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Coral Reef Montessori Academy Charter

Charter | PK-8 | 414 students

Last modified
Community Rating

5 stars

Community Rating by Year
2013:
Based on 9 ratings
2012:
Based on 1 rating
2011:
Based on 1 rating
2010:
Based on 8 ratings

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82 reviews of this school


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Posted May 6, 2013

A Montessori option in the public school system was, to me, a blessing. The teachers are well trained and very serious about this style of teaching and learning. With children of different ages comingled within classrooms, older ones help the younger ones learn which reinforces lessons for everyone. I could not be happier with this school, the faculty, administration, and parents.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted May 6, 2013

my school is the best my two grandson and my grand daughter learn so much they are 7 years old and 5 years old and they learn to read since they start PK 4 the teachers are great with the kids and the parents are always welcome to participate and help at school , the classrooms are always clean, the teachers always ready to talk to the parents giving you suggestions had to help your child , in one word they are fantastic my grand children are very happy and ready to go to school


Posted May 5, 2013

At CRMA we have the best Parents! I have a grandmother that goes to read with the kids twice a week, parents take the mats to wash, sharpen pencils, laminated lessons, work on special projects with the kids, our parents this year got for our class a refrigerator, a projector, they send three teacher to the Montessori conference in Orlando and gave each teacher in the school money to buy materials for our class. I just got back from a teacher lunch hosted by the parents for teacher appreciation.....we have the best parents in the whole world! I love my parents!
—Submitted by a teacher


Posted May 3, 2013

My daughter began at CRMA in preK3. She is now a second grader. I can't say enough great things about this wonderful little school. They really do work on holistic education. The school as a whole is a warm little community, everyone is all-hands-on-deck, including parents and families. Everyone knows and cares for one another's child. School principals are easily accessible. My daughter is very happy here.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted May 3, 2013

We have been a part of the CRMA family for 4 years. Both my daughter & son attend this wonderful school. My daughter came from a Waldorf school where academics were not taught until a later age. She was allowed to enter CRMA in 1st grade and given the time & space she needed to catch up. The teachers are loving & kind facilitators, allowing the children to blossom at their own pace and keep their love of learning intact. The school staff is THE most supportive I have ever experienced!! We ve received the most amazing support from teachers & administrators whenever it was needed. As a parent I value that my family is treated with respect and kindness by all the staff there. The parents & kids all know each other and we support each other in and out of school. Both of my kids have flourished at CRMA & I highly recommend this special place to all parents who are looking for a more organic alternative to public compulsory education. The Montessori style of education is nurturing to a child s spirit & I am thrilled that I don t have to worry about my children s education until high school. We are truly blessed to have such a gem of a school in our community!!
—Submitted by a parent


Posted May 3, 2013

My daughter & son, both previously attended this school. The education to which they has been exposed has exceeded my expectations. The directors has undoubtedly put forth much effort in staffing extremely competent and professional teachers. They possess the skills and capacity to provide a high degree of education, complemented by a sense of CARING AND LOVE. The administration is also well-qualified and they have operated with a great sense of organization. I have no doubt that CRMA will continue to exceed in all aspects. I strongly recommend this school for anyone who wishes to provide their child with an excellent, caring education within a family environment.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted May 3, 2013

CRMA is a top quality school that goes above and beyond for their students, particularly those who need additional support to meet their special needs. The CRMA staff has been very active with helping me acquire the necessary services that my children required. Furthermore, the teachers have been very accommodating with implementing strategies and providing extra support to my children. My other child, who attended CRMA for eight years, is attending high school at New World. I have experienced the horrors of the public schools in the vicinity, and CRMA is by far the best choice for your child's education AND well-being.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted May 3, 2013

I stumbled across this school when looking for an alternative to the public school in my neighborhood. I had almost no knowledge of the Montessori philosophy and at the beginning I was skeptical. Fast forward five years and I can tell you it was the best decision I could have made for my children. This is a school that values and teaches autonomy, responsibility, respect for self, respect for others and respect for the world we live in. The children are given all the tools they need to meet and exceed all academic expectations while learning at their own pace. The access to teachers and administration is unparalleled. There are some wonderful things happening with extracurricular activities. I would recommend this school without hesitation - and have many times.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted May 3, 2013

CRMA is unique in my experience, having taught at different Montessori schools. CRMA has positive energy, a sincere & dedicated staff & leadership. As a place to learn & grow, parents & children can work together w/CRMA.


