Academy of Moore Faces Closure

The Academy of Moore County may be forced to close. Glenn M. Sides

Sunday, March 7, 2010

A Moore County charter school could be forced to close at the end of the school year.

Officials at The Academy of Moore County, on U.S. 15-501 south of Aberdeen, told The Pilot Friday that the State Board of Education on Thursday has denied a recommendation by the N.C. Office of Charter Schools to renew the school's charter for another three years.

Allyson Schoen, the school's director of education, said she is prepared to fight the decision. If those efforts fail, the school will close June 30.

Schoen called the decision a "tragedy," considering the strides the school has made in recent years. It met its Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) goals last year and opened a new, state-of-the-art $2.2 million facility in August.

She admitted that the school had struggled in the past and still has work to do, but she criticized the state board for not taking the school's progress into account, arguing that it based the decision on past data.

"We have totally turned this ship around," she said. "They're looking at the past data. They're not comparing apples to apples."

The school, which opened in Southern Pines in 1997, has 175 students enrolled this year in kindergarten through eighth grade, according to curriculum facilitator Maggie Dougherty. The school draws children from Moore, Scotland, Richmond and Hoke counties. It employs 13 teachers, two assistants and four administrators.

As a charter school, The Academy of Moore County is an alternative to traditional public schools. It is tuition-free, but aims to provide a private-school setting with smaller class sizes. Its students wear uniforms.

Schoen said that about 60 percent of her students would qualify for free and reduced lunch in the public school system. Dougherty added that a good portion of the the students come from military families and single-parent homes.

"These parents want their kids to get a better education, so they've made the commitment to drive their students here every day," Schoen said. "I've got a lot of parents who buy into the program."

Schoen credited Bill Moore, former director of education and a past Moore County Principal of the Year, for bringing stability to the school in recent years. Schoen served under Moore for three years as his assistant director of education. She took the reins of the school this year after Moore retired.

Perhaps the biggest achievement under Moore's watch was construction of the new school building. The U.S. Department of Agriculture backed 90 percent of the loan used to build it, Schoen said.

Former Sen. Elizabeth Dole attended a ceremony announcing the loan in 2008.

Schoen said she has received phone calls from parents who are concerned that their children will be forced to attend public schools that haven't met AYP goals. She said she felt for the families, adding the school is a choice they deserve to have.

Yolanda McCarty has a son in second grade and a daughter in kindergarten at the school. She said her son had a difficult experience in the public school system, but since transferring to The Academy, he has flourished.

"We've had a fantastic experience," she said. "The kids are so happy there."

The McCartys are a military family and live in Pinebluff. McCarty's husband is currently serving in Afghanistan. She said they cannot afford private school tuition and are troubled by the prospect of putting their children back into the public school system.

"To have them close down and have my children go back into a school system where the test scores aren't any better is unheard of to me," she said. "It doesn't make sense."

McCarty said she refuses to send her children back to the public school in the district where they live. She said she is in the process of filling out transfer request forms to other schools - some of them are up to 30 minutes away - just in case The Academy closes.

McCarty said she and other parents are banding together to alert the community about the possible closure.

Dougherty has had two children attend the school and praised the personal attention students receive from their teachers.

"I don't know what I would have done without this school," she said.

Schoen said only three of the 10 state board members voted to grant the charter renewal. She criticized the board members for not making a site visit to the school. She said only one of them, Chris Greene, made the trip.

"I don't know how you can vote on something you're unfamiliar with," she said. "How can people make a decision when they've never been here to see what we're doing?"

The school's Board of Directors held an emergency meeting Friday afternoon to discuss how to move forward. Schoen couldn't offer specifics, but insisted she would do everything she could to keep the school open.

"I can tell you I'm not going down without a fight," she said. "I'm going to fight to the bitter end. Someone has got to be a voice for these children."

Contact John Krahnert III at (910) 693-2473 or by e-mail at jkrahnert@thepilot.com.

More like this story

maxandzander 2 years, 2 months ago

If North Carolina Schools do not take charter schools seriously they may lose federal funding. Seems the Education Secretary understands the value of charter schools. Charter schools educate students for far less money than your local schools.

I found this article on a major media outlet. Education Secretary: States Could Lose Stimulus if They Don't Embrace Charter Schools

YolandaM 2 years, 2 months ago

Check out our growing Facebook Group "Save The Academy of Moore County!" Parents and teachers will continue to post information about the school's fight and stories about how the school has changed our lives! There's also many pictures of the kids and our school.

TheNeedle 2 years, 2 months ago

This story would be more informative if it gave some information on the State Board's rationale for the decision. Did anyone even ask them?

Mmason 2 years, 2 months ago

I have two children that attend the school and as of right now have no clue as to what I am going to do if the school closes. I do know that they will not attend the schools in this area. I had my daughter attend the Primary school when she first started school and two in a half days later I pulled from there and got her into the Academy of Moore. The school is great. The teachers are wonderful and the whole entire atmosphere is outstanding. To close this school would be a bad thing on all the students. My children love the school and their teachers. My family loves the school and I really feel that the children do very well there. I think those who voted "NO" need to come to the school and see how things are and see how the children love being there and ...well just see it before they judge on things they have no clue what they are voting for.

jh1099 2 years, 2 months ago

That is a pretty ignorant statement to insinuate that the state board has no clue what they are voting for. Charter schools do not enroll the most troubled, at-risk young people who pose the greatest challenge to public education. Charter schools are taking away funding that could be used to improve our public schools programs, hire and retain better teachers. That is a big reason why the state policy makers are not for charter schools. Especially when they are performing no better than the local schools in the area. Facts are facts.

YolandaM 2 years, 2 months ago

Yes, The Academy has struggled in the past academically but the school is improving greatly. I hate to say this because school is a place where kids are suppose to learn but there are other factors other than whether or not they can pass a test. My son's grades were satisfactory in the public school but his emotional well-being was not! I transfered him to The Academy because of the stressfull learning enviroment he was in but his academic scores have improve tremendously at The Academy! My daughter has learned more at The Academy in Kindergarten than Clay did in two years at public school!

Mmason 2 years, 2 months ago

To JH 1099 "That is a pretty ignorant statement to insinuate that the state board has no clue what they are voting for"

No it is a good statement and they need to come down and view the school and see how the kids are doing and what they are doing before they judge. To me it seems as if they don't really care to do this and don't want to be bothered with the topic.

This Charter school is the best and in my opinion is the best school in the whole entire area.

So, no it's not ignorant statement. The need to check thing out before they go and make a NO vote. Charter schools are ten times better than the public school system anyway. It is better for the kid’s in the ways that they can actually get one on one teacher time and the classes are smaller so they learn a lot better than crammed into a class and eventually forgotten about.

jh1099 2 years, 2 months ago

Why do you think the school is the best in the area? What data do you have to back up your statement?

newstime 2 years, 2 months ago

They should look at the school and how much it has improved, not look at its past.

CSmithson 2 years, 2 months ago

One of the real tragedies here is that we have certain schools in this county that many parents will do whatever they can to keep their kids out of. Shouldn't we demand more from our public school system? Don't we deserve more?

