The 30 Best Elementary Schools in Long Island: Top-Rated Education Options

Choosing the right elementary school for your child is a pivotal decision that shapes their educational foundation and early development. Long Island offers numerous exceptional options for families seeking quality primary education, with schools known for their academic excellence, dedicated teachers, and enriching environments.

These top 30 elementary schools stand out for their outstanding test scores, innovative teaching approaches, and strong community involvement.

Each institution has demonstrated consistent performance across various metrics, including student achievement, faculty qualifications, and available resources. Parents considering these schools can feel confident they’re exploring some of the finest educational opportunities available on Long Island.

Here are the 30 best elementary schools in Long Island:

1. Herricks Public Schools

Herricks Public Schools stands as a beacon of academic excellence on Long Island, consistently ranked among the top districts in New York State. The district comprises three elementary schools: Center Street, Denton Avenue, and Searingtown, all serving students from kindergarten through fifth grade.

These elementary schools boast impressive student-to-teacher ratios, allowing for personalized attention and enhanced learning experiences. The curriculum emphasizes strong foundations in mathematics, literacy, and science while incorporating arts and physical education.

Herricks elementary schools feature diverse student populations, creating rich multicultural learning environments. The district’s dedicated teachers implement innovative teaching methods that cater to various learning styles.

Parent involvement remains exceptionally high, with active PTAs supporting numerous enrichment programs and extracurricular activities. State assessment scores consistently place Herricks elementary students well above county and state averages.

2. Syosset Central School District

The Syosset Central School District consistently ranks among the top educational systems in Long Island. This district includes six elementary schools serving approximately 3,500 young students.

Each elementary school in the district maintains small class sizes, averaging 20-22 students per classroom. This allows for personalized instruction and greater individual attention from teachers.

The district’s elementary curriculum emphasizes a strong foundation in mathematics and language arts. Students regularly score above state and national averages on standardized tests.

Technology integration is a priority, with all elementary classrooms equipped with smart boards and student access to computer labs. The district has invested in STEM education programs beginning at the kindergarten level.

Parent involvement remains high throughout Syosset’s elementary schools. The district maintains a comprehensive communication system to keep families informed of student progress and school activities.

3. Great Neck Public Schools

Great Neck Public Schools consistently rank among the finest educational institutions on Long Island. The district encompasses seven elementary schools, each delivering exceptional academic programs tailored to young learners.

Student achievement in Great Neck elementary schools regularly exceeds state averages in standardized testing. Their commitment to small class sizes allows for personalized attention and differentiated instruction.

The district emphasizes STEM education alongside strong arts programs, providing a well-rounded experience for students. Teachers receive ongoing professional development to implement innovative teaching strategies and current educational practices.

Parent involvement remains high throughout the Great Neck district, creating a supportive community environment. The schools also offer robust special education services and enrichment opportunities for gifted students.

Cultural diversity is celebrated within these schools, exposing children to global perspectives from an early age. Many Great Neck elementary schools have received National Blue Ribbon recognition for their academic excellence.

4. Jericho Union Free School District

Jericho Union Free School District stands out as one of Long Island’s premier elementary education providers. The district consistently ranks among the top 5 school systems in New York State based on student achievement and educational outcomes.

Jericho Elementary School offers exceptional academic programs with a strong focus on STEM education and literacy. Their small class sizes, typically averaging 20-22 students, allow for personalized attention from highly qualified teachers.

The district boasts state-of-the-art facilities including technology labs, art studios, and modernized learning spaces. Their innovative curriculum integrates digital learning tools with traditional teaching methods to prepare students for future academic challenges.

Parent involvement is particularly strong in Jericho, with active PTA participation and regular family engagement events. The district’s commitment to cultural diversity and inclusion helps create a welcoming environment for all students.

5. Port Washington Union Free School District

Port Washington Union Free School District has built a reputation for academic excellence on Long Island. The district comprises five elementary schools that consistently perform above state averages on standardized tests.

Sousa Elementary and Guggenheim Elementary stand out for their strong STEM programs and inclusive learning environments. Daly Elementary offers innovative literacy initiatives that have boosted reading proficiency rates district-wide.

