New Community School

We had great expectations for this school, and the staff exceeded those for several years. Sadly, as a result of staffing and administrative changes, our hopes have been dashed. Special education staff seem to have their own agenda, which is often counter to what students need, and a new administrator is cutting 7-8th grades, which is leaving many kids without an option to attend next year, even if they want to return. Instead of growing enrollment, the school is significantly cutting enrollment for next year. While the intention is to return to one building, the move is not fair for older kids, who will no longer be part of the equation. The school's philosophy is indeed very progressive, and although some teachers still live up to that, I fear that the sense of community and individuality that my children found for several years there is now gone.
--Submitted by a parent

We have found that this school is a very good alternative to the other offerings in the community. We have experienced what is considered a "great academic school" but at what cost is this pressure on young chldren? Instead of watching our child beg not to go to school at the first school, we see a joyful learner who not only loves school, but actually shares with us what learning is going on in the classroom. My only faults I have with the school at this point: 1) is the split locations 2). I also agree with the clique situation with parents who do a lot for the school. However, I have seen that at just about every school I have experienced. The teachers are very friendly but I have little to no contact with administration. This school HAS to get out of this multi location situation. I anticipate a change with the new director in January. Hopefully this new leader can get through that roadblock that has prevented the move up to this point. I also think once the move is made, enrollment will be at the 350 max. very friendly but I have little to no contact with administration. The soon to be change of leadership is anticipated. The school HAS to get out of this mult
--Submitted by a parent

I love the teachers in this school! I feel they work hard with the children that attend and help each child feel important and succeed. I couldn't ask for more. As far as the principal leadership... I think there is work to do. Not all children are treated equal as far as disipline and there is favortisim do to children who have parents whom work for the school. I think that needs to be looked into and It shouldn't be an issue other children should have to worry about.
--Submitted by a parent

I have 2 children who have graduated the school and moved on to one of the most challenging academic environments and they are doing fabulous. They have adjusted socially, have made honor roll, they are playing sports and are involved in clubs and student council. They are succeeding due to the foundation they received at New Community School. They are happy, well adjusted and confident.
--Submitted by a parent

this school has changed my son's life. He has received an individualized education. He loves school and I love that I always know what is going on and am always welcome in his school
--Submitted by a parent

The school itself is wonderful and they do learn more in the arts and music. But, leadership is lacking. The director is wonderful at maintaining the charter and is very focused on her staff. She doesn't seem to get along very well with the students or the parents that disagree or have frustrations. The adminstrative staff has their hands tied with what they can and cannot do. There really needs to be a person in place that doesn't deal with the charter and can listen to the parents with an unbiased opinion to be able to serve the school and families better. It is also very clickish with some of the older families and those that have been around or do a lot for the school.
--Submitted by a parent

Enthusiastic, dedicated, creative teachers inspire students to learn!
--Submitted by a parent

I feel that the school is not living up to its defined goals. In the last year it has nearly doubled in size, and split into to locations. But in the process it seems to have lost sight of its reason for being. Discipline has gotten irrationally strict, programs such as the gifted program never had a meeting. Although the school has talented parent base, and promotes volunteerism, it is nearly all fundraising. Parent input is rejected by the director. The sense of Community is primarily among a small group of long-time staff/parents. Many of the teachers are terrific. But the guidance by the director and board is very weak. Although the school uses the Responsive Classroom philosophy, there is never any real discussion of its tenets, in any meetings/newsletters, etc. The school needs to reevaluate why it exists, if it is just to grow or to educate creatively and effectively.
--Submitted by a parent

This school is one that teaches the whole child. Academics and arts are important. My child has Spanish three times a week, art two times a week and music two times a week. He is now in his 4th year of Spanish and is reading music well. In the 4th grade they are composing! This all along with good academic test scores and exemplary status from the department of education at the state level. Great kids, great community!
--Submitted by a parent

New Community School has smaller classroom sizes, so there is more one on one individual attention. There is a lot of parent involvement, which creates a real sense of community. I love this school!
--Submitted by a parent