For $100 million in taxpayer funds a year, we shouldn't have a system that so many people do their best to avoid.

Mmason 2 years, 2 months ago

I agree the school is great and they have come along way. I feel that this school offers more to the kids and I would hate to see it leave the area, because as of right know I still have no clue what I will do with my children. I do kow for a fact that they will not be going into a school that has falling test scores, etc.

SusanComstock 2 years, 2 months ago

It is sad as parents we have to fight so hard to make sure that our children get a good education. My daughter attends The Academy of Moore, and she loves it there. Our children are or future and they should be able to have a good education. I would hate to tell the children of tomorrow that they are closing there school.

Mmason 2 years, 2 months ago

I agree! I can not even imagine what mine are gonna say or do if it happens. All we can do is fight to keep it open.

SusanComstock 2 years, 2 months ago

Lets hope that we will not have to tell them. We will keep fighting and just maybe someone will listen, and think about the children this will effect.

workingmom 2 years, 2 months ago

It is soooo sad we are having to fight for such a wonderful school! This is my childs first year and we love this school. I live in a county where I would pray I never have to send my childern. We should have a choice! Ask the parent and childern of this school! Visit our school! We are showing lots of improvement.....yet the state and the people we pay to represent us...are not doing there job!

blessherheart 2 years, 2 months ago

It is a shame that the other schools in the county are not like The Academy. Why do you think that is? What is the criteria for children to be enrolled in the Academy? Is there a waiting list? This too is a public school as much as those here would like to say it is not.

Amazed 2 years, 2 months ago

I think many of the posters may take issue with charter schools in general because the same monies used to fund this school could be going to the "regular" public schools. (new, state-of-the-art $2.2 million facility) I have no issue with the charter schools vs. "regular" schools except for the obvious...my child goes to a school that is MUCH older than I (and I'm no spring chicken!) and her school (as all others in Moore County) faced and will continue to face major budgetary issues that call for the firing of teachers. The money used for the building of the new facility could've helped this deficit however I don't think closing this school now would solve any of MY problems with the school (maybe should have been done prior to the 2.2 million dollar facility being built). Radio talk show host Neal Boortz says the worst thing we do to our children in this country is send them to government schools and I'm beginning to agree with him! Good Luck to the teachers, students and administration of The Academy of Moore

jcinaberdeen 2 years, 2 months ago

jh1009...Charter schools DO enroll at-risk students- they do not discriminate, just as any public school, against who enrolls. The Academy does have at-risk students at our school. (I'm a parent there.)

Charter schools do not take away funding from public schools...First of all they ARE public school, just a different autonomy. The money 'follows' the student, no matter where they go (except for private schools, of course). Charter schools are basically competition for 'traditional' public schools. There's no better opportunity for a business to improve upon itself than to have competition move in next door-same goes for schools. If this school is so 'bad' to the NCSBE, then why are parents fighting for it? Why do you keep hearing testimonial after testimonial of how wonderful this place is? Yes, it has struggled, in the past, but do you tell a child they will be punished for what they did 5 years ago instead of rewarding them for how they perform NOW?! Of course not! It wouldn't make sense in that case and it doesn't in this one either.

Let's fight TOGETHER to save this school, not against one another. It would do this community absolutely NO GOOD to shut it down...Instead, students will be disbanded and sent into your already overcrowded classrooms, into schools that have not met their AYP, etc. It will leave a brand new $2.2M school to sit and collect dust.

I believe charter schools are one of the biggest tools we have out there to improve our educational system. This school is one of the winners...don't make our children the losers by taking this away from them.

jcinaberdeen 2 years, 2 months ago

Amazed...I ask that you be happy for our school (and thank you for the well wishes!!) It took 13 years of being in two old warehouses, students crammed into very small classrooms, forget about air conditioning in the gym, etc. etc.. (I almost passed out watching a perfomance of one of my children in the old 'gym' we had.) This is what we have been fighting for and finally saw come into fruition.

If you fight to get (which you shouldn't have to fight- your children deserve it!) a new building for your children and you win then I would be so happy for your kids! Why are the children of America having to learn in delapidated buildings?!

My husband is in the Armed Forces. Instead of getting upset when younger soldiers were being offered re-enlistment and enlistment bonuses and mine didn't I could have been upset about that. Where was OUR enlistment bonus? Instead I chose to be happy that they got what they should have a longgggg time ago. Your children too deserve an updated building, etc.- they all do! (By the way, the NC lottery proceeds set aside for public schools -a big part of it is supposed to go for new buildings, etc.- does NOT go to charter schools.) You might ask where that money is for your school...for all public schools!

Any monies spent to further the public education of our children is not being 'taken away from' anybody. I paid for it, am paying for it and you are too. Our children ALL deserve new buildings, new computers, books, etc. Let's not look down on any situation where FINALLY we see some much needed progress.

Thank you for wishing us well and please don't see this as a personal attack- just another view of the situation. :-)

Amazed 2 years, 2 months ago

I was just commenting on the vehemence that was apparent in some of the above postings....as I stated, I have no problems with the charter schools, just public schools in general! (I went to public schools as well as my children and spouse)

a special thanks to jcinaberdeen to both your spouse and your family for making the needed sacrifices to fight for our country's freedom as well as others. God Bless you and our military!

Mmason 2 years, 2 months ago

I agree the school should stay. It will only hurt our chilren if it doesn't stay running. I belive if we all work togehter then we can keep this wonderful school up and going for our children. I know mine will be very upset if it closes it's doors, so that is why I am going ot do whatever it takes to make it stay.

citizen 2 years, 2 months ago

I don't know enough about the reasons for the SBE to deny the school's charter, but I applaud the efforts of the staff and families affected to fight the decision. Our country's public schools have a long tradition of local control; unfortunately, local communities have lost much of their ability to control their schools' destinies with the influx of so many state and federal mandates.

My advice to those who are organizing to appeal this decision is to educate yourself as much as possible about public school law, charter school requirements, and how school progress is measured.

Emotional arguments and criticism of the traditional public schools are not germane to the issue at hand. You must present a convincing demonstration that this school is measurably accomplishing its aims. I would also definitely refrain from using any Neal Boortz quotes. Sincere best wishes as you fight to keep your school open!

Mmason 2 years, 2 months ago

Thanks!

jh1099 2 years, 2 months ago

jcinaberdeen, i have no problem with charter schools, funded with private dollars. Public funds should go to improve public schools. There is no way NC can support two public school systems, when we can't fully fund the one that we have. Public officials, PTA's, and those orginizations are suppose to be championing improvements for all students, not just charter schools. Every parent should do what is best for their child, but elected officials and children advocate groups should be advocating improvement for all children, not segregating them into charter schools. What criteria do you propose for entry into charter schools? Why not move all children from public schools into private schools? If charter schools are the answer by simply removing "red tape", why not move all students to charter schools. Let's be honest. It is not the public schools that are failing, it is the communities!

