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I want to light up the fabulous Atlantis Charter School in Fall River MA! This is a fantastic opportunity for every student from kindergarten through 12th grade to find a home to learn grow and thrive! Every opportunity awaits here in our beautiful campus by Watuppa on the South Coast of Massachusetts! Come and see what you’re missing and be a TRITON🧜🏿‍♂️🔱📚🏀🧜🏿‍♀️🏀⚽️⚽️⚾️🏈🥎🏐🎭🏃🏾‍♂️🏃🏿‍♀️

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“This year, I hope our children have experiences that enable them to not only acquire concepts and skills but to enhance self-esteem. I hope that through a happy, caring, enriching environment, they grow not only an understanding of themselves and their culture but of the greater world in which they live and the value of each and every person.” Yaritza Escobar

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As a teacher at FW Parker Charter School, it’s has been my and my colleagues’ mission to know our students well. Small classes, a committed faculty, and a strong advisory program all support this goal (among many other qualities of our awesome school!). When we as educators know our students well, we can meet them where they are, guide them toward their next steps, and celebrate their victories - big and small.

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When my daughter was 11, an old friend of mine with an NPR radio show contacted me to ask about her diagnosis as he was about to interview Temple Grandin and wanted the perspective of a mother of girl on the autism spectrum (a diagnosis is still much more common among boys) for his research. Four years later, the spring of 2019 and my daughter's freshman year, he was interviewing her again and he reached out for an update and this is what I sent him. It doesn't mention Parker Charter specifically - but that's exactly who I'm talking about.

Start at 16:45ish.

https://talkinganimals.net/2019/03/in-conversation-with-dr-temple-grandin-part-two/

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Talking Animals | A radio show about animals & animal issues

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In this edition of "Talking Animals," I continued playing back the conversation with Dr. Temple Grandin that I began airing on last week's show. To review, this was an interview with Dr. Temple Grandin I conducted at the Paramount Theatre in Austin, TX on Feb. 1. Again, the format echoed the approach when I held a similar conversation with Grandin at the Paramount four years ago: I mostly asked my own questions, and periodically incorporated questions I selected from those submitted through the Paramount website. Today's portion includes the remainder of that interview, then presents what turned out to be a longer than expected audience Q&A segment. I should note that there are parts of the Q&A that involve a few less-than-stellar audio moments, including the beginning, where the two microphones placed in the theater for audience members, were not turned on initially. And there weren't any microphones positioned in the balcony of the theater, so a few people there-who wanted to pose questions to Grandin-shouted them to her. But, overall, it worked well, and sounded fine. And there were a number of good questions asked, including by folks on the spectrum. I moderated this Q&A session. Or tried to. ( https://www.templegrandin.com)

ALSO: I spoke with Brad Myers, organizer of the inaugural Plant Headz Farmer's Market, slated for March 10, 10am to 4pm, at the Safety Harbor Art & Music Center. A musician and vegan chef, Myers has described Plant Headz as a "plant-based market-like the combination of a mini Veg Fest and a Farmer's Market." The event will include hot, made-to-order food, prepared foods and desserts, organic lemonade & popcorn, jewelry, cooking demonstration, lots of live music, and more. ( https://www.facebook.com/events/556099711574585/)

COMEDY CORNER: Chris Porter's "Vegan Date" (portion) ( http://chrisporterisfunny.com)

MUSIC: Rebekah Pulley's "Talking Animals Theme, instrumentals

NAME THAT ANIMAL TUNE: We didn't play "Name That Animal Tune" today.
Listen Online Now:

https://talkinganimals.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/TAMarch6.mp3

| Open Player in New Window

Tags: audience Q&A, Austin, Brad Myers, Dr. Temple Grandin, in conversation, interview, Paramount Theater, Plant Headz Farmer's Market, Safety Harbor Art & Music Center

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In Conversation With Dr. Temple Grandin-Part Two | Talking Animals

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In this edition of "Talking Animals," I continued playing back the conversation with Dr. Temple Grandin that I began airing on last week's show. To review, this was an interview with Dr. Temple Grandin I conducted at the Paramount Theatre in Austin, TX on Feb. 1.

