North Star Academy Charter School/safety in Newark (Dayton: high crime, neighborhood)

[millet]

Hello Everyone!

I did a search but couldn't find anything - plz forgive me if I did it wrong.

I am contemplating teaching at the Academy but I have heard so many stories about the high crime and brutal assualts in Newark. I know that when our time comes to go, it comes - I just don't want to speed up the process

Can anyone please tell me if this area is safe? It is on Dayton Street in Newark.

Also, if you are a parent of a student or you work at this school - I would also appreciate knowing the pros and cons in your opinion. I used to work at a small private school and I loved the family atmosphere between the faculty & students and the drive to succeed we all shared. I also worked in other school settings were folks weren't as friendly and it can make a huge impact on the quality of life.

I appreciate your help! Thanks Much!
Millet

[Barbara6095]

I am a parent of a 1st grader at NS Academy Elementary. We also live in the neighborhood (5 blocks from the school), so you get a 2-fer! First, the school is excellent. There are only 2 grades so far in the Elementary school: K & 1st. There are 3 classes each & about 25 students per class. Each class has two teachers. The curriculum is RIGOROUS. There is homework 7 days/week. There are no naps and no recess. They do have gym, though. There are high expectations of every student and discipline is required and enforced. There is strong school & scholar spirit. My family and daughter love North Star and are happy to cooperate with the requirements. I think it would be a unique and rewarding experience to teach there. I do not have any "cons" of the experience. A lot of what they require is what I would have done with my child anyway but now it is not the exception, it is the rule. Second, the neighborhood is relatively safe. You can park your car on school grounds. The school is across the street from a park so there is not a lot of foot traffic outside. If you observe the customary urban safety rules I think you would be fine. The school is in a residential neighborhood; I think that is a plus. The people nearest are working class families - they are not looking for trouble. Good Luck in whatever decision you make. Teaching is a valued profession!