Lehman Alternative Community School

grades 6-12; democratically run by students and staff; non-traditional curriculum, with more depth, less breadth.
--Submitted by a teacher

So many reasons! Easiest explanation is students develop individual relationships with learning & to to develop and explore their interests beyond school. We walk away the LACS school experience with global knowledge, deep understanding of community & communication, and most of all how to learn for ourselves. Could also be put along the lines of 'give a student a fish and she'll eat for a day - teach her how to fish and she'll eat forever'. ... and that's just the beginning.

Attend a graduation ceremony - it is so clear that each graduate is an individual who is valued for his or her self. Students are encouraged to pursue topics in depth and develop the skills that can carry them forward as thinking citizens. As parents of three graduates and one current student, all very different individuals, we've been impressed with how the school has worked well for each one.
--Submitted by a parent

too many reasons to list. Student involvement in decision making is big.
--Submitted by a parent

Hands on learning , makes it fun! My 11 y/o loves it. They do some really great things all the while focusing on and educating the kids on environmental protection, and healthy organic foods.
--Submitted by a parent

More than a school - a community!
--Submitted by a parent

This school community has many distinctives. It has a waiver from most state tests, and does not teach to the tests. It engages students in becoming life-long, self-directed learners and criticle thinkers. It has a participatory democracy. Evaluations are narrative by both student and teacher. Advancement is by portfolio exhibition. All round, it is a caring place for young people to learn and grow.
--Submitted by a parent

Caring teachers with smaller classes.Students chosen by lottery, so all kinds of kids can go. Lots of one on one attention. Creative, intelligent, teaching.
--Submitted by a parent

I love my school. It's amazing. End of story.
--Submitted by a student

I really love this school, although academically, I don't think they're pushing their students hard enough. A lot of kids get away with things they would never have gotten away with at a public school, although this freedom is usually used properly (getting a drink/using the restrooms without a pass), sometimes kids in my grade lie to their teachers and/or skip class and get away with it. Over all, this scool is great, although I am thinking of switching to Boynton, I'm not too concerned. This school is a great choice!
--Submitted by a student