JakeKanoy 2 years, 2 months ago

As the architect and builder of the new building The Academy of Moore County opened this school year, I have worked with the school, its local Board of Education and it's administration for the past three years. I have seen the limited facilities they were using before the new building was constructed. I have watched the leaders in the school work very hard to improve the facilities so that better and more effective learning could take place. The opening of the new building was the realization of a dream and the result of hard work by many people.

On the practical side what happens if the School is closed? Most of the 174 students go back into the other Moore County Schools, increasing enrollment and possibly crowding in them. If more space is needed the County of Moore will be responsible for the building costs.

Charter Schools receive no County facility money. The existing charter school building is financed by a private bank loan and 90% guaranteed by the USDA. If the School is closed there is no money to repay the loan. That will hurt a local bank that invested in the future of education in Moore County. If USDA has to pay on the guarantee guess who will be paying that bill?

As I understand it the school has met it's academic goals in the 08-09 year and that was before the new building opened. I have been told that the State Board made their decision based on testing information going back to 2004-2005 but not including the 2008-2009 or 2009-2010 school years. In 2004 the school was a 6-7-8 middle school and didn't even have the K-5 school that exist now. The Present school provides grades K-8.

The AMC has 174 students, up from about 140 last year. There are already about 120 on a waiting list for entrance next year.

Overall Moore County is blessed with excellent public schools and the Moore County Board of Education and staff professionals do a very good job.

Some parents, however, have chosen the separate Academy of Moore County as their public school of choice for a reason. The atmosphere is excellent with few discipline problems. the classes are smaller that the typical classes in public schools, typically between 10 and 20 students each with none over 20 in a class. No one is assigned to, or forced to go to The Academy of Moore County. All of the parents of the students there have made that choice.

The availability of this choice is important, especially so for some students who are not flourishing in the other Moore County public schools.

Test scores are improving. The AMC Board of Education, which sets policy for this school only, is strong and active. The faculty and Staff are stabilized. The new building is opened fall of 2009. Shouldn't the State Board of Education work with The Academy of Moore County by providing at least a probationary 3 year Charter renewal to allow the upward trend to continue.

Jake Kanoy

jecsgirl 2 years, 2 months ago

It is very disappointing that such a great school faces being closed. My children currently attend The Academy of Moore County, and my kids are happy there. I, really don't want to move my kids to another school, and I'm sure that all the parents as well as the kids feel the same way. It was such a great thing last year to get the $2.2 million school built. I'm not sure what the whole thing was about, to build this new school and get the children s hopes up only to bring them down. The, kids have just gotten into this new building after being in such a small place. It is a great school and it would be very sad to close it. What happens to the building, If I'm correct I think the land was donated to the school. What a shame.

jcinaberdeen 2 years, 2 months ago

jh1009..."Public funds should go to fund public schools." I think you need to look up the definition of what a charter school is. It is a PUBLIC SCHOOL OF CHOICE. If there was no need for charter schools, they wouldn't be there. And as far as putting all the children in private schools, I'm not sure where you are trying to go with that argument??? If it meant all childrens' welfare and education could improve, then I'm all for it! However, I can't afford private school. That's why we chose this school because they model their beliefs after private schools (smaller class sizes, uniforms, aren't afraid to try different ways of teaching, etc.) and it works for us and for others. And AGAIN charter schools ARE PUBLIC schools. The argument about "taking away funds from X school to give to X school" is redundant. The funds for my child follow him/her wherever they go! Are you saying we simply shouldn't spend any more money to build new schools? What is the difference if the money is spent to build this school or that? It is still a public school, regardless, and apparently, if you are able to fill it with 174 students, then the need existed.

Your argument of "I have no problem with charter schools being funded by private dollars" is a moot point because, by definition, private funding changes the whole meaning of a charter school in the first place. Private dollars equals a private school. Period. (However, the Academy's land was basically donated to them as well as the money to build the playground.)

Also, the argument about PTA's, public officials, etc. championing all schools...who said they/we don't? It's if you're trying to say the children in traditional public schools deserve taxpayers, i.e. mine and your money, but the children in charter schools don't? I don't get the logic there... ALL of the children deserve every penny that has been designated for our schools. What if this was your public school possibly facing closure, but you felt strongly that a mistake has been made and were fighting it? I certainly would stand BY you and not against you. It is about the children! Not adults quibbling over 'this schools vs. that school'. I am for improving ALL schools too! If it is 'your' school that gets a new building- awesome! If your school improves...awesome! Now imagine both things happening and you couldn't be happier, but the NCSBE decides to snatch that away from your children, just as they finally received it. How would you feel?

jcinaberdeen 2 years, 2 months ago

(continued...)

You asked "What criteria do you propose for entry into charter schools?" Maybe you should go to the Academy's website and see what criteria there are...It is a school of choice- Anyone and everyone can bring their children there. We choose to drive our children to this school versus them going to the alternative. It is a choice...Period. Instead of, like traditional public schools, saying "Nope, even though you're only 1.8 miles outside of our county, you can't go here!". (I was told this when looking into a local traditional public school.) Charter schools welcome anyone into their doors. They do not discriminate based on where your address is or anything for that matter.

jh...What is your solution? Do you honestly think closing the school can benefit our community in any way? I can't fathom why any upstanding citizen would see the good in letting children be dispersed into already over-crowded traditional schools, taken away from teachers who care about them, put into schools that DID NOT meet their AYP, and, on top of that, let our brand new building just sit there. What good does it do?

You say "Let's be honest, it's not schools failing, it's the communities." I will have to agree with you somewhat there. Communities have alot of responsibility (parents mostly) to see to it that their children get a good education, in the end. And that's exactly what we're doing- we're a passionate bunch of parents simply asking that the school that we love is allowed to continue to improve and let us keep the children where they are.

machspeed 2 years, 2 months ago

This is intended to “jh1099”: First of all I just want to let you know that you are a complete fool. As you said in an earlier post “facts are facts” and yours are obviously wrong. So lets get the facts straight… Charter schools are not taking away funding that could go towards public schools. North Carolina's charter schools receive, on average, $8,701 per pupil, compared to $9,287 for conventional public schools (source: Center for Education Reform). Charter schools are public schools. When a child leaves for a charter school the money follows that child. This benefits the public school system by instilling a sense of accountability into the system regarding its services to the student and parents and its fiscal obligations (source: Center for Education Reform). Also, if anybody has made an “ignorant statement” it’s YOU. Have you ever been to the school to see what it’s all about? Based on what you have said in this blog I will assume NO. So why don’t you go gather some data before you make ignorant comments. As you can see YOU are the only one to post something negative in this blog. Let me give you a good tip in life… always remember to think before you speak and make sure if you are going to speak get your facts right. Like you said “facts are facts.

jh1099 2 years, 2 months ago

That is what I am saying! Public schools to my knowledge don't use a lottery system to decide on who gets to attend. You do understand that this often leaves the public schools with the most needy and vulnerable kids. I know you indicated that your school takes at-risk students, but you and I both know that is false. I am a teacher and know that the problem kids we deal with would not be welcome at your school. You don't need to remind me again that charter's are public schools. Even if it is in name only. Last point I will make is this. The state informed the school 3 years ago what they needed to do in order to keep the doors open. They were unable to meet the standards which are set by the policy makers in the state of NC. If everyone would support the public schools with the passion that you support your charter school then public schools everywhere would thrive.

