked him, "how do you spell that?" and he said "o-l-d.". I thought that was amazing. Even more amazing is how happy and excited he is about his accomplishments and all that he has learned. I have watched his confidence grow so much. And it is such a great feeling to know how much he loves his friends and teachers at BAL. It has been such a positive place for us, and I can't tell you how much we appreciate it. We are excited for Will to begin at BAL next year!

I just want to let you know that Brian and I really appreciate the great work that you all do!

Christy

Mrs. Coffman,

Thank you so much for the emails you send us.  Ethan showed me a book he was working on last night and I was so impressed.  Hearing what you wrote to us in the email you sent today makes us so proud.     Thank you for the great job you do with him each day. It's greatly appreciated.

Kathlene

Hi Jodi!
I hope this note finds you well.  I wanted to share some good news regarding Dominic.  He was selected as Student of the Month @ St. Joseph's School!  The Principle selected him based on his polite manners and good behavior as well as his friendliness and diligence in his work!  He is so proud and happy.   And I have to tell you the first thing I told them was that he had gotten such a wonderful start at Burlington Academy...it all started there!   Remember when he first started he really didn't know much about sharing and caring for his little friends!  Now...it's amazing he really is a polite and friendly little guy!!!!  So once again, thank you for the great foundation you provided to Dominic!!!!
Best Regards,
Donna

Hi Kirstin,
I can't thank you enough for the e-mails you send to keep us updated.  While the girls and Mona both do a nice job updating me on their day to day activities it is really special and meaningful to hear from you too!  As a working mom I think the hardest part for me is missing out on the pick up and drop off at school.  Your e-mails help to alleviate that!  
The girls are having a great time this year too!  Their confidence is growing day by day and their math and language skills have improved so much.. We have been spending a lot of time reading together and they  just can't wait to show you their January Book Logs..they are almost full already.  Thankfully, they also love homework.  Let's hope this lasts for the next 17 years.. We are so proud of them !  
Thanks so much  to both you and Mrs. Schultz for guiding them during this impressionable time in their lives. We really appreciate it.
Sincerely,
Ginny & Geoff

Dear Mrs. Sfikas and Mrs. Patridge,
It's so wonderful that Rachel has been blessed enough to have a truly wonderful teacher. Thank you. Rachel has blossomed and is returning to her energetic and outgoing self. We feel you have played a significant role in her re-development. Thank you!
John and Sharon

Hi Shelia,  I just wanted to let you know that my Mother-in-Law truly enjoyed Special Person Day.  She thought that you, your classroom and your students were WONDERFUL!!

You are doing such a great job with our Mikey this year.  We feel blessed that he is back with you at Burlington Academy.

Thank you so much for all of your hard work!!  Have a great day-

Rachele

Dear Mike, I just want to let you know how enormously grateful we are to Ginger and Kirstin for alerting us to the problems (name withheld) was experiencing in school.  After hearing their assessment this past fall, both (name withheld) and I went back to our car and cried. How could parents that are so active in their child’s life be so ignorant as to what was truly going on?  Guilt, sadness, etc… was replaced by Ginger and Kirstin’s professional, encouraging and optimistic words.  All year, they have gone the extra mile to work with (name withheld) and continually advise us of his progress.  As you may know, (name withheld) has been in occupational and socialization therapy as a result of their feedback and has made enormous progress.  There is still more work to be done but he is on the right path and we sincerely believe that none of this would have happened if it wasn’t for Ginger and Kirstin.    They are truly AMAZING teachers and we will always be grateful to them and the Burlington Academy.  
 
All the best,
(names withheld to protect family privacy)

Hi Kim,  I just wanted to take a moment and tell you how impressed I am with the pre-k program.
First of all, the teachers are absolutely wonderful.  I feel so comfortable with both Mrs. Aldieri and Mrs. Patridge.  They have made it easy for me to work with Sarah at home to get the most out of her classroom experience.  The tools and ideas given are invaluable and I feel like I am getting an education along with Sarah.
Second of all Sarah is SO happy; when I ask her if there is anything she doesn't like about school she gives me a big "nope".  She is having so much fun and as a parent interested in my child's education I am having a blast.  You have all made learning so much fun for all of us.  Thank you for a program that offers so much.  I feel like not only is learning fun, but teaching is fun as well.  I have learned a different approach in how to educate my children in a very fun and loving way.  We are all benefiting from Sarah's experience and I know it will last a lifetime.
I really like the maturity of this program.  I like how you have raised the bar just enough to encourage kids to elevate without any pressure or discouragement.  I had no idea how great this was going to be.  To say the least what I have observed in these past two weeks makes me so excited for the rest of the school year.  Thank you for caring for our children the way that you all do.