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I absolutely appreciate the support my charter school gives my child. Every teacher and faculty member 100% care for the kids. All his teachers see my child as an individual and he knows it and is thriving. GLPCS Is magnificent!

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Springfield Prep Pumps Students Up To "Show What They Know"

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Springfield Prep Pumps Students Up To "Show What They Know"

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At SPCS, we want kiddos to celebrate their growth. This year to prepare for MCAS, we chose a World Cup theme and scholars can move their soccer player up the field when they do something that helps them achieve their personal goal.

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Ruth (right) and Iysha (left) working on chemistry homework with Ms. Pickett (middle).

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Students' Voices at the Academy of the Pacific Rim(APR)

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Students' Voices at the Academy of the Pacific Rim(APR)

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“One of the many things that is so special about the Academy of the Pacific Rim (APR) is the individualized support that students receive from teachers and advisors. I've been a student here since the 5th grade and teachers' attention and care helps keep me growing on my academic journey as a scholar, learning and achieving more!” -Iysha, 11th grade student at the Academy of the Pacific Rim

"The Academy of the Pacific Rim (APR) is a special place to me because it’s a culturally diverse school where you can make many friends that are just like you. Also, as a high-schooler, the journey of transitioning from school to college is difficult and kind of scary. But the good news is that APR is full of supportive faculty members that only want the best for you, want you to succeed by all means, and will help you reach and exceed your academic, college, and life goals." -Ruth, 11th grade student at Academy of the Pacific Rim

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Innovation Academy 10th grade student Addario Miranda

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Innovation Academy 10th grade student Addario Miranda

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Dianyvet Serrano pictured (above) with her former teachers Dwayne Robinson (left) and Jason Armstrong (right) who are still working at Roxbury Prep.

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Dianyvet Serrano, Roxbury Prep alumna, former trustee, current staff member

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Dianyvet Serrano, Roxbury Prep alumna, former trustee, current staff member

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“When I grow up, I want to be a jewelry designer and own my own store,” I wrote in my 8th grade year book as a student at RPC circa ’06. This dream was inspired by my school enrichment course at the time, jewelry making. It opened up my world to the possibilities of my creativity. Now, I work as the Regional Enrollment Manager for Roxbury Prep. My dream since ‘06 has transformed from being in jewelry to creating change in my community. While the dream has transformed, the inspiration still stands and expands from jewelry to so much else. Today, it’s thanks to Roxbury Prep that I understand the importance of annotating today. It’s because of Roxbury Prep that I was, and continue to be inspired to transform the lives of our students and their families. It’s thanks to Roxbury Prep that I understand the massive effect that a school has on a person not only when they’re attending the school, but throughout their entire life. Roxbury Prep inspired me and everyone I know to be better versions of themselves both now and for years to come.

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They're dancing with excitement at SPCS!

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They're dancing with excitement at SPCS!

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The Springfield Prep gym was filled with scholars, families and friends...and boy were we proud of these dancers!

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Meaghan DeMeo, parent and staff member at River Valley Charter School

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Meaghan DeMeo, parent and staff member at River Valley Charter School

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Outdoor learning experiences. Hands-on materials and manipulatives. Peace education. A feeling of community and respect between teachers and students. These are just a few of the many reasons why my children have thrived at River Valley Charter School in Newburyport. While my kids are very close in age (6, 6, and 7), they are all very different from one another. They also all have experience in our local city’s public school system. My oldest son is one of those kids who used to like to fake sick and did not enjoy going to school very much. My daughter is the opposite – she gets upset when she is sick and has to miss school. My youngest son is in special education with a diagnosis of sensory processing disorder and high-functioning autism spectrum disorder. Here is, in brief, what happened at our local city’s school: my older son did not enjoy going to school, my daughter wanted to learn but wasn’t given any special attention and wasn’t making friends, and as for my son with special needs, I had many challenges with the school before he even started.

