Longleaf School Of The Arts

Posted: January 14, 2026

YOu should go here if you are thinking about it

Posted: January 14, 2026

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Posted: November 19, 2025

More like a maybe for the recommendation; the teachers are cool and most are quite easy to talk to, but the admin definitely has areas for improvement. There are definitely gaps in where the funds are forwarded to. For example, the music department lacks funds, which limits the things that musicians are able to do. This school's size is also a better transition school for students who are coming in from homeschool or a smaller school type, but are still looking to "get out into the world" before college. The school also has very poor communication skills when communicating with guardians, and essentially, unless your student is failing all of their classes, the admin will leave guardians out of the loop as to what is going on in your child's education.

Posted: November 19, 2025

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Posted: December 23, 2024

This school does not support the students. The head of school is terrible. I would not recommend to parents looking for a school for their high school students unless they want to send them to a biased school.

Posted: December 23, 2024

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Posted: July 22, 2024

Teachers can be nice; it really depends on who you have as a teacher. Some put in the effort, but others couldn’t care less, and delay even grading stuff. Students with disabilities get accommodations, but teachers don’t always honor that. Administration doesn’t care about any kind of bullying, students that are a threat, etc. People have vaped in the bathrooms and had sex, and they barely did anything about it. They often side with the person in the wrong and call it “bullying” for reporting the student. Communication was terrible. Problematic teachers face no consequences or get fired. Students are either really nice, or really stuck up, and pretty entitled. If you aren’t part of a specific group of people, you won’t be included by others. Certain teachers are very discouraging- I was really into theatere going into freshman year and took a theatere class, but the teacher made me drop it after comments made to me. Classes are extremely difficult and I finished with a 1.5 GPA. I did not receive my diploma at graduation and only found out that I needed to take credit recovery after contacting staff about it.

Posted: July 22, 2024

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Posted: July 28, 2023

I haven't been here for long but I can say with full confidence that there is little to no effort when it comes to anything. Administration is messed up, staff don't care about how students feel, theater gets 99% if not all the funding, and the students here are just overall entitled brats. My education feels very half-baked. I could learn more doing research on my own then anything taught here. Were some of the teachers sort of respecting and trying their best? Yes, but they can't do much because administration doesn't care about anything whatsoever or the teachers care more about writing you up and sending you to the office for genuinely no apparent reason other then they don't really like you. If you told any of the staff people were vaping, smoking, or having sex in the restrooms they could get off with a slap on the wrist and a warning, only enabling this behavior. There is more people who were high everyday then there are numbers on a clock. I wish I could type out more but it's super upsetting knowing that theres no care for the students much less their education.

Posted: July 28, 2023

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Posted: March 4, 2020

Great school and very good decision to enroll my high school student here. Great acceptance rates at competitive colleges. Parents need to recognize a college prep high school has a college prep curriculum and if their student is not on a track for college readiness in middle school lol, a college prep high school could be a difficult fit for their student.

Posted: March 4, 2020

They give more homework than a basic, traditional academic program would give but is just the right amount for a college prep high school.

Posted: March 4, 2020

Teachers are highly qualified and teach challenging curriculum and go the extra mile to help all students learn and grow.

Posted: March 4, 2020

Posted: March 4, 2020

New head of school and guidance staff are very highly qualified. The school has grown co sides key and the former guidance head was ineffective. The new administration is bringing the school to a higher level of achievement and involvement.

Posted: March 4, 2020

The EC department is caring, creative and highly qualified to help students succeed at a college prep high school.

Posted: March 4, 2020

Posted: March 3, 2020

This school is a great public charter school that challenges students to learn and grow while fostering a love of the arts.

Posted: March 3, 2020

Homework regularly reflects the arts experience and students have arts baseD options for completing homework in core classes.

Posted: March 3, 2020

Teachers are invested in students’ success, available for out-of-class help, prepare students for college and enjoy seeing their students grow from year-to-year.

Posted: March 3, 2020

This school is a safe place for students and they appreciate the safety of this school.

Posted: March 3, 2020

The school has new leadership than what Greatschools has listed.

Posted: March 3, 2020

This year the school added a 3rd full-time guidance counselor and additional EC staff. While the school is a college-prep high school first and foremost, the school adapts to meet the needs of the students. This school’s charter stipulates a college-prep curriculum.

Posted: March 3, 2020

Posted: January 6, 2020

As my student describes the Longleaf community, "We're a family." Because it is a small school, the student body is very close and it creates a friendly, welcoming environment where "we're all friends and nice to each other." The teachers have an opportunity to really get to know the students. Class sizes are small. The teachers are truly wonderful. They have an impressive variety of classes for a school of this size, including AP Classes. I feel that my daughter will be well-prepared for college and I'm so happy we chose this school.

Posted: January 6, 2020

As a parent of an honors / AP student, the homework is challenging yet manageable. There are opportunities to work on homework during the school day at study hall, which is a silent homework period included in all student schedules. There are tutorial hours before and after school everyday to work one-on-one with teachers.

