Academy of Accelerated Learning

While AAL has a lot of caring teachers, the school has too many programs which directly impacts the quality of education that the students receive. I think that the name "Accelerated Learning" is misleading. When most parents think of Accelerated Learning they envision a school that really pushes and challenges the kids and where the students academic achievements are higher than that of their peers but in AAL's case it's the exact opposite. Low test scores, students below grade level in reading and math and little parent involvement is the reality of AAL. The principal is focused on trying on every new teaching fad that comes along. While it is admirable that she would want to try out new ideas in education, all it does it create a student population who fall well below their peers.

My daughter has attended AAL since K4 and will be graduating this year. We have had such an enriching experience at this school and my daughter has grown into a smart, confident, culturally aware 5th grader partly due to her experience at AAL. Academy of Accelerated Learning is so rich in diversity. My daughters friends range in ethnicity from Hmong, European, Mexican, Burmese and Somali just to name a few. The teachers are exceptional and encourage the children to be responsible for their actions beginning in Kindergarten. Mrs. Miller, Principal, is currently in the process of gaining Charter status and transitioning the school to an IB Program, which will be such a benefit to the students. We will miss this wonderful little gem of a school!
--Submitted by Mimi Fuentes, a parent

AAL is the best elementary MPS school. My daughter has learned above and beyond what I expected her to learn at school alone. She is encouraged everyday by her teachers to go beyond what she can do. Beyond the great daily school activities there are many extras associated with the school that foster learning and community togetherness. The math, science, and music go beyond any other elementary school around. I am an engineer and extremely satisfied with the school's all around development of the children.
--Submitted by a parent

I am a parent of 3 boys and 1 girl and 3 of my children have attended and graduated AAL. My son is in 3rd grade now and I absolutely love this school! Their high standards continue with their growth into the middle and even as I am finding out now into high school. My kids have been above many other students in their class because of the teachers at AAL and the ciriculum that they follow. Parental involvement is at its best with a very active PTA and many different diverse activities and events throughout the year. Teachers play a big part in involvement also and are always there to assist and guide you and your children however you need it. I would definetly recommend this school to anyone who is looking for a wonderful grade school in this area as it is truely the best around...hands down!! E. Allen/parent,PTAPresident
--Submitted by a parent

this school has taught me well you should send your kids here it's a wonderfull learning place.

My daughter has attended the Academy since K5 and will be graduating (5th grade) this year. The staff and leadership of this school are outstanding. The school offers a fantastic music program, sports, before and after school care and a variety of extra curricular activities including Scouts, Student Newspaper, cheerleading, library programs and more. The parent involvement in the school is high and the school's overall environment is orderly and structured. I would recommend this school to any parent looking for a diverse educational experience that embraces all cultures, encourages excellence in learning and has a staff that engages children to be a part of their school community. This school sets their standards high and works with children of all abilities to help them reach their full potential.
--Submitted by C Poth, a parent

My 8 yr old daughter attended 2 days before I took her out. Lunchtime is 'silent'. Staff were shouting at students the entire lunch period- 10 minutes. Kids ate with their jackets on. There was not enough time to finish eating, before being hustled out. Rooms are messy. New young teachers did not know how to engage students the first few days of the school year. I work for this district, and would not send my daughter to another school in the district with the exception of Fernwood Montessori.
--Submitted by a parent

I have two children at the Academy of Accelerated Learning. It is a very warm and welcoming environment. The student population at the Academy is very diverse and the staff regularly celebrates diversity. Throughout the year the students and staff recognize their multiculturalism through programs such as the Chinese New Year, Black History, European Fest, Hmong New Year, Hispanic Heritage Program, and a yearly folkfair. There is a high level of parent involvement and many opportunities for parent education. The music program is impressive. Students have music twice weekly and string and piano lessons are available to interested families. The Academy also has a full-time library media specialist. This contributes to student achievement and allows students access to high quality fiction and nonfiction materials. I am very satisfied with the Academy. However, I do hope to see more writing opportunities and more complex, higher level, challenging activities.
--Submitted by a parent

I have 2 boys that go to the AAL and both started with 4K in the school. I feel it is a great school. The teachers have all been wonderful and so as the school stuff. I would recommend this school to anyone.
--Submitted by Elizabeth Osting, a parent