Posted March 23, 2012

I withdrew my daughter from CRMA because I feel she was not learning. I am very disappointed in this school and parents should reconsider before choosing this school for a proper education. The faculty and staff are not the most friendly and the classes are way too big. My daughter's 1st - 3rd class had 37 kids in it! And it was the same in the other 1st - 3rd classes. My daughter attended CRMA from pre k4 - 2nd grade.....I gave it a chance and I can honestly say I was still unhappy with the school and so was my daughter.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted November 23, 2011

I have two son's that attend CRMA, to say we love it is an understatement. The students are with the same teachers for three years and throughout that time a real bond is formed. The teachers become more than teachers, they are extended family members thaty can describe your child almost as well as I can. The lessons are hands on so the students learn not by memorization but by actual experience. But their lessons dont stop at academics they have a holistic approach that nurture happy, health conscience, well rounded members of society. The students are the most respectfully well behaved kids I have ever experienced and that says alot considering it goes from k3 to 8th grade. Even the oofice staff are hands on and always helpful and caring...they know your kids too. The leaders are phenominal they seem to really support their teachers and of course the students. They are always looking for innovative ways to improve the school. Where else would the director invite parents to her house to host a meeting reguarding parenting classes-they truly care. The parents are great everyone is so invovled-its everyones school and I love the diverse atmosphere. I love CRMA!
—Submitted by a parent


Posted December 9, 2010

This is one of the few Montessori schools in the country that honestly tries to adhere to the Montessori Philosophy, while striving to meet state standards. The school has an outstanding reputation for meeting the needs of each student, including those individuals who require educators to think "out of the box" in order to come up with solutions for the child to be successful. The staff is hardworking, committed, creative and compassionate.


Posted May 10, 2010

CRMA provides a nurturing, Montessori environment while meeting the needs of the whole child. The teachers that work at CRMA are there because they truly love to teach. Despite long hours with lots of take home work, low pay and increasing responsibility they show up day after day with a smile on their face and full of enthusiasm to start the day with new and exciting Montessori lessons. The children are cared for with respect and love.I addition the school has a family like environment unlike any other school in Dade County.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted May 10, 2010

CRMA is outstanding. I have a 2nd grader and an 11th grader who was a former student. The nurturing and leadership they receive is not common for many other schools. At this school, children are treated as individuals and their teachers encourage their individualism.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted May 8, 2010

My kids attended this school from PK3 to 8th grade they are both now in High School and every day I realized they had the best education, the best teachers and staff. At CRMA the teachers, administration and staff really care about their students. CRMA is not a perfect school but is one of the few schools that care about the children!
—Submitted by a parent


Posted May 8, 2010

coral reef montessori academy charter school is very unique and diversified community.... there are people working and children attending the school from all over the world and from all walks of life. we truly work together to teach our community not only academics but how to get along with and accept others of all different background, ethnicities and beliefs.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted May 8, 2010

Because it provides every student the possibilities to succeed, to demonstrate their talents and be nurtured as valuable individuals. My daughter is an 11th grader, and a former CRMAC student. With the help of the Montessori education, my daughter is a successful HS student, involved in her community, in school organizations and with aspirations of pursuing a career of service.
—Submitted by a teacher


Posted May 5, 2010

The education that my daughter has received there at CRMA is exceptional. Her teacher is unlike any other teacher I have ever come across. I would recommend to any parent that is looking for an excellent education for their children to place them at CRMA.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted May 5, 2010

It has help my niece and many other children that I know be themself and leave on their own terms.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted May 5, 2010

excellent personal attention to the students, in a friendly, organized and incredibly diverse school
—Submitted by a parent


Community ratings and reviews do not represent the views of GreatSchools nor does GreatSchools check their accuracy or verify the reviewers' identities. Use your discretion when evaluating these reviews.

