Valor Collegiate Academies

Posted: March 22, 2023

Valor does an incredibly good job of prepping students for state and standardized testing. But that's literally how they spend all of their time. I would recommend this school for anyone whose child is a low performer or who needs a lot of structure. It's a safe school where misbehavior is corrected quickly and consistently. I don't worry about fights or abuse on campus. That said, this is not the place for high performing or gifted children, who are just micromanaged the same way lower performing students are. This is also not a great place for students with disabilities like ADHD unless you are willing to fight every step of the way for accommodations. If you have a D student who you know could be a C or B student if someone kept them in line all the time, then yes, I would recommend it. But if you have a good, bright, independent kid who wants to explore their educational interests, take honors classes, be met at their educational level and pushed to achieve their potential, find another school.

Posted: March 22, 2023

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Posted: April 13, 2021

I LOVE Valor. All my teachers are nice and pumped! They help us prepare for tests. They give us awards for getting all A's or getting A's and B's every quarter. They also do Color Wars (it is really fun). Every one is super nice and get us ready fir test exams etc.

Posted: April 13, 2021

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Posted: July 31, 2019

Not enough homework to teach a strong work ethic

Posted: July 31, 2019

Posted: July 31, 2019

The compass system is rigid and invasive. Values are taught, but too much force feeding can cause rebellion

Posted: July 31, 2019

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Posted: July 31, 2019

it Is cultish and stifling and the curriculum is too focused on TCAPS and social justice to create a well-rounded experience

Posted: May 17, 2019

The use of their compass system teaches the scholars great character as well as what their "true north" is and how to use it to make good choices.

Posted: May 17, 2019

Each child is assigned a mentor and a pride in which they can confide in and learn from. They do daily mental exercises so they can grow mentally as well as academically.

Posted: May 17, 2019

My son is on an IEP and I have never had such great support.

Posted: May 17, 2019

There is zero tolerance for any form of bullying and I have never heard of a bully situation since enrollment. Prior my son was in public school in Metro Nashville and was constantly the target of attacks and bullies due to being very small for his age and grade. He has not had one issue since going to Valor.

Posted: May 17, 2019

While the first year or so was a huge adjustment from public schools I would not have done anything differently. They test your child and put them in classes that match their academic level not their grade level so your scholar is getting the most prepared for collage. It has been the best experience and we love our Valor family.

Posted: May 17, 2019

With removing textbooks and using Chromebooks the school is able to keep all information up to date and relevant. The homework isn't overwhelming and is very meaningful.

Posted: May 17, 2019

We have only had an issue with one teacher out of the 3 years of going to this school. The administration is quick to address any issues that may arise and make your scholar successful.

Posted: January 28, 2019

We are so grateful our kids are at Valor. The structure has been beneficial for them, as has the social-emotional component. The quality of the teachers is exceptional. I especially appreciate that they take each child where he or she is, academically, and come alongside to help them reach for their best. Character is also taught and recognized. I also love it that they get recess time every day, through 8th grade.

Posted: January 28, 2019

Homework is the right amount, and meaningful. Not busywork.

Posted: January 28, 2019

The energy, passion, and talent of the teachers is remarkable. They recruit and retain some outstanding teachers who care about ALL students and have a gift for inspiring learning while connecting with kids at different academic levels. I am continually impressed by the level of care and commitment Valor teachers demonstrate.

Posted: January 28, 2019

The compass model sets a standard to which students, and the whole community, can reach for. I really like it that they aim high both academically and relationally.

Posted: January 28, 2019

They do an amazing job of communicating with parents about what it being taught and the homework schedule. They make it easy to communicate directly with teachers as questions or concerns arise.

Posted: January 28, 2019

Posted: January 28, 2019

They react quickly to restoratively address bullying behavior.

Posted: November 1, 2018

This is an outstanding school and although it has added to our daily commute, we've been fortunate to become a part of the Valor community

Posted: November 1, 2018

despite other comments, the amount of homework is quite reasonable, less that academically comparable schools in the area, I think

Posted: November 1, 2018

This school has highly committed and enthusiastic teachers. They have been responsive every time my wife or I have had an enquiry.

Posted: November 1, 2018

The compass program is a tremendous added value to this school.

Posted: November 1, 2018

From the CEO through principals and other administrators, these folk lead by example. It's not uncommon to see the CEO directing parking traffic in the rain. Most importantly, they will listen to you as a parent and help accommodate the needs of your child.