jh1099 2 years, 2 months ago

machspeed: Maybe their will be a silver lining in all this. I in no way want to see any child fail or not recieve a quality education. However, I do believe that there is an ideoligical difference in opionion in this mater. No need for the personnal attacks. Also, where can i send you money for that tip!

machspeed 2 years, 2 months ago

jh1099: Once again you don't have you facts right. Yes charter schools do use a lottery system. The reason that charter schools use the lottery system is to be FAIR! By using the lottery system the charter school BLIND DRAWS student’s names from a bowl to see who gets in. You said "that the problem kids we deal with would not be welcome at your school" well that is completely false and most important illegal. By the way the school did meet their AYP goals for the 08/09 school year. Now I like what you said in an earlier post about charter schools taking funding form public schools to “hire and retain better teachers” well if it were true which it is NOT, you would be out of job! So go on… keep digging your self deeper in a hole and talking about a issue that you havent done you homework on. Its negative teachers like you that make parents like me get my child out of the public school system.

TeachAMC 2 years, 2 months ago

jh1099: As a teacher at the AMC I can say my class is VERY diverse. It is a first come first serve basis for enrollment at the Academy. You simply go to the school, fill out some papers and get put on a waiting list. When a slot opens for that particular grade, your child may attend. We do accept at risk children...trust me...my class is full of them. I have taught in surrounding counties and my class this year is similar to those I have had in the past at other schools, but, the class size is smaller, I have strong support from my administration, and the children understand what is expected of them.

On the issue about when the AMC was informed about what needed to be done in order to keep their doors open....let's get facts right. It was 18 months ago that the AMC was informed and EVERYTHING was met. ALL criteria that DPI recommended was completed AND the AMC made AYP ...even in a warehouse. Please... call the school for the correct information before commenting on anything else. We will be glad to set the record straight. oh, by the way, we educate for less money. I get paid less than I would in the regular school system (and yes, I am highly qualified) and we have to pay a mortgage on that beautiful building. Any more questions...call the school!

jh1099 2 years, 2 months ago

I'm sorry you feel that way and obviously have some anger issues. So, you assume I am the problem because we disagree or have you evaluated my performance? Who did you say the fool was again? I would love to see that "bowl" you draw from. I am sure there is a very diverse ethnic make-up of candidates you choose from. Anyway, just so you will sleep better tonight. I am a National Board certified teacher. What are your credentials other than being able to read talking points from pro charter advocate organizations.

machspeed 2 years, 2 months ago

jh1099 never has his/her facts right!

maxandzander 2 years, 2 months ago

jh1099: I don't know where you are getting your information from, but much of it is incorrect. It sounds as if it is personal for you you, perhaps you have an axe to grind. The Academy of Moore County is a Title I school with 60 percent students qualifying for free or reduced lunch. We are the ones who get the students that teachers like you don't want to deal with or can't handle.

Your behavior is very destructive to the students of The Academy. This is about all children, not your personal opinions.

jcinaberdeen 2 years, 2 months ago

Okay, so now jh1009, if I get you correctly, you're saying that charter schools are THE reason traditional schools have at risk or 'the most needy' and vulnerable kids? So that 'situation' never existed before charter schools? Amazing! I had no idea... Oh no wait...charter schools began in 1997. I graduated high school in 1993. I was a 'needy' child much of my younger years...well before charter schools ever existed.

You're also wrong with our school "not welcoming" at risk students. Did you not read where it says in the original Pilot article where over 60% of the students qualify for free or reduced lunches? They are 'at risk' financially of being kept from even being able to eat a good meal! I was one of those kids growing up.

Anyhow, again, I don't see how closing down this school can benefit the community and/or your school. If it happens, even more students will be piling into your school at a rate the state can't keep up with. Any new school that opens helps relieve the already existing schools' pressure to house and educate these children.

As far as a lottery system goes, that is only in place once a charter school has reached their limit. In traditional public schools they're shoved in there regardless of the number. Actually, I take that back- If I remember correctly, during the continuing Wake County schools' nightmare, I think I saw where parents were waiting for their 'lucky' numbers to pop up when waiting to see if their kids would be able to go to the original school they were in or be bussed across the county to a different one. So the 'lottery' system isn't just charter-based.

As a teacher you should stand behind any school that is, indeed, living up to the goals set forth by NCSBE. (We did meet our AYP last year, did your school?) We are improving each day in the technology available to our students. We are backed by the NC Office of Charter Schools, by our local Rep. Jamie Boles, by the Department of Public Instruction. Would you like it if your progress wasn't based on what happened recently, but instead only how you were 5 years ago? Do you punish your students for how they performed (for those who needed improving) earlier in the year or do you instead focus on how your students are performing today? The next time you hand out an A to someone who has earned it, I ask you to imagine saying to that child "You're doing well now, but let's focus more on how you weren't performing up-to-task 8 months or so ago." Imagine

jh I pray you, your school, your students do well. I pray you get whatever it is your school might need. I pray that even if you reach your goals you don't have the NCSBE try to take it away that recognition from you.

And, yes, I hope every parent everywhere feels as passionate about their school as we, the parents of the children of the Academy of Moore County feel. I hope your students' parents stand behind you and your school as much as we stand behind ours.

jcinaberdeen 2 years, 2 months ago

jh1009...before I guess, I would like to know what you are insinuating with this statement: "I am sure there is a very diverse ethnic make-up of candidates you choose from. " Are you insinuating what I think you are insinuating? I want clarification first before I say anything else...

machspeed 2 years, 2 months ago

jh1099: As you can see you are not well liked on here just read the comments others have posted. YOU DONT HAVE A CLUE WHAT YOU ARE TALKING ABOUT!!! I have corrected you along with others on here about false information you have posted. So you are a National Board certified teacher. Well that’s great however who does that make you? Anger issues me I don’t think so. You however, seem as if you want this school to fail YOU want the 174 students to be forced back into the public school system? So they can have hard headed teachers like YOU. Stop by the Academy and I promise you that you will not find a discipline problem in the whole school. Something very common in the public school system. I’m sure you can attest to that. For someone that is a National Board certified teacher you act very unprofessional. What connection do you have with the school? Have you ever been to the school? Where are you getting all your false information from? Try not to be the fool you are and answer these questions.

woodpile 2 years, 2 months ago

jh1099: WE KNOW WHAT YOU ARE ALL ABOUT,ALL YOU WANT IS MORE MONEY IN YOUR POCKET,LET ME GUESS YOU VOTED FOR THE GREAT PRESIDENT WE NOW HAVE.I AM GLAD YOU DONT TEACH MY KIDS, REMEMBER THIS IS ABOUT THE KIDS NOT YOUR LIBERAL IDEAS.

woodpile 2 years, 2 months ago

JH1099:PLEASE RETIRE,YOUR LIBERAL IDEAS ARE WHAT IS WRONG WITH PUBLIC EDUCATION.

tneal14 2 years, 2 months ago

Is it income based? Why do they have an income survey under New Admissions? Someone said 60% would qualify or does qualify for free or reduced lunches. Do you have to be under a certain income level to be considered?

tneal14 2 years, 2 months ago

Why did Schoen say,"I've got a lot of parents who buy into the program." What does that mean?

workingmom 2 years, 2 months ago

I have 2 childern one at The Academy and one in public. The one in public did not meet ayp, and I get a letter every year to move her....but I do not because she is a very gifted child and I feel her past two schools are wonderful. I chose The Academy for my k student since I felt she need more one on one. I believe it should be our choice to where we send our kids! This is the best fit for her and I fully back the staff of the school!

jcinaberdeen 2 years, 2 months ago

No, you do not have to be in any income bracket, etc. I can't remember the exact reasons they ask about income because my kids have gone to that school since day one so the application I filled out was a long time ago. But anyhow, no, kids from all incomes go there....I believe it has something with them helping the State determine how many children might be 'at risk' financially.

