Thomas MacLaren State Charter School in Colorado Springs

Category	Rating	Details
Test Scores	8/10	The Test Score Rating examines how students at this school performed on standardized tests compared with other schools in the state. The Test Rating was created using 2025 Colorado Measures of Academic Success (CMAS) data from Colorado Department of Education.
College Readiness	10/10	The College Readiness Rating uses this high school's graduation rates, college entrance exam participation and performance, or AP, IB, or Dual Enrollment participation to determine how well schools are preparing students for success in college and beyond. The College Readiness Rating was created using the following data from the 2021 Civil Rights Data Collection: percentage of students enrolled in IB, AP or Dual Enrollment classes in grades 9-12, using 2025 4-year high school graduation rate data from Colorado Department of Education, using 2025 Average SAT score data from Colorado Department of Education, and using 2025 demographic data from the National Center for Education Statistics.

Posted: August 29, 2026

Run away from TMS! Leadership is more concerned with their public image than they are the students. They preach about how amazing/rigorous their program is, but this program doesnt prepare students for life outside of TMS. High Schoolers that are not permitted to use AI in any capacity, are not exposed to computers & arent even provided a basics typing class are significantly behind their peers after graduation. These kids are being released into a world that is heavily reliant on computer skills & AI knowledge without any exposure whatsoever. The antiquated single path curriculum is not preparing students for the present day world. Administrators refuse to acknowledge this or modify their curriculum to evolve with society. Their lack of dual enrollment classes is a disservice to the students. When their peers can graduate from high school with an associate degree, but TMS only offers Calculus for college credit, these students are going to college far behind their peers. Their homework policy is relentless and despite having many parents & students report an overwhelming amount of homework, administrators refuse to adjust course, consistently putting their precious curriculum above the mental/physical health of the students. When students ask questions in class they are routinely told by teachers that they dont have time to review a concept and press on despite students being completely confused. If a student tells a teacher they are nervous about an upcoming test, they are met with condescension and no actual support. If your student is not a top performer (or a colleagues child), you can forget about a teacher caring if they understand the material or not. Since teachers are not certified teachers & are not trained in how to teach, if your student does not understand something the first time, the teacher is not equipped to teach the material in a different way so the student can actually learn. Good luck if your child needs educational support. You might be lucky enough to have a teacher that knows a student HAS an IEP, but they NEVER know WHY & often do not follow the accommodations they are required by law to follow. A math teacher telling a parent their child is significantly behind in math when that student is on an IEP for a learning disability in math demonstrates the disconnect between their special education program & teachers. Neurodivergence is not understood or acknowledged. Detention is given often & for minor offenses.

Posted: August 29, 2026

Posted: July 8, 2026

We had three children come through the middle and high schools. Elementary wasnt an option at the time. All 3 very different with different struggles, challenges, and gifts. All 3 extremely well supported and encouraged in their individual growth paths.

The teachers genuinely get to know and care for their students in a way Ive never seen. Because of their deep connection with each student they are able to motivate and encourage them individually.

The curriculum is un matched and more schools should follow suit. As an educator, it was refreshing to see a school prioritize life long learning and not just memorization, teach to test, or work force funneling.

Each of our children loved and hated the school at different times and for different reasons. Now that they have graduated and are realizing what the school provided them, all 3 genuinely love and appreciate the education they received at TMS. All 3 out performed their peers at college and are succeeding in their chosen fields and more importantly as humans. I can not express enough the appreciation we have for their experience at TMS.

No school is perfect and we had our share of struggles with administration and teachers. But EVERY time we were heard and they did all they could to meet any needs we had. I would send them there again in a heart beat and encourage anyone to give them a try. Our public school system is failing. Its failing our kids and consequently our society. TMS is a beacon of hope for our kids and their future.
Goodness ~ Truth ~ Beauty

Posted: July 8, 2026

Posted: May 14, 2026

As both a former employee and parent, I would not recommend this school.

