Research Academy of the Americas public Schools in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

“I have been a teacher for the past 3 years at this school. We strive to do our best with what the school district provides for us. We have to get out of pocket monies to buy materials (hands on, posters, games and such). So if anyone is to blame is not the teachers or school administrators. Is the Detroit school district for not providing the funds needed for those items. Our school does reach to the parents and comunity and we do care very much about the success of our students from pk to 8th grade.”

“I'd just like to make note that the parent who stated that AOA has not made adequately yearly progress is incorrect. The school has successfully made AYP and will continue to do so with the support of its students, parents, staff and administrators.”

“I have had 3 of my children attend in previous years and now a small one, I love the school and the standards are higher than most schools which is a wonderful thing, But the teachers have a attitude towards parents as though we didnt care for our children they ask for help from parents but parents voices are not heard. The principle seems to act on what teachers or office aids say like she doesnt have any authority. AND its all a shame because its such a wonderful school I hate it that parents dont have any say in what goes on in the school. Most schools are hungry for parent participation involvement! One thing to stringley consider before sending your child here is if your child is started in spanish and you later decide to change to another scho ol the language makes it the transition very hard”

“I currently have a PK/K children in Academy of the Americas. I must say the level of professionalism of school normal operation and the dedication to students is outstanding. My children love going to school and always come back home very happy. I highly recommend!”

“The Academy of the America is a good school with great children. It is unforgivable to the students that enjoy band so much the program will not be returning. Many of the children that had band where so excited about the school and their own personal sucess in the program. Many of these children have no other outlet so band was a great way to enteract with other peers in there age group. This was an excellent program but due to the district funding it will not be returning. What a shame.”

“I find the Academy of the Americas in a very good shape. I think its one of the best schools in Detroit.Students there know 2 languages which is very good.I recommend this school to all parents.Students are very talented and wonderful,everything you need is in this school.”

“The school is great, teachers are very concerned for the children's learning. I am one of the parents that find it difficult to attend the parent meetings due to the time of day that I work, however I try to be involved as much as possible and will make a more conscience effort this year.”

“'Immersion' in Hispanic language & culture has been changed to 'teach these kids in English' so they can keep up! (& maybe do better on standardized tests). Kids will indeed become bi-lingual (a good thing), but the overall academic success of students is rather poor. Socio-economic nature of the neighborhood? maybe. Lack of parent involvement? definitely. A gym class is not mandatory daily activity (so, our couch-potato kids get fatter). scary. Thankfully, parental outcry to the administration produced a music program. There seem to be adequate extra-curricular activities. Parent meetings are poorly attended. Far too many parents are 'too busy.' No surprise that this school has not made 'adequate yearly progress' in the 'no school left behind' measurements. Mediocrity abounds in the school system. The teachers are genuinely concerned about the students (though some don't understand when parental consent is needed - certain discipline; movies in class). Many spend their own money to supply the students adequately.”

“I find the Academy of the Americas to be a caring institution. The teachers go out of their way to ensure that each child has the attention they need to succeed. As each child graduates with a bi-lingual education, they already have a start on their higher learning skills. Opportunity also exists for them to go beyond the scope of the median. Children are encouraged to participate in non-academic classes such as band, DAPCEP, art, and various clubs. This is a wonderful little school.”