Posted: November 1, 2018

Posted: August 16, 2018

In all honesty, my children HATED their time at this school. I think they found the rigid structure to be too stifling. In the beginning, I felt that all opportunities to be a child were missing - from lack of recess to "mindful eating." Some changes have been implemented to alleviate that rigidity but I think the damage had already been done with my older child. He was miserable to the point of real depression. I'll probably be kicking myself for a long time for not realizing sooner that this was just not a good fit for him. I do think the school has a very safe environment and that we have had some good teachers in our tenure there. If you have a child who thrives in a predictable and structured environment, then this should be a good fit for them.

Posted: August 16, 2018

After 4 years at this school, I still think homework was excessive. In a school that has such a strict down to the minute planned daily schedule that a bathroom break feels like a privilege, I don't understand the need for such a high volume of homework. I felt like I didn't see my children during the schoolyear except during weekends and breaks. I really felt sorry for children with language barriers or learning differences that made homework even more challenging.

Posted: August 16, 2018

We had a mixed bag of experiences not significantly different from what we encountered in our zoned and optional schools. It was unfortunate that the teachers who stood out the most for us left for other opportunities or were promoted within the charter organization after just a year or two of teaching.

Posted: August 16, 2018

My kids, and I think all kids in general, are quick to call the bull when they see it. They witnessed some staff unwilling to "walk the talk" as the school likes to say, and it undermined their whole dogma.

Posted: August 16, 2018

I often wondered about the source of "parental feedback" that drove changes as the school grew. I had a willingness to adapt the first couple of years and then it just began to feel like a cascade of disappointments as initial plans/selling points never came to fruition. Parents enrolling their children in latter years are less likely to feel this frustration I think.

Posted: August 16, 2018

We have no personal experience in this area.

Posted: August 16, 2018

Not sure on this one. I'd like to believe they do in terms of the way we tend to define bullying. However, I know my son felt crushed a couple of times in his first year at Valor when he was punished for someone else's behavior. There is no opportunity for explanation and when another child admitted guilt it just resulted in two children punished. I don't know that that's a good thing when you have a behavioral points system. It also hardened him to not care as much about his behavior because he felt he was going to get punished either way.

Posted: April 2, 2018

Cannot buy a better education. The teachers are wonderful, but the character program (Compass) leaves much to be desired in my honest opinion!

Posted: April 2, 2018

Teachers are available to help with homework at all times.

Posted: April 2, 2018

The hardest working group of teachers I have ever seen!

Posted: April 2, 2018

They follow a character building program, but both of my kids say the students here are overall rude and disrespectful.

Posted: April 2, 2018

Posted: April 2, 2018

No idea as my kids do not qualify in this category

Posted: April 2, 2018

Too worried about not punishing kids. Need to accept reality and hold these kids accountable for their actions.

Posted: March 7, 2018

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Posted: March 7, 2018

It is a little like walking into an alternate reality. TCAPs drive a large percentage of the curriculum. Compass system is overly punitive - a bit like Big Brother breathing down your neck all the time

Posted: November 20, 2017

They only give homework that is crucial to the lesson. They give a certain amount of time to do homework. They even tell parents what homework their kids have, so the children can receive help.

Posted: November 20, 2017

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Posted: November 20, 2017

This school is amazing. It has extremely effective systems. They don't pick you to go to their school just because you're already academically strong. They believe in growing. They put children in a pride based on gender. In this school you get to meet people, and become friends with people you could never even IMAGINE becoming friends with. Although the punishments are harsh, that's why people act like decent human beings! In this school you're never singled out. This school is a great choice. I was new to this school, coming in as a 6th grader. A great thing about this school is that they have a thing called culture camp, where they get you prepped for their values and schedules. This school is the best school I've ever been to. Also, the 6th grade ELA teacher has written a book, and in her 55 minute class, I learned much more than I ever will at any other school.

Posted: August 24, 2017

This is the third year that my son is attending VCA. I truly can't say enough good things about my child's development in all areas, academically, emotionally and socially. It has been a wonderful not just for my son , but for the entire family. One of the best decision that we have made regarding my son's future!

Posted: August 24, 2017

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Posted: May 23, 2017

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Posted: May 23, 2017

This school is great. It sets high expectations for students - both academically and also in terms of individual accountability. Coupled with that is a high level of support through an integrated social emotional learning curriculum. It provides the kids with the support they need to challenge themselves. It is a great balance.