From an employment standpoint, the work environment felt heavily influenced by favoritism, inconsistent treatment among staff, and lack of appreciation for employees who worked hard and supported students daily. Professional concerns were not always handled fairly or consistently. Half the teacher doesnt have degrees.

As a parent, I also had concerns regarding support for students with IEPs and the consistency of services provided. Families should ask detailed questions about staffing, communication, and how accommodations are implemented.

I hope the school takes steps to improve both staff morale and student support moving forward.

Posted: May 14, 2026

Posted: February 1, 2026

We fought very hard to get our children into this school and it ended up being a huge disappointment. The theory is nice but not actually put into action. Elementary school experience was not horrible. I wouldn't say it was overly fun and they think a lot of themselves and their program. But my child survived and did fine. The upper school was a bit of a mess and the reason I ended up pulling my children out. They like to think their education is top notch but it's questionable on what's really being taught and how grades are given. I have seen many kids with good grades with no real understanding of a subject. The curriculum is difficult but they provide little to no support for the average child and I would say many kids who graduate don't really have any handle on the more advanced topics. It appears they are advanced but really wouldn't be able to handle any of those advanced topics sucessfully in college. The social scene was a disaster. Lots of bullying, and you most definitely have to be part of the right groups, social class and families, which we were none of. The segregation of boys and girls is a bit much and while in theory it's good they take it to extremes. Many kids are socially awkward especially around the opposite sex. Almost made to feel bad about interactions with the opposite sex. The kids think very highly of themselves and appear kind but really aren't. Middle school and high school can be rough anywhere but even after leaving have never met a group of kids as a whole as nasty as the kids there there. So stuck up and self centered. Any interactions with leadership were not great. I didnt find them helpful or caring. College process was a joke, they have no extras minus sports so getting into competitive school's are hard. No AP so also lost time in getting college credit for taking such hard classes. Why go through all of that for no credit or even the potential. And lastly the nepotism is out of hand. Everyone's parent and child work there, there is no real accountability when everyone is family and friends. Its a very specific group of families that really run things. Looking back from new school I am only sorry I didn't leave earlier. Cool theory but execution is horrible.

Posted: February 1, 2026

Posted: November 18, 2025

One of my kids graduated but hated his senior year. I loved my senior experience and it was very upsetting to see him like that. He hated Humane Letters. Hated how that class was graded- it was a big stressor for him. To top it off he was separated from his friend group. Applying to college was also a low point. The school doesnt have any classes or clubs that make it look good no AP or the like.. My second kid is transferring out next year. I want a bigger pool of kids for making friends and being open to diversity. Overall Id give it 2.5 stars. The orchestra program is great- 5 stars in that regard.

Posted: March 3, 2025

Only deep pockets entitled. Disabilities get you rail roaded. Grades aren't standard based only mastery philosophy based. No diversity. No advocacy allowed. Retaliation based, push out those who are not considered elite. K-5 education is ok. 6-8 rich. High school awful for those not gifted and talented. Lacking highly in social emotional learning. Not a safe environment to graciously learn any life lessons.

Posted: March 3, 2025

Posted: March 20, 2024

Our boys have been there since 6th grade (now 9th and 11th graders) and the school has been a gift. Rigorous learning, great teachers, competitive athletic program, nice parent community. Highly recommend!

Posted: March 20, 2024

Posted: March 19, 2024

This school has the most beautiful culture I could image. The best is assumed of each person, from student to staff to parent. Kindness, friendliness, and peace are upheld. The students begin their day with a morning assembly where faculty members choose a topic they find interesting to connect students to truth, beauty, and goodness. The students engage in a common course of study from grades K-12, providing a common language, from music to philosophy, science to history. A sense of wonder and depth of inquiry is valued above getting a "right" answer or saying what a teacher might like to hear. It is a supportive community of learners that strive for excellence without competing with one another. You have just got to come see it to believe it!

