Choices In Learning Charter School

My son is in the 2nd grade at CIL and we have been there since Kindergarten. We originally decided on Choices because of their supposed hands on teaching style (as opposed to sit down work etc) and supposed focus on *learning* instead of FCAT drilling. We are still on the fence as to whether this is actually the case or not, but we are leaning towards those claims being exaggerated. Unfortunately though, we have run into problem after problem with administration / board of this school and it really leaves a sour taste in your mouth. Teacher/staff turnover at this school is high, and the principal is just plain unreasonable. The front office staff is less than friendly and parent concerns re: many "school policies" are ignored and even mocked by some teachers. It is made very clear (but of course not an official policy) that children in need of special accommodations are not welcome at Choices, and that again goes all the way to the principal. If you are considering this school for your child, please research the USDOE discrimination investigation against the school and allegations of the principal deleting emails meant for the board. Those two issues in themselves speak volumes.
—Submitted by a parent

By far one of the best schools in Seminole county!! I am so pleased with this school. The teachers are serious about teaching, but friendly as well. They really care about the students learning and well being. FCAT is a celebration of what they have learned instead of a tragedy like other schools. they encourage the students to show off what they have learned throughout the year! I really love this school!! The only thing that I wish it had a better art program and more fun family activities, other than that it's perfect!
—Submitted by a parent

The expierience in the past is missed-the present needs to be addressed. Teachers that have been w/ this school more than 4 years are begining to show frustration w/ the current leadership. Comments that are made in classroom & around campus by staff R not going unheard by students. The nurturing & encouragment is slipping away. Not much of a personal touch anymore being felt by children. If you have kids at this school, suggest you ask lots of questions about their day, especially if you work full time. Think you will be suprised at what they don't freely tell you on day to day basis. The things I'm hearing &seeing are that of a millitant school environment. Kids feel they R constantly repremanded for even a whisper in halls. I used to appreciate professionalism amoung staff& administration - Not pleased w/that since August 2012. The scores R great, approach, very dry, & too structured. Newer teachers appear to burn out quickly. Board is complete waste of time- limit parent input as 2 not answer/address issues. Students & staff turning over is ignored. Hoping someone will fix 4 future. No accountability here- Wish best 2 those who stay. U need new board & administration!
—Submitted by a parent

So far we have been pleased with Choices in Learning. The school has quality teachers and curriculum. The only complaint I have is that some of the front desk staff are very unprofessional and have even brought a parent to tears for asking a simple question. This is very strange considering the rest of the staff is very caring. If you have any questions, you are much better off emailing the teacher.
—Submitted by a parent

I have two kids here, both since kindergarten. Teachers are excellent, there is turnover, and the teachers are mostly younger, but we have seen this as an advantage, as the newer teachers sometimes bring creativity not thought of. Recently problems seem to have started with the new principal, and the move to the new school. There has been an increase in traffic, and an unwillingness from the administration and board to work with parents. Most immediate problems seem to be related to the board and administrations inability to consider the schools needs as it moved to the new location. The board is poorly organized, and seems more comfortable working as removed from scrutiny as possible. Their rules on how they operate don't seem to exist and information to parents is sketchy. Their meeting agendas are not published, nor are the minutes, the chairman usually arrives with them in hand. If it weren't for the teachers, and the excellent teaching program, my kids would move...and still might. Talk to people before joining this school.
—Submitted by a parent

We are so excited to be at Choices! I am very impressed with the school, the Principal, its teachers, the philosophy and the overall environment. Education is of utmost importance, and it is such a great alternative to public school without the cost of a private education. It is very well run, and I am impressed with how involved the parents are in the school. Uniforms are great and the new building is just wonderful. I highly recommend Choices in Learning.
—Submitted by a parent

This school has a great education program in all areas, A+, discipline is necessary to learn. their program for reading, writing and math is excellent, all PE and after hours acctivities are great, they have a wonderful new building, with great technology in every class, we will continue this year, Kindergarten teachers are very caring and professionals, the rules for uniform, homework , hours of classes are correct , all explain in the website. We highly recommend this school.
—Submitted by a parent

