Academy of Arts and Academics 615 Main Street, Springfield, OR 97477

"Easily the best school I've ever been to, and it's only my first year. Respectful, educational, and helpful, everything a school should be!"

"I think its a mixed bag here for who does well here for this school, Sadly its advertised for those seeking to be accepted. In reality I have seen those who do best at this school are those that utilize the school as a means to an end or a means to their focus career. Otherwise students that go there for the sake of its a fun arts/science school end up not actually utilizing or being successful in that world of arts/sciences. If you aren't used to how competitive the arts/sciences are you won't succeed because as much as we wish the arts/sciences didn't have some competitive aspects it does and you have to do what it takes to get there. I always knew what i wanted even before A3, so when ibhad a teacher recommended i go there its because my passion for the arts was so much more of value to me then just finding a school where i fit it. I took classes based on my passion for dance not based on the status of what my friends were taking. Dancers for example are so disciplined to their art that they make those sacrifices of friends versus their passion. And thats how an academy should be utilized. As it is in places like Europe, but here people just see it as "easy school" "a place where i fit in" "people who accept me" which thats all great and dandy but just don't be surprised if you or your kid are the type that get out of high school and then don't apply any of what they learned in high school and bring it into the real world. If this school is easy it means your not bringing your A game and your not applying yourself hard enough to your art/science form."

"I wasn't completely sure if I was going to like this place at first. I came from a bad background in schooling, so to speak. In middle school, it was a surprise if I got any grade other than an F or D, and teachers often worried about me because I rarely ever socialized. Before then, in elementary school, I, amongst many others, thought I'd be a high school dropout. However, since coming to A3, my grades have improved, I've made friends, and I've come out of my shell a little. I've become better at writing and Spanish, and Human Inquiries (AKA Social Studies) has become one of my favorite classes. To the former students who have given this place a bad review: your issues with this place is not invalid. I certainly have my own issues with A3 (including, but not limited to the overall negative attitude amongst the student body). I admit, due to being in a smaller school, every negative thing about this place seems amplified tenfold. There are many days when I've grown weary of the negativity and hostility that sometimes pops up here. But it happens in every school. I think anyone who wants to try a different style of learning shoukd truly give this place a chance-- take a tour, at least. It's a wonderful school, and it caters to a lot of diverse people, though I admit it's not for everyone. But hey, you never know 'til you try!"

"I'd like to thank this school. I came from a public system that shunned me and listed me as a "troubled student" because my parents were divorced and I had low grades in only math. My student counselor looked me in the face and said I'd have easier luck being a stripper than getting into college. Needless to say I'm a recent graduate of the University of Oregon, and a lot more well off then my previous high school's students. Both mentally and financially. This school greeted me with smiles, hugs from everyone, understanding around every corner, and even music during all times of the day. When I needed help filling for college, I had an entire board room full of teachers and supervisors working with my father to ensure my time at college would be the best suited for me. The children here all are honest, kind, and each weirdly unique. Each one will give you a chance if you ask for it, and there will always be a friend for you child. Nobody was bullied or judged for who they were. Nobody was ridiculed for their opinions or thoughts. This school works best for students who value friendships, group teamwork, and understanding the world right after high school. If you don't want to sugar coat your child's view on the world and want to ensure they know exactly what to do after high school. Send them here. You'll be amazed with the results."

"I will not recommend this school to anyone who has a child that actually cares about their academic career. This school is "in my opinion" a dumping ground for the unfortunate children who have uncaring parents / gaurdians. In addition, the kids are encouraged to use school time as their counseling session, throw school work to the wind. oh, and the kids have group projects for almost every assignment, so don't expect much work to get done when the only thing that matters is their emotional state, feelings and sexual preference / orientation, it is of the biggest concern. If one child in the group project does some of the work and no-one else helps, because they are to sad today, each individual student gets graded poorly. Unless, that is, the student cries hard enough, then they get a pass. Poor kids.they are held to no standard. Just their feelings on that particular day. I dealt with my child, who was a straight A student in another charter school, getting mediocre and bad grades on a constant basis because her grade was based on the "cooperation" of the other students in the group...there was no cooperation from the other students. And the other students were not held accountable for anything at this school. I'm am disgusted with the overall experience for this passed school year. I do not recommend this school for academics. However, this school does have a great arts program. So if your child wants to dance, act, sing or make art, and doesn't really care about getting good grades. This is a great place to be. Because your feelings matter here. Your future, not so much."