Mrs. Schoen simply meant that the parents believe in this school, that's all she meant by 'buying into the program', in other words, we've 'invested our children' into this school...

AmberNAngel 2 years, 2 months ago

My niece started there ( Academy of Moore) this year and she is doing better there then she did in a public school, in the public school she struggled alot but with the academy she has blossomed and has GREAT grades. The school has less kids in a classroom and more one on one time with the kids. There is proof that the ACADEMY OF MOORE is a better school then public school because their AYP. If there was a academy in Vass or Cameron I would no doubt have my two kids in it.

         SO PLEASE HELP SAVE THE ACADEMY OF MOORE!!!!!

The kids there love the school and people in to look at the kids and listen to them.

machspeed 2 years, 2 months ago

jh1099 I'm still waiting on you to answer my questions.

woodpile 2 years, 2 months ago

jh1099,Hey,bring your liberal ideas back on here,were not done with you. We know who you are.

jh1099 2 years, 2 months ago

I did not know you guys valued my opionion so much! Machspeed: The answer to your questions are no. I have not visited the school nor do I have a connection to the school. I do know people who have taught at the academy. Some had a positive experience and some thought the school needed to go in a different direction. That is a nice way to put it.
You don't need to convince me about your school. I will state again that in my opinion, charter schools would be just like the public schools if Charter's were to run them all. I'm sure there are examples of Charter's that are successfull. However, you do have some pretty good options of schools in the county that you live in. Not all are perfect and yes, some need work. Working with the communities and re-emphasizing the importance of an education is where we should be directing our attention and resources. To Woodpile: I am sorry that you are threatened by a liberal point of view. Maybe when health care reform passes, you and Rush can move to Costa Rica together. Good luck with that!

woodpile 2 years, 2 months ago

JH1099:IM GLAD YOUR LIBERAL A IS BACK,AGAIN,THANK GOD YOU DONT TEACH MY KIDS,FEEL SORRY FOR THE ONES YOU DO.NOW AS FAR AS COSTA RICA WITH RUSH,MAYBE WE COULD TAKE YOU WITH US AND FEED YOU TO THE SHARKS.

jh1099 2 years, 2 months ago

Woodpile: I swim pretty good!

woodpile 2 years, 2 months ago

JH1099:ONE LAST THING YOU HAVE TO PAY YOUR OWN WAY,NO GOVERMENT HELP,AND WE SPEND CASH ONLY,WE WILL BE IN FIRST CLASS YOUR A IS WITH THE LUGGAGE,CHECK WITH THE PRESIDENT MAYBE HE CAN EARMARK THE TRIP FOR YOU.

jcinaberdeen 2 years, 2 months ago

jh1009....How do you know which county any of us live in? You say we have pretty good options...tell that to the people who say "There is where you go and that's it!" Charter schools GIVE options! The only options I see are the public school my kids could go to, charters schools, or private. The public school? So not gonna happen. The private schools? So can't afford it. (I live in Hoke county and I was not happy with what I saw several years ago when faced with where my children would be sent.) That is how I found the Academy...and never left.

It is funny that you say (about public schools in the area) "...not all are perfect, and yes, some need work. Working with the communities and re-emphasizing the importance of an education is where we should be directing our attention and resources." That is EXACTLY what we, the parents, teachers, and concerned citizens are doing!! In other words, you want the focus on YOUR school!! Just say it! Oh, and I guess it is okay if these public schools "aren't perfect and need work" but it's not okay at charter schools, right? Traditional public schools deserve a chance, but not charters, right?!!! Traditional public schools deserve the recognition on what progress they've reached, if any, in the past two years, but not our school, right?

You say that you know teachers who have worked at the Academy....and that some say it needs to go in a different direction. It has- a positive one at that. It has been doing well over the past two years but so far the State Board of Education has decided to ignore that. I full-well believe that being in an actual school building instead of two old warehouses is gonna help us be even better. You have got parents who drive two and three COUNTIES away to bring their children to the Academy. We aren't all necessarily saying that all public schools are bad- our focus is on the fact that the Academy works for OUR children. Charter schools serve as a sound board, allowing teachers to try different ways of teaching. Charter schools give parents a choice. We choose the Academy.

jh1009...Why are you so negatively up-in-arms about the Academy? It sounds like you are against charter schools period. We have already learned from some of your previous comments that you didn't educate yourself very well about charter schools in general before you starting making judgments. If you don't know anything about our school, haven't visited and spoken with our wonderful teachers then you can't really say anything about it. Just the same as I can't say anything about YOUR school because I may not have even been there. (I did visit some Moore county schools as well as the Hoke county school my children would be assigned to.)

And I have NO IDEA what this statement means "charter schools would be just like public schools if Charter's were to run them all." What??

woodpile 2 years, 2 months ago

JH1009,MAYBE THIS SO CALLED GREAT TEACHER APPLIED FOR A POSITION AT THE ACADEMY OR MAYBE HE OR SHE IS A FRIEND OF A EMPLOYEE THAT WAS NOT ASKED TO COME BACK?DOES THE INITALS SW MEAN ANYTHING TO ANYBODY. IT DOES TO ME,STAY TUNED.

machspeed 2 years, 2 months ago

jh1099: I agree we should put more focus on the importance of an education. Thats why we need education reform not health care refrom. But we all know that health care does not have chance along with everyone in a public office. Now that is a fact and you and I both know it. Just do us all favor and stop posting false information in this blog you don't have a clue about the school. It seems to me you should start spending more time worrying about yours. YOU ARE A JOKE!

woodpile 2 years, 2 months ago

COME ON RAT,GET OUT OF THE WOODPILE,I WONDER WHERE SW WORKS NOW?MAYBE FOR A LOCAL POLITICAN THAT LIKES TO WORK BOTH SIDES OF THE STREET.?

jh1099 2 years, 2 months ago

woodpile: Do you have a lottery system so that I can have a chance to get on that flight?

