Jackson A Elementary Language Academy

So, to the real estate broker who said that moving near AJ doesn't help your chances, even if you're 1.5 miles away. I read where there was a different lottery for kids within 1.5 miles - are you saying that's incorrect. I'm just asking because we are just starting to look where to move in Chicago for next school year (2013-14) and just want to get a handle on all of this...thanks.
—Submitted by a parent

This school has done wonders for my daughter! I was always on the look out for a great school for my children and that is exactly what I've found in this school. From principal all the way to the lunch staff , they keep these kids well rounded and completely grounded. Its excellent. The parents are great also. I work crazy hours so I'm not able to be as involved as I want but they always make you feel welcomed and included. Best school ever .
—Submitted by a parent

Great School, Great Teachers, Great Leadership. They have their act together. Parents are the best here. I mean its WOW!
—Submitted by a parent

Dear Parent, I am a real estate broker and a mother of two who also lives in the area and would like to inform you that living in the area does not provide you with instant access to AJ because it is not considered a neighborhood school. Therefore, please be careful if promises or statements have been made to you during your home buying search or purchase as to the likelihood of acceptance at AJ will be based on lottery.
—Submitted by a parent

Does anybody know what are your chances of getting accepted if you live in the neighborhood (less than 1.5 mi away?). We are buying a house around the school and are looking forward to having our son attend, but I am worried about this lottery system even for neighborhood kids. Any opinions would be appreciated.
—Submitted by a parent

Been at ajla for 6 years as a parent. I have to say I am very happy with the teachers and principal. The principal is fair and understands children and is very supportive both to parents and students alike. Communication with teachers is not a problem. My guess parents that don't like the principal because he is fair and runs a tight ship and the parent didn't get snobby way. If there is anything wrong is a few high strung Parents that want their way and when the don't get it the complain.
—Submitted by a parent

Fnally a parent speaks the truth about AJLA. I having been waiting for this review. You speak the truth as to what really goes on beyond the black picket fence. Your opinion Feb 1st Parent is much appreciated.
—Submitted by a parent

I attended AJLA from 1997 - 2002. The ethnic diversity at the school provided me with the true meaning of a well rounded education. The faculty and staff always went the extra mile for us. Teachers truly cared about our education and ensured that we would be well prepared for high school. Because of AJLA, I excelled at Whitney Young High School and now a proud alumna of UCLA. Educators at AJLA understand that the foundation of a good education starts at a very young age. The importance of taking copious notes in class was first introduced to me in the 7th grade, and to this day (as a law student) I am still going back to the basics of what I learned when I was 13! I couldn't have gone this far without AJLA being there for the primal years of my educational career!

Teachers, Principal, Parents involvement all outstanding. I have two kids at AJLA. one upper grade, one lower grade could not be more pleased with the whole school staff and the education they are getting. Again just outstanding.
—Submitted by a parent

This is school the bees knees. The teachers are very attentive to the students needs. The administration is also top notch. They always look at the children 1st before the make any decision. Parent involvement is 2nd to none. One just has to walk into the school and see parents that are willing to help at anytime. The principal is in constant communication with parents. Kids are very happy and excited going to school each morning. AJLA is building them a solid foundation for many years to come.
—Submitted by a parent

The principal has an impressive knowledge of each student, down to his/her reading tastes. The teachers and building staff are dedicated and generous.
—Submitted by a parent

AJLA provides a solid education so if that's all that matters, this is your school. The principal who in 2007 inherited a superior operation has a stand-off ish "too busy" kind of attitude. The relations between many parents and the principal and teachers is confrontational. It's become SOP, very stressful. In the upper grades, support is lacking. It's all about maintaining rank at this school. Sad to say about such a good school.
—Submitted by a parent

I strongly agree with the parent who posted today, May 26, 2011. It s a very true assessment of the leadership in the school today. Support is definitely lacking in the upper grades from the teachers as well as the principal.
—Submitted by a parent

This school is a parent's dream. The parent involvement is excellent. The principal communicates with the parents regularly. The teachers excel in their areas of expertise. I highly recommend this school to anyone in Chicago.
—Submitted by a parent

It provides phenomenal leadership within the school. The teachers provide excellent instruction. They have the most advanced language program offered nationwide. The cross cultural experience provides a true reflection of our global society. It is a well direct public school.
—Submitted by a parent

I Love Andrew Jackson Language Academy because of the school's diversity, sponsered learning activities after school and wonderful teaching staff.
—Submitted by a parent

they are on top of things!they have a clue!
—Submitted by a parent

There are so many reasons for which I love this school. Let me start by saying that the teachers in this school are the best. They will go out of their way to make sure you are informed and kept in the loop when it comes to your child's progress. This gives the parents a chance to help their children improve on areas that are needed and are also given the tools to do so by our great and caring teachers. Diversity is also one of the reasons why I love this school. My children have learned about so many cultures and traditions from the friendships they have developed over the years. Not only are they learning the importance of socializing but also the languages that they are exposed to gives them a sense of curiosity with other parts of the world that they would otherwise not have. Our faculty, staff, parents and students are always looking for ways to make our school better and give back to the community.
—Submitted by a parent

We at Jackson are consistently looking for ways to improve the educational and social experience for students, staff, faculty and parents.
—Submitted by a parent

Wonderful diversity of student body and families, outstanding teachers, tremendous leadership. The school inspires us as people to do our best in all things!
—Submitted by a parent