Posted: March 19, 2024

I am so thankful that we have Thomas MacLaren as an option for our children! I appreciate both the care and attentiveness that goes into both the upper and lower school settings. If not for this school option, I would probably be homeschooling my children. No school is perfect, but this school is a blessing!

Posted: March 19, 2024

My children have attended MacLaren for over 5 years now. We have experienced k-7th and 10th-12th. We have had wonderful experiences with lower and upper school teachers being truly invested in helping students learn and genuinely care about their wellbeing.
We really appreciate that all upper school students have access to learning a string instrument and that they are required to check in cell phones to help eliminate distractions.
I have raised concerns regarding my children throughout the years and have felt those concerns were handled well. Even if at times they didnt turn out exactly how I may have thought they should have, I felt heard and my kids were cared for.
I also have had positive experiences with the the special education department and how they have handled 2 very different IEPs.

Posted: March 19, 2024

My children LOVE Thomas MacLaren. They love their teachers, their friends, and the challenging curriculum. I love hearing about the new things they've learned each day. From volunteering in their classrooms, I know that the teachers are compassionate, playful, and dedicated to their students. The administration is unlike any I've every experienced in the other schools my children have attended in that they set a tone of mutual respect. The entire staff is exceptionally attentive, diligent, and engaged.

Posted: March 19, 2024

A commitment to an atmosphere of kindness and integrity- you see it reflected in both students and staff!! And my 4th grader has already surpassed me in knowledge of history and classical literature. The curriculum is so well selected and implemented.

Posted: March 19, 2024

No school is perfect, but I will take this school's imperfections over any others! The staff is so wonderful, thoughtful, and talented. The priorities for the focus of education is well thought out as well. They never do anything without considering why they are doing it and making sure it matches their goal and vision. Kids do better and are happier with less technology and I've seen it be true here. The best school in town!

Posted: March 19, 2024

Posted: December 7, 2023

Religious-military is the best description. Way too many students here end up needing professional mental help, have suicidal thoughts, or becoming hospitalized from the treatment here. No grace is given. Concerns are swept under the carpet or not allowed to be talked about. Students with 504 or IEP are held to a GT standard, chastised & withheld from activities due to the ridged standards & inabilityto be high achieving in all arts. The school makes up their own rules above CHSAA. The 504 coordinator is new to education with no SPED/disabilities background, the 2nd is the GT teacher also with no SPED/disabilities background. The elem education is ok. Athletics are frowned upon! No dual enrollment. Can't afford new shoes, belt torn, can't afford a hair cut detention. The detentions/office referrals thus lead to being ineligible for activities & sports. Get a better start to college by going to another school who supports dual enrollment, athletics etc.

Posted: December 7, 2023

Posted: August 31, 2023

Absolutely ridiculous all around. First day we were met with discrimination. Now we are dealing with coaches that constantly change the schedules last minute. I can't simply drop my student off when running late. My student isn't in grade school, they are almost in high school and you guys require me to "sign them in". For what? Where's the dang independence they're going to need in the future? Hidden in the worthless Latin class? My student does not enjoy this school. They do not want to conform to your mold. They should not have to. It goes against everything you claim to be. I would express my concerns (again) through your little grievance policy, but the two times I have, nothing has come of it. Next time I am going to the state and county offices to resolve what you guys cannot.

Posted: August 31, 2023

Posted: January 14, 2023

The schools motto is goodness, truth, and beauty and the students, staff and teachers live this out in the school. If you want a school where your child can truly learn for the love of learning this is the place to be. If you go to an information night, you will see these things in action so its definitely worth your time.