woodpile 2 years, 2 months ago

YES I DO BUT YOU HAVE TO BRING SW,JB AND GW WITH YOU

jh1099 2 years, 2 months ago

jcinaberdeen: I can tell and understand you are very passionate about the school. Why are you so against traditional public schools? I've given you my opionion on charter schools as a whole. I have worked in Hoke county and was happy to see this past fall where the local high school test scores were off the charts. Sounds like progress is being made! That also means that the schools feeding the high school must be making progress. I know you will do your homework and make the best decision when it comes time.

woodpile 2 years, 2 months ago

JH1099:JUST REMEMBER A H NO FREE RIDES YOU PAY YOUR OWN WAY. ONE REQUEST YOU NEED TO TAKE YOUR 3 AH FRIENDS WITH YOU AND YOU NO WHOSE INITALS THEY ARE

jh1099 2 years, 2 months ago

woodpile: I hope you are not charging people for your detective work. Do a little more homework or maybe you could use a private tutor?

machspeed 2 years, 2 months ago

Ok here you go again jh1099 what you are trying to say is that the Academy does not take "at risk students" well one again you are wrong. That would be against the law you FOOL. Where do you teach anyway? If that is really what you do. All I ask is that you stop posting false information on here. Also, you never did answer my question when I asked you where you are getting all this false information form. So I will ask you again where are you getting your information from? Remember try not to be the fool you are and answer my question.

machspeed 2 years, 2 months ago

Come woodpile you know jh1099 wont pay their own way. They want the tax payers to support him/her. They they like all the give-away programs.

woodpile 2 years, 2 months ago

JH1099:OKAY FOOL,CAN I PLEASE KICK YOUR A,HOKE COUNTY,THEY MUST OF RAN YOU OFF,MAYBE THAT IS WHERE YOU WORKED FOR HARRISON,ANOTHER LIBERAL.LET ME ASK YOU ONE MORE QUESTION AH, WHEN BEV OPENS HER MOUTH I KEEP LOOKING FOR GOMER PYLE TO APPEAR, OR IS THAT YOU BESIDE HER, OR IS THAT YOU STANDING NEXT TO RON EMANUEL.

machspeed 2 years, 2 months ago

jh1099 I'm still waiting on you to answer my question....

woodpile 2 years, 2 months ago

MATCHSPEED:I HAVE SPENT WAY TO MUCH TIME TALKING TO THIS A HOLE,LET ME GET SOME CHEW AND A BUDWEISER AND GO WATCH GLEN BECK. LOL

jcinaberdeen 2 years, 2 months ago

Since when did I say I am against public schools??? I said I am FOR choice! I said my choice was and is the Academy because it works for my children. I know there are some good Hoke schools, but -from all the homework I did years ago when looking into the one where MY children would have to go- and after having visited the school myself I decided it wasn't for them. I am, however, against being told where my children can go to school. Parents should, no matter what county they live in, be allowed to choose which school their children go to. That kind of school (ones of choice) holds the teachers and faculty more accountable for how they teach, etc. That is the only problem I have with traditional public schools...the kind of schools I went to when I was a child. Most of my teachers couldn't be touched with a ten foot pole no matter how horribly they "taught". Again, like I said- there's nothing better for a business than competition, same goes for schools. It keeps people on their toes.

For all I know, you're a great teacher, teach at a great school- that's wonderful! But the public school I was faced with putting my children in 5 years ago when my kids were to start school in MY area was not a good one...in my opinion and based on what homework I did. I had hoped that school had changed over time, but from what I read- it hasn't. I haven't looked that much into it since I am very happy with the Academy. Why would I? Also, I know parents (from where I work) who are very happy with their public school...That's great! I'm happy where my children go and would like it to stay that way.

And would you get off the whole lottery argument! Again, the 'lottery' only happens once the school has reached its limit on how many students can enter. It's as if you really don't have any other points to make on the situation than to keep circling around the lottery argument. It is a fair and balanced way of allowing more students in ONCE they've reached their target number of students. The school my kids are 'supposed' to go to? They have an average of 25 students to 1 teacher...that's not good. I'd imagine that school district wouldn't have any problem to keep shoving them in like sardines either.

Also, you said: "the schools feeding the high schools must be making progress"...Guess what? The Academy is a K-8 school...we are making progress...open wide!!!

jh1099 2 years, 2 months ago

jcinaberdeen: I hope everything works out well for you and your children. I know the school system in Hoke had been struggling with constant administrative turnover and a high poverty area. I really do believe that they are making strides. Good luck.

jecsgirl 2 years, 2 months ago

I, said before that my kids are students at the Academy, and they are happy there. My oldest son started out in public school, and the experience was not great for him. Personally I, think the reason he had such a hard time was because, he just needed a little extra one on one time, that was not available because of such large class sizes. That's when I, decided to explore the options that were available. I, found that charter schools offered the smaller class sizes and more one on one time with students to address their needs, without the cost of a private school. I, made the decision to transfer him to a charter school, without regret. My daughter currently attends as well and she is very eager to learn and loves her teachers. I, really hope that my youngest child will be able to start kindergarten at the Academy. Everyday, my youngest son and I, take my two older kids to school, and he is always so excited just to see the Academy. He currently attends a daycare, but he can hardly wait to be old enough to go to the, quote" Big School!" So, I, hope that the decision to close the school can be changed.

machspeed 2 years, 2 months ago

Come on jh1099 I'm still waiting on an answer. Where are you getting your false information from? Please don't blow me off.

jh1099 2 years, 2 months ago

machspeed: You may just need to come to the realization that we disagree on this topic. I'm sure your children are going to do fine at any school they attend. Even though we disagree, I can tell you want was is best for your child. Good luck

machspeed 2 years, 2 months ago

Yes we do disagree and thats fine. However, I STILL WANT TO KNOW WHERE YOU ARE GETTING YOUR INFORMATION FROM?? That's all I want to know. So just answer my question please.

woodpile 2 years, 2 months ago

jh1099:come on gomer where are you?

Amazed 2 years, 2 months ago

I just have to make an observation...I'm just curious how you get to bring your children to a Moore County school where Moore County taxes pay for these new buildings and fantastic charter schools when you live in Hoke? Maybe this is one way to eliminate our budgetary issues...verify addresses and visit homes to ensure that people that don't pay into the system can't get the benefit from it.

woodpile 2 years, 2 months ago

sounds like a retired person to me,do you have kids in school?if not find something else to do.

mollym01 2 years, 2 months ago

expatriate- too funny!!

shela 2 years, 2 months ago

As a friend of the parents of a child at the Academy I want to mention that there is more to a school than test scores. This shy sweet child was lost in the public school system and was in danger of becoming functionally illiterate. The Academy has given her confidence, one on one tutoring and small classes. She is still struggling academically but is motivated and proud of her significant progress. If she goes back to traditional public schools she will sink like a rock. People need to visit this little gem of a school and see what is going on. One size does not fit all in education

woodpile 2 years, 2 months ago

EVERYONE NEEDS TO GO AND SEE WHAT EXPATRIATE WROTE ON THE OTHER BLOG,THIS PERSON IS REALLY A BAD PERSON,LET ME WARN YOU IF YOU LOST LOVED ONES ON 9/11 THIS WILL UPSET YOU.THIS IS A VERY SICK PERSON.

jcinaberdeen 2 years, 2 months ago

Amazed...First of all, you are MORE THAN welcome to come verify where I live etc. I am not hiding anything as to where my residence is located. On day one I asked if my children can go there, being that I live in Hoke county, and that's when I was told that is one of the ways charter schools differ in that there is nothing saying a child from X county can't go there...It is in the laws...look it up! I was informed, however, that since I do live outside the county in which the school is located, I would have to drive my children there- which I gladly do. Many parents make very similar sacrifices because they believe so strongly in this school. Please, I ask anyone, before you make judgments on charter schools to please educate yourselves on how they work.