Posted: January 6, 2020

I've been impressed with the quality and character of ALL the teachers at Longleaf with whom I've interacted. They clearly care about their students and it is very apparent. My daughter adores her teachers and often comes home enthusiastic about a particularly fun or interesting class activity.

Posted: January 6, 2020

The school recognizes students each month who exhibit or demonstrate strong character and integrity.

Posted: January 6, 2020

Leadership listens to student and parent input and are receptive to change. Communication with parents is excellent. I've been so impressed in specific instances where they've gone above and beyond to support students.

Posted: January 6, 2020

Posted: January 6, 2020

Absolutely. LSA has a zero tolerance policy for bullying. Also, it doesn't really happen much at this school, because of the tightness of the community and the general positive attitude and environment. In the rare instance where there has been an issue, it has been handled very well in my experience as a parent.

Posted: February 3, 2019

I am so glad my sensitive smart son goes here. He feels safe and has a loving group of friends while getting a great and personal academic experience.

Posted: February 3, 2019

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Posted: February 3, 2019

One of the best things about this school is that it is like a safe haven for kids that might not fit in elsewhere. They instill acceptance in an incredibly welcoming way that is exceptionally different from other high schools.

Posted: February 3, 2019

While there has been a change of directors while we have been at this school- I think it is for the better. I am happy with the changes she has implemented so far and she really seems to intent on creating more structure where it was lacking before.

Posted: February 3, 2019

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Posted: February 3, 2019

Outstanding school with great leadership, a diverse student body, outstanding teachers and caring staff.
#WeLOVELongleaf

Posted: February 3, 2019

Homework load is reasonable and focused on applying lessons.

Posted: February 3, 2019

I am the parent of a graduate and a current student at LSA. Both students have benefitted from re,ationships with their teachers. Their teachers know my child’s strengths, help them grow, and encourage them along the way. The staff are highly qualified, work well with each other and parents.

Posted: February 3, 2019

Posted: February 3, 2019

Amazing! I would rather come here forever than go to college, it's so amazing here.

Posted: February 3, 2019

Teachers help immensely with the homework that it usually makes it not a stressful thing at home at the time.

Posted: February 3, 2019

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Posted: February 3, 2019

I have a learning disability! They're awesome at what they do!

Posted: February 3, 2019

Posted: February 14, 2018

Longleaf just moved into a new building and started a search for a new head of school. Mrs. Davis did an incredible job moving longleaf from their first home into their permanent home, and now that they are there a new era is beginning! This is the best art school in the triangle!

Posted: February 14, 2018

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Posted: December 11, 2017

While most of the student body is open and welcoming to all, and the administration is usually willing to make accommodations for people of minority groups such as lgbtq+ (especially transgender students), the only thing Longleaf ever developed in me is more severe social anxiety and depression than I already had when I entered the school.

Posted: December 11, 2017

Teachers refuse to communicate with guardians and administrators often tell students and parents false information and then lie about telling said information.

Posted: December 11, 2017

Longleaf teachers are so trapped by the ineffective policy and curriculum that they have to teach all students the same way and not to the slowest person in class, the way it should be, but to the fastest person in class. Often times leaving behind this lost or confused, stranding them when the teacher refuses to communicate with guardians, students, or even out of school tutors.

Posted: December 11, 2017

Longleaf has many flaws that keep it from being a school I can recommend to anyone who struggles academically or who actually hope to attend college, especially if the college is anything more than a community college (not that there’s anything wrong with them).

Posted: December 11, 2017

Longleaf uses its College prep title in an effort to justify the impossible standards set by the homework and credit requirements.

Posted: October 25, 2017

LSA has a recognition for the "Characteristic of the Month" for students and faculty alike, and rewards students that show traits like honesty, respect, perseverance, and grace,

Posted: October 25, 2017

Posted: October 25, 2017

Posted: October 25, 2017

I've attended LSA through all four years of my high school career and I couldn't be more proud of my school. Through building struggles, the occasional rotten apple, and the infinite struggles of a young school, Longleaf has pulled through. Teachers and staff here genuinely care for the students, their grades, and their futures. I've learned that the faculty truly just want to see us succeed and chase after our dreams. They support us in all things. I will not say that LSA is for everyone. Just like Enloe, Heritage, and Millbrook, LSA doesn't work for everyone. It takes someone special to really understand the kind of community we have here. Everyone that has graduated from here and everyone that is on their way to graduating from Longleaf is that "someone special". And I'm proud to say that I am, too.

Posted: October 25, 2017

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Posted: May 11, 2017

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Posted: May 11, 2017

LSA is a great community of students, teachers, admin and parents. We have two kids at LSA who enjoy going to school and who are challenged and cared for by a strong faculty who has time for them. Our experiences with Theatre, Math, English, History and Visual Arts have been especially rich. I also enjoy seeing the work of dance students. These are just the people- kids and adults- that I want in my kids' lives.
Looking at public schools in the area, we wondered where our kids could dive in and really apply themselves in a safe and vibrant community. We started at a very large high school where the predominant daily focus felt like "crowd control." We are so glad we found Longleaf! LSA has around 300 students (and growing into a new building) and a college prep focus surrounded by the arts. Our kids have fun and close relationships with their teachers and we are in great shape for the college hunt. Hard-working admin and faculty have put pieces in place for a healthy future for the school. Looking forward to next year!

