Antioch Charter Academy

It is our first year in this school. At first it was a big change for us coming from another school but now as we are getting involved more and more, we are understanding what ACA is all about. So far, we look forward for the next school year. Note: There's a reason why there's a wait list on this school's enrollment. If you are currently enrolled here and a parent, please get involved instead of complaining. Our kids need our support in and out of school.
--Submitted by a parent

The May 2, 1012 parent review is a true statement. The teachers expect the students and parents to follow the "Montesorri" standards/policies, but they themselves don't adhere to it. "Double Standard" methods. There is a divide between teachers and parents which is very evident and sad.
--Submitted by a parent

CREATIVE, WELL ROUNDED, RESPONSIBLE, DISCIPLINED, INNOVATIVE & SELF AWARENESS = KEY TO SUCCESS! I love everything about this school. I wish this school was around when I was growing up as there might have been a lot of students that were saved from dropping out of class or students lacking creativity, self awareness and initiative when in comes to facing the real world....yes the REAL WORLD. As a parent, I appreciate the teacher's innovative ways in introducing old and new ideas to young inquiring minds. With such innovative ways comes responsibility, which means teachers needs to explain to their students the VALUE OF BEING CREATIVE, RESOLVE OF BEING DISCIPLINED and WEALTH OF HAVING RESPONSIBILITY. If you as a parent, do not value such characteristics, then this school is not for you. Parents are encourage to volunteer, parents are also encourage to ask questions about their child's progress and often are free and accommodating to talk to. Yes, this school is different in many ways and yes, this was clearly emphasized at the very beginning when you are extended the opportunity to join the Antioch Charter Academy family, so clearly, you have the choice. More power to ACA!!!!!!
--Submitted by a parent

The only reason this school is receiving a 2 star rating is because my child loves the materials used in the classroom, but we don't like the way the teachers yell at the students, thus violating the principles of Montessori philosophy whereby "students learn best in a non-threatening environment". They also lecture the children repeatedly over minor infractions. Whenever parents express concern about a situation/curriculum the subject is brushed aside. The children are expected (even in preschool and kindergarten) to work for 3 hrs. and 45 minutes without recess, except on Wednesdays when they get 15 minutes of free play. Parent volunteers are only allowed on Wednesdays, even when it is obvious that more help is needed.
--Submitted by a parent

ACA have exceptional teachers who care about their students and the rating shows it. Parents involvement is also key in keeping this great school going. In the 5 years my two kids have learned to become independent students, a big part of the ACA curriculm. Confident kids make better students and become successful in life. With 700+ for ACA and 200+ for ACA II on wait list just tells you how well this school is doing and I am proud that my kids attend ACA.
--Submitted by a parent

My children have both graduated from ACA. They had a wonderful experience and education and were very fortunate to have attended this school. The teachers really care and want the children to learn and succeed. My boys are both at Deer Valley High School now and are both achieving very high grades thanks to the wonderful foundation ACA gave to them.
--Submitted by a parent

I am in 7th grade at this school and i absolutely love it. I have been at this school since kindergarten and i have loved all the teachers and their styles of teaching, if you are considering this school, i definitely recommend it. Your children will love this school and so will you.
--Submitted by a student

I have two children at ACA that are doing great. The only reason I continue to live in this area is this school! My husband comutes to the Silicon Valley and when considering a move there, we opted against it as we could not find a school as excellent as this one. With 400+ children on the waiting list I am surprised that they haven't grown. But then again. I like the small class size and the level of parental involvement surpasses even private schools. Where else can children get a Montessori based school without the price. Nowhere...we looked Rock on ACA!
--Submitted by Dana O'Brien, a parent

I currently have one student attending this school, and had another graduated from there. My child, who graduated, is currently a 4.0 at one of the local high schools. I believe that this is proof positive what an excellent school this is, and that they give the students an excellent foundation. The staff believes that students come first, and will do whatever is needed to help a student reach their potential. If you are the type of parent who does not want to be involved in your student's education, then do not send your student to this school. Parental involvement is a must. Their music and art programs are tops. Their sports program is developing, with a volleyball and a soccer team.
--Submitted by a parent

This school has great parental involvement. The music program is exceptional. We have left the school because the primary class teachers have been attempting to retain students with out good cause... examples were physical immaturity, not being well coordinated, a stutter that would cause math issues later in life, and being younger than some of the other students in the class. All of these children tested exceptionally in the STAR tests and did well in class. My own child has been getting exceptional marks and at our new school. It really feels like these teachers are trying to bump their grant monies by retaining smart children! The Primary teachers set up conferences and bully parents by out numbering them- on several occasions already having retention papers drawn up! Mrs. D takes charge even though she is rarely the child's teacher and allows very little discussion to take place beyond her own opinions.
--Submitted by a parent