Here is some information regarding how charter schools' buildings are funded. Again, we also do not get any monies from the NC Education lottery proceeds...

http://www.howtodothings.com/education/a4642-how-to-get-funding-for-charter-schools.html

Also, regarding the other comments above- can we please stick to not bashing one another, name calling, etc.? And remember- this article, this discussion, should be about education-education for the children and possibly even educating one another. If you do not understand something, please don't immediately accuse someone of something, etc. Either ask or look it up yourself before jumping to conclusions...

Please don't lump everyone into one group simply because of the actions of a few others. We are forgetting it is about the children!!! All we are asking is for the chance for our children to keep attending the school they know and love and whose way of teaching is working for them. Yes, the Academy has struggled but has made tremendous efforts over the past two years and the NC State Board of Education, well some of the members, is choosing not to recognize those achievements.

Anyhow, for those of you supporting our school- Thank you!

jcinaberdeen 2 years, 2 months ago

Oh, and 'Amazed'...one more thing, you suggested that I don't pay into the system? I work and so does my husband-he is active duty Air Force. We pay taxes just the same as everyone else. Well, almost everyone. ;-)

maxandzander 2 years, 2 months ago

jcinaberdeen: You not only pay taxes, but your husband makes sacrifices everyday for the people that are bashing your children's school. Sad, sad, sad!!!

jcinaberdeen 2 years, 2 months ago

If they truly knew the school and what it is and stands for today...they wouldn't seek to bash it. I ask that they research charter schools in general and see the world of good they do. Charter schools aren't 'out to get other public schools', they don't take money away from traditional public schools, they exist because someone saw the need for another way of teaching- that's all. It is no different that one person deciding to shop at Walmart and another shopping at Harris Teeter and arguing over that. For whatever reasons, they choose to send their children to X school and we choose to send our children to the Academy. In the end, the REAL truth we should be seeking is a happy, well-balanced child who has received an education that helped send them out into the world to be a productive member of society. That should be the end goal here... We simply feel that for us and other children that the Academy is where our children can get closer to that end goal...

jcinaberdeen 2 years, 2 months ago

..and our soldiers gladly defend that right. Again, this country would be extremely boring if we all said, did, believed in the same thing. You have your opinions and I have mine.

And, again, noone has said our children deserve an education and yours/theirs don't. Now you are missing OUR point. Actually, what IS your point expat?...I'm being serious here.

jcinaberdeen 2 years, 2 months ago

1) We are and are simply showing our support for them.

2) Of course we would have to and will, should we need to cross that bridge.

3) Every parent has the right to be involved.

poncho 2 years, 2 months ago

OMG! I heard on the news that 30 schools out of 67 (I think I got that right) are closing the schools and 718 employees are going to be out of work, I think it was in Kansas, not sure, I was half asleep when I heard that on the news this morning. That's going to be a hardship o n the poor teachers that have to teach a double class, how's anyone going to learn like that? It's difficult enough to teach a normal size class, espc when you have the parents that think little Johnny can do no bad.

poncho 2 years, 2 months ago

Thank GOD my children are grown and I don't have to worry about those problems that everyone is fighting about, lol SCHOOLS

machspeed 2 years, 2 months ago

expatriate = low class & no education about the issue

jcinaberdeen 2 years, 2 months ago

<p>@Expat...Again you show how very conceited you are and how much animosity you have towards women, oh I'm sorry, us "bored military, house wives". Plus, I would LOVE to know what college you went to that looked so down upon teachers! Believe it or not, some teachers are in that profession because they wanted to be there. I have the utmost of respect for them.

The definition of irony-Machspeed mentioned you have low class because of how you react to anything (and everything really) that is posted on this website. Yet, your argument is that you must be high class because 'I could buy and sell you.' The irony that you think class is all about money...oh, the IRONY!!

tneal14 2 years, 2 months ago

I agree with expatriate on one thing...I feel that schools as a whole do not focus enough on the different learning styles & basic needs of boys. So true, so true!!!

idoknowitall 2 years, 2 months ago

I have sat back and listened to everyone go back and forth about this situation and have bit my tongue long enough. Everyone keeps saying that “we” need to look at what is best for the children. Well “I” personally feel that the SBOE has made the best decision for these children. I will now state the FACTS and NOT my “opinion”.

First of all, The Academy of Moore is a Charter school. A charter school must have a focus of study. Their focus is technology. Just because you put smart boards inside a classroom does not make you a school of technology. Not all of these classrooms even have a smart board, nor do all of the teachers utilize them. The other question: where is the technology teacher? There IS NOT one. It is up to the individual teacher to take children to the computer lab. Guess what? Computers and technology has its own NCSCOS to teach and this is not being done. Basic computer skills are not being taught here. I have seen more technology available in all the other surrounding schools/counties.

Secondly, the teachers are not being held accountable for what they teach in their classrooms. I feel this has ALOT to do with why they are performing so low. In order to “show” that these teachers are doing their jobs and teaching the NCSCOS they need to have lesson plans in place and should be submitted for review on a regular basis. Teachers were required to submit these on occasion last year but this year these documents and plans DO NOT exist. The principal herself doesn’t have copies of these plans. If you don’t believe this and want to know for yourself, then simply ask to see them. Don’t just ask to see that current day/lesson but ask to show what they have been doing all year. They CAN’T produce them.

Another big issue here is observations. An observation is something that is performed by the principal. It allows the principal to see if the teacher is teaching the NCSCOS and if differentiated lessons and different strategies are being taught in order to meet all learners. Observations are NOT being completed. Mentors are NOT provided to new teachers.

Teachers at The Academy are basically allowed to do what they want and when they want. If they are not “up to teaching” that day, a movie is popped in. It has been known for them to call all the students in to the multipurpose room for them all to watch a two hour movie. This would never happen in another school/county. Movies have to show how they tie into the NCSCOS. Children are given extended play time on the playground almost daily. In my opinion it sounds like social hour on the playground for the adults. Kindergarteners even have rest/nap time. This is about the only school left in the state that has nap time in Kindergarten. This school has TOO much valuable instruction time that is being wasted....Continued

idoknowitall 2 years, 2 months ago

The Academy of Moore is a Title 1 school. Have you once requested to see how these funds are being spent? They are spent irresponsibly. All teachers were sent to a conference. Not one of these techniques or strategies has been implemented in the classroom. Some teachers even stated they got nothing out this conference. To me it sounded like a "drunk fest". Most of the money spent was for these teachers to stay over night at one of the most expensive hotels in Raleigh. Some even had their own individual rooms. The teachers went to the mall shopping, dined out at night (at their own expense) and got drunk. Where were your children during all this? School was canceled and they were at home for two days. Again, valuable instruction time WASTED!

