Core Knowledge Charter School

We have friends that their children started from the time this school opened in a shopping center. Their children are well-rounded and responsible. Our friend even asked if we have looked into the school. After her comments, we added our child to the waitlist when she was under a year old. An addition was added to the school in 2011, which added the room to add pre-K, as well as, classes in each grade. Unfortunately, this was a big detriment to our position on the wait list. At the very beginning of pre-K, the school stated that there would be no preference to move up into kindergarten. Therefore, we decided to wait until kindergarten. Then, mid-year rules miraculously changed without letting those on the wait list give their public input and now, a portion of the pre-K moves up on a lottery. So even though we signed up on this so called wait-list, we are behind the expansion that brought in upper grades with siblings and behind the pre-k lottery. We have a very bright child, and in the beginning the staff said we would make it in. It is a very disappointing process.
—Submitted by a parent

We switched our preschooler from another school based on the reputation of PCK. However, after the first month of school, we are planning on switching our child back to the previous school for several reasons. They seem very "militant" in their approach to the kids and learning. They are not very creative in the activities offered for the kids as the same puzzles, white paper & crayons, etc are there every morning and very few projects have come home. Our child seems very somber and never as excited as at the previous preschool. If your child is excited about learning and creative in the way he/she looks at the world, then look elsewhere for preschool.
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter went for one year. Principal allowed the bully girls to do their thing- while they went to "friendship" classes. The principal and her teachers are voting members of the board - extremely inappropriate, and it shows.
—Submitted by a parent

I can't speak highly enough about our 16 year tenure at this school . We have five children, four of whom have attended this school K-8. Our last child is currently in the 7th grade. The quality of education is exceptional. All of my children have done well there and have started high school at least a year ahead in their studies. The math program is excellent and all of my children can sit and write good essays without help. They also have scored above the county average on all of the standardized tests. The work ethic and character development is also exceptional. The leadership of the school is very consistent and stable and shows in the quality of teachers hired. I absolutely love uniforms. It simplifies all of our lives. All of my children have maintained close friendships with at least two of their friends from Core Knowledge since graduation. I feel very fortunate to have been told about this school 17 years ago and wouldn't change a thing about the education my children have received. It has exceeded my expectations.
—Submitted by a parent

I came to the school for a tour (for Kindergarten) and the gal giving me the tour was very nice and seemed to be very friendly however when she asked me where my older children currently go to school her tune completely changed and she became very arrogant. She said...."oh well WE are a REAL core knowledge school". I was feeling pretty good about my tour experience but right then and there it completely lost me. Just seemed completely arrogant and out of place to look down on me for where I currently take my children to school.

I feel the need to write this review to save other parents frustration but most of all the kids who will end up in this "lot to be desired" environment for learning. I have a child who loved school until we started at PCK. We will be pulling him out at the end of the year. Also, there are often assignments sent home with numerous teacher errors, etc...the communication is unlike anything I have ever experienced. This school may have great CSAP scores (teaching to the test) but the environment and professionalism of the teachers is very lacking. I would advise parents to observe, observe before placing your child here. PLEASE take this review seriously. If I had I seen more reviews like this we would have not wasted our time with this "so called" GREAT charter school. They clearly have their priorities only on testing and fundraising.
—Submitted by a parent

In my opinion, this is one of the best schools in Douglas County. As with any school, it is important that parents do their research and make sure it is a good fit for their kids. We do not have kids there this year. My children's needs changed which were better met with another approach. If your child thrives in structure, needs a solid foundation in rote learning, benefits from a predictable sequential education approach, and a discipline code-this school may be for you! If your child is a project based or kinetic learner, you may want to look further. There is no school that is designed to meet every learning style. If it was, it would only be able to meet every need partially.
—Submitted by a parent

Education level= 4/5 Experience level= 2.5/5 Teachers= 3.8/5 Rules= 2/5 What I don't like is now middle schoolers only get about 5-10 min of recess!

We cannot say enough about this school. We love the teachers, the administrators and all of the staff. Everyone at this school is dedicated to the success of each student and it shows. No, this school is not for everyone, especially parents who do not want to be involved. However, if you are looking for a school that will push your student (and you) to be the best (and be accountable), this is the school for you and your family.
—Submitted by a parent

This school challenges my child to be the best she can be.
—Submitted by a parent

Im a 7th grader right now, and i have to say i have learned so much! I know they took away our dances, and thats lame. But all the teachers are great! there is not one i have disliked!
—Submitted by a student

This school seemed pretty elite when I first put my child s name on waiting list for enrollment, which I thought was good. Then we were 'accepted' and I changed my mind. This is not a school for educating. It is a school for pushing, and pressuring. My child is bright, so this bad review does not come out of spite. He did well there. But the environment was not good. And most of the parents are neurotic! Douglas County public schools are terrific and fun! We are happy with our change.
—Submitted by a parent

I was a student at Core all the way through eigth grade. Back then it was a great school- the teachers and staff really cared. But it seems as if the school is beginning to deteriate. All of the great teachers have left or they are leaving next year. They've taken away all of the fun things that us students look forward to. There really isn't anything special about this school at all. Its just average.
—Submitted by a student

I was a student at this school from sixth grade to eighth grade. There were great teachers that cared for you on a personal level, as well as a kind office staff. I loved my time there and feel that it was good in high school prep.. I would highly recomend this school to everyone!
—Submitted by a student

Strong school but geared to the high performing student. Not exactly for the student that struggles. Very CSAP focused. Small school has a community feel and teachers really seem to care.
—Submitted by a parent

I can not say enough good things about PCKCS. The staff is great, the class size is small and the kids are there to learn. A lack of discipline is not tolerated and the children are taught core virtues such as respect, honesty, self disciple, etc.., as well as a rigorus academic curriculum. Parents are required to complete volunteer hours which keeps families involved and informed. We feel very fortunate that our children attend PCKCS!
—Submitted by a parent