The person who posted on June 11, 2012 is completely misinformed and ignorant to all of the hard work and dedication put into CIL by the teachers, principals, and positive parents. Any person involved in our school knows that that review is inaccurate. No child has ever been discriminated against based on race, culture, or religion. Racism is NOT taught or modeled at our school and you are obviously a negative person who didn't get accepted (out of a waiting list of over 400 students) so you feel that you need to get revenge in a very childlike manner - 'claiming' to be a teacher at CIL and posting a slanderous comment. As a teacher at CIL, I know first hand that we put our heart and souls into our profession and spend unlimited time focused on the achievement and success of each student in our class. Therefore I am offended that you would make such a ridiculous comment when in actuality, this school has a positive environment for children with high expectations for students of all abilities. Please focus your energy on your child instead of spreading negativity.
—Submitted by a teacher

I have a family filled with teachers and we have all been impressed by my daughters progress at CIL. Ms Dickerman was a great teacher and we can't wait to go back! The extra activities available after school were run well and very reasonably priced. The only drawback was being on the wait list until we could get into aftercare, but once my daughter was in they did sign language, spanish, the older kids helped with homework, etc.
—Submitted by a parent

Wow- some of these reviews are a little harsh. I guess it's all what you make it. I love this school, the administration and the teachers. My son has been attending since kindergarten and I am thankful he has such an amazing enviornment to learn and grow. His teachers have been extremely caring and set high standards. I'm responsible for raising my son, not the school. The school is responsible for his education. They teach with passion and excellence
—Submitted by a parent

I love this school! The staff is incredibly dedicated to educating children, as our test scores have shown. We strive to be the best school we can be by challenging our students, motivating them to do their best at all times, and by having them set goals for themselves. We educated children from all walks of life, including those with disabilities, second language learners, to gifted and talented. CIL is a wonderful place to work! It is a school of choice and many parents choose to send their children there because of its record of success.
—Submitted by a teacher

CIL used to be a great school, but over the last 1-2 years I have not been pleased. Not just me, but my daughters have not been pleased. They are a prime example of "too smart/organized" for thier own good!" So glad my daughter will not be returning next year. Their rules are just way out of hand and they are not friendly. It's a shame a school with so much promise lose what matters most....care!! I would like to name one teacher in particular who is EXCELLENT...Mrs. Thompson...I wish more teachers were like her.
—Submitted by a parent

Teachers are great! Education is superb! However, some policies are twisted and unjustified. Policies are carried out when they feel like it. My son will not be returning to this school. They are too much of a head ache to deal with.
—Submitted by a parent

I have been employed at this school for the past six years, and really enjoy the cooperative learning approach. The students are encouraged to work together as a team, just like so many adults do in their work place. I would highly recommend this great "A" rated school to any parent who is looking for a change in their child's learning environment.
—Submitted by a teacher

I put my daughter on a waiting list to go to Choices. I have to say it was the BEST decision I made regarding her education. Choices is a disciplined, well organized, and a well run school. Education is of utmost importance here. The uniform code is wonderful and the school campus is beautiful. When I recently went to the schools second grade award ceremony I was astounded as to how many children where on the honor roll and had perfect attendance. That level of success is amazing. Definitely not something I saw at my daughters previous school. My daughter is challenged . The teachers work very close with the students to make sure they understand what they are learning. I love the private school feel of Choices. I look forward to when my youngest child joins Choices.
—Submitted by a parent

They treat my child as a special individual rather than just a number!
—Submitted by a parent

My son loves his teacher and this school! I have never seen him this happy.
—Submitted by a parent

My child has been a student for 5 years and loves the school as well as thrives in the learning enviroment of CIL. I am a staff member of 4 years and enjoy my working enviroment. We have a new pricipal this year with lots of new and inovative ideas. My daughter has always scored high on academic tests and I attribute this to her learning enviroment and teachers at CIL. I would not consider another school at this point in her academic career.
—Submitted by a teacher

The school is run like a military boot camp. The students are only data to the principals. The principals will smile in your face and talk about their teachers behind their back to other teachers.
—Submitted by a teacher

I Love!!!!!! this school, I am very happy with the staff, teachers and principal. I recomend this school to any parent that would like to have a highly educated child.
—Submitted by a parent