The district maintains small class sizes, averaging 21 students per classroom, allowing for personalized attention. Their technology integration program ensures students develop digital literacy skills from an early age.

Parent involvement is particularly strong in Port Washington, with active PTAs supporting enrichment programs and extracurricular activities. The district’s commitment to arts education is evident through their robust music and visual arts curriculum beginning in kindergarten.

Teachers in Port Washington average 14 years of experience, with over 85% holding advanced degrees in education or their subject areas.

6. Roslyn Union Free School District

The Roslyn Union Free School District stands out as one of Long Island’s premier elementary education providers. With its exceptional academic programs and dedicated faculty, Roslyn consistently ranks among the top districts in Nassau County.

Heights School, the district’s primary elementary institution, boasts impressive state test scores that regularly exceed county and state averages. The school implements a robust curriculum that emphasizes mathematics, literacy, and science while integrating modern technological resources.

Roslyn elementary schools maintain small class sizes, typically averaging 20-22 students per classroom. This allows teachers to provide personalized attention and tailored instruction to meet diverse learning needs.

The district allocates significant resources to arts education and extracurricular activities. Students have access to music programs, visual arts instruction, and various clubs that enhance their educational experience beyond core academics.

Parent involvement remains a cornerstone of Roslyn’s success, with active PTAs and regular community engagement opportunities.

7. Manhasset Union Free School District

Manhasset Union Free School District stands as one of Long Island’s premier educational institutions. The district serves approximately 3,300 students across its elementary, middle, and high schools, with Munsey Park and Shelter Rock Elementary Schools forming the foundation of early education.

Both elementary schools consistently achieve outstanding academic results, with state assessment scores regularly ranking among the highest in Nassau County. The district maintains a student-teacher ratio of approximately 13:1, allowing for personalized attention and instruction.

Manhasset’s elementary schools offer robust programs in STEM, arts, and languages. Their curriculum emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving skills from early grades.

Parent involvement is notably high in Manhasset, with active PTAs and numerous volunteer opportunities. The district allocates significant resources to educational technology, ensuring students have access to modern learning tools from kindergarten onward.

8. Garden City Union Free School District

Garden City Union Free School District ranks highly among Long Island’s elementary education providers. The district operates three elementary schools: Hemlock, Locust, and Stewart. These schools serve approximately 1,800 students across grades K-5.

Students in the district consistently achieve exceptional results on state assessments. In recent testing, over 85% of students met or exceeded proficiency standards in both math and English language arts.

The district emphasizes a well-rounded education with strong programs in music, art, and physical education. Each elementary school features dedicated spaces for these specialty subjects, allowing students to explore diverse interests.

Parent involvement remains remarkably high throughout the district. The Garden City PTA actively supports numerous enrichment programs and community events throughout the academic year.

The district maintains favorable student-to-teacher ratios, typically around 18:1. This allows for more personalized attention and differentiated instruction across all grade levels.

9. Locust Valley Central School District

Locust Valley Central School District, located in Nassau County, stands out for its commitment to academic excellence. The district’s elementary schools serve students from kindergarten through fifth grade with a strong foundation in core subjects.

Teachers at Locust Valley employ innovative teaching methods that engage students in the learning process. Their curriculum emphasizes both traditional academics and creative thinking skills that prepare children for future educational challenges.

The district boasts small class sizes, allowing for personalized attention to each student’s needs. This approach has contributed to consistently high test scores that exceed state averages.

Locust Valley elementary schools also offer a variety of enrichment programs in music, art, and athletics. Their well-rounded approach to education helps develop students’ talents beyond standard academics.

Parent involvement is particularly strong in this district, creating a supportive community atmosphere that enhances the learning environment.

10. East Williston Union Free School District

East Williston Union Free School District consistently ranks among the top educational systems on Long Island. The district serves approximately 1,700 students across three schools, with North Side School handling elementary education for grades K-4.

North Side School maintains small class sizes, averaging 20-22 students per classroom, allowing for personalized attention. The school boasts impressive academic performance, with over 90% of students meeting or exceeding state standards in core subjects.

