Northwood Academy CS

I do think Northwood Academy, is an incredible learning institution. Great faculty and most of all Miss Pamela Frieman's attitude towards the students, make it a home for kids to acquire a great education.My daughter has mentioned to me on many ocassions, that she will be having lunch with Miss Friedman today. She loves her, as this is the time she and MIss Friedman has the best conversations about how she can become a better student, and continue to excell in her education. The positive engagement, with staff and students, is ranked so high, that when kids graduate from the school it's hard for them to forget their NOrthwood teachers. I have to remind my daughter everyday that she is not at Northwood anymore. Can't get this school out of her system. Miss Kelley is another great and postive teacher. My daughter loves the bonding and think she is the best teacher she has ever had.
—Submitted by a parent

I agree with the comments regarding the lack of discipline for the upper grades. The teaching staff at Northwood is the BEST! They are conscientious and caring; they are professional and always willing to communicate. My son loves his teachers. He has come a long way under their guidance and he remains productive and happy at Northwood. We wish their after-school activities were more structured; we wish the administration took more of an interest in the Latino population regarding sports and extra-curricular activities. We wish Northwood would give as much recognition in their intellectual after-school activities as they do their sports programs. (i.e. no recognition was given to the Engineering club led by Ms. Hopkins-Doerr and their successful show bringing an award and a check for $50.00 back to Northwood.) We are grateful for Northwood being part of our community. Northwood is our shining star in a neighborhood that has so very little to offer. Thank you Northwood teaching staff.
—Submitted by a parent

I have been very impressed by the philosophy of the school and what my grand children have achieved in the classes. I have a great grand child living with me who will also, hopefully, attend this school. I think it's time for more parents and community members to become actively involved in the school and intend to begin to attend the Board meetings.
—Submitted by a parent

I worked at Northwood last year as the Building Substitute teacher. Out of the 4 schools where I have worked (3 Philadelphia charters, 1 suburban public), Northwood is my favorite. The school has a very diverse student body, great teachers, and supportive administrators. Student behavior is generally good and students are generally dealt with appropriately when they misbehave. Amy Hollister is an encouraging, positive, and motivating principal (whatever her other faults might be), as is Pam Friedman. The school also provides the latest technology and facilities for its students--someone is very busy writing grants! My only criticism is that the administrative team has much more experience with elementary students than with middle grades students, and is not strict enough with the students in grades 7 and 8. Cell phone use and hall wandering have been a problem in these grades. When compared to other Philadelphia schools, however, these problems do not seem so severe. All in all, this is a great school. I would happily send my OWN child to Northwood.
—Submitted by a teacher

Kindergarten has been wonderful as my daughter loves going to school and can read great for a 5 year old. I really wish this school had a PTA that I could join. I would love to start one but I do not have the time it takes to devote to running a PTA. If their are any parents out their that would like to start one, I would gladly join.
—Submitted by a parent

this school is ok. it has its ups and downs. its teachers are ok.
—Submitted by a student

Wy husband and I love what Northwood has done for our children. They are academically performing well above other children in our neighborhood. If you don't like Mrs. Hollister, it's because she probably told you something you didn't want to hear! We love her.
—Submitted by a parent

I don't agree with the ratings, specifically the prinicpal is ranking at a higher rating than teaching staff? My child is a student at Northwood; and by far, no matter what circumstances the teaching staff has always been more receptive and responsive over the Prinicipal of Northwood. However I do give applause to the Director, Pamela Friedman. Her efforts and involvement with the student/parent communications are commendable. Mrs. Friedman's abilities far exceed her position/responsibilities at Northwood.
—Submitted by a parent

The school has a great curriculum, safety plan and student behavioral plan. The school is doing a great job teaching/enforcing proper social behavior. I like the fact that students are contstantly encouraged and expected to perform at their highest level. The school has a great teaching staff. They're very caring and self-sacrificing. Mrs. Scarinci and Ms. Mulville are great examples of what it means to be a good teacher. Keep up the good work you two!! However, I think the Principal lacks severly in interpersonal skills. I think the office staff could use some lessons in professional ettiquet and attire. I wish the school sponsored more SCHOOL based extra-curriculum activities. I also wish they would build an in-school gym instead of walking to the local recreational center. All-in-all, I give the school an eight out of ten.
—Submitted by a parent

I am a graduaate of northwood academy and i just have to say that was the best school Ive been too threw grades k to 8. Ive learned so much and the teachers were great. I love that it is a small school so its more comfortsble being there. I also like how it is strict. most of the kids in that school need to learn how to be well mannered and tucking in yor shirt wont make you look like a slob. Im in high school now and a sophmore, but if I could I would deffinatley go back to northwood for 8th grade. it was the best.

I'm a old student from Northwood. I just graduated this year. Northwood was like the best experience of my life. I love the teachers, well most. This school has really put made a difference in my life. Northwood was not just a school, it was a second home for me. I knew alot of people and most of them were all welcoming. I started Northwood in the 5th grade when it all started. Oh Yeah! I love the new building. I will never forget my Northwood Fam!

i love this school i've been here for most of my life since 2'nd grade but had to leave love nacs!
—Submitted by a student

I love this school , I have been going to this school for almost 4 years . The communication between Students and Teachers are Great .
—Submitted by a student

This is my daughter's 3rd yr at Northwood. She came from what was supposed to be an academic plus school but to me it was just a strict public school . She and I both were nervous about the move. It was an eye opening adjustment for her, however, it turned out to be the best thing I've ever done for her education. The school has great morals and standards each child has to uphold. My only issues is that she is very much into sports and I beleive they cater more towards the boys than the girls when it comes to athletics. However, over all I love the school and I am going to miss the personal attention she is getting once she graduates next year.
—Submitted by a parent

Northwood is awsome!! I am glad it's a small school. All the students get more personal interactions with staff and all the children know each other. I really love this school and the new building.
—Submitted by a parent

This school is the best school! My children love the school. The staff is wonderful, and they geniually care about their students. They take the time out to see where your child may be struggle as far as school work, and if the child has a problem they do everything within their powers to help...Keep up the excellent work!
—Submitted by a parent

Okay I really dislike this school for certain reasons. One, this school is too strict, for example you have to have your shirt tucked in. Also, this school is too small, why make another building that only has one building, well anyways that my opinion.
—Submitted by a parent

My son started in a Philadelphia Public school, and transferring him to Northwood Academy Charter School was the best move ever. It is a very personal school. When the principal can walk by several students addressing them by their name, you should be impressed...I was. My son is very happy at Northwood. Keep up the good work guys...
—Submitted by a parent

Great school with strong leadership. Faculty cares about school and kids, and will go the extra mile.
—Submitted by a teacher

Trachers are great,really devoted to the kids, and work with what they have.Safety and Discipline = very,very good. Principal's Leadership and non teaching office staff = only very,veryaverage.Principal's Communication Skills with the parents are poor.Office staff have not got much idea and are ill organised.Principal does seem some what arrogant towards parents concerns. Overall a good school with non teaching areas that could be greatly improved.Have discussed this with other parents and they feel the same way.
—Submitted by a parent