Posted: May 6, 2017

Most of the homework is assigned through Google Classroom so it is submitted online, which makes it easy for the students to keep up with and turn in. No more "the dog ate my homework" excuses or losing it between home and school. I think it's brilliant to keep everything computerized. The rest of the world is going paperless; it is about time the school systems caught up. I feel the homework load is comparable to other high schools in the area; perhaps a little light, actually.

Posted: May 6, 2017

My daughter's education to this point has been top-notch. I feel she is being more than adequately prepared for college. Her AP scores will allow her to skip college courses and save me money on college tuition - a definite plus!

Posted: May 6, 2017

I have witnessed the students in school during school hours, after school, during theater events, and during volunteer events and throughout all, I have witnessed nothing but the highest integrity and respect and compassion for others in these students. Of course, parenting also has something to do with this, but the school reinforces those teachings.

Posted: May 6, 2017

The teachers could not be effective without effective leadership. Likewise the students could not be comfortable, which my daughter is, and the student morale would not be high, which it always is when I am on campus - which is frequently because I volunteer with the parent theater group - without effective school leadership.

Posted: May 6, 2017

My daughter is AIG identified and she has had nothing but the highest support. I can imagine the teachers, counselors, and other staff support students with different learning styles with the best strategies possible.

Posted: May 6, 2017

Just today, I spoke with the head of school on this very topic. We discussed the zero tolerance policy on bullying and how important it is to realize that bullying includes not only physical and verbal assaults, but online and social media attacks as well. Mrs. Davis is on top of it.

Posted: May 6, 2017

I couldn't be happier with my decision to enroll my daughter in Longleaf School of the Arts. In fact, we love it so much, our younger daughter registered today to start her freshman year in the fall. My older daughter who is a Junior at Longleaf was miserable at a middle school with almost 1300 students so we looked to Longleaf as an alternative to the mega-high school options. The small class sizes combined with the college prep curriculum and arts endorsement were perfect for her. The course selection is outstanding - everything is in line with NC DPI Standard Course of Study, as well as offering myriad AP and Honors courses, most of which she has taken. There is a wide variety of extra-curricular options to appeal to all students and it's easy to start one if it's not already there. And of course, there are the art classes, just ripe for the taking from immensely talented, dedicated, and caring teachers. Dance, music, theatre, studio art - all of which can be enjoyed by parents in a marvelous exhibition called Cabaret in early Spring. I have already started looking at colleges with my older daughter and I feel she is more than adequately prepared to apply to and enter college with her Longleaf education. I could not recommend it more highly.

Posted: May 6, 2017

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Posted: May 6, 2017

This school has some of the loveliest high school students I've ever met. The school shows strong support of lovely lgbt students, strong support of lovely straight sisgender students, strong support of artists, academics, outsiders, insiders, and everyone in between.

It's true that there has been a high turnover of teachers in the first couple of years, but only because they only want to make room for and retain the best teachers. The current team of arts teachers especially are doing amazing things with the students. The last dance show literally made me shed a tear at a particularly beautiful piece. I majored in visual arts in college and the visual art students at longleaf are creating art on par with some of my college colleagues. The theatre program is taking on challenging experimental and absurdist pieces that no other high schools around area even attempting.

The academics at longleaf are also coalescing into a rigorous teaching team now that the teams have been together for a couple years. Of course some teachers are harder than others and some give more or less homework, but on the whole their claim to be a college prep school is no exaggeration. Students that area willing to do the work will excel at college one they leave longleaf... Students that aren't... well, the teachers here will still push them as hard a they can to greatness.

Their current building is the weakest part of the longleaf experience, but they are breaking ground to open a new building for next year so I am excited to see what the future of longleaf brings.

Posted: February 2, 2017

Students are held to an honor code and are held accountable for their actions.

Posted: February 2, 2017

The teachers are incredibly responsive. They offer office hours/tutoring before and after school.

Posted: February 2, 2017

Homeworks is manageable for a few peak times throughout the year as the school approaches midterms and finals. The teachers try to coordinate efforts to ensure the workload never overwhelms.

Posted: February 2, 2017

Longleaf School of the Arts has been a perfect match for my now Junior student. The school provides smaller classes with an excellent teaching team. I am excited about the school's move to a new location with expanded space which will allow it to continue to grow and expand its arts offerings. The school has a challenging curriculum, but teachers provide support through tutoring and office hours. If a student is committed to learning and seeks out help when needed, he will be successful. Without a doubt, I believe my child will be both competitive and well-prepared for college.