Sincerely,
Jen

Hi Jodi and Kellee,  Just want to pass along a couple of things, and I thought I would send an email, otherwise I might forget by Tuesday!

Last night, when I came home from parent orientation, my husband asked "what is 1-2-3 eyes on me?" I guess Tyler was trying to get his attention, and finally had to resort to "1-2-3 eyes on me!" Brian said Tyler was very serious about it, too. So we got a kick out of that-apparently, Tyler is trying to teach us better listening skills!

Another thing Tyler has been doing since he came home from school yesterday is asking me to  "share" with him at times where he normally would just play on his own. An example of this is when he plays with his favorite car/truck, he will ask if I would like to share with him and pass the truck back and forth. So, clearly the lessons you are teaching are making a difference and sinking in....and that is wonderful!

There are little things he does during the day that show me he is learning very important lessons in your classroom, and Brian and I really appreciate the work you are doing!

Christy

Dear Kim,
I am writing this letter to tell you how happy my husband, Corey and I have been with our son Nathan's first year of school. Pam Forbes and Shannon Bakaysa have truly done a remarkable job teaching our son and his fellow classmates. They are both wonderful teachers and so kind with the children.
Having worked in daycare/nursery schools, I know how difficult it is to find good teachers. You have been fortunate to have found an entire staff of very good teachers!
Pam and Shannon have made Nathan feel very comfortable at school. They have helped him learn so much while he has lots of fun too, which is so important at this age. It makes me feel very happy to know that Nathan is in such good hands while he is away from me.
Many times people are quick to complain when things things go wrong, so I felt that I needed to write this to share something good. I really cannot say enough about Pam and Shannon. Kudos to both of them for their hard work and dedication and for their love of children. They are truly an asset to the Burlington Academy!
Sincerely,
Melanie

Good morning, ladies,
I was just reading through the school newsletter and I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you all for the amazing job you are doing, and more specifically, tell you how astounded I am with Lexie’s growth.

A couple days ago, she brought home her solar system book. I started reading through the pages and thought to myself, “wow, this is great for her to learn and maybe sometime in the next year she’ll be able to sight read all these big words like gas-giant and dwarf planet.” Then she sat on my lap and read that book to me cover-to-cover. I nearly fainted. I have clearly underestimated her ability and I think it’s time for her to read me the bedtime stories now, not the other way around. And I was floored by her phrasing. She completely understands that periods stop one thought and begin another, and she reads it with expression and cadence – and frankly I could not be more proud of her. I know we gave her a good start in the literacy department, but clearly whatever you guys have been doing with the kids, it is paying off in spades, and it is so amazing to me that my 5½ year old is reading to me about how Pluto is now a dwarf planet. Are you kidding me?!

I can see from the newsletter that phrasing and fluency are being stressed now in Kindergarten – I was a smart, literate kid in kindergarten, but seriously, your students blow my whole generation out of the water. And the solar system, the rainforest, fractions…Dvorak! My husband and I both work long, strange hours sometimes, and for us to know that our kids are getting this caliber of education is the best feeling ever. And it costs us probably less than $200 a month more than if we had them both in daycare down the street. This is a no-brainer and their tuition is the bill we are most adamant about, second only to the mortgage that keeps a roof over our heads. It is the best decision we ever made coming to Burlington Academy.

Lexie's developing great friendships, and it makes me so happy to see her coming into her own at The Burlington Academy. I am so looking forward to parent teacher conferences; we are committed to doing whatever we need to in order to help her grow emotionally and socially so she can achieve the same level of excellence that she’s achieving now academically. We will miss you all when Lexie moves to Consolidated in the fall…but then you’ll have Sophie for the next year in Jr. Kindergarten, so we’ll have the opportunity to do this all again.

Sorry for rambling – I’m just so happy with everyone at The Burlington Academy and I’m almost choked up with pride when I see how wonderfully my kids are developing. I wish I had time and patience to nurture them the way you all do, but since most parents can’t do that, I’m relieved that I can count on a place like The Burlington Academy to give them the tools they needs to excel as they grows into all the new phases of life that are coming. So thank you again and please never forget what an amazing impact you make in these kids’ lives.

Sincerely, Laura McGuffie

Hi Kim,
I had some feedback that I thought would be important to share with you....