Posted: January 14, 2023

Posted: December 13, 2022

Thomas MacLaren, in my opinion/experience, is not the school for athletic children. To make the team you must know someone. They will pick injured children who can not do all of the drills at tryouts, wearing splits/braces over perfectly healthy/capable children. Staff parents brag about how their children are only trying out one handed while saving the game/practice schedule in their phones, before tryouts even happen. The say they saw my kid play over the summer to off an excuse at to why they believe their children are ok to try out single handed. They claim to be a community of learns yet declare some children are untrainable by their staff and mention seeking sports else where. This school isnt as good as people say. Ive seen many children overwhelmed, sad to the point of tears, and in utter fear of not being good enough. Ive hear children say they are stupid or not smart enough. In my opinion this school tries to break children so theyll conform to MacLarens ways.

Posted: December 13, 2022

Posted: November 17, 2022

Thomas MacLaren School inspires students to get excited about learning. The curriculum is so beautiful and lovely. Students learn to love learning for the sake of learning, which will serve them for a lifetime. The curriculum builds on itself and each year students go deeper in growing in wonder. There isn't anywhere else I would want my children.

Music, PE, art and two recesses every day in Lower School. Latin, fine arts, orchestra, complex science and math, socratic seminar in Upper School. It's all so beautiful and good. I love having my children at a K-12 school, where I know they are getting the best education possible for their entire tenure at school. We feel infinitely blessed.

Posted: November 17, 2022

Posted: November 2, 2022

I am writing specifically about the Lower School, where my children are enrolled. Under the leadership of its founding principal, that school has shown itself to be so unusual: diverse (racially, ethnically, religiously, across class), rigorous, joyful, and full of wonder. I love the emphasis on the wonder of learning! I love that they read whole stories and poems and get silent time to read too. I love that the kids have PE every day and that art and music are essential, not specials. I even, to my surprise, love the uniforms, which make life easier. There are so many gifted and caring teachers at this school: it is a really special place. I only wish the school days were shorter.

Posted: November 2, 2022

Posted: September 8, 2022

Ive hesitated on writing this review for a few years now, but Im taking the time to write this review with hopes of preventing at least one child and their family from experiencing what my family and I experienced during the years I attended Thomas Maclaren School. I attended this school from grades 6-9th (I went when it was only grades 6-12th). I ended up leaving after my freshman year because my mental and emotional well-being was absolutely destroyed from attending this school. This school tries to portray themselves as a high-class academic institution that is far more unique and special than all the other charter schools because they require all students to take Latin and orchestra. First off, Latin is absolutely useless (I went on to learn Spanish for the rest of my high school years and never once used any of the Latin I learned, nor did I remember half of it because it was so irrelevant). Secondly, orchestra is FORCED upon the students, and the teachers and staff take it so seriously that its unenjoyable for the students. (They have no other fun electives that the students can choose themselves like at other schools). I cant encompass every awful experience at this school because there were so many, but some included blatant racism, misogyny, homophobia, horrendous bullying that went unaddressed by the teachers because the teachers themselves would also bully the students, favoritism, etc. I should also note that if your family or your child is a) not white or b) not Catholic then you will have a very difficult experience at this school. When I went, a large majority of the student body was white and catholic as well as the staff members, which is fine because everyone has a right to their religious preferences. However, most of these students and teachers would go out of their way to let you know they were catholic and would shame you for not being catholic, and the school has no interest in diversity, clearly. So just do yourself a favor and keep looking for other schools (TRUST ME there are better ones out there that will actually help your child learn and celebrate them for who they are in a better environment)