Posted: August 25, 2015

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Posted: August 25, 2015

Simply a fantastic school! As Longleaf enters it's third year they have really come together. The new administration has the school completely focused on the students and parents. I have watched our child just flourish in this school the last 2 years. Yes, the school work is tough and rigorous, but the all the teachers have lifted her up. Her confidence has increased and am excited about the lady she is becoming. This school and it's staff is a major reason for that. Love this school!

Posted: April 26, 2015

Longleaf School of the Arts Charter High School is providing an excellent education for our sophomore. The classes are academically challenging and are taught by instructors that are dedicated to both the students and the school. Although our student was accepted at one of the top-rated area magnet high schools, we chose Longleaf. We do not regret our decision. Our other child will be attending next year as well. The administration and staff have been very open about the budget and administration changes that have occurred this year. Parents have access to this information by attending board meetings and following updates on the LSA website. The new student Open House we attended last week was PACKED with students excited about attending LSA next year. New courses have been added. The students have unique opportunities in the Arts, but academics come first. Longleaf is still a new school, heading into its third year. 2015-16 will be the first year with a senior class. We will have two students attending next year, and see nothing but a bright future for both our students and Longleaf School of the Arts.

Posted: April 13, 2015

We used to love this school but we are fed up. We were drawn to the school by its mission and what we thought would be an outstanding opportunity for our daughter. With each day we grow more disappointed. The whole school has this feeling of running on fumes. The current leadership seems disinterested in parent concerns. They seem to make things up as they go along. No one can answer hard questions like why the school is rapidly running out of money. Too much of it is "fishy." It's like everyone knows it's over and they have just given up. We have tried to be patient and understanding, but it is getting worse. Policies seem to change on a whim. Some of the teachers have gotten lazy and/or arrogant. Student applications are way down for next year and I'm sure it's because outsiders see what the school can't/won't. We will not be returning but I doubt the school will be there anyway. Such a shame.

Posted: March 19, 2015

My son started his Freshman year of HS at Longleaf School of the Arts, this year, and I can't tell you how incredible this experience has been for him. From the teachers, to the students, to the administration - Longleaf has exceeded our very high expectations!! The calibre of teaching we've found here compares with what is available at excellent colleges. The teachers are incredibly qualified, passionate, and take the time and energy to invest in the students. We had come from another charter school, and like them, but Longleaf has outperformed the old school in every way. My son is not a perfect student... he's very bright, but is also very ADHD, and we've had wonderful support from the teachers and administration, in developing systems to help him get organized with his work. All of his teachers have rallied around him, and been extremely willing to go the extra mile in communicating with me, as well as communicating with him. For the first time, I'm watching him truly thrive in school. He's stimulated, rather than bored, has made wonderful friends, and is enthusiastic about his future. I can't recommend this school highly enough!!

Posted: January 16, 2015

When this school started, we struck a deal with our child to try it for a year with the understanding that if she was not happy, we would discuss other options such as her base school which is what she wanted at the time. She was not keen on the idea at first as she did not want to leave her friends and was also concerned that she might not be as talented as other students. She is now in her second year and loves this school. She quickly made new friends who share her interests and accept her. Additionally, her confidence in her artistic ability continues to grow. Academically, there was an adjustment period as at this school not doing your homework will impact your grades even if you make A's on the tests. Lesson learned and she is now doing well academically as well though not without some effort. She will definitely be prepared for college. While I have enjoyed watching her grow academically and artistically, it is her growth as a compassionate, open-minded, and confident young woman that has been so amazing. The decision to send her to LSA was made based on what we knew to be true of our child and what we hoped would be true for LSA. We have not been disappointed.

Posted: January 10, 2015

I was thrilled when I was accepted to Longleaf. Then I read the reviews--some good, but many parents screaming about how their children had been bullied by the administration and learned nothing--and I was terrified. The decision to stick with Longleaf was the best I've ever made. Whatever problems the administration had last year have been straightened out. I had a scheduling conflict in the beginning of the year, and it was handled quickly and professionally. The administration has been very good about letting students know what's going on in the management, even holding monthly Town Hall meetings where we can ask the Heads of School questions. Secondly, the teachers are fantastic. In my old school, I was near failing math, but my teacher has worked with me and I now have a B. All of the teachers have tutoring hours and are open to any questions, plus most have high credentials. The arts teachers are both super talented and good teachers. Finally, the student body is very accepting to all minorities, Since we were all considered 'weird' and 'artsy' once, most people feel a sense of family. I have never been happier or learned more at school than I am at Longleaf!

Posted: January 8, 2015

Longleaf has provided a safe, nurturing and challenging environment for my son. He is a junior and struggled with the decision to change high schools. He made the decision to change schools and, later, to stay at Longleaf based on the friends he made there who are extremely supportive in the classroom as well as in their theatrical endeavors. Academically speaking, Longleaf is very challenging and he is rising to meet that challenge. This is largely due to the fact that the teachers at Longleaf are true professionals dedicated to the success of their students. He feels that his skills in chorus, theatre and musical theatre have improved greatly thanks to the coaching, talents and time and energy of his instructors. I have been very impressed by the calibre of the students' talents as well as how respectful and enthusiastic they are in general. I can truly attest that when you walk into the school you will encounter a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere.