By some miracle, all three of my children got into RVCS. RVCS has changed our lives. Each of my children, with their very different learning styles, thrive at this school. They all love going to school each day, they all have made great friends, and they all feel valued and like an important part of the community. My son with special needs has made more progress than I ever could have imagined.

When I try to tell prospective families about how this school has changed our lives, I end up in happy and grateful tears. I am not exaggerating when I say that I feel luckier than if I had won the lottery. So how does our school inspire every child? Every child, no matter their ability, learning style, motivation, or background is accepted at our school. They are all treated as part of a bigger family. They all have the ability to not only excel, but fall in love with learning.

RVCS has forever changed the path of each of my kids’ lives for the better. Imagine how the world would be if ALL children were as inspired to learn and succeed. Charter schools are not only desirable, but they are necessary if we want our children to be as successful and excited about learning as possible.

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An amazing school - Cape Cod Lighthouse Charter

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An amazing school - Cape Cod Lighthouse Charter

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My family and I love everything about Cape Cod Lighthouse Charter School! One of their foundational mission elements is community partnerships. CCLCS incorporates this into their curriculum and allows students to have a hands on learning experience - which includes local field trips, school projects and off-campus learning experiences. We feel that the success that our daughter has had at this school can be directly attributed to the hands on learning experience and effort by all staff members - her classroom teachers, resource teachers and the school leaders. They show a sincere interest in the success and well-being of every student and they strive to support them in every way so all of their educational dreams can be achieved.

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Christine Ko, Humanities Teacher at Brooke High School (Brooke Charter Schools)

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Christine Ko, Humanities Teacher at Brooke High School (Brooke Charter Schools)

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Brooke Charter Schools inspires every student by providing opportunities for them to explore a wide variety of narratives, interests, and perspectives. As a history teacher, we work hard to focus our class on non-Western stories and histories, while also providing students with chances to practice skills they will need after high school. Additionally, students have a wide range of class electives, clubs, and sports available to them, which allows them to pursue their interests outside of our core curriculum. Students have the chance to connect with their peers and with staff members over shared interests both inside and outside of the classroom. The staff at Brooke really push and inspire me to be the best educator that I can be. The camaraderie that exists is based on collaboration, hard work, and a desire to teach well. I know that my co-workers support me as an individual and this care translates to the classroom where we can support each student and all of their unique facets.

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The Conservatory Lab Charter School empowers students to be scholars, artists, and leaders of their own learning. Through the joy and discipline of daily musical engagement, experiential learning, and service to the community, students learn to effect changes as creative and active citizens.

Through daily music instruction, our students gain confidence and take ownership over their learning. At the heart of our unique school lies the belief that every child has the ability to strive for and achieve excellence, to contribute to the broader community, and to learn to experience and express music deeply. With music throughout the halls everyday, our school is filled with joyful young learners who bring their creativity, critical problem solving skills, and enthusiasm to every classroom.

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Where would we be with Springfield Prep!?!

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Where would we be with Springfield Prep!?!

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I don’t even know where to begin with acknowledgment. For approximately four years  I was fighting with the Springfield public schools for my son to receive an IEP. It wasn’t until he was accepted into Springfield prep that within two weeks we had a meeting for evaluation and an IEP. This was a year ago today. Present day my son is excelling and doing very well now that he’s at Springfield prep charter school!!!! Thank you, teachers and admin, for all the hard work!!! It takes a VILLAGE!!

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My children's charter school teaches kindness and inclusion from day 1. Students learn and work on "Character Education" in every grade and work from four virtues: Justice, Fortitude, Temperance and Prudence. The curriculum advances racial justice and equity in the classroom AND in the community.

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I am an alum of Parker Charter School, and yesterday I had planned to write here about how life-changing, affirming, and amazing my experience was. How I had felt like a faceless number at my public school and transferred to a place where I felt held by many hands and appreciated for my talents and skills while being given a safe space to learn and grow.