Posted: May 23, 2017

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Posted: May 23, 2017

Their approach isn't just about academics. They teach the students valuable life skills on how to treat others with respect. In turn, they address the emotional health of each student to give them the confidence to expect respect from others.

Posted: May 23, 2017

Staff and Administration are exceptional. I've never experienced a more positive and focused environment. No school is perfect, but this one is as close as I can imagine one could be.

Posted: May 5, 2017

Baecause this school took my daughters money and never gave it back and also took my sons spinner that i spent money on and never gave it back

Posted: May 3, 2017

This is our first year as part of the Valor community and it is very much a friendly, warm, open, family oriented community. As a parent, I know my child is safe and well cared for not only academically but socially and emotionally. Teachers, staff, and leadership have always been available to address any questions and concerns in a timely fashion. Most important of all is that this charter school took the initiative to make medical accommodations for my child without hesitation or bureaucracy. We have a 20-30 minute commute and my middle schooler can get majority of her homework done in the car.

Posted: February 14, 2017

Valor seems to be a good fit for some, but not for all. One challenge with any new school is that things get revamped a lot. Some of the things promised from the get-go did not work out so well, so they have been changed. Parent input is prized, which is a plus. However, the constant changes in programming and rules are compounded by the communication processes that need improvement. Often information does not get to parents before big changes are made. The environment is very strict and can be stifling for some, although others may need this high level of structure. The teachers are young and very few are parents, just a couple have parented middle schoolers. This inexperience factor does seem to affect outcomes in the way certain situations are handled. But the teachers have a lot of stamina and are very dedicated to the school. They all want to be there are are committed to the model the school uses. Overall it has seemed like a safe environment morally as compared to some schools (alcohol, drugs, social media etc.). My overall thought is that not all kids will excel here, but some will. And academically struggling kids who are not too talkative or outgoing will have a great opportunity to improve their performance.

Posted: February 14, 2017

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Posted: February 14, 2017

There are a lot of roles outside of teaching staff and it is hard to know who does what, and sometimes their approaches are not unified.

Posted: February 14, 2017

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Posted: February 14, 2017

Too much homework. Homework is not a "sometimes" thing, it is 4 subjects a night (not coincidentally - they plan it that way), every night (except Friday). If your kids do sports or other after school activities it is very challenging.

Posted: August 23, 2016

We are less than a month in and I already see a new confidence and enthusiasm in my child academically.

Posted: May 16, 2016

We had the wonderful problem of choosing between an academic magnet middle school and a charter school. Both Meigs and VCA are strong options academically, however, we took a gamble on VCA because we sought socio-economic diversity and a culture and practice of mindfulness. We are just about to complete our first year and have been very pleased. VCA is very focused on individual academic achievement without forgetting that middle school and adolesence can be a hard time. Our student is happy and thriving. The location is a challenge but worth the effort. Plus, sibling preference is helpful should I feel Valor is a fit for our younger child. There is great debate and conflict around Charter schools. I feel grateful to have myriad options for each of my children as they navigate their way through life.

Posted: May 16, 2016

We are very proud to be a part of this dynamic school! The teachers and administrators are superstars. Nobody slips through the cracks here, all students are engaged. The diversity is real life and embraced. The opportunity for students and families to learn about different cultures is the best gift ever. We are thrilled to belong to this community!

Posted: April 25, 2015

I have one child enrolled at Valor. My four other children went to private schools Kindergarten through 12th grade, so I was concerned and a little nervous how Valor would compare academically to them. I have to say it has been a great experience. Not only are the teachers wonderful, they truly love their job and the children. I like that each student is assigned a mentor that they will have throughout their time at Valor. The communication between the teachers and the parents is exceptional. The student can email or text the teacher with any questions or concerns they may have with their homework. Parent are welcome to do the same if they have concerns about their child. The school work is challenging without being overwhelming. They teach them the importance of being kind to each other, responsible and respectful. They are held accountable for not doing what is expected of them. They learned the importance of listening, being organized and on time. My child comes home every day with a smile on her face and can not wait to tell me about her day. I am so glad we found this school!