Posted: January 6, 2015

Longleaf has been a wonderful experience for our son. He loves his teachers, is being challenged academically, and has a great group of friends. Because it is a small school, the teachers actually get to know their students. We considered the STEM Early College, but ultimately chose Longleaf because of the inclusion of the Arts along with college preparatory academics. It is not necessary to excel at the Arts to attend Longleaf, but students are required to have eight Arts credits to graduate so it is helpful if they at least enjoy the Arts. As a brand new Charter School, Longleaf has had some struggles but we do not regret our choice. As a sophomore, our son is taking both Honors and AP level classes and not "acing" them with no effort as he did in middle school. The instructors are high-caliber and expect excellence from their students, and he is truly earning his grades. We feel that Longleaf will give him the foundation he will need to excel when he attends college.

Posted: January 6, 2015

My son is a 9th grader at Longleaf. We are very happy with our decision to have him attend this school. The small size of the school allows teachers and students to get to really know each other. Obviously, as a newer school there have been some struggles along the way but staying positive and realistic are one way for the students and parents to stay successful and on the right track. This school is a wonderful place where my son is getting an excellent academic education. He has teachers that care and has been able to have new experiences in the arts.

Posted: January 5, 2015

This is a GREAT school! First, this school is a college preparatory school. The curriculum is tough and the homework and testing is not easy. If you are expecting a school like "Glee" or "Flashdance" you will be disappointed. Secondly, the Art's focus provides an excellent outlet for the creative child. It influences all of the classroom subjects in the school. Previous schools my kids have attended push only the academics of creating robotic-test-takers... but at Longleaf those creative kids thrive. The arts influences every class and teaches the kids how to utilize the other half of their brains. There is no doubt it will give these kids an edge throughout their careers as they become leaders. My daughter has attended this school since it started 2 year ago and loves it. We have seen her grow tremendously socially, academically and creatively for the first time in her life. We have no doubt it is because of the curriculum and most importantly the staff at Longleaf. We love this school! Also note they have student "Shadowing days". If you are on the fence, your child can sign up and follow a fellow student for a day. Try it!

Posted: January 4, 2015

This is our first year at Longleaf. Frankly, we read some of the reviews posted here _after_ enrolloing our daughter and worried about our school choice over the summer. We stuck with the enrollment, and we're very glad that we did. The teachers and academics are top notch, and my daughter is thrilled to have an integrated arts curriculum. We had a significant problem with scheduling at the beginning of the school year and it was handled promptly and professionaly by the administration.

Posted: December 16, 2014

This is our second year at Longleaf and our 11th year as Charter School parents. Longleaf is an excellent college-prep school with an emphasis on the Fine Arts. My student enjoys the arts, but is there for the college-prep environment. The teachers are fantastic & are invested in the students and available for parents and students who have questions or need help. The other students there care about the school and their personal future. I highly recommend this Charter high school to anyone with a rising high school student who is serious about going to college and enjoys the Fine Arts also.

Posted: December 14, 2014

Fantastic school with fantastic teachers! What a wonderful experience my high schoolers are having at Longleaf. I have no reservations about sending either of my teens to this school, I know that both of my kids are going to be more than adequately prepared for college and beyond with the college prep academics that this school provides. And, the arts -- nothing but high praise! I have a teen in the visual arts track and another in the theater arts track - both are learning an enormous amount about their chosen arts. And, I've attended several of the music events as well as dance - spectacular is all I can say and after speaking to many students on those art tracks -- nothing but praise for their teachers! All in all, a wonderful school with wonderful teachers who challenge their students to stretch and grow both academically as well as artistically.

Posted: December 11, 2014

I love Longleaf. I think the fact that we have art-based learning is very important to everyone in the school. This is how we stand out and show our uniqueness. Yet, because everyone in the school is artistic no one is judged for being "weird" or "different", we're all friends. I think the teachers are amazing and you will fall in love with each and every one of them. It's true, some teachers give more homework than others but it's all for a good reason. We don't do busy work. Longleaf offers all the required academics as well as really great, fun, entertaining art classes. I, personally, think of Longleaf as my family and I will be honored to be in the enagural graduating class of this school.

Posted: November 28, 2014

I had reservations about sending my son to an arts school, worried that the academics would suffer. I was so wrong about that. Two years in and I have no complaints. He is being challenged for the first time ever and getting the kind of individual attention that high-achieving students don't always get in traditional public schools. Best of all, he loves the school and the teachers, and his confidence in his artistic ability has grown tremendously as well. This school, as other posters have indicated, is not for the "artsy" child who just wants to dance, act, etc. and not focus on his or her studies. It is college prep with an emphasis in the arts. I have nothing but praise for the current administration. They overcame a difficult first year with more than the usual growing pains (many problems with the older building the school is housed in) and have great plans going forward.