Today, however, my kids elementary school was put into lockdown when one student threatened another with a gun. Our public schools are failing so incredibly hard to keep up with a diversifying and amazing student body. With all the antiquated curriculums and techniques teachers are forced to use, and the complete lack of support and resources they are given, how are they supposed to take care of a kid in crisis like the one today?

The answer in my mind comes from my own experience: we give teachers an administrators A
a little bit of flexibility, a new way to do things, a new way to approach and address known issues. This tried and true business approach that works incredibly well in my decent career is one that I learned early at my charter high school; I saw it in action in the best way possible. It literally likely saved my sense of self, and it can help other kiddos, too

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Charter public schools are immensely important to our students, education and social emotional well-being. The teachers and staff are able to support each child as an individual. They can give them the individual attention that they need to succeed and feel good about themselves. They care greatly about their students, and it shows! Also, My son benefits tremendously from the smaller class sizes at the public charter school. Thank you so much, Jess

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My son has stared kindergarten this year at the Learning First Public Charter School. We made this desicion based on our knowledge of how great this school   reputation has, and that his father attended the same school when he was a boy. Staff remembered dad and were kind telling fun stories about  dad as a boy inspiring our 5 year old son who was nervous to begin school after covid and being home for 3 years. We had unfortunate circumstances after only 2 months into the school year, we lost our home becoming homeless and this school has been absolutely a support to our son and family, making sure he was okay,helping us through the holidays and mainly, making sure he stayed focused on his learning experience without feeling the fear of his families unstable home life that lasted 4 months. He was still coming home with his work completed correctly and he was learning in his classroom with the support of the entire school staff treating him the same way as his peers but also checking in with him and our family. Now that we found a beautiful home for his and our families stability I am fully aware that our son who is only in kindergarten who has been learning right along with his classroom peers and making friends with ease, will be able to feel security, know his charter school staff and peers will also be a second family for him that he can trust and talk to about anything and still continue learning right along with his peers. We could not be more grateful for his teachers and the school staff for all the love and support that they gave our little boy to feel security at school even if things at home   weren't so secure. Our hearts are full and we feel that Learning First Charter school has been the most beautiful experience for our child and our family this year! We look forward to see him excel even more now that we are back in a stable home and he has his room and all his things out of storage, finally! We don't think any other public school in our city would have been as supportive and helpful with our kindergartener continuing his success throughout the year with the unstable home life happening under him. He stayed grounded, made friends with his class, he loves his teacher and even during winter break would say he missed his teacher, and most important, he was learning right along with his class! We could not be more confident about our child continuing his learning journey at school throughout the next eight years of his life! Being only a kindergarten student he often talks to us about how when he grows up he wants to work on cars or drive big trucks when he is an adult,and what he will need to do after school is over to achieve his goals, already knowing that he wants to go to school after graduating from school is heartfelt, beautiful and amazing that he is already planning his future, believing that he will go to school for the job of his little hearts content after he is done with school! Now we know that he will likely change his mind as he grows in his charter public school, but the fact that after everything he went through with our family he is thinking about his future as a man and talking about school after graduation is a beautiful plus for our family! We are so unbelievably happy with our choice with Learning First Public Charter School, with the beautiful staff that kept our boy stable and grounded and learning right along his peers! We are so thankful and blessed for this school and don't know what our sons learning path would have been like in any other school in the city we live in.  Thank you Learning First staff and kindergarten teachers for always believing in and encouraging our son so he never felt differently and always knew that this was now his trusting second family that he can trust with anything!

