The Academy I Middle School

Our child was accepted into the AEP program, after coming from the HOPE (gifted) class at his previous school, and has had great success at Academy I (honors, even better grades than before!). However, success here comes at the expense of endeavors that contribute to development as a well-rounded individual. Taking courses one grade level ahead is all well and good, but the amount of homework seems gratuitous (quantity masquerading as quality). I don't recall ever having this volume of work as a graduate student. It's great to learn time management skills, but not at the expense of all else. The Principal, counselors and some of the teachers are great, but we're uncertain as to whether our child will return next year. This experience has made us certain that we will not enroll him in a purely academic high school after this. If you believe in academic excellence, but also value life skills, community involvement, leadership, sports, etc., I would advise against this school. Also, contrary to popular belief, going to the AEP program will NOT afford you an advantage in being accepted to the area's elite "academic" high schools. This from the program director herself.
—Submitted by a parent

I am currently a student at Academy 1 in 6th grade, and so far, it's awesome! Even though there is a lot of work, I'm learning a lot more than a typical 6th grader. The teachers are funny and treat you as a friend, not a student. They try to help you as best as they could individually. i find it to be loads of fun there.

OMG!!! I am a graduate of A1 in the class of 2008. I am currently in McNair Academic High School. The phrase 'high school is the golden years of your life that shape you to who you are' simply doesnt apply. McNair High School was the #1 high school in NJ for a long time, and lets just say to me it seems so dry. I feel completely emotionless there because I miss all the good qualities of A1. My fellow classmates in high school are envious of every A1 student because we are all taking sophmore classes in freshmen year. As freshmen, we get to take AP courses... that give college credit.. something only a few high schools offer.. and only in senior year... we are taking it as freshmen due to our preparation in A1
—Submitted by a student

This school is great. It has 3 different programs AEP Bridges and Special needs
—Submitted by a student

I just started my first year at AEP. This school makes you feel right at home. The homework is no where near as overwhelming as I thought. I know that my time here will be the best of my life!
—Submitted by a student

Although Academy1's academic program is considered 'top notch' this school has zero tolerance! If you are accepted into this middleschool, you'll learn it is much different to all the other middle schools in the area. It's curriculum is based on getting the young and talented of today into a good school so they can be of importance in the future. however, it they expect too much of these students. If you have been to any other schools in the district you'll notice how different they are compared to Academy. Making a student 'skip a year' is just inept, children must learn slowly, rushing them into things they aren't prepared for isn't the best idea. I have to say though, it really does prepare them for top schools such as Mcnair. When deciding whether to go to this school, remember, three strikes, and your out :P
—Submitted by a student

I am currently a student at Academy 1. To tell u the truth, this school is very strict with discipline. There is lots of parental involvement but I feel that the teachers squeeze us with alot of homework and we never have freetime to do other things at home. This summer, we had projects for all of our subjects and each teacher never thinks about homework the other teachers give us. So, this summer was probly the worst ever being that we had a lot of homework. During the school year, we still get a lot of homework and tests and I feel that the school is in horrible condition. In my experience at Academy 1, I am warning you to either face the consequences and come to this school, or go to another school. If you want ur child to hate school and feel deppressed,this is the school for u!
—Submitted by a student

Without a doubt, the best school in the entire universe. I am a graduating student of Academy I in the class of 2008, and I can tell you that this school has taught me more about life and personal achievements than any other programs I have ever attended. A1 provides a carefully monitered environment in which students can reach their fullest potential through rigorous challenges. The golden quality of this school is that no matter what your personality is, we are all connected by invisible strings that link us to a common goal--academic acheivement. Every student in A1 has earned the right to go to ANY high school of their choosing because after graduating 8th grade, they have already taken HONORS courses of Freshman year of High School. Every teacher at A1 believes that any high school rejecting A1 students has just lost a valuable prodigy, and is their own loss.
—Submitted by a student

I am a graduate of Academy I Middle School, and am heading off to college next fall. Academy I is such an amazing, well rounded institution. The amount of work given to the students is extremely beneficial. I saved many of my projects from Academy I, and used them continuously through out high school. The teachers are phenomenal, they are caring, and each and everyone passionate about their subject. The benefits of attending Academy I do not stop, they have continued with me through all four years of high school, and I don't doubt it will end there. The work load is intense, once you survive it, high school is a piece of cake.
—Submitted by a student

I currently attend this school as an eight grader and I love it. The teachers in each grade help you everyday and they know what is best for you. They always show that they care about their students and they as well love their students a lot.
—Submitted by a student

My daughter went to this school and she loved it.
—Submitted by a parent

i go to this school and it is the bets school. it may have alot of homework and alot of summer projects you would still have fun. the teachers are the kindest people here.
—Submitted by a student

Academy 1 middle school offers an AP program that really prepares the students to handle the pressures of academia and to excel academically. However, this sterile and rigid enviorment is not for every child and just because a child is gifted and intelligent does not mean that they will be equipped to handle the pace set at Academy 1. Also, the rigorous schooling means that parent involvement is mandatory especially in the freshman and junior year. A lack of focus and structure at home is a sure ingredient for failure. Therefore, parents beware.
—Submitted by a parent

Hello, I am a former student of Academy 1. I currently attend McNair Academic Highschool. Attending Academy 1, has prepared me for the work and dedication needed to succeed in not only highschool, but life as well. The teachers are very helpful and create a warm atmosphere.
—Submitted by a former student

Children are at a critical age. The level of work involves parent time and assistance. There are 4 summer projects that must be completed.
—Submitted by a parent