Stanton College Preparatory

Stanton was definitely the best experience of my life. In response to some of the negative posts, I will say that not all teachers respond the minute you email them. However, it is a college prep school and I have found that my professors at FSU certainly don't always respond quicky, if at all. However, everything about the school is just wonderful. Some of the sports are excellent. The theatre department is amazing and always successful. What is more important is the environment. Every student at Stanton is there to learn, and to go to college. Having that sort of positive network of determined and driven students definitely had a positive effect on me. Also, I know many students who were inspired by the mix of various cultures at Stanton. The school spirit is always high, the lack of discipline issues is great, and the guidance department is absolutely phenomenal. Both my brother and myself attended Stanton (he was in IB, I was in honors), and it was the best decision possible. Go Blue Devils!
--Submitted by a student

I'm not sure where the previous posters get their stats. Stanton is the highest rated school in the county, with a graduation rate of 98%. IB graduation rate is similar. We also have the highest AP pass rate in the county, and one of the highest in the country. I am the mother of a senior IB student and an incoming freshman. My son has had great teachers, and while he has worked very, very hard to be successful, has also played four years of a varsity sport, and been involved in all kinds of clubs and activities, both in and out of school, as have all of his friends -- all National Honor Society members. It's quite possible, it just takes work, commitment and good time management. As for counseling, it's far superior to what any of his friends have received in Duval/St. Johns schools, and although he has opted to stay in state - he has many friends going to excellent colleges all over the country. Get the facts before you make decisions. Stanton's a great school!
--Submitted by a parent

The peer group is excellent with nice students from all races and backgrounds. The administration staff are very nice but guidance counseling is average since most kids go to Florida colleges. The reason why they are ranked in the top 10 schools is because all of the students are required to take AP exams. Stanton has the worst AP exam pass rate (30%) in the district which is embarrassing since the students are much more capable than that. The teachers are terrible and there are few text books. i.e. Exams results are not returned for a month and the child never knows how they did while studying for finals. 2 chapters of a language were covered in 4 months and the last chapter is covered in one week before the final exam. The teachers are proud of the bad grades they dish out and the students struggle to chase the demands of disorganized teachers. The sports team suffer as many kids that were previous A students are quiting teams and not going out for teams because they stay up until midnight everynight studying when not playing on a team. Playing sports will really hurt your grades here.
--Submitted by a parent

Before enrolling your child at Stanton, be sure to educate yourselves more about the success rate. We found out that less than 20% are successful at Stanton. Our straight A child whom attended Stanton for one year still feels that it was the worst year of her academic life, even though she still maintained her high standards. I also, like another parent who has previously commented, felt as though the teachers/staff were very lax with their communication. It's not particularly the curriculum that I complain about, its the staff uncaring attitudes.
--Submitted by a parent

Several members of my family including myself graduated from SCPS and went to college. Students that did not suceed at SCPS were unable to maintain the high acedemic and mature expectations. The environment is a college prep atmosphere, teachers counselors should not have to respond to every trivial request.

I am astonished by some of the poor reviews I read. Both my children have attended Stanton and I been extremely happy with the school. I am very pleased my children are around other children who desire to learn and are inspired by outstanding teachers. There are ample opportunities for students who are struggling. However, I do think the curriculum is challenging and not for every child. I teach at a private school in the area, but am very pleased to have my children attending Stanton!
--Submitted by a parent

I am astounded by the last couple of comments. They sound like helicopter parents. This is hands down the best high school in the area--including privates. Always rated one of the top 10 public high schools in the nation by US News. Very diverse with a population of very intelligent kids with a wonderful South African principal. Our son has loved the IB program, but the AP track is also terrific. This school sets kids up for success by requiring much from them. Due to the quality of education, among other things, our son is being courted by 3 schools in the Ivy League. Getting in to Stanton is not easy. If you are foolish enough to leave when your kid has been admitted, I feel sorry for you.
--Submitted by a parent

Our family is still trying to figure out what all the rave was about with this school. Our child has had the worst experience here in their entire life. We've found the teachers to not be caring and forget about having any of them ever respond to an email or call back. I'm in the same boat as the person who posted below - my child also will not return next school year.
--Submitted by a parent

Very little communication between parent/teacher/counselor. My child will not go return next year. While it may fit others, it was not a fit for our family.
--Submitted by a parent

Excellent school. This is my daughter's first year and she had a little difficulty. I contacted her counselor and teachers and they were very quick in responding. They were willing and resourceful in assisting our needs.
--Submitted by a parent