Posted: September 8, 2022

Posted: August 6, 2022

The curriculum is very rigorous,and unless you have one of the teachers who are willing to help you,it is very easy to fall behind and very hard to catch up,especially in the later years of highschool when your classes start building not only on themselves but other classes.Some of the teachers are excellent and their passion for the subject and the students is obvious,they are willing to do just about anything to help you if you are struggling.This,however,is not the norm,especially in the earlier years.The homework load was sometimes very overwhelming,and there seemed to be very little communication between the teachers about who was assigning how much homework and when,there were many occasions were I had a paper due and a test to study for within a day of each other and on one very bad occasion,the same day.Some teachers,when told by the students of the amount of homework,were more than happy to move things around,others certainly were not.I have witnessed many classmates in tears because they were so frustrated they were not getting the help they needed,myself included.Bullying seems to be a problem,many stories of the administration doing nothing go around the school and many of my peers have said the same,though I have not experienced it myself.There is a feeling of insiders and outsiders even in the most close knit of classes because of the schools core of heavily religious families,those with differing views and stances are often looked down on,this can be seen especially in HL discussion,where many of the students who were a part of the religious in group were free to state their beliefs,even when they were not directly related to the text,but they looked down on those who did not agree with them.The curriculum reflects this,being very euro-centric,white,and religious.Had my HL class been with one of the heads of school,which some were,and not with a teacher who generally noticed this behavior,this would have been a much more rampent problem.If you are not a perfect fit into the mold of the academics above everything type A student that this school wants,you will certainly struggle here at some point.The test scores and small classes in j and s years look so nice because so many students dropped out.The school recently has become obsessed with its image and is unwilling to tolerate anything that threatens that, ask any 2022 senior about the tie-dye shirts.The structure for the school being great is there,but very little is done to make it so.

Posted: August 6, 2022

Posted: July 17, 2022

This school is horrible. The elementary school principal is one of the worst human beings I have had the misfortune of interacting with. He is condescending towards students and parents. His family gets special treatment despite this being completely unethical. He lies and actively tries to avoid helping students with learning disabilities. It took me 2 years and going over his head to get my child services they needed, and then the services were stopped because of lack of staff. The teachers aren't certified teachers, but when you voice concern over your child's difficulty understanding due to teaching style, you are met with harsh responses and a leadership team not willing to acknowledge that their "teachers" need more training to adequately do their job. Their idea of discipline is atrocious. The principal and vice principal bully students on a regular basis. The teachers acknowledge bullying amongst students is taking place, but never get around to intervening despite telling the parents of their "plans". My child made absolutely zero progress this year based on standardized test scores and is so far behind I fear they will never catch up. The only good thing is that the elementary school has gym every day and they are not overwhelmed with homework (yet). I know excessive homework is coming once they get into the upper school. I cannot recommend this school to anyone.

Posted: July 17, 2022

Posted: June 29, 2022

This school is academically rigorous but also focuses on giving students a love of learning. Some negative reviews focus on the fact that there are no electives. That is true, but I actually prefer the way that the non-elective courses require my child to develop new skills. Some other major pros include: no cell phones, lots of feedback from teachers, a focus on guiding inclusive friendships and activities for students, and a true joy in learning being upheld. There are some potential cons: a bit of a conservative culture (ie; uniforms, lots of rules), difficult academics with homework to be done at home each night, no electives and few clubs.

The teachers in the building know each student well and are determined that each student feels "seen." The rigorous-yet-fun great-books-style curriculum is excellent. Great school!

Posted: June 29, 2022

Posted: February 15, 2022

As a student who has attended this school for several years I can safely say that this school is one of the worst I have ever experienced. The curriculum is so irrational and irrelevant, and all students are forced to learn what the school decides. Creativity from the students here is met with harsh discipline and disapproval from all the teachers. Parents seem to think this school is great from all its rankings and achievements, but the students know the truth about Thomas maclaren. I would never recommend this school to anyone.

Posted: February 15, 2022

Posted: June 24, 2021

This school lacks support systems for children who are challenged by its rigorous academics. Instruction is teacher-centered and lecture-based. Diverse learning styles are not acknowledged, despite claims made in information sessions and school literature. Small group work, project work, or any other diversified instruction are rare, if present at all. Children are expected to sit in a desk without movement for hours at a time. My 6th grader was often doing homework - even with parental support - from after school until bedtime.

Detentions, academic deficiency notices, and verbal reprimands are given liberally. Mental health resources, learning support opportunities, and positive reinforcement are scarce and were not offered until we demanded them.

