MacNeal School

I think this school is Wonderful even though there are things I dont agree with but my son goes to this school im very involved in this school Dr.Moor is wonderful she is always there i dont think it's about the Money I think they do the best they can do Im happy that its a all year around school they need this the kids go on field trips they take them out on walks they dont have cells!!!!!! In the school some of these kids need a time out just like we parents would do in our own homes!! i love that they always have time for you i have not once went in the school and was ignored never if i had a question or was worried about anything with my son there was always time for me and my concern this school will not turn there backs on you they will help you they have mommy groups they have alot that the parents can be involved in im very happy with this school they try to make this school as much as a normal school can be and for that they should be Proud the staff at Macneal school!!
--Submitted by a parent

Students with autism are given an additional diagnosis in order for MacNeal to keep them (as this is a school for behavioral disorders not cognitive disorders). MacNeal has no ABA therapist trained in helping the autistic. Students who act out are punished (left in cells in the Intervention Area) for typical, autistic behaviors. Students with sensory issues are considered "bad" and sit at a desk or in a cell for hours or days on end instead of having an ABA specialist or 1-2-1 aide. Sometimes students are provoked and placed into a more restrictive environment (violating the federal LRE law in the IDEA) as a means to test them/bring out their worst behaviors. Dr. Moor will say they won t have support in the real world, so why should we keep giving it to them here? The behaviors can then be used to sabotage their transitioning back to a home school. We are told repeatedly that transitioning or success of a student means $ is lost. The focus of $ is on ways to impress districts/parents- an expensive DVD promo, cab rides to pick up parents, etc. Evidence-based, individualized, visual reward programs (not global, weekly, school wide rewards) are infrequently used.
--Submitted by a teacher

This school is too much about control. They need to get a grip on the fact these are children not soldiers! They make the kids wear a uniform of white shirt and blue pants. Who makes a child wear a white shirt? They have helped my child. I do like that they are year round as I feel all kids should have school year round. They do expect parents to be involved just sign a note book and 15mins of homework, but only lazy parents should be upset about that! I want to be in the school for special events and that is not allowed. The kids don't sing for parents and families. There is never any event where the kids and parents get together like a normal school (pagents or parties- nothing) where you can meet our child's classmates or the other parents. Also, they do not allow the kids to interact outside of the school, so no birthday parties with classmates! That makes me not trust the school. If you have a real problem they will make you wait at least a week for a meeting. Also, there are no computers and no smart boards. They make a huge deal out of kids acting like kids. They create drama and need to relax! If this school is a last resort for your child then fine, but that is all.
--Submitted by a parent

This school has been an answer to our family's prayers! To get services and academics has been wonderful. All schools should be year round with 2 weeks in the early summer and 2 weeks at the end!
--Submitted by a parent

Please do not destroy another child. Find another school. Terrible counselors. Not enough time off.
--Submitted by a parent

3 Years now my kid gets robbed from a summer break. 2 weeks. That's it. Is that the best they can offer after a year end 3 hour graduation and honors ceremony? C'mon...give the kids a break and let them be children too.
--Submitted by a parent

I found this school to be vary frustrating for me and my child.
--Submitted by a parent

All about 'control' - very frustrating environment for all.
--Submitted by a parent

Not a good environment for students..as a parent you need to be very involved and make sure that your student is getting the services needed in a SAFE and EDUCATIONAL environment. As a parent be aware of this and be very involved. Question the staff...I would not send my students here. Students are not set up for success in this school.
--Submitted by a teacher

Excellant school. Excellant teachers. They offer what no other schools do. It has made a big differance in my child. Other schools may try, but they actual produce results and most important, they really care about your child.
--Submitted by Gloria, a parent