Posted: October 1, 2014

This is my child's second year at LLSA and she loves it. The really interesting thing to me is that she isn't acing her classes. She is struggling in some because for the first time ever she is being challenged instead of being ignored because she isn't a problem in the classroom. Administration was rough last year, not that I had any issues, but it really seems to have melded together and seems a much more positive place for parents and students. This is NOT the school for students who is artsy and doesn't care for academics. This is for a student who is well balanced, will face challenges proactively, loves art classes, and for parents who want their child to have a stellar education. I have no fear that when my student heads off to college she will be ready to go and be very successful! We are HUGE fans of LLSA!

Posted: September 28, 2014

We have mixed feelings about this school. Our daughter loves her teachers and her classes. She has made friends and is eager to get to school each day. Contrary to what some other posters have said, I believe that the school functions just as it is supposed to: "a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with a focus in the fine arts." Longleaf is a public school. It is not an arts school. I am not sure what people are expecting. My own conversation with some of the parents lead me to believe that some of the parent expectations are not possible or reasonable. Where I really struggle is with the administration. The head of school is as awful as people say. She is rude and abrasive and seems to lead by intimidating others. I have never been greeted with a smile or anything resembling respect. The parents I have spoken to do not have anything good to say about the school leadership. In general, things at the school seem disorganized and scattered. I worry that unless something changes the school will not be around much longer. This would be a shame, since the concept of the school is great and the students seem very happy.

Posted: September 8, 2014

Longleaf School is a close-knit community. The academics, faculty and administration are outstanding. The students get the opportunity to be apart of their education, and have long lasting relationships with their teachers. This is not something to be taken for granted. The course of study is rigorous, and as a result my child did not achieve the scores she had in her middle school. She decided to leave Longleaf after her first year because of the rigor. After 1 week at her base school (which is also a fine school) she truly understood what a gift her time at Longleaf had been, AND she realized that she actually does want the challenges, and that she does want to feel a part of an academic community. The fine arts program at Longleaf is robust and demanding; it is just as rigorous as the academic program. We are very lucky to live in an area where a parent can choose the school their children attend. If you do not care for a school find another, but please do not try to ruin the reputation of any school because you are not happy. Just leave gracefully and find what works for you. Thank-you to the faculty and of Longleaf for your dedication to our students!

Posted: July 30, 2014

My daughter loves Longleaf. The teachers and administration expect rules and instructions to be followed and homework/projects to be completed and turned in on time. If students need help, the teachers and counselors are always available. All teachers have office hours multiple times a week. The teachers are innovative and excited to be teaching. They go the extra mile to design creative and thoughtful projects and lessons. The teachers want to be at the school. At the May chorus concert, all of my daughter's teachers attended the 7pm concert. Their attendance showed true dedication and support for their students and fellow teachers. The school had growing pains in its first year, which is to be expected with any new school. The school is located in an older building downtown. It is a great location in the heart of Raleigh's arts district. There were boiler and HVAC problems due to the building's age, but the administration could not have anticipated or prevented these issues. They acted promptly to resolve issues and used creative ways to ensure instruction was able to continue.

Posted: July 23, 2014

Longleaf is a wonderful school. Have had a very positive experience. Don't listen to the negative comments. These people could not bully the school into doing what they want so now they are badmouthing them. Well we don't need the negativity. We are moving on to bigger and better things. Longleaf has the most caring and awesome administration, teachers, students and parents around. Go Longleaf.

Posted: July 13, 2014

In its first year Longleaf has been a great experience for my daughter. She has been much more challenged than she was at traditional public school. This is a prep school with an emphasis on arts. Expectations are high. Admittedly there has been bumps along the road this first year. I believe things will run more smoothly each year it is in existence. The teachers and admininistration all seem to be 'all oars in the water' to help the kids and make this a good experience. The students I've heard of who have not had a good experience at issues that were outside the realm of academia. We love Longleaf :)

Posted: June 13, 2014

This is not the school for everyone. The teachers here do not hold your hand. If you need help, you need to seek it out. They have tutoring hours and there is a skills club. Most of the staff will bend over backwards to help you but you have to ask first. To succeed, you need to be self-driven, mature, and be attentive to detail because something as simple as stapling paper correctly can cost you a letter grade. There is an expectation that students turn in homework, dress decently, show up for performances, etc. There is a greater emphasis on higher order thinking than on busy work in most classes. The arts are very modern/experimental type so won't appeal to most people. This is not Glee -if you are not ready to work, you won't do well. The drawbacks is getting the honors classes you need due to schedule issues, not enough clubs and activities, and a couple of the teachers were not very effective. Hopefully, the arts will be out in community more next year. Administration doesn't sugar coat so not for the thin-skinned. The building is need of many repairs. The school is not perfect yet but it will get there.