This school could benefit greatly from training in diversity, inclusion, and equity. The 7th grade curriculum has a nearly singular focus on Christianity in Medieval History. It's also notable that, in the entire grade 6-12 reading list (which is extensive), there is only one work written by a BIPOC author. Critical discussion is discouraged.

My child has always been well-behaved and a gifted learner. Here, she lost her love of learning, and her self-esteem suffered. I cannot recommend this school.

Posted: June 24, 2021

Posted: May 10, 2021

They will not keep your child safe if they are being bullied. In fact, the teachers will join in if the parents complain about it. The principal will back anything the teachers say.

Posted: May 10, 2021

Posted: January 20, 2021

This is an outstanding school. The teachers are highly motivated and interactive with each student whether in-house class or web during the Pandemic. High standards and no class cancellation due to the virus illustrates their attention to detail and commitment to student learning. My 7th grader can't wait to get to school each morning and bubbles with what they did that day. Music, math, language, composition form an excellent well rounded curriculum. She will be a happy student here through graduation and be well prepared for college.

Posted: January 20, 2021

Posted: January 19, 2021

Phenomenal school. My kids' knowledge of history is already more than I learned through high school (my oldest is 4th grade) and they love learning it. The math and phonics curriculums are very strong. I love that they have PE and music Everyday! The most well rounded approach to educating children and encouraging them to love learn you will find in a public school.

Posted: January 19, 2021

I can't say enough good things about this school. It is like a hidden gem we are so glad we found! We love the academics, which include music and art even for the little ones, and a well rounded classical curriculum (not common core!).
Our student loves this school and we tell everyone we know about it.

Posted: January 19, 2021

Thomas MacLaren is a school that values life long learning. Students are taught to pass tests or learn what they need to "get a good job" or "get into a good school". They are taught to love learning and be curious about the world to be better humans. They learn to listen to and respectfully disagree with different viewpoints. All staff and students are treated in a gracious and professional manner. Students are expected to work hard but the environment is not rigid or militaristic. Even the younger grades (k-5) are given lots of time to explore, play and learn to love learning. In comparision to regular public schools there is not a lot of choice in classes or any electives. While that may seem frustrating, I allows for community to be built with minimal cliques, comparisons, and such. Everyone is learning together. I believe in parent choice in education, so if this sounds appealing, check out their website at thomasmaclarenschool.org.

Posted: January 19, 2021

My son is in 8th grade has been going to Thomas Maclaren since 6th. Hes a complainer, so its hard to tell if his complaints are valid sometimes. He complains about homework, teachers, classes, etc, etc. Every year during the d20 choice window (we live in d20) I ask him is he is enjoying the school and if he wants to continue to go there. Every year he tells me he wants to stay at Maclaren. My daughter is in lower school and also enjoys the school. Im very impressed with her reading and math skills. The curriculum which is listed on the website is a little different from normal public schools. There are uniforms. No crazy hair colors. Its a little different and it works for some and not for others. It works for us. I would give 4.5 stars if that was an option so Im rounding up.

Posted: January 19, 2021

Thomas MacLaren is an excellent school. The academic rigor and spirit of kindness is exactly what young minds need. I have so many great things to say about this school1

Posted: January 19, 2021

Posted: January 11, 2021

I wanted an alternative to online school for my kindergartener in this pandemic. Thomas MacLaren was the answer we prayed for. Safely they provided in-person school for my little one. He is just finished the first semester and we couldn't be more pleased with the schools thought on education being mission critical and the effort to be in person.

Posted: January 11, 2021

Posted: October 12, 2020

Two of my children are alumni and my third child is a current student. The education they have received is second to none! In the midst of a pandemic, there is learning going on in the classroom and online. A family must commit to giving the child an opportunity to take the offer of a great education and actively pursue it. It won't just happen on it's own, no matter how great the school, the teachers, or the administration are at their job.