I referred a co-worker of mine to your program. She had the pleasure of visiting with her daughter in the classroom with Ms. Patridge. When she reported to work, she came to see me and she was so impressed with Ms. Patridge and the curriculum that her daughter was exposed to. She found Ms. Patridge to be exemplary and commented on a story that was read to the children and their work on recalling details of the story and the fact that Ms. Patridge made sure to acknowledge each and every child and the art work they also did.

From what she told me, I can tell she found the setting well structured, educational in nature and extremely impressive. She stated that her visit to Ms. Patridge's classroom made her completely know she made the right decision in switching her daughter to The Burlington Academy.

I referred her to your program because I too, am very impressed with the staff. They are invested in early childhood education and maintaining an educational excellence that my children have benefit from.

A program is only as good as its staff and I am very thankful for the teachers that have touched my kids lives at your program.....they simply are the best!

I just thought I would share a positive note and acknowledge the positive feedback that I was able to hear.....

Wendy

Hi Tiffany,
I just wanted to send you a warm thank you for everything you have done for Lizzy at The Burlington Academy. Receiving your note today reminded me of why we chose to send Lizzy there and also of how much we like you as a teacher and a person. I do not expect you to take your own lunch time to eat with her and to then help her take her nap by rubbing her back, but I wholeheartedly appreciate it. I also enjoy your daily “ask me” notes, especially today when you mentioned Lizzy choosing sneakers for the frog! All it takes is a couple little visuals like that to calm parents' nerves and remind them that their kids are "okay."
Thanks again!
Ashley (aka, Proud Mommy of Lizzy)

Hi Linda!

Ben has been talking a lot about hibernation and adaptation in particular. It's so much fun that he is finally getting to the point where I can figure out what he is learning in school without the Spanish Inquisition! The other day he was playing in the sink and I asked him what he was doing! His replied, "adapting!"...I died laughing. He is so funny and is clearly absorbing what you are teaching. Thanks for all you do.

Jen

P.S. I am excited that Ben can identify almost all the letters of the alphabet by sight now. That's a huge improvement!

Paul and I wanted to thank you again for EVERYTHING.  We can't say enough about you, your family, and the staff at BAL.  You don't know how comforting it is to know that our kids are safe at school and the staff is so caring, loving, and patient.  There is absolutely no other school that we would trust with our children.  We are forever grateful.

Chris

Good Morning,

I just wanted to write you a note in reference to Nathan's Kindergarten Enrichment class with Mrs. Zygiel. We are so pleased with how he is doing. He just loves the class. I know with parent teacher conferences right around the corner, that we tend to look only at the child. But truly, I think we have to look at the teachers. Mrs. Zygiel is an exceptional teacher. She really knows her students and makes that connection as to how they learn well. She has done wonders with Nathan and I believe that is why he enjoys the class so much. That is what teaching is all about.

At first I thought this was due to the lower teacher to student ratio that The Burlington Academy has versus the public school. But as time has passed on...I believe it has more to due with the way he is taught in the Kindergarten Enrichment class. Every subject he learns, he does so with enthusiasm. He comes home and just babbles on about school at The Academy. I've realize just how much he enjoys it there. I wanted to say thank you! I only hope his love of learning continues as he moves on to first grade.

The Burlington Academy has done so much to meet the needs of our children. You all have worked very hard at finding the right spot or solving a problem. I can not thank you enough.

Have a wonderful day and please pass this on to the teachers that really work so hard to enrich my kids lives!!

Diane and David Biega

Hi Kim!
I just wanted to let you know that my husband and I have been EXTREMELY impressed with what Alex is learning there, and it's only October. I don’t know what the teachers are doing or if other preschools are like this but Alex comes home with so much enthusiasm about school and he is demonstrating so much of what he's learning.

We are the kind of parents who try to provide him with learning tools but we do not want to push him until he is ready. We've had a lot of the art and letters and numbers and music around our home but it hasn’t been since he started PreK at The Academy that he has picked these things up and is enthusiastic about them.

He's doing art on a regular basis on his own, he loves to build, we talk to him about the music, he loves puzzles, mazes, dot to dot, writing his letters, learning his numbers, the weather, the days of the week, being patient and honest, there's so much, I could go on and on. He asks good questions. I'm not saying that he has a full grasp on everything but he is just loving it all and talking about it and doing it.