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My son is a sixth grader at CCLCS. I can't speak highly enough about our experience this year.  My son has a whole new attitude about school.  His exact words were "I feel like the teachers here really care about us".  He is happy to go to school, he has a positive approach and attitude for school and comes home happy every day, which is a complete transformation from our experience with traditional public school. He has gained confidence, organizational skills, friends and is even willing to try out a sport this year.  As a mom I also feel that the teachers here really love teaching.  Ms. Haven, Mr. Stewart, and Mr. Bates just to name a few, work together to make an environment where the students can thrive.  Ms. Haven offers extra help several times a week and makes learning math fun and exciting and is truly dedicated to making sure the students really understand the work, she goes above and beyond to find new ways for each individual student to be successful.  We have never had teachers that work together and communicate so well, this has made for an extremely successful year. We feel absolutely blessed to be part of this amazing community.  We are looking forward to the next two years of learning and adventures.  I am beyond impressed with the Charter school approach to learning.

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I have been a BBCS board member for 4 years. Bridge Boston truly believes in their mission and you can see the passion and joy for their students. They have built an inclusive, safe and joyful environment. They focus on nurturing the whole child and preparing them for beyond Bridge Boston.

I truly enjoy seeing how Bridge engages our scholars and they are continuously tweaking their full service model. Recently, Bridge launched a reading challenge and each week, they share videos.  You can see  how they inspire the kids.

I look forward to seeing how Bridge Boston shapes our Scholars.

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Roxbury Prep creates scholars.  I am so happy of the progress my children have made and are making by attending Roxbury Prep.  My son has become an avid reader.  My daughter is so determined to be successful at school.  I truly believe they will be successful in life because of their learning experience at Roxbury Prep. My twins have overcome many challenges in life and Roxbury Prep has been a supportive and engaging environment for them to flourish and to teach them valuable life long learning skills.  They learn about racial justice and equality and they create an environment that's a safe place.   The weekly checklist adds motivation and keep the students engaged, to participate and to be serious about their education.  The future belongs to those who are prepared and Roxbury Prep is preparing the children for a bright future by providing them with a vision of the many possibilities and opportunities they can achieve.  Thank you.  My children are grateful.

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Roxbury Prep creates scholars.  I am so happy of the progress my children have made and are making by attending Roxbury Prep.  My son has become an avid reader.  My daughter is so determined to be successful at school.  I truly believe they will be successful in life because of their learning experience at Roxbury Prep. My twins have overcome many challenges in life and Roxbury Prep has been a supportive and engaging environment for them to flourish and to teach them valuable life long learning skills.  They learn about racial justice and equality and they create an environment that's a safe place.   The weekly checklist adds motivation and keep the students engaged, to participate and to be serious about their education.  The future belongs to those who are prepared and Roxbury Prep is preparing the children for a bright future by providing them with a vision of the many possibilities and opportunities they can achieve.  Thank you.  My children are grateful.

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My son is thriving at his charter school (Cape Cod Lighthouse Charter School)! I am beyond grateful that he is able to attend school there. The teachers and staff go above and beyond in every aspect-they are passionate about what they teach, they truly care about each student, the communication with parents/guardians is incredible (I know what he’s learning each week and can see his grades updated regularly), they are eager to help in whatever they are able to help each child succeed. I could go on and on. They are truly top notch and this is how every school should be operating. They are fostering people that will know how to learn-not just memorize things and just as important, how to be good human beings.

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Lisa Andrews, ELL teacher at Holyoke Community Charter School

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Lisa Andrews, ELL teacher at Holyoke Community Charter School

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Our school is a family that cares and inspires each student to reach his or her full potential. We hold our students to high expectations both academically and socially . We work hard to prepare our students to be future pioneers and competitors in the field of academia. Our mission is to promote the joy of learning and instill confidence, compassion leadership , and integrity . Our students are our future , and we strive to give them the best opportunities to be successful , and each student at our school knows that they are our students for life . They know we are committed in every way , and they know we are passionate and will stop at nothing to help them achieve their goals. I am proud to be a part of that journey . The last 14 years as an educator at the Holyoke Community Charter School have been very fulfilling .