About these ratings

The Community Rating is the school’s average rating from its community members (e.g., parents, students, and school staff). The highest possible rating is five stars; the lowest is one star.

The test results by subgroup show how the designated group of students is performing in comparison to the general population.
Math

The state average for Math was 58% in 2012.

51 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
51%

2011

 
 
41%
Reading

The state average for Reading was 56% in 2012.

51 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
73%

2011

 
 
68%
Scale: % level 3, 4, or 5

About the tests


In 2011-2012 Florida used the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT 2.0) to test students in grades 3 through 10 in reading, 3 through 8 in math, and in grades 5 and 8 in science. The FCAT 2.0 is a standards-based test, which means it measures how well students are mastering specific skills defined for each grade by the state of Florida. The FCAT 2.0 has 5 achievement levels, with level 1 being the lowest and level 5 the highest. Florida considers scores of level 3 and higher to be on or above grade level. The goal is for all students to score at or above level 3.

See Florida's state standards

Source: Florida Department of Education

Math

The state average for Math was 60% in 2012.

43 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
49%

2011

 
 
52%
Reading

The state average for Reading was 62% in 2012.

43 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
72%

2011

 
 
66%
Scale: % level 3, 4, or 5

About the tests


In 2011-2012 Florida used the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT 2.0) to test students in grades 3 through 10 in reading, 3 through 8 in math, and in grades 5 and 8 in science. The FCAT 2.0 is a standards-based test, which means it measures how well students are mastering specific skills defined for each grade by the state of Florida. The FCAT 2.0 has 5 achievement levels, with level 1 being the lowest and level 5 the highest. Florida considers scores of level 3 and higher to be on or above grade level. The goal is for all students to score at or above level 3.

See Florida's state standards

Source: Florida Department of Education

Math

The state average for Math was 57% in 2012.

36 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
67%

2011

 
 
52%
Reading

The state average for Reading was 61% in 2012.

36 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
58%

2011

 
 
62%
Science

The state average for Science was 51% in 2012.

36 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
50%
Scale: % level 3, 4, or 5

About the tests


In 2011-2012 Florida used the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT 2.0) to test students in grades 3 through 10 in reading, 3 through 8 in math, and in grades 5 and 8 in science. The FCAT 2.0 is a standards-based test, which means it measures how well students are mastering specific skills defined for each grade by the state of Florida. The FCAT 2.0 has 5 achievement levels, with level 1 being the lowest and level 5 the highest. Florida considers scores of level 3 and higher to be on or above grade level. The goal is for all students to score at or above level 3.

See Florida's state standards

Source: Florida Department of Education

Math

The state average for Math was 53% in 2012.

36 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
67%

2011

 
 
81%
Reading

The state average for Reading was 57% in 2012.

36 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
75%

2011

 
 
75%
Scale: % level 3, 4, or 5

About the tests


In 2011-2012 Florida used the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT 2.0) to test students in grades 3 through 10 in reading, 3 through 8 in math, and in grades 5 and 8 in science. The FCAT 2.0 is a standards-based test, which means it measures how well students are mastering specific skills defined for each grade by the state of Florida. The FCAT 2.0 has 5 achievement levels, with level 1 being the lowest and level 5 the highest. Florida considers scores of level 3 and higher to be on or above grade level. The goal is for all students to score at or above level 3.

See Florida's state standards

Source: Florida Department of Education

Math

The state average for Math was 56% in 2012.

34 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
88%

2011

 
 
79%
Reading

The state average for Reading was 58% in 2012.

34 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
68%

2011

 
 
79%
Scale: % level 3, 4, or 5

About the tests


In 2011-2012 Florida used the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT 2.0) to test students in grades 3 through 10 in reading, 3 through 8 in math, and in grades 5 and 8 in science. The FCAT 2.0 is a standards-based test, which means it measures how well students are mastering specific skills defined for each grade by the state of Florida. The FCAT 2.0 has 5 achievement levels, with level 1 being the lowest and level 5 the highest. Florida considers scores of level 3 and higher to be on or above grade level. The goal is for all students to score at or above level 3.

See Florida's state standards

Source: Florida Department of Education

Math

The state average for Math was 57% in 2012.