The district invests heavily in arts and STEM programs, offering specialized instruction beginning at the elementary level. North Side School features dedicated science labs, music rooms, and a modern library media center.

Parent involvement is particularly strong at North Side, with an active PTA that supports enrichment programs and community events. The school maintains a student-centered approach to learning that emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

11. Hicksville Public Schools

Hicksville Public Schools has established itself as a standout district in Long Island’s educational landscape. The district serves approximately 5,200 students across seven elementary schools, providing diverse academic programs that cater to various learning styles.

Their elementary schools consistently demonstrate strong performance on state assessments, with math and reading scores above the regional average. The district’s emphasis on STEM education has become increasingly prominent, with specialized programs beginning at the elementary level.

Parent involvement is notably high at Hicksville schools, contributing to a supportive learning environment. The district maintains a favorable student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 14:1, allowing for more personalized instruction.

Hicksville elementary schools offer robust extracurricular activities including music, arts, and athletics programs. The district’s commitment to technological integration is evident through their 1:1 device initiative that begins in the third grade.

12. Cold Spring Harbor Schools

Cold Spring Harbor Schools maintain a reputation for excellence on Long Island. This district serves approximately 1,800 students across three elementary schools, one junior high, and one high school.

Students benefit from small class sizes, with a student-to-teacher ratio of 13:1. The elementary curriculum emphasizes core subjects while integrating technology and the arts.

Test scores consistently rank above state averages, with over 85% of students meeting proficiency standards in math and English. The district invests significantly in educational resources, spending about $32,000 per student annually.

Parent involvement is notably high, with active PTA organizations supporting various school initiatives. The district also offers comprehensive special education services and gifted programs to address diverse learning needs.

The schools are known for their modern facilities and well-maintained campuses. Extracurricular offerings include music, athletics, and STEM activities starting at the elementary level.

13. Plainedge Union Free School District

Plainedge Union Free School District stands out as one of Long Island’s distinguished educational institutions. The district serves students from Plainedge and portions of neighboring communities, providing comprehensive elementary education.

The district’s elementary schools maintain small class sizes, allowing for personalized attention and enhanced learning experiences. Teachers employ innovative instructional methods to engage students across all subject areas.

Plainedge elementary schools have consistently demonstrated strong academic performance on state assessments. Their curriculum balances core academics with arts and physical education programs.

Parent involvement is notably strong in Plainedge schools, with active PTAs and volunteer opportunities. The district prioritizes technology integration, equipping classrooms with modern tools to prepare students for future academic challenges.

Special education services and enrichment programs ensure all students receive appropriate support for their individual needs. The district’s commitment to whole-child development is evident in its character education initiatives.

14. Levittown Public Schools

Levittown Public Schools serve approximately 7,000 students across nine schools in Nassau County. The district includes six elementary schools that provide a solid foundation for young learners from kindergarten through fifth grade.

The elementary schools in Levittown emphasize core academic subjects while incorporating technology into daily instruction. Their balanced approach to education focuses on developing both academic and social-emotional skills.

Teachers in the district participate in ongoing professional development to implement innovative teaching strategies. Parent involvement is encouraged through various committees and volunteer opportunities throughout the school year.

The district maintains relatively small class sizes, allowing for more personalized attention to students. Recent state assessment results show Levittown elementary students performing above the county average in both mathematics and English language arts.

Special programs include enrichment opportunities for high-achieving students and comprehensive support services for those requiring additional assistance.

15. Huntington Union Free School District

Huntington Union Free School District consistently ranks among Long Island’s top educational systems. The district serves approximately 4,500 students across eight schools, including six elementary institutions that provide exceptional early education.

Flower Hill Primary and Jefferson Primary School are standouts within the district, both earning high marks for their dedicated teaching staff and innovative curriculum design. These schools maintain impressive student-to-teacher ratios, allowing for more personalized attention.

The district’s elementary schools excel in both core academics and specialty programs in arts and sciences. Their balanced approach to education emphasizes both intellectual growth and social-emotional development.

Huntington’s elementary schools benefit from strong community support and parental involvement. The district has invested significantly in technology integration, ensuring students develop crucial digital literacy skills from an early age.