When my sister attended Special Persons Day, she came home and said "They learn A LOT in such a short period of time".
I just want to say "Thank You" to you. You've put together an amazing program. And to let you know the teachers are superior. Also, Amy is always extremely helpful. You've got a Great Program and Staff.

Thanks!

Thuy Tien Le

Hi Amy,

We had Ella's parent teacher conference at Union School yesterday and she is doing wonderful. We knew she was doing well from casual feedback and from her report card but the conference really illustrated how well she is doing. This was a kid who we weren't sure should even attend Kindergarten. I credit her 2 wonderful Kindergarten teachers - her teacher at Union School and Mrs Zygiel.

The KE program really reinforces and expands on what she is learning in kindergarten. I love that it is different so she's not bored and she's getting more learning opportunities but at the same time how the class structure (circle time, centers) is similar to her kindergarten environment.

I'm also one of those people who believe that the outside play time is so important for kindergarten children - she gets to go outside every day because of KE and get all of her energy out and come back to the classroom refreshed and ready to learn. Farmington cut foreign language out of their elementary curriculum with budget cuts so that's another thing I love that she gets at KE - both Spanish and Sign Language (which helps with reading skills). And one of my favorite things is the Handwriting Without Tears program. Ella is fine motor delayed but as I've learned from her Occupation Therapist any child (with or without fine motor issues) can really benefit from the HWT program.

Ella has really blossomed this year and the structure of the KE program has given her the confidence she needed to succeed in kindergarten.

I could go into more detail and go on and on about how great the program is and how much it actually helps but I think you get the idea.

Debbie

Linda,

Thank you so much for the wonderful and informative updates you send. We love hearing about all the things that you are teaching.....we typically get Avery's updates daily - but hearing everything that is being taught is so nice! I must say, I wondered why Avery had been asking for Latkes for breakfast every morning and was asking that I omit the blueberries and add potatoes to her pancakes! haha!!

You are such and amazing teacher, we are VERY fortunate to have you to help mold the little lives of these little children!

Thank you for everything you do!

Shayna Hansen :)

Hi Kim,

I just wanted to send you a quick note….I am already so happy with the program. Davis and Carter are doing great, in large part due to your excellent staff. Everyone from Amy, to their individual teachers, to Heather and Matthew have been terrific.

Day One, Amy was so accommodating – she brought in a car seat for Davis for the van! I ended up not using it but greatly appreciated her effort.

Carter is having a hard time without a nap. I talked with Heather about it yesterday and today I called to talk with one of Carter’s nursery school teachers. Heather had already communicated the message to Mrs. Angers who was putting Carter down for a nap at that exact moment! I realize that naps aren’t part of your scheduled day, but I appreciate the flexibility to accommodate my daughter.

Everyone seems to go above and beyond, they are responsive, up beat, positive, fun…Just what kids (and parents) need. Thank you! Thank you!

Please pass on my kudos to everyone.

Alison

Hi Kim,

I really wanted to take a moment to say "thank you" and tell you how much I appreciate the Burlington Academy.

My husband and I have an offer to move out of the area, so we are planning to move from Burlington the end of October. Over these past couple of weeks, I have been researching other nursery school programs. I have spoken with a dozen different facilities and toured about six, ranging from child care centers to local church nursery schools - and I have to share with you, NOT ONE place even comes close to your staff, the academics or the classrooms at your school. From the professionalism of the teachers all the way to the cleanliness of the buildings, Burlington Academy soars above the rest.

We have always been happy there, but I don't feel that I had a true appreciation until I had to step outside.

From the bottom of our hearts, we thank each one of you. You are extraordinary people who come together to make a wonderful team.

Sincerely,
Cheryl

Morning Kim,

Just wanted to let you know what a HIT "Kids Night Out" was in our household! Harry talked all the way home about the wonderful things he did and continued when we woke up this morning. Please pass on my many thanks to Heather and Katelyn. Great idea and we will definitely be seeing you at the next one.

