Julia A. Traphagen Elementary School

153 Summit Avenue

School District

Waldwick
Grade

PK, K-5
Teacher/Student Ratio

1:11
Type

public

GreatSchools Rating

The school rating calculation is based on four ratings: the Student Progress Rating or Academic Progress Rating, College Readiness Rating, Equity Rating, and Test Score Rating each designed to show different facets of school success. Learn more about GreatSchools Ratings

Reviews

Submitted by parent on February 28, 2024

I have resided here for seven years, and based on my observations, it seems that the school principal maintains the "blue ribbon" status by transferring students in need of extra support to other schools. I have encountered numerous parents who have experienced this, and a significant portion of them appear to be from ethnic backgrounds. It's challenging to believe that a school in such an affluent area cannot allocate resources for paraprofessionals or bilingual teachers.I personally witnessed a family being informed that their daughter wouldn't be accepted because she had been taught her native language first. This raises concerns about the acceptability of such practices. Furthermore, my son was a victim of post-school bullying, and the principal focused on asking about my son's whereabouts during the incident rather than addressing the aggressor. This lack of follow-up and concern for the well-being of the bullied child is troubling.The nurse also appears inexperienced, as she downplayed a serious injury my son sustained, resulting in him being lethargic by the time I arrived. Another incident involving a parent's head injury after school was similarly mishandled, with the principal refusing to call an ambulance during dismissal. This lack of urgency and care reflects poorly on the school's administration.In my opinion, this exceptional school and its dedicated teachers deserve a more compassionate leader. I strongly believe that the current principal should step down and allow someone with better empathy to lead the school. The principal's focus on maintaining the "blue ribbon" status at the expense of individual student well-being and the disregard for concerned parents' input is disheartening. A more inclusive and compassionate approach is necessary to ensure the well-being and success of all students.
Submitted by parent on May 12, 2023

This school has been nothing but trouble from day one for our son. He has been bullied by the staff and the children there. Our son is bilingual and they have been attempting to classify him with a learning disability. The administration has been nothing but trouble for us and the principal should be fired. Multiple people we know have LEFT the town and moved somewhere else solely due to the principal. I do not recommend. They will classify your child if they can to fund their special needs building or hop them up on meds so they get more state subsidies. The school is a sham.
Submitted by parent on August 06, 2020

Fantastic due to enthusiastic and consistent leadership.
Submitted by parent on August 03, 2018

Wonderful, the principal and teachers care and provide a great learning environment!
Submitted by parent on June 06, 2018

With the young and caring teaching staff, modern classrooms, strong leadership of the principal, JA Traphagen has been a wonderful place for my child to grow, learn and make social connections. I feel they truly partner with the parents in the journey of parenthood. With, Mathematics, STEM, Reading and writing workshops, school trips and a well qualified and enthusiastic staff, JA Traphagen has a lot to offer and is a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence for a reason. We could not be happier with this great school.
Submitted by parent on October 20, 2017

This is a wonderful school. I moved out of town thinking all good schools are the same but I made a huge mistake. We moved back and can't wait to be part of the community and school again.
Submitted by other on May 13, 2014

Maybe another 5th grade trip should be planned rather than subject these young children to the despair and possible danger of this trip. The opening of the Tower is world recognized. Should our children be at danger with the possibility of terrorism for a trip that they are too young to comprehend? They were one year old when our country was attacked. This would be a wonderful trip for seniors in high school!