Teachers regularly participate in professional development to stay current with educational best practices. This commitment to excellence makes Huntington a sought-after district for families prioritizing quality education.

16. Bellmore Union Free School District

The Bellmore Union Free School District stands out as one of Long Island’s premier elementary education providers. The district operates four highly-rated elementary schools serving students from kindergarten through sixth grade.

Students in Bellmore consistently achieve impressive scores on state assessments, particularly in mathematics and English language arts. The district maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 13:1, allowing for personalized attention and instruction.

Bellmore schools offer robust enrichment programs including music, art, and technology integration. The district has received recognition for its special education services and inclusive classroom environments.

Parent involvement remains high throughout the district, with active PTAs supporting various academic and extracurricular activities. Community partnerships enhance learning opportunities through guest speaker programs and local field trips.

Teachers in the Bellmore district benefit from ongoing professional development, ensuring they implement current best practices in education.

17. Valley Stream Central High School District

Valley Stream Central High School District stands out as one of Long Island’s premier educational institutions for elementary education. The district serves several communities in Nassau County with a strong focus on academic excellence and student development.

Teachers at Valley Stream employ innovative teaching methods to engage young learners and build strong educational foundations. Their curriculum balances core academics with arts and physical education to create well-rounded students.

The district maintains favorable student-to-teacher ratios, ensuring each child receives personalized attention. Their facilities are modern and well-equipped, offering students access to technology, libraries, and safe playground areas.

Parent involvement is strongly encouraged through active PTAs and regular communication between families and staff. The district consistently performs well on state assessments, demonstrating their commitment to meeting high academic standards.

Students benefit from various enrichment programs designed to challenge advanced learners while supporting those who need additional assistance.

18. Wantagh Union Free School District

The Wantagh Union Free School District stands as a noteworthy educational institution on Long Island, serving approximately 2,800 students across three elementary schools. These schools provide comprehensive education for students in kindergarten through fifth grade, establishing a strong academic foundation.

The district’s elementary schools—Forest Lake, Mandalay, and Wantagh—each maintain favorable student-to-teacher ratios, allowing for personalized attention and instruction. Teachers regularly participate in professional development to stay current with educational best practices.

State assessment results show Wantagh elementary students consistently performing above state averages in both math and English language arts. The district supplements core academics with programs in art, music, physical education, and technology.

Parent involvement remains strong through active PTAs and volunteer opportunities. The district’s commitment to whole-child development is evident in its balanced approach to academics, social-emotional learning, and extracurricular activities.

19. Syosset Elementary School

Syosset Elementary School stands out as one of Long Island’s premier educational institutions for young learners. Located in the heart of Syosset, this school serves students from kindergarten through fifth grade with a comprehensive curriculum focused on academic excellence.

The school boasts impressive student-to-teacher ratios, allowing for personalized attention and instruction. Teachers at Syosset Elementary are known for their dedication and innovative teaching methods that engage students in the learning process.

State assessment scores consistently place Syosset Elementary above the New York state average in both mathematics and English language arts. The school offers enrichment programs in science, technology, arts, and mathematics to develop well-rounded students.

Parent involvement is particularly strong at Syosset Elementary, with an active PTA that supports various school initiatives. The school’s modern facilities include a well-equipped library, technology lab, and outdoor learning spaces that enhance the educational experience.

20. East Rockaway Union Free School District

East Rockaway Union Free School District serves students in East Rockaway, New York with a commitment to academic excellence. The district operates two elementary schools: Centre Avenue and Rhame Avenue, both providing education for grades K-6.

These schools maintain small class sizes, allowing for personalized attention and strong student-teacher relationships. Their curriculum emphasizes core academic subjects while integrating technology and arts education.

East Rockaway’s elementary schools boast experienced faculty members who regularly participate in professional development opportunities. The district has implemented innovative programs to support literacy and mathematics skills development.

Parent involvement is highly encouraged through an active PTA and various volunteer opportunities. The schools also offer a range of extracurricular activities including sports, music, and academic clubs.

The district continues to show steady improvement in state assessment scores, reflecting their dedication to educational quality and student achievement.

