Research East Side Charter School charter Schools in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

“I think this school has great potential with the right support from both the staff and the parents. I love the fact that the class sizes are small and it is a 'choice' school. However full advantage is not being taken of this opportunity. I must agree with the teacher, this school is for select families. Those who will abide by the rules and help maintain the standards set by the school. But every time I go there I see kids out of uniform and cursing in the halls, I hear teachers yelling at the students. I mean why should I spend money on uniforms( which they are quite expensive!) for my 2 kids when so many come to school dressed any kind of way? Why are kids still there who have been suspended numerous times when the school has such a 'strict' behavioral policy? GET IT TOGETHER ESCS!”

“ESCS could do a lot better. They have a great plan in place but they're not using it. They need to stick to their own policies. Enforce the dress code, enforce the discipline, enforce parent involvement. If they were to just start there a lot of problems would be solved and the rest would eventually fall into place. Teachers would be happier, students would be happier and learn a lot more.”

“Part of 'school choice,' this is an alternative to regular public schools. As a former teacher for this school, I observed daily screaming and use of profanity by students in the hallways and classrooms. The principal refuses to change the ineffective 'Direct Instruction' curriculum for which the supplies are short anyway. Because of school choice, parents must sign a 'contract' stating they will volunteer at least 4 hours a month. This happens with about 10 parents in the whole school. The PTO meetings are an embarrassment -about 8 parents, out of more than 300 students, show up for these. Teachers work extended days (7:30 to 4:00) and are told to work harder - this is why there is little consistency in staff and poor learning for children.”