[Buddhabooh]

Hi,

I'm considering a move to Tuscaloosa and want more info on the Capitol School.

I've put a few feelers out there on a few forums because I'm new to this community and not too familiar with the whole posting threads thing.

Anyway, does anyone have opinions about the Capitol School.

I live in rural Montana and I am not satisfied with the educational environment. I have a very smart 6 y/o kindergartener and want her to be challenged.

I also want to be able to afford a certain standard of living on a single income.

I'm looking for:
1) Reputation for an excellent education with individualized attention and preparation for Ivy League-level college functioning.
2) Emphasis on science and/or art (my daughter's two interests).
3) Welcoming atmosphere - not TOO bogged doen by class/race/religion issues (where my kid won't be to stigmatized by parents/teachers/peers because she is not rich nor white nor Christian)


Do you guys think the school is worth the money over public schools like Verner?

Thanks.
4)

[PinkPrimrose]

I sent my daughter to Capitol school for three years. Prior to her entering in 2nd grade she was a little ahead when she came out we had to hold her back a year because she was so far behind. I heard similar stories from several other parents.
Capitol School has a few areas of concern
they do a major overhaul every year, change in many teachers, classrooms, buildings and are typically scrambling to get done by start of school.
they do not have a standard grading system (ABCDF) it is more opinionated but is said to be based upon your own child’s standards. This makes it hard to judge if your child is behind.
There have been a few children that as far as I know have been successful there. These are children that are very highly motivated not just bright but kids that seek out learning. The other group it works for is special ed kids or kids who are “different” and would be singled out in traditional schools.
It does have a few positives. It is (or at least was) a very accepting environment. The kids are friendly to one another. They have a flexible day (no set start/finish). Parents are required to put in volunteer hours so everyone is involved. The concept for the school is excellent but the implementation and the concept differ.
You also mentioned money. Capitol school is very expensive. Much more than all the other private schools except maybe Tuscaloosa Academy.
I have heard very good things about verner and the test scores are high. Check out Greatschools.net
Rock Quarry is a wonderful school. The test scores are very slightly lower than verner but I do know the environment and it is great. The teachers are very caring. It is a diverse school in race and religion.
Those are the only two schools in the city school system I would send my kids to. Be careful the school zones have recently changed for this area so be sure you know the school. Be sure to look at the middle schools as well. I hear they are rough in this area.
You may also consider County schools near Moundville.
Best of luck

[Back Again]

Here are some good links to check out when looking into schools
ALSDE - Education Directory/Reports
SchoolMatters - Home
GreatSchools.net

I hope this helps