21. Plainview-Old Bethpage Central School District

Plainview-Old Bethpage Central School District features four elementary schools serving students in the Plainview and Old Bethpage communities. These schools consistently demonstrate strong academic performance with above-average proficiency rates in both mathematics and English language arts.

The district emphasizes a well-rounded curriculum that integrates technology, arts, and physical education alongside core academic subjects. Their elementary schools maintain favorable student-to-teacher ratios, allowing for more personalized attention and differentiated instruction.

Parents appreciate the district’s strong communication systems and numerous opportunities for family involvement. The schools offer various extracurricular activities and clubs that cater to diverse student interests.

The elementary facilities are well-maintained with updated learning spaces and resources. Professional development for teachers remains a priority, ensuring staff stay current with educational best practices and innovative teaching methods.

22. North Shore Central School District

The North Shore Central School District stands as a beacon of educational excellence on Long Island’s North Shore. With its commitment to academic rigor and student development, this district has earned its place among the top elementary education providers in the region.

Glen Head Elementary School, one of the district’s primary institutions, boasts impressive test scores consistently above state averages. The school maintains small class sizes, allowing for personalized attention and enhanced learning experiences.

North Shore’s elementary curriculum integrates technology with traditional teaching methods to prepare students for future academic challenges. Their STEAM initiatives have gained recognition for inspiring young minds in science and mathematics.

The district places strong emphasis on arts education alongside academic subjects. Music, visual arts, and performance programs begin at the elementary level, fostering creativity and well-rounded development.

Parent involvement remains a hallmark of North Shore schools, with active PTAs supporting various educational initiatives and community events.

23. Jericho Elementary School

Jericho Elementary School stands out as one of Long Island’s premier educational institutions for young learners. Located in the highly regarded Jericho School District, it serves students from kindergarten through fifth grade with distinction.

The school maintains impressive academic achievement records, consistently ranking among the top performers in state assessments. Students benefit from a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes core subjects while integrating arts and technology.

Jericho Elementary features modern facilities including science labs, a media center, and specialized classrooms for music and art. The school’s student-teacher ratio remains favorable, allowing for personalized attention and instruction.

Parent involvement is notably strong at Jericho Elementary, with an active PTA that supports numerous enrichment programs and community events. The school also offers various extracurricular activities including chess club, robotics, and performing arts programs.

24. North Merrick Union Free School District

North Merrick Union Free School District is renowned for its commitment to educational excellence on Long Island. The district operates three elementary schools: Camp Avenue, Harold D. Fayette, and Old Mill Road, serving students from kindergarten through sixth grade.

Each school maintains small class sizes, enabling personalized attention for every student. The district’s curriculum emphasizes core academics while integrating technology and arts education throughout the learning experience.

North Merrick’s dedicated faculty implements innovative teaching methods that cater to diverse learning styles. The district consistently performs above state averages on standardized assessments, reflecting its strong academic foundation.

Parent involvement is particularly strong in North Merrick, with active PTAs supporting numerous enrichment activities. The district also offers comprehensive special education services and gifted programs to address all student needs.

The schools feature modern facilities including updated libraries, computer labs, and outdoor learning spaces.

25. Bethpage Union Free School District

Bethpage Union Free School District serves approximately 2,900 students across five schools in Nassau County. The district maintains strong academic standards with proficiency rates consistently exceeding state averages in both math and English language arts.

Central Boulevard Elementary School is one of the district’s primary educational facilities, known for its robust STEM program and dedicated teaching staff. The school implements a balanced literacy approach that has helped students achieve notable reading comprehension scores.

Parent involvement remains high throughout the district, with active PTA organizations supporting various educational initiatives and extracurricular activities. The district’s commitment to technology integration is evident through their 1:1 device program for students in grades 3-5.

Special education services are comprehensive, offering individualized support plans that help diverse learners succeed. The district’s elementary schools also feature enrichment programs for high-achieving students, providing additional academic challenges.

26. Oyster Bay-East Norwich Central School District

The Oyster Bay-East Norwich Central School District is renowned for its high academic standards and commitment to providing a well-rounded education. The district serves the communities of Oyster Bay and East Norwich with a focus on developing critical thinking skills and creativity in students.