Kind Regards,
Amy Winks

Hello All,

I am a loss for words (which never happens!). We are so happy with BAL! He loves it, the teachers, the children, the environment, everything. He never complains about going to school. I can not turned back time and erase last year. I can only look at this moment and we are thrilled! Christina, your comment to me a few weeks ago about Alex's ideas and insights into classroom discussions, made me cry. Finally, teachers are "hearing" Alex. He is a bright child and definitely looks outside the box. He is a very sensitive child too, a wonderful trait for a boy. I have expressed to many around town how happy we are with his placement and your program. THANK YOU, THANK YOU for all you do each day, we are so grateful:)
Best-Sheila

Dear Ginger and Katy,
I just wanted to let you know that the other day Jennifer was really having a meltdown about something and Nate said, "Mommy, I am being tolerant today, my teachers taught me that word at school." I thought it was great that he said it so clearly and used it in the right context :) You both are so wonderful and I feel bad I don't tell you that often enough and I appreciate all you do. Seeing Nathan's growth thus far is a reflection of all your hard work. Thanks for all you do.
Liz

From the time I first visited the Burlington Academy and met Kim and some of the teachers, until the end of the school year, I felt a warm, relaxed feeling towards the people who make up the school. I visited several other schools, but that "feeling" that comes when people are sincere and dedicated, was not always there. Apart from this, I liked many other things including the philosophy which encompasses the social as well as the academic development of children and stresses the importance of virtues: patience, honesty, respect, generosity, responsibility, fairness, courtesy, gratitude, determination, and love...
Through the year, with my children in two different classes,I've always felt that my children were in capable, dedicated, caring hands. Can anything beat that? I think we're very lucky to have our children come here and feel we cannot do enough to thank the dedicated teachers and staff.
-From the mother of two children attending the Burlington Academy of Learning

Hi Ginger! I just want to let you know that the pancakes today were a BIG hit! Tyler loved it- he talked more about his day at school today than ever, which I think is just great. He has so much fun in your class-you and Katie are doing such a great job!

Christy

Dear Kim,
I would like to thank you and your wonderful staff for making Gabriella's first years of school so memorable and enjoyable. Before Gabriella began Nursery School she had been with only family. It was such a stressful experience for me to find the "perfect" school and to leave her for the first time. You and your remarkable staff made us comfortable right from our very first meeting. You made it easy to trust you because everyone has always made it clear that the children come first.
Your nursery school and Pre-K programs are so impressive and its clear that it is the teachers that make it so. Each teacher has proven how much they enjoy teaching and how serious they are in developing each child. Every child is encouraged to participate, have fun and be themselves.
In Nursery School, Gabriella learned letters, colors, numbers and how to share from Mrs. Bakaysa and Mrs. Jennetta. They assisted her in becoming comfortable playing with her peers. She began to test the waters and to stand up for herself.
In Preschool, Mrs. Patridge and Mrs. Jennetta satisfied that tremendous thirst for knowledge that all children have. They taught her to write, prereading basics, math, Spanish, music, painting, drawing and how to work things out with her peers and that is just the beginning. Gabriella was part of the Tuesday/Thursday all day Pre-K and it was a wonderful suggestion that your staff recommended for her development. Gabriella has learned and grown up so much in the last year. What's most amazing is that Gabriella can read some small books to me.
In addition, I have to comment on the manners your staff has instilled in the children. I have received many comments on Gabriella's good manners and behavior and I give Burlington Academy a lot of credit.
Gabriella and I are looking forward to beginning our new life, but I know I will cry on Pre-K graduation day because I will miss your school and the warmth that has come from you and the people you have working with you.
You have an amazing school and I wish you luck. In my eyes, nothing can match my experience with The Burlington Academy of Learning. The staff, education, socialization and love my daughter has felt in your school has had such a positive influence on her development.
Sincerely,
Leslie

Dear Ginger,  I just wanted to send you a quick note to thank you for everything you do.  No one let me make one of those "I'm thankful for..." turkeys, but if they had, I would have written "Olivia's teachers" on one of my feathers :) You put so much time, energy and love into your teaching, and it really shows.

This morning, you said to me that teaching "keeps you young"...well, I'm fairly young, and I honestly know that I would not be able to manage a classroom of 16 4 year olds so gracefully and patiently!  You and Sheila are amazing women and we are so fortunate to have you play such an important role in our child's life. I know that your work is incredibly challenging, both with dealing with the children and also with the crazy parents, like me! 

Please know just how much we truly appreciate you and what you are doing for Olivia (and all of her classmates, of course).  I hope you and your family have a wonderful Thanksgiving. Hope you are able to enjoy a few days to yourself to relax! 

Amy

Thank you so much for sending out the email reminding parents about the dangers of food allergies.  I really appreciate it.  You guys are awesome at addressing this issue.  This is one of the first reasons I chose to send my children to The Burlington Academy.  Being a mom who has to watch out for food allergies, I am totally, 100% comfortable with leaving my children with your staff. The teachers have been phenominal in raising awareness and having everybody on board.  In turn, it has caused the parents to have a postiive response, thereby creating a very supportive and safe community for everyone.  I can't express enough how grateful I am.  We don't have to spend as much time worrying about an allergy and can focus more on the positives - our children's growth, progress and overall well-being.