Posted: June 7, 2014

As teachers at Longleaf School of the Arts, we are gifted the freedom to to teach creatively to an incredibly talented and invested group of students! Seeing the students 4 days a week for 9 months was incredibly effective at initiating change, and I think the students really noticed it as well! The small class sizes and deep investment by both teachers and students has created a supportive learning environment that fosters creativity, social growth, and embodied intelligence. Longleaf School of the Arts is ideal for students ready to take an active role in their education. Students are asked be present in the moment and accountable for their future. When they rise to this challenge, they are met with support and encouragement to take their education in the direction of their desire.

Posted: June 6, 2014

My child's first year has generally been a very good one both socially and academically. Most of my child's teachers were excellent. The math teacher goes above and beyond and even wrote each student personalized thank you notes. He is the kind of math teacher I wish I could have had in high school. The English and World History teachers were also excellent. Personally, I like that the administrators also teach part-time. My kid loved having Dr. Broome teach and per my kid's descriptions, it sounds like she really "gets" teens and their interests. We have not had any issues with the administrators. We find that being respectful, polite, and stating our case logically usually gets the matter resolved to our liking. My one disappointment with this school is the foreign language department as currently there are only two foreign languages that are offered Spanish and German though students can also take other languages on line. Overall, I think this is a very good school for bright, motivated kids who know they want to go to college and have a strong interest in or at least a liking for the arts. If this doesn't sound even remotely like your child, my advice is to look elsewhere.

Posted: June 6, 2014

We love Longleaf. And loving a school means you approach each day and each conflict with trust, openness, and a willingness to give more than you take. You agree to forgive small things in deference to the bigger picture. There have been issues (which we expected this first year), but they are SMALL THINGS. The building hasn't been maintained. That is a problem years in the making; the boiler and HVAC did not become old just this year. I appreciated the school's efforts to make things right in the face of constant challenges from an unresponsive landlord; a complex web of intertwined buildings and tenants; and a vocal minority of disgruntled, inflexible constituents. The BIG THING is educating and preparing our kids for lives that are of value to themselves and others. The Longleaf faculty are dedicated people who teach constantly, not just their subjects, but also the soft skills of kindness, patience and respect. My child expanded existing talents and found new ones. He had good, bad and mediocre days. He had, in short, a pretty typical teenage year in a pretty amazing place among gifted peers and giving adults, all of whom have built a bond of community that is truly inspiring.

Posted: June 2, 2014

The teachers, for the most part, are excellent. What troubles me about the school is that it doesn't function as an art school. The administrators are on some misguided sense that they are holding standards by using archaic academic methods. But art is about process, and the students are so overloaded with homework, they can't function in their art. There are ways to teach art, dance, theater and demand excellence, but the whole system seems to work against the teachers and students. who are trying to accomplish this. The admin that doesn't listen to their teachers, who are experts in their fields, and like others have said cannot take constructive criticism. Neither of the two head administrators are arts professionals, and yet they seem to keep running amok. How sad. If the board doesn't replace Dr. Broome, I don't hold out hope for this school surviving much longer.

Posted: May 30, 2014

I have loved going to this school this year. The small classes and overall smallness of the school make it feel like a family. The teachers are all very accessible and flexible to help you. Some of the courses can be difficult and have a large workload. The teachers have high standards and expectations, so if you attend, be prepared to be held accountable to get your work done and on time. I will be happily returning until I graduate.

Posted: May 29, 2014

My daughter went there for part of year. Major administrative issues and the place is so unorganized. When we left, they messed around and took their sweet time to get records transferred. It's not like they have more kids than they can handle either.

Posted: May 27, 2014

This is an excellent school and an excellent match for our daughter. She is completing her first year at Longleaf and loves the students and teachers. She made great friends this year. She says that she is getting a great education. As a parent, my interaction with administration and teachers is pleasant. Both the Head of School and the Assistant Head of School called me prior to the beginning of the school year regarding my daughter's schedule. They listened as I explained my daughter's class interests and my parental concerns. Her teachers go out of their way to help her succeed. Tutoring hours are generous. All teachers have tutoring hours and many offer tutoring before and after school. My interaction with the teachers is always pleasant. Emails are returned promptly. Teachers are willing to met with me. The work is challenging. My daughter wrote 2 research papers and numerous 2 - 3 page papers in classes including, biology, music, history, theatre history, english and drama. Math homework is given almost each time the class meets. Homework is graded. Many teachers do not accept late homework. I feel that the school is preparing my daughter for a positive college experience.

Posted: May 27, 2014

The school leadership is extremely poor at Longleaf School of the Arts, I think it's the worst I've ever seen. I love the concept of this school, but without proper leadership this school will fail. The school leaders/founders are hypersensitive and will not take any constructive criticism as it is intended. They seem to treat this school as though it's their personal "pet project" and not as a learning institution. They also seem to be lacking basic manners, they are not welcoming at all. So if you send your child to Longleaf, be sure not to complain or make any statement to the administration that they find offensive, or you will find yourself and your child receiving the cold shoulder and without a voice. It's kind of odd how the administration has behaved, you would think a new school of this size would embrace the parents and their input. But on a positive note, my child has really enjoyed the students and the majority of the teachers seem to be qualified. The only "real" problem I've had is with the administration, they do not seem to be qualified to be school leaders and are in way over their heads. They seem to have more ego than ability! : (

Posted: May 26, 2014

My school is great, other than the leaders of the school, Dr. Broome and Dr. Orr. Most teachers are great, some do overwhelm us with work. You would think an arts school out of all schools would take into consideration we do arts activities after school, but they don't. Students are very friendly and most teachers are as well. The heads of school are awful.