Theodore Roosevelt Elementary School stands as the flagship elementary institution in the district, named after the former president who had strong ties to Oyster Bay. The school boasts exceptional state test scores, with students consistently performing above county and state averages in both math and reading.

The district maintains small class sizes, allowing for personalized attention and tailored instruction to meet individual learning needs. A robust arts program complements the core curriculum, providing students with opportunities to explore music, visual arts, and theater.

Parents appreciate the strong community involvement and the district’s emphasis on character development alongside academic excellence.

27. Island Trees Union Free School District

Island Trees Union Free School District serves students in Levittown and parts of neighboring communities. The district operates two elementary schools that provide education from kindergarten through fifth grade.

Both elementary schools in the district maintain strong academic programs with a focus on core curriculum subjects. Teachers utilize modern educational technologies to enhance student learning experiences.

The district prides itself on small class sizes, allowing for personalized attention to each student. Parent involvement is encouraged through various committees and volunteer opportunities.

Special education services are available to support students with diverse learning needs. The district also offers enrichment programs for students who demonstrate advanced academic abilities.

Island Trees elementary schools regularly participate in community service projects. These initiatives help students develop social responsibility while connecting classroom learning to real-world applications.

28. Massapequa Union Free School District

Massapequa Union Free School District stands as one of Long Island’s notable educational institutions, serving students across six elementary schools. Located in Nassau County, the district consistently delivers strong academic results with standardized test scores exceeding state averages.

The district emphasizes a balanced educational approach that integrates technology with traditional learning methods. Elementary students benefit from specialized programs in arts, music, and physical education alongside core academic subjects.

Parent involvement remains high throughout the district, with active PTAs contributing to school events and educational initiatives. The elementary schools feature modern facilities including updated libraries, computer labs, and outdoor learning spaces.

Teachers in the district regularly participate in professional development to implement current best practices in education. The district maintains a favorable student-to-teacher ratio, allowing for more personalized attention in the classroom.

29. Long Beach City School District

Located on the barrier island of Long Beach, the Long Beach City School District serves approximately 3,500 students across five schools. This district consistently performs above state averages in standardized testing, particularly in mathematics and reading comprehension.

Long Beach City School District’s elementary schools feature robust STEM programs that introduce students to coding and robotics as early as kindergarten. Their emphasis on bilingual education has also received recognition, with Spanish-English dual language programs available at select elementary schools.

The district maintains small class sizes, averaging 22 students per classroom, allowing for more individualized attention. Teachers in the district boast an average of 14 years of experience, with over 75% holding advanced degrees.

Parents appreciate the district’s commitment to arts education, with dedicated programs in visual arts, music, and theater available to all elementary students. The waterfront location also enables unique marine science educational opportunities not found in many inland districts.

30. Rocky Point Union Free School District

Rocky Point Union Free School District, located on the North Shore of Long Island, serves the communities of Rocky Point and portions of Shoreham. The district operates two elementary schools: Joseph A. Edgar Intermediate School and Frank J. Carasiti Elementary School.

Frank J. Carasiti Elementary School educates students in kindergarten through second grade, providing a strong foundation in early literacy and mathematics. The school emphasizes character education and social-emotional development alongside academic achievement.

Joseph A. Edgar Intermediate School serves grades three through five, building upon the foundational skills established in the earlier grades. The school offers various enrichment programs and support services to meet diverse student needs.

Both elementary schools maintain favorable student-to-teacher ratios, allowing for personalized attention. The district implements current educational technologies and teaching methods to prepare students for future academic challenges.

Parent involvement is encouraged through active PTAs and various volunteer opportunities within the schools.

Understanding Elementary Education in Long Island

Long Island’s elementary education system is known for its high standards and diverse offerings across Nassau and Suffolk counties. The region’s educational landscape features a mix of public, private, and charter schools, each with unique strengths and approaches to learning.

Overview of the Long Island School System

Long Island hosts over 120 school districts serving approximately 476,000 students. These districts vary significantly in size, with some serving single communities while others encompass multiple townships.

