Alfred Adler Elementary School

It seems that the ratings for this school have changed dramatically in the past year. After a rash episode of reckless firing of many of the strongest staff and increasingly stringent policies towards decreasing parental involvement, I understand the trend. While the school declares diplomacy and democracy to be its motto, it has, in fact, become a dictatorship. I think its new motto has become something to the effect of "don't ask, don't tell". Should a parent express a concern, academic or otherwise, it is met with a condescending "this is only what YOU see as a problem". It is essentially impossible to get through the iron wall of the administration to address or resolve any of these "imagined" issues. I am saddened, but relieved to have removed my children from this school. It barely resembles the school that we once knew and were proud to be a part of.
—Submitted by a parent

We had a terrible experience with this school. The children are out of control, disrespectful to each other and adults, and the administration refuses to address any concerns or discipline. Academic concerns were never addressed and communication between parents,teachers, and admin is nonexistent. I was continuously given conflicting information regarding policies, schoolwork, and homework. My child transferred to a traditional school and was so far behind she was in danger of not passing, as well as being diagnosed with learning difficulties. None of which were identified at Alfred Adler, but were assessed and addressed within 2 weeks in a traditional school. This school should be ashamed of the "education" it claims to provide but is too arrogant to realize its own failings.
—Submitted by a parent

Adler is a good school for some while it is not a fit for everyone. This can clearly be illustrated by the fact that almost every review is either a one or a five star. As a parent, I find it a difficult challenge to make a decision on your child's education. Let's face it, our public school system is complete garbage. I openly praise and support a school whose focus rests more on social development than doing well on some bologna test put forth by our state's poor excuse for an education department. Adler will teach your children to think for themselves as well as how to handle their own social and personal issues. Although this process can be a messy one at first, it seems to pan out well in the long run. Another misfortune is that this school seems to attract problematic children. Overall I have been pleased with this school with an exception of a few things that have come up as anyone would be with any school. Go Otters!
—Submitted by a parent

I agree very much with the Adlerian way of thinking. However I do not agree with the way this school is being run. None of the administration has a degree in education nor are they certified. The philosophy is a great idea, but to put it into practice takes much more knowledge of the educational system than anyone at this school has. Also I do not agree with the idea that NONE of the struggling students are given extra help or tutoring. I agree with the fact that not every student needs a label, but some do need extra help in a small group setting or outside of the classroom.

I have two children at Adler, and we have been extremely happy at this school during the past two years. First, this school is not for everyone, nor is it for problem children (although children who have been labeled as problematic often thrive here because of the learning environment). If, like me, your primary goal for education is for your children to become autonomous, creative, critical thinkers capable of making choices for themselves, then I encourage you to check out this school. The focus here is definitely on social relationships and critical thinking more than it is on rote fact assimilation (if you want that, go to a fundamental school). The principal and his wife are close with every family that wants to be and are ALWAYS available to talk about your child because they know your child personally. Occasionally they make decisions that I don't agree with, but they are open to talking dissatisfaction through with parents. As far as the lack of grades, I encourage you to think about the function of grading within the educational system. If I want to know to what extent my child is learning, I need only ask the teacher or my child.
—Submitted by a parent

The Alfred Adler Elementary School is a cutting edge school. It incorporates everything useful we know about education and human develop. I have been in Education for over 30 years teaching at the graduate level and working for the College of Education at the University of Georgia. It provides children the opportunity to be creative, cooperate, and take responsibility for their own learning. The school teaches ways to improves relationships among teachers, parents and students. St. Petersburg is fortunate to have such a school. Dr. Evans

My daughter started kindergarten here this year, she has 2 cousins attending as well. All 3 seem to be thriving in this environment, this school provides them with responsibilities in their school community and builds their self-confidence. I am impressed by how self-assured all of the children seem. The principal knows parents by name and is easily accessible (both in person and on the phone).
—Submitted by a parent

These are very nice folks with the exception of some very bad advice that they take from their psychologist-advisor who even declares that he doesn't like kids. The director and the teachers are quite good. Parental input is explicitly discouraged. The underlying philosophy, that of Adler, is designed to address the issues of problem children. If you think of your son or daughter as a problem child, this may truly be a good program.
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter started Kindergarten this year and she is doing very well.The teachers here are all about the kids.Love this school.
—Submitted by a parent

This school has a very unique philosophy that many would find bizarre. They do not give grades or homework. They do not believe in consequences for inappropriate behavior. They do not believe in giving extra help to students with behavior and learning challenges. The administration is dictatorial and inconsistent.