Posted: April 25, 2015

People hear mixed reviews about charters, but I hope they let Valor speak for itself when investigating options. We ve been blown away! Here are a few reasons why: 1) Academics are top notch and rival any academic magnet. 2) Staff is phenomenal. 3) It's super diverse socio-economically, racially, culturally, religiously. In middle school this can lead to tension or self-segregation, but the culture here is SO intentional in teaching kids to respect and celebrate others. 4) Character development is OFF THE CHARTS. 5) Sibling preference, which builds community and simplifies lives. 6) They care deeply about kids (the word allowance is too small for me to go on and on here like I could). 7) This EXCELLENT education is available to ALL kids, not just ones who qualify because of TCAP & grades. Brilliant kids fall through the cracks daily in the education system. Here, ALL kids have an opportunity to rise to their potential! There are cons Not many extracurriculars YET. Charters are typically strict, but Valor is on the mild end of that scale. Still, I ve never regretted our decision! Rather, I think: I can't believe this is a school! I can't believe we are a part of this!

Posted: April 24, 2015

Our son loves going to Valor! We can not imagine sending him to any other school. The teachers are passionate about education and helping children meet their full potential.

Posted: April 24, 2015

I researched several schools in Nashville and I knew from my first conversation with Todd Dickson that this school was going to be unique and exactly what we were looking for. With the first year almost over, I can unequivocally say it is everything we were promised and more! My son has thrived in this community of caring, diversity, support and structure! The education he has received is top notch, but it isn't just the academics. Just last week I overheard him asking his little brother (who was upset about a social issue he experienced in elementary where he'd made a poor desicion and was upset about the consequences) to share with him his feelings about the situation and what he would do differently. I was stunned to tears upon hearing this exchange, they had no idea I was listening! I knew my son had employed some of the 'whole child' lessons he'd learned from Valor. Without a doubt, the teachers/staff are the best, the diversity is amazingly unique, and the education is completely well rounded. These scholars are going places!

Posted: April 24, 2015

My son has made significant growth in most academic areas, thanks to attentiveness of teachers and staff members. I love how the school focuses on character building in students and providing a welcoming environment for parents to share their concerns and advice. The diverse atmosphere of the school gives my child the the opportunity to interact with different ethnic groups and learn to coexist respectfully. Valor Academy you rock!!

Posted: April 24, 2015

I am delighted with my daughter's experience at Valor Collegiate Academy. She loves attending school at VCA, and I am thrilled with her experience at the school. There are a number of factors that could be considered when reviewing a school - I will focus on the top five factors that have impressed me about the school. (1) The school's leadership possesses a clear, assessable, and compelling vision for the school's academic and character-development curriculum. (2) The school's leadership, faculty, and staff have worked diligently and successfully to execute the aforementioned vision. (3) The school has a mentorship program, which has been amazing. Both my daughter and I have benefited from her mentor's time, attention, and insight. (4) All of my daughter's teachers are well-educated and enthusiastic about their roles as educators. They are all approachable and clear communicators. (5) The school s culture is incredibly supportive of the students' growth as clear minded, well rounded, and compassionate children. I am a big fan of this institution and would encourage all parents who are interested in a top-notch school choice to investigate this option closely.

Posted: April 24, 2015

Valor Collegiate Academy is a new charter school in the MNPS school system of Davidson County in Nashville, TN. Its first operating year could be called nothing but a success. Valor's commitment to high academic standards, peer support and respect, cultural diversity and character building drew our family to its brand new doors. Valor is Nashville's first and only ethnically / economically diverse charter school; and its concept is much needed here. My son is a 5th grader at Valor. This year, he has formed true friendships with students quite like himself in terms of dreams and desires; and quite unlike himself in terms of ethnicity, religious background, etc. Most importantly, his academic achievement has exceeded our expectations. He has always been a top student but was never truly challenged to his potential, only to his grade level. At Valor, my son is working on mathematical concepts that are several grade levels ahead; as his testing has indicated for him. He comes home speaking enthusiastically about his classes and what he's learning - from Socratic seminars in social studies to the environmental sustainability unit in science. Valor is new, different and great.

Posted: April 23, 2015

Moving to Valor was one of the best things we could have done for our son. We love their commitment to academic excellence, diversity and nurturing teachers/administration.

Posted: April 23, 2015

Valor is unique among all schools in Nashville, public or private, due to the fact that its student body is truly reflective of the socioeconomic diversity of the city of Nashville itself. Modeled after overachieving charter schools DSST of Denver and Summit Prep of the Bay Area, Valor is the rare school that aims to develop excellent human beings, rather than traditional schools that tend to ignore the social and emotional of its student body. But Valor does this without sacrificing one iota from its high academic goals. Our son has had an amazing first year there, with growth and breadth far beyond what we could have imagined. We are very much looking forward to his continued progress in future years.

Posted: April 23, 2015

Best charter school in Nashville and my son love it. The teachers and the staff are amazing...
Way to go valor