Posted: October 12, 2020

Posted: August 21, 2020

They have a room for helping kids with learning differences and the disabled.

Posted: August 21, 2020

They usually punish the one whos getting bullied.

Posted: August 21, 2020

The homework wasn't helpful. I remember the teacher wouldn't even help one student because he didn't understand something. Everyone here was TERRIBLE there were so many bullies! and none of the teachers helped. I remember that the music teacher got SO MAD one time and acted like he was going to put his hands on the kid. Also, he always screams at us. Once I was singled out by my dramatics teacher she made me cry 5 times and nobody believed me until my dad threatened to sue them for many things. I was also being bullied by the 7-8th graders in soccer and they called me names and I had enough and called them names and I was the only one who got in trouble! In my opinion, this school does not respect the children here. I felt so uncomfortable here. They would "try" to make learning fun but it was strongly strict. Once I asked a white friend of mine and he always acted like he loved this school. I asked if he liked it here and he responded with basically everything I said in this review. I will not be returning back for middle school. But there is a pro, they have a room for helping kids with learning differences and the disabled. but this concludes it.

Posted: August 21, 2020

The homework wasn't helpful. I remember the teacher wouldn't even help one student because he didn't understand something.

Posted: August 21, 2020

They don't give strong examples and just tell you what it means.

Posted: August 21, 2020

In my opinion, this school does not respect the children here.

Posted: August 21, 2020

Everyone here was TERRIBLE there were so many bullies! and none of the teachers helped.

Posted: May 23, 2019

My experience as a father of three, each attending and/or graduated from Thomas MacLaren has been beyond excellent. There is no private school in my community that could have done for my children what this school has done to prepare them for success and happiness in life, college, and career.

Posted: May 9, 2019

The school's mission is to teach students to "Know Truth, Create Beauty, Practice Goodness". And, they check their cell phones at the door!

Posted: May 9, 2019

They do, however, if your student has significant special needs, they will be served better elsewhere.

Posted: May 9, 2019

7th period tutorial means every student can access free tutoring when they need it- without getting labeled.

Posted: May 9, 2019

While I had maybe 1 great teacher per year in junior high and high school- my kids have had ALL excellent teachers, every year!

Posted: May 9, 2019

A $10,000 per year education for free! MacLaren is a free charter school that your student can attend no matter where they live- because it is a charter to the state, not a district. The curriculum is outstanding and rigorous, and teachers encourage students to think for themselves, not just memorize things mindlessly. The teachers are caring, intelligent, and really know their subject. Every student gets orchestra, math, english, and a language every year. It is rigorous- all students get to physics and calculus by their junior year. Humane Letters in high school combines literature, philosophy and history. Students read original texts, discuss them in class, and write papers. Instead of focusing on letter grades or memorizing what they are told to memorize, teachers encourage students to think and write in a way that is unusual before college. Even the odd things like same-gender classes results in better focus in class, and girls doing better in high school math. All 6-12 students are assigned to a Clan that participates in school events like Field Day together. Clans plus daily Morning Assembly, help students feel unified across grades. Older students have opportunities to develop leadership in Clubs and Clans, and they learn to be kind to the younger students. Although they do not have PE during the day for the Upper School, students can choose from a variety of after school sport teams (Track, Soccer, Cross Country, Basketball, etc) so kids who enjoy sports will still be challenged.
Your student will have to be willing to do one hour of homework every night (increases in high school). They can get a head start on it during 7th period tutorial time). And, when students need help in a certain subject, teachers can tutor them right away during that same 7th period tutorial time without getting that child labeled.
Before applying for MacLaren, students do a shadow day, and I highly recommend it. If your student does not want to come here, however, do not make them, because they will chafe at the homework, no cell phones allowed during the school day, uniforms, and the set curriculum.)
If your student is able to and wants to work at learning, they will thrive here.
I am so grateful for how the administrators, caring teachers and interesting classes have given my students an excellent education.