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Springfield Prep Charter School has given my daughter boundless and hopefully everlasting confidence to do any and everything. She knows no limits because she’s been taught an ambitious education with encouragement, respect and excitement by teachers who are passionate about SPCS’s mission.

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I honestly can say I could not be happier with my charter school choice for my child. After only attending one year she has decided that she wants to go to MIT. Prior to attending the charter school she never talked about college or what she might do in the future. The amazing thing is she is only in 8th grade! Charter schools are the best and quite frankly the only reason I continue to reside in Saugus. Honestly, I’f it wasn’t for the charter school I would probably move out of state to where it is warm.

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CCLCS has changed my son's school life, for the better!

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CCLCS has changed my son's school life, for the better!

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It's the beginning of 8th grade for my son, and we are looking at another year of struggling and drama that will take away from his learning. Then I got a call from Cape Cod Lighthouse Charter School. A spot in 8th grade opened up and my son was next on the list. I accepted the next day after a conversation with him. We were both excited for a new opportunity for him. To say Lighthouse has made a difference in his school career is an understatement. He has teachers who truly care, and see that he is a valuable student. We are also in the process of getting an ADHD diagnosis for him, and even without a 504 or IEP in place, his teachers are understanding and accommodating him. We feel so lucky every day that we got into this school, even if it's just for 8th grade. My son went from a C-D student to all A's & B's.
We often talk about how we wish he had gotten in for 6th grade, but are incredibly grateful for the 1 year we get! I tell all my friends with younger kids to apply and if they don't get in for 6th grade, there is always a chance for the future. I can't be happier with the teaching staff at CCLCS! We are so grateful every day.

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Springfield Prep Charter involves the whole family...

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Springfield Prep Charter involves the whole family...

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As a board member of SPCS I continue to be impressed with the involvement of families in the school life of our scholars. Knowing - from many years of involvement in our city's pubic schools - just how hard it is to engage families, with their myriad challenges, I am gratified to see the energy and engagement of our families. It's so important that children see role models at home as well as at school and our continued successful outreach to families is paying off. Success happens when you greet children and families where they are and provide the support, encouragement and - dare I say - fun and enjoyment for all!

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My son has been with Roxbury Prep since 5th grade. My son has improved a lot since and he has been inspired to go to college to be come a surgeon some day.

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The Montessori-based structure at River Valley Charter School has helped my two teenage daughters find their voices, becoming confident advocates for themselves and the people and causes they care about. In a traditional classroom, my smart, quiet girls might have been overlooked, able to sit in the back of the room, getting good grades but never having to speak up. The child-directed learning, non-traditional set up, and emphasis on synthesizing and sharing knowledge in small group presentations, starting in kindergarten, continually challenges them to stretch and grow in the best possible way, helping them see that they can make a difference.

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At Match Charter Public School, we inspire our scholars to SPARK JOY and THRIVE in their learning. From preK through 12th grade, we hold our students to high expectations while providing ample supports to reach their goals. And that's not just in the classroom. We strive to provide supports and resources to students through extracurriculars, summer programming, athletics & arts, college visits, and advisory groups. As staff we also hold ourselves to high expectations, so that we can be our best selves for our students.

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Personalized College & Career Future Planning @GLCPS

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Personalized College & Career Future Planning @GLCPS

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At the Global Learning Charter Public School, our College & Career Center team and school staff work hard to support ALL students in their future career goals. Starting in the 8th grade, we empower students to dream and share about their career goals in the 10 Year Plan Presentation of Learning. We hold academic, career exploration, and future planning seminars every month for every grade-level, proactively reaching out to all high school students. These comprehensive seminars are the key that open the door for students to explore their individual future career plans post-graduation. The College & Career Center is a cornerstone in our school, allowing students to safely explore their career plans through individual and family planning meetings paired with their personalized high school schedule. We will continue to personalize the student and family experience more and more, expanding our electives and advanced college courses, all while offering the highest level of SEL student support.

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Conservatory Lab charter school has been there for my kid. The academic achievement is beyond and above. With and K1 who only knew one