La Scuola

My original review does not show. so this is the exact same one.
This school has potential! The grounds are incredible, but this Reggio-inspired school leaves a lot to be desired. Most teachers do not have a degree in education, certified nor are they specialized and trained in the Reggio Emilia philosophy. Ask any teacher what Reggio means and you will see. Teachers do not feel supported, they feel unheard and taken advantage of which affects the amount of teaching your kids will receive. In terms of covid and safety measures, safety precautions that were promised were never actualized (handwashing stations, etc). Walking your child to class was not acceptable, but that rule didn’t pertain to some parents. Masks were optional in the kindergarten class from Aug 2020-May 2021. However, I must say, the numbers of cases were relatively low in this school.

My daughter was “diagnosed” as autistic and mute by a 22-year-old assistant and commented about her perceived abilities in front of peers. There is no behavioral management in classrooms and teachers are unable to implement a rewards or punishment system. for example this year, a few children were new to the classroom with a month left of school. Apparently, some of the behaviors warranted immediate attention and none was given (i.e., they mentioned numerous times wanting to punch or slap my 5 yr old daughter in the face, and a boy was caught trying to choke a child with a rope in the playground).
Pros. Despite all of this, my daughter loved attending this school, she would love to go back- but that will not be happening. The grounds are magical and the relationship children develop with nature is simply beautiful. The kindergarten graduation ceremonies and Christmas shows are adorable, and the yearly Scarecrow event is something I have never seen before.
The director appears extremely nice, is receptive towards concerns however, problem resolution- limited. She will assist with financial aid and scholarships when applicable. Her parents are on campus and are the most amazing human beings ever.
This school has potential. The ideas are all there, it’s just one person wearing too many hats, therefore, there's an inability to execute such plans.