Posted: May 21, 2014

My school is absolutely horrid. There is no communication between administration and teachers. The head of school is less than satisfactory. She eats while in parent meetings and while lecturing in world history. Neither world history teachers will answer your questions about their lectures often leaving you confused and lacking understand on the subject. I haven't learned anything in my English or Math all year. I believe that I cant compete on the college level with the current academics. Then the AC was busted for a week and half making the school an uncomfortable learning environment. The fire alarm is currently messed up and we have had alarms up to two and half hours. On a positive note the students are always amazing and some teachers are willing to help. This is my view of Longleaf as a student, I hope this was helpful.

Posted: May 20, 2014

My daughter says Longleaf School of the Arts is awesome. She is challenged in both academics and the arts. The teachers have been accessible and engaging. They have made accommodations for her individual needs and have worked with us to ensure she is getting the classes she needs to be well prepared for college entry. Considering this is the first year in operation, the school has accomplished a lot. Our experience has been great.

Posted: May 20, 2014

Longleaf has had its share of growing pains, no hiding that, but I truly feel it's a wonderful school for my child! The admin. and teachers have been very supportive & accommodating w/ my child s transition from homeschooler to public H.S. student. It s not a school for everyone. It s a college preparatory H.S. w/ a fine arts focus. The academics are rigorous. The teachers expect excellence and a fair amount of independence. If a student needs help, they (the student) are responsible for getting the help they need. Teachers are available for tutoring. My child has never been unable to access a teacher for extra help. They have posted tutoring times & are almost always available during those times. In fact, several are available during non-posted times as well. My child hasn t had any problems meeting with or emailing teachers regarding assignments, extra help, etc. As a parent, I am very pleased with the education my child has received this year at Longleaf. I look forward to next year! My child loves Longleaf and if that's not a testament, then I don't know what is. How many H.S. students tell their parents they love their school?

Posted: May 19, 2014

I find the head of the school to be a large part of the school's problems. She does not listen to any concerns of parents or students and will use scare tactics to try and get her way. The event I attented last week had no AC, broken fire alarms and the school leaders were not in attendance. They should be supporting "their" school by being present at all events. I like the idea of having a schoo lof the arts in downtown Raleigh and think that it has a lot of potential to be a GREAT school if it had proper and professional leadership. Unfortunately, my child will not return to this school next year because of the poor leadership and bullying by adminstration. IT'S JUST NOT WORTH IT!!!

Posted: May 18, 2014

Longleaf is in its 1st year so of course, there have been some growing pains. It's a school that's oriented towards self-driven, highly motivated, and disciplined students as some of the classes are really on the rigorous side. My student came from a homeschool environment and has thrived there this year. Several of the teachers have really become mentors to her and she has grown so much. She has taken full advantage of tutoring hours & the amazing skills club. She comes home daily and enthusiastically tells me what she learned in Biology & World History. The head of the math department has been tutoring all year even though she's not his student. He's amazing at explaining math to non-math oriented students! I've always been treated respectfully by the teachers when I have met with them to address concerns. I have volunteered with several teachers that my child does not have and they have all been pleasant and professional . Though my child is not in music, I particularly liked the music programs I have attended. I'd like to see more extracurricular activities & more community involvement but I feel these will come as the school becomes more grounded. Overall, I am very pleased.

Posted: May 12, 2014

My child has struggled here and is almost failing after being an A/B student. Pleas to the school for help are either ignored or treated with defensiveness. He was told he is "on his own". He is a good kid, never got in trouble or anything. This may be fine for a self disciplined, self learning type of kid not sensitive to negativity. The concept is great. But there are a bunch of unhappy, failing kids. There are almost no resources for help other the each teacher's office hours, which some keep and some do not. And generally the administration's response to anything is lacking and downright rude. There has been lots of turnover. One teacher just came and it seems like they have never taught anything before this and they are very vocal in their frustration, using lots of bad language and anger. That makes it hard for some kids to learn. We have been very happy with the diversity of the kids and their acceptance of minorities but any concerns or problems are either ignored or met with hostility. I hope things straighten out for next year because the kids there deserve better and Raleigh definitely could use a fine arts high school.

Posted: May 3, 2014

A college preparatory high school with an integrated arts program. All students must take 8 arts courses to graduate. Class sizes are small. Most teachers have their national board certification or advanced degrees. The teachers go out of their way to help students. My child's comment about the school is, "the students are nice and the teachers are great".