Nassau County generally features smaller, more concentrated districts, while Suffolk County tends to have larger geographic coverage per district. This structural difference impacts funding models and resource allocation.

Most Long Island elementary schools serve grades K-5 or K-6, with some districts implementing alternative models like K-4 followed by intermediate schools. The region boasts strong academic performance overall, with standardized test scores consistently exceeding state averages.

Property taxes fund a substantial portion of school budgets, creating disparities between affluent and less wealthy districts. State aid formulas attempt to balance these inequities, though significant differences in per-pupil spending remain.

Key Factors That Determine School Quality

Academic Performance: Test scores on state assessments provide measurable benchmarks, with the best schools achieving 80%+ proficiency in math and English language arts.

Student-Teacher Ratio: Top-performing schools typically maintain ratios of 18:1 or lower, allowing for more personalized instruction.

Curriculum Enrichment: High-quality elementary schools offer:

• Robust STEM programs
• Foreign language instruction
• Arts integration
• Physical education beyond state requirements

Family Engagement: Strong parent-teacher associations and regular communication channels correlate strongly with school success. The best schools foster active parent involvement through volunteer opportunities, workshops, and transparent communication.

Facilities and Resources: Well-maintained buildings, updated technology, dedicated special education resources, and comprehensive libraries distinguish top schools from average ones.

What Sets Top Elementary Schools Apart

The distinction between good and exceptional elementary schools on Long Island often comes down to specific qualities that create optimal learning environments. These standout institutions consistently demonstrate excellence in academics, foster supportive communities, and embrace innovative teaching approaches.

Academic Excellence and Enrichment Programs

Top elementary schools on Long Island distinguish themselves through rigorous academic standards and comprehensive enrichment opportunities. These schools typically offer advanced curriculum options that challenge students while providing appropriate support for different learning needs.

STEM-focused programs are increasingly common in leading schools, introducing students to coding, robotics, and engineering concepts as early as kindergarten. Many top institutions also maintain strong arts education despite budget pressures elsewhere, recognizing the cognitive benefits of music, visual arts, and performance.

Foreign language instruction beginning in early grades sets premier schools apart, with Spanish, Mandarin, and French being popular offerings. Advanced literacy programs emphasize critical thinking and analytical reading skills beyond basic comprehension.

The best schools also provide specialized enrichment through chess clubs, debate teams, math competitions, and environmental science programs that extend learning beyond standard curriculum requirements.

Supportive School Cultures and Community Engagement

Outstanding elementary schools create environments where students feel safe, valued, and motivated to learn. These institutions maintain lower student-to-teacher ratios (typically 18:1 or better) enabling more personalized attention and instruction.

Strong parent involvement is a hallmark of top schools, with active PTAs that support educational initiatives through fundraising and volunteer programs. Many premier schools report parent volunteer participation rates exceeding 75%.

Community partnerships enhance learning experiences through collaborations with local businesses, museums, and environmental organizations. These connections provide real-world relevance to classroom lessons.

Effective schools implement comprehensive social-emotional learning programs that teach conflict resolution, empathy, and self-regulation skills. Bullying prevention initiatives and character education are integrated into daily activities rather than treated as separate programs.

Regular community events like cultural celebrations, science fairs, and family literacy nights strengthen school-family relationships and create a sense of belonging.

Innovative Teaching Methods and Technology Integration

Leading elementary schools embrace evidence-based pedagogical approaches while thoughtfully integrating technology. Project-based learning environments encourage student-directed inquiry and collaborative problem-solving across subject areas.

Technology integration is purposeful and balanced in top schools. Students have access to devices and digital tools that enhance rather than replace traditional learning experiences. Many premier schools maintain 1:1 device programs starting in third grade.

Flexible classroom configurations support different learning styles and activities, moving beyond traditional desk arrangements to create dynamic learning spaces. Teachers regularly incorporate movement and hands-on experiences into lessons.

Professional development for educators is prioritized, with teachers receiving 50+ hours annually of training in current best practices. This commitment ensures instructional methods remain current and effective.

Data-driven instruction allows teachers to identify student needs quickly and provide targeted interventions. Assessment systems focus on growth measures rather than solely on achievement benchmarks.