Money was spent for them to implement a school wide "Positive Behavioral Support" system. Where has this been implemented? NOWHERE! Only 1-2 teachers used this, only because they were trained in previous schools.

The academy also claims to have lower classroom sizes. Where is that? They have the same numbers or close to the same numbers as other surrounding schools/counties. Only in the middle school grades (6-8) is where they have the lower class sizes. This is also where the scores are lowest. Shouldn't that be the opposite way around? It is sad to know that K-2 classrooms do not have assistants. Those are some of the most crucial years of a child's learning.

You really need to consider all these facts. Yes, your (our) children are happy. Who wouldn't be? Yes, its stress free for them.....but look at why. "You"..."We" ourselves addressed this issue during Parent Academy. Nothing has changed. Not only that, “TWO WONDERFUL" highly qualified teachers were let go, "for reasons that were not disclosed", (and those reasons are not the real issue here) but one was replaced by a TA. Many of you are upset about that, but have spoken no more of this. Why is that? It makes you wonder if your child will go downhill now. Another teacher left on her on and was replaced by the PE teacher. What is that all about? You think test scores have been low. It scares me to know what the EOG test is going to show in the end. Not only that, one teacher is not even “highly qualified”. She hasn’t even finished college and is teaching under a temporary license.

We all ourselves have had a teacher at some point. Just because we have a bad experience with one teacher is not a reason to target Moore County schools, as a “bad school”, especially AES.

tneal14 2 years, 2 months ago

No one has refuted idoknowitall's post. Interesting.

YolandaM 2 years, 2 months ago

This comment was removed by the site staff for violation of the usage agreement.

JCR262 2 years, 2 months ago

IdoKnowitall~Seems to me like you want to talk the talk and not walk the walk....you can't even reveal who you are!

machspeed 2 years, 2 months ago

To expatriate: You need to get a life. Really you must mave no friends because all you do is blog on thepilot.com. That's really sad I mean come on, Really?

To Idoknowitall: You also need to get a life. Or at least try get the one you have now on track ( I hear it's really bad ). Everything you just said just backfired in you face. HAHA how does it feel to leave your job for the last time by a police escort? YOU ARE SUCH LOW CLASS. I feel so bad for you, I really do. It must suck to be you.

machspeed 2 years, 2 months ago

Also expatriate you say how "money" does get your kids into a better school. I would like to know where your kids go? My oldest son attends Wake Forest University, I would like to see if you could EVEN afford to pay for room and board there?

machspeed 2 years, 2 months ago

So we do agree that you have no life, right expatriate? Who gets on thepilot.com at 3:02am and blogs. Umm, let me think... someone who has no friends or life. By the way I have no relation to woodpile and his horrific typing skills but I do know him as a fellow parent. However,the little I do know him I will assume with the job he has he won't be getting a tax cut under President Obama (correct me if I'm wrong woodpile). So no he is not a police officer just to let you know.

machspeed 2 years, 2 months ago

expatriate: Politics had no role in that termination. From what I herd through the grapevine this person did things to students I will not even say on the blog. If you knew what this person did you would question their character.

dinah 2 years, 2 months ago

idoknowitall (RR): You were my child's teacher, there is a good reason that you are no longer a teacher at The Academy. Get some help!!!

You have exposed yourself as a disgruntled ex-employee and you have no credibility. I am not even going to dignify your comments with a response. I will however suggest you get some help!!!

machspeed 2 years, 2 months ago

expatriate: Umm... How about "iknowitall" is angery they got fired and will do anything they can to bring the school down that includes lieing.

machspeed 2 years, 2 months ago

idoknowitall: YOU ARE SICK that's all I can say. Perhaps you need to go to rehab if the judge has not already put you in.

sduenzl 2 years, 2 months ago

idoknowitall, doesn't know it all. From what I understand idoknowitall is our former Academy Kindergarten teacher that lost her job about a month ago. Need I say more, but I will! I wouldn't take too much stock in anything she says. She claims to care about the students at the Academy, but couldn't wait to gloat on Facebook when the Academy didn't get its charter renewed. Then after making a statement on Facebook, she claimed her statement had nothing to do with the Academy facing closer and that she cares deeply about these kids and hopes for their sake that the school remains open. Then she comes on here and post that the Academy should close. Well, idoknowitall, you really should make up your mind. I guess that really shows how much she cares about the kids. I wonder if idoknowitall still had her job if she would feel the same way ? I am going to bet she would be singing a different tune. When she was teaching at the Academy, she loved her job and couldn't say nicer things about the school. As far as the class sizes go they are still smaller then public school classes. There are two kindergarten classes. One has sixteen students and the other has seventeen. I don't really see a need for an assistant if you have a good teacher. My daughters teacher is wonderful and I am amazed at what my daughter has learned. The two first grade classes have fifteen students each...again not big compared to public schools. The second grade class has twenty four students and yes, does have an assistant, so I am not sure what her real argument is there. As far as EOG goes. There is no doubt in my mind that these kids will do great. They all have worked so hard and have done so well on their MAP testing, so to say it scares you to see what the EOG scores will be at the end of the year is a stupid comment. Not to mention that I guess you really don't need to worry about it since you can care less about the school and the students for that matter. I am not on here posting to go back on forth and fight over who is right and who is wrong. I only want people to have an understanding of where she is coming from and why she feels the way she feels as you read what she has posted. After all, if you are going to consider something someone says, it is nice to know where it is truly coming from. As parents our concern is our children and that is what it is all about. She as a parent one day will be faced with where her child goes to school and one can only hope that she never has to face what we are facing today. In the end we will win. I am pretty confident in our school!

saveit 2 years, 2 months ago

sduenzl knows what she is talking about. All of this is only someone (idoknowitall) that is mad and wants revenge in any way that she can get it. Even with lies!!!

saveit 2 years, 2 months ago

I know who this is...It is someone that was "dismissed". This person did not do anything to any student...expatriate needs to back off...and let the people who are involved and know the REAL facts to take care if this matter....

ASU88 2 years, 2 months ago

Enough on this matter...the bloggers have reached a stale-mate. Break it up...and come back swinging on a new blog! Time to shut this blog down Pilot ref!

ASU88 2 years, 2 months ago

@EXP. You had best believe that! "PINK FLOYD"-We don't need no education! Should be this blogs curtain call song!

Good night to Cat Man!

saveit 2 years, 2 months ago

Back to a previous post by expatriate---The dismissal had nothing to do with the vote. The school has totally up-front with everything. There is nothing to hide. I do know who knowitall is and so do many others! I agree with ASU88, let's get off of The Academy and let them do the job of providing education...which they do a wonderful job of.They teach the "whole child" not just part.

Academy of Moore Faces Closure

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