An interview with Mrs. Jones and her daughter Jane
Can you share what your expectations are as a parent?
Jane is a transfer student from Masterman where they have a traditional teaching model. Jane was ready for a change, SLA was on the short list of schools that we thought would be a good fit
academically. Our expectations are that our daughter will continue in a college prep environment and perform at her personal best.
What were your greatest concerns as a parent?
First, we had the transition from middle school to high school, from a traditional teaching pedagogy to a project based, progressive pedagogy. It was a little challenging, but we managed. Next it was the technology. We had some initial concerns with canvas, but we eventually worked through that as well. It is a very progressive academic environment where they fully utilize technology for homework, teacher correspondence, research projects etc…However
when there are no physical papers and all the rough drafts are emailed to the teachers directly, It’s hard to monitor the technology, and it’s hard to know as a parent, how involved to get.
What has been the best part of the SLA community?
As parents, we were very pleased with the warm and personal school environment. It really is a family atmosphere and the teachers are advocates of the kids. We are always in the loop and there
is good communication between the teachers and us. They expect Jane to excel just like we do.
Jane, how was your first year at SLA?
It was good. The other students are nice and we all get along pretty well. If I need help with a subject, the teachers are there to assist me. I also use lunch time, since we get an hour, to finish projects, due homework, or whatever I need to help me be prepared for
class.
Why did you want to go to SLA?
It was a warm and welcoming community. SLA is academically challenging, but I felt I was still able to keep up. I like that they use a lot of tier two type words in their vocabulary contexts in school. It’s a few more girls than boys, but I like it. The culture at SLA is demanding but not as emotionally competitive as Masterman. I think SLA is a much better fit for me
What do you like best about SLA?
I live in West Philly, so it only takes me 20-30 minutes to get to school. I like that they listen to me, and I feel that my voice is heard. I like knowing that help is available when I need it. The teachers really care about you, and that makes the school feel more like
a family. I really feel everybody just wants to make sure we all do our best and are prepared for a bright future.
What don’t you like about SLA?
Nothing.
Photo credit: Psychology Today
Can you share what your expectations are as a parent?
Jane is a transfer student from Masterman where they have a traditional teaching model. Jane was ready for a change, SLA was on the short list of schools that we thought would be a good fit
academically. Our expectations are that our daughter will continue in a college prep environment and perform at her personal best.
What were your greatest concerns as a parent?
First, we had the transition from middle school to high school, from a traditional teaching pedagogy to a project based, progressive pedagogy. It was a little challenging, but we managed. Next it was the technology. We had some initial concerns with canvas, but we eventually worked through that as well. It is a very progressive academic environment where they fully utilize technology for homework, teacher correspondence, research projects etc…However
when there are no physical papers and all the rough drafts are emailed to the teachers directly, It’s hard to monitor the technology, and it’s hard to know as a parent, how involved to get.
What has been the best part of the SLA community?
As parents, we were very pleased with the warm and personal school environment. It really is a family atmosphere and the teachers are advocates of the kids. We are always in the loop and there
is good communication between the teachers and us. They expect Jane to excel just like we do.
Jane, how was your first year at SLA?
It was good. The other students are nice and we all get along pretty well. If I need help with a subject, the teachers are there to assist me. I also use lunch time, since we get an hour, to finish projects, due homework, or whatever I need to help me be prepared for
class.
Why did you want to go to SLA?
It was a warm and welcoming community. SLA is academically challenging, but I felt I was still able to keep up. I like that they use a lot of tier two type words in their vocabulary contexts in school. It’s a few more girls than boys, but I like it. The culture at SLA is demanding but not as emotionally competitive as Masterman. I think SLA is a much better fit for me
What do you like best about SLA?
I live in West Philly, so it only takes me 20-30 minutes to get to school. I like that they listen to me, and I feel that my voice is heard. I like knowing that help is available when I need it. The teachers really care about you, and that makes the school feel more like
a family. I really feel everybody just wants to make sure we all do our best and are prepared for a bright future.
What don’t you like about SLA?
Nothing.
Photo credit: Psychology Today