21 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
81%

2011

 
 
73%
Reading

The state average for Reading was 55% in 2012.

21 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
86%

2011

 
 
73%
Science

The state average for Science was 46% in 2012.

21 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
43%
Scale: % level 3, 4, or 5

About the tests


In 2011-2012 Florida used the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT 2.0) to test students in grades 3 through 10 in reading, 3 through 8 in math, and in grades 5 and 8 in science. The FCAT 2.0 is a standards-based test, which means it measures how well students are mastering specific skills defined for each grade by the state of Florida. The FCAT 2.0 has 5 achievement levels, with level 1 being the lowest and level 5 the highest. Florida considers scores of level 3 and higher to be on or above grade level. The goal is for all students to score at or above level 3.

See Florida's state standards

Source: Florida Department of Education

Writing

The state average for Writing was 81% in 2012.

43 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
81%

2011

 
 
100%

2010

 
 
95%
Scale: % scoring at or above level 3

About the tests


In 2011-2012 Florida used the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT) to test students in grades 4, 8 and 10 in writing. The Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT) is a standards-based test, which means it measures how well students are mastering specific skills needed to progress through school. The FCAT writing exam is scored on a scale of 1 to 6. The state considers a score of 3 or above as meeting state standards.

See Florida's state standards

Source: Florida Department of Education

Writing

The state average for Writing was 78% in 2012.

21 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
90%

2011

 
 
100%

2010

 
 
96%
Scale: % scoring at or above level 3

About the tests


In 2011-2012 Florida used the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT) to test students in grades 4, 8 and 10 in writing. The Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT) is a standards-based test, which means it measures how well students are mastering specific skills needed to progress through school. The FCAT writing exam is scored on a scale of 1 to 6. The state considers a score of 3 or above as meeting state standards.

See Florida's state standards

Source: Florida Department of Education

  • In 2011-2012, this school received a grade of "A".
  • In 2010-2011, this school received a grade of "A".
  • In 2009-2010, this school received a grade of "A".
  • In 2008-2009, this school received a grade of "A".

About the tests


Florida uses School Grades to measure the overall performance of a school each year on the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT). Each school is assigned a letter grade (A-F) based on three criteria: the overall performance on the FCAT, the percentage of eligible students who took the test, and whether or not students made progress in reading and math. The School Grades are calculated by adding points earned from each of the performance criteria listed above.

See Florida's state standards

Source: Florida Department of Education

Algebra I

The state average for Algebra I was 59% in 2012.

11 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
100%

2011

 
 
n/a
Scale: % level 3, 4, or 5

About the tests


In 2011-2012 Florida used the End-of-Course Assessments (EOC) to test students in Algebra 1. The EOC is a standards-based test, which means it measures how well students are mastering specific skills defined for each grade by the state of Florida. The Algebra 1 EOC has 5 achievement levels, with level 1 being the lowest and level 5 the highest. Florida considers scores of level 3 and higher to be on or above grade level. The goal is for all students to score at or above level 3.

See Florida's state standards

Source: Florida Department of Education

Breaking down the GreatSchools Rating

GreatSchools Ratings are based on the most recent standardized test results for schools. Use the breakdown ratings below to compare types of students at this school. Learn more »


Student ethnicity

Ethnicity This school State average
Hispanic 52% 25%
Black 22% 23%
White 19% 46%
Multiracial 6% 4%
Asian/Pacific Islander 1% 2%
American Indian/Alaskan Native 0% 0%
Source: FL Dept. of Education, 2007-2008

Student subgroups

  This school District averageState average
Students eligible for free or reduced-price lunch program 21%N/A46%
Source: FL Dept. of Education, 2007-2008

Teacher education levels

  This school District averageState average
Bachelor's degree 46%N/A65%
Master's degree 54%N/A32%
Doctorate degree 0%N/A1%
Other degree 0%N/A2%
Source: FL Dept. of Education, 2009-2010

Teacher credentials

  This school District averageState average
Classes taught by non-highly qualified teachers 5%N/A5%
Source: FL Dept. of Education, 2009-2010
Notice an inaccuracy? Let us know!

10853 SW 216th St
Miami, FL 33170
Website: Click here
Phone: (305) 255-0064

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