You guys have a wonderful reputation in addressing these issues.

Thanks again, Jen

Hi Kim,  I realized on the night of the picnic that I didn't mention anything about how wonderful the nursery school program is as well as the pre-k program.  I knew that the program is exceptional, but now seeing how much my child is prepared to progress I realize just how EXTRAORDINARY it is as well.  I have had the pleasure of interacting with all of the NS teachers and they are all so wonderful.  Mrs. Krasner really held my hand through the whole "letting go" process and created a warm nurturing environment along with Mrs. Bakaysa, Mrs. Toscano and Mrs. Angers.

Each month I watched Sarah grow more and more confident.  This team of teachers is dynamite at helping the little 3 year olds turn into big 4 year olds.  By the end of the school year Sarah was thriving!!  The warm nurturing environment along with the great academic program has produced a positive, strong, capable and healthy child.  I honestly don't think that Sarah would have been ready for the PRE-K program if she attended any other nursery school.  I don't know of any other program that offers Spanish and movement with certified teachers. 

I don't know how they did it, but when Sarah was learning about the body she was able to tell me where her brain was and how her heart works and that the lines on her arms are veins!!  Sarah just loved her teachers and she loves her PRE-K teachers as well. 

Thank you for both an awesome program and staff.  It really says something when all the children and parents are so happy.

Sincerely,

Jen

I wanted to let you know how pleased I am with your school!  I've worked at Environmental Learning Centers of CT (Indian Rock & Barnes Nature Center) for over ten years and have interacted with hundreds of different schools and daycares from across the state.  There are a few that stick out in my mind as being exceptional, and yours is one of them.

Thank you!

Lola

Dear Kim,  I just wanted you to know how satisfied I am with the educational services provided by your dedicated teachers.
They run a top-notch classroom and I am very pleased that Caroline has the opportunity to participate in it. Not only do these teachers provide excellent learning programs for her but they also provide a nurturing, warm and caring environment which is perhaps more important and harder to find since such abilities cannot be "taught". The classroom is always neat and clean and is decorated in a manner that is bright, cheerful and stimulating - even for adults! The classroom is an extension of the kind of people they are. Caroline loves being there.
It is clear that your teachers put a lot of effort into their work, the value of which, on Caroline's behalf, I am very grateful for. I don't know what they are paid but they are worth every penny and are a large factor in making BAL a great place to send a child.
I hope you share my perception of their work.
Sincerely,
Alan

Hi, I just wanted to wish everyone a great school year and to again thank you so much for all you gave to Madeline. I think so much of her self confidence and general knowledge came from spending her days with all of you.
Ginny

Dear Parents,  The staff at Burlington Academy has helped to shape our daughter Nicole who is entering Kindergarten this year and our past experiences with the Academy have been wonderful. In addition, they are a Peanut Free pre-school which has allowed us to send Alex for the same rewarding experiences. The Academy is aware of Alex's allergies and is very supportive in keeping our son safe.
Janice and Sean

Dear Kim,  I have been so thrilled that Mrs. Bakaysa and Mrs Forbes have been Cameron's teachers this year.  They have shown incredible kindness, support, and encouragement towards him and myself.  The two teachers together have been a phenominal combination for him.  Thank you for all your efforts.
Jesse

Dear Mrs. Bakaysa,  Thank you for all of your hard work, dedication and love you show to all of the children. It makes it much easier to leave Colleen, knowing how much you care. Have a wonderful holiday season!
Love, Diane, Ray, Colleen & Jack too!

Linda, Sheila and Jodi!

I think I speak for all of us parents when I say THANK YOU for loving our children as if they were your own! I feel blessed to be lucky enough to have all of you in my daughter's life to help teach and guide her.

Happy Valentine's Day to each of you as well. Get some rest as you will need your energy when the kids get back!

Take care,
Lisa DesJardin

Linda,

I just love these e-mails from you. Although Trey always says that his morning was great, he seems to leave out most details. I really look forward to these wonderful comments and thank you for your kind words. You are such a wonderful teacher and always have such beautiful things to say about all of the children. Enjoy your weekend!

Joanne

Kim and Mike, 

My husband, daughter Trinity and I have had a great start to another year at Burlington Academy! After only 3 weeks my entire family ADORES your new pre-kindergarten teacher Ms. Cragin. Trinity LOVES Ms. Cragin. At home, Trinity giggles and smiles when she talks about the "pretty teacher with the ponytail."

In my interactions with Ms. Cragin, I have been impressed with her confidence, friendliness, professionalism and love of the children. Excellent choice in hiring Ms. Cragin. She is a WONDERFUL addition to your staff!

Lisa

Dear Mrs. Sfikas and Mrs. Patridge,  Thank you so much for such a wonderful year! Matthew loved Pre-K and the progress he made over the year is amazing. Matthew's school career is off to a great start and the transition to kindergarten should be easy for him. You have a wonderful way with children. Matthew is very fortunate to have had you for a teacher-especially at an age when it is so important for school to be a good/positive experience. Thank you again! Enjoy your summer. We'll be back to visit.
Sincerely,
(name withheld to protect privacy) 

Hi Mike and Jodi,

 

          I have been wanting to write for a while now to let you know how happy I am with how this school year has gone for Tyler....and tonight Tyler gave me the perfect reason to finally sit down and do it. We were talking to Will about how Will is going to nursery school at BAL next year, and Will seemed a bit "uneasy" about the whole school idea. Tyler comes over to Will and says (very enthusiastically) "I tried it, and I really love Burlington Academy. It is so much fun."

What I loved about this is that it was totally unsolicited by me- just came straight from Tyler. Figured I would pass that along to you, since you probably get your feedback primarily from parents and not children. I'm sure it is great to hear-straight from the kids-how much they love BAL!

 

I also want to pass along to you that, as with last year, I am just so pleased with how well this school year has gone. What a huge difference between nursery school and pre k- wow, how they have grown! It is amazing to me how much Tyler, and all of the children, have learned and really "blossomed" in so many ways. Ginger and Katy have done a wonderful job with all of the children. I really appreciate the way in which they have gotten to know the children, their sensitivity, and the way in which they maintain structure while also adapting to individual child's needs when necessary/appropriate. It is so clear that they really want these kids to enjoy their school experience. And it is very obvious that Ginger and Katy have worked hard at getting the kids excited about learning so many different things.

As a parent, it is so amazing to see Tyler so excited about learning to write his letters (he wouldn't write anything when he first started pre k- now he is so excited to show me the letters he can write-I think that is AWESOME!) And to see Tyler so excited about the whole "idea" of being able to read a word is so great. We were in a store today and he said "Look Mommy, that says "old."" I asked him, "how do you spell that?" and he said "o-l-d.". I thought that was amazing. Even more amazing is how happy and excited he is about his accomplishments and all that he has learned. I have watched his confidence grow so much. And it is such a great feeling to know how much he loves his friends and teachers at BAL. It has been such a positive place for us, and I can't tell you how much we appreciate it. We are excited for Will to begin at BAL next year!

I just want to let you know that Brian and I really appreciate the great work that you all do!

Christy

Mrs. Coffman,

Thank you so much for the emails you send us.  Ethan showed me a book he was working on last night and I was so impressed.  Hearing what you wrote to us in the email you sent today makes us so proud.     Thank you for the great job you do with him each day. It's greatly appreciated.

Kathlene

Hi Jodi!
I hope this note finds you well.  I wanted to share some good news regarding Dominic.  He was selected as Student of the Month @ St. Joseph's School!  The Principle selected him based on his polite manners and good behavior as well as his friendliness and diligence in his work!  He is so proud and happy.   And I have to tell you the first thing I told them was that he had gotten such a wonderful start at Burlington Academy...it all started there!   Remember when he first started he really didn't know much about sharing and caring for his little friends!  Now...it's amazing he really is a polite and friendly little guy!!!!  So once again, thank you for the great foundation you provided to Dominic!!!!
Best Regards,
Donna

Hi Kirstin,
I can't thank you enough for the e-mails you send to keep us updated.  While the girls and Mona both do a nice job updating me on their day to day activities it is really special and meaningful to hear from you too!  As a working mom I think the hardest part for me is missing out on the pick up and drop off at school.  Your e-mails help to alleviate that!  
The girls are having a great time this year too!  Their confidence is growing day by day and their math and language skills have improved so much.. We have been spending a lot of time reading together and they  just can't wait to show you their January Book Logs..they are almost full already.  Thankfully, they also love homework.  Let's hope this lasts for the next 17 years.. We are so proud of them !  
Thanks so much  to both you and Mrs. Schultz for guiding them during this impressionable time in their lives. We really appreciate it.
Sincerely,
Ginny & Geoff

Dear Mrs. Sfikas and Mrs. Patridge,
It's so wonderful that Rachel has been blessed enough to have a truly wonderful teacher. Thank you. Rachel has blossomed and is returning to her energetic and outgoing self. We feel you have played a significant role in her re-development. Thank you!
John and Sharon

Hi Shelia,  I just wanted to let you know that my Mother-in-Law truly enjoyed Special Person Day.  She thought that you, your classroom and your students were WONDERFUL!!

You are doing such a great job with our Mikey this year.  We feel blessed that he is back with you at Burlington Academy.

Thank you so much for all of your hard work!!  Have a great day-

Rachele

Dear Mike, I just want to let you know how enormously grateful we are to Ginger and Kirstin for alerting us to the problems (name withheld) was experiencing in school.  After hearing their assessment this past fall, both (name withheld) and I went back to our car and cried. How could parents that are so active in their child’s life be so ignorant as to what was truly going on?  Guilt, sadness, etc… was replaced by Ginger and Kirstin’s professional, encouraging and optimistic words.  All year, they have gone the extra mile to work with (name withheld) and continually advise us of his progress.  As you may know, (name withheld) has been in occupational and socialization therapy as a result of their feedback and has made enormous progress.  There is still more work to be done but he is on the right path and we sincerely believe that none of this would have happened if it wasn’t for Ginger and Kirstin.    They are truly AMAZING teachers and we will always be grateful to them and the Burlington Academy.  
 
All the best,
(names withheld to protect family privacy)

Hi Kim,  I just wanted to take a moment and tell you how impressed I am with the pre-k program.
First of all, the teachers are absolutely wonderful.  I feel so comfortable with both Mrs. Aldieri and Mrs. Patridge.  They have made it easy for me to work with Sarah at home to get the most out of her classroom experience.  The tools and ideas given are invaluable and I feel like I am getting an education along with Sarah.
Second of all Sarah is SO happy; when I ask her if there is anything she doesn't like about school she gives me a big "nope".  She is having so much fun and as a parent interested in my child's education I am having a blast.  You have all made learning so much fun for all of us.  Thank you for a program that offers so much.  I feel like not only is learning fun, but teaching is fun as well.  I have learned a different approach in how to educate my children in a very fun and loving way.  We are all benefiting from Sarah's experience and I know it will last a lifetime.
I really like the maturity of this program.  I like how you have raised the bar just enough to encourage kids to elevate without any pressure or discouragement.  I had no idea how great this was going to be.  To say the least what I have observed in these past two weeks makes me so excited for the rest of the school year.  Thank you for caring for our children the way that you all do.

Sincerely,
Jen

Hi Jodi and Kellee,  Just want to pass along a couple of things, and I thought I would send an email, otherwise I might forget by Tuesday!

Last night, when I came home from parent orientation, my husband asked "what is 1-2-3 eyes on me?" I guess Tyler was trying to get his attention, and finally had to resort to "1-2-3 eyes on me!" Brian said Tyler was very serious about it, too. So we got a kick out of that-apparently, Tyler is trying to teach us better listening skills!

Another thing Tyler has been doing since he came home from school yesterday is asking me to  "share" with him at times where he normally would just play on his own. An example of this is when he plays with his favorite car/truck, he will ask if I would like to share with him and pass the truck back and forth. So, clearly the lessons you are teaching are making a difference and sinking in....and that is wonderful!

There are little things he does during the day that show me he is learning very important lessons in your classroom, and Brian and I really appreciate the work you are doing!

Christy

Dear Kim,
I am writing this letter to tell you how happy my husband, Corey and I have been with our son Nathan's first year of school. Pam Forbes and Shannon Bakaysa have truly done a remarkable job teaching our son and his fellow classmates. They are both wonderful teachers and so kind with the children.
Having worked in daycare/nursery schools, I know how difficult it is to find good teachers. You have been fortunate to have found an entire staff of very good teachers!
Pam and Shannon have made Nathan feel very comfortable at school. They have helped him learn so much while he has lots of fun too, which is so important at this age. It makes me feel very happy to know that Nathan is in such good hands while he is away from me.
Many times people are quick to complain when things things go wrong, so I felt that I needed to write this to share something good. I really cannot say enough about Pam and Shannon. Kudos to both of them for their hard work and dedication and for their love of children. They are truly an asset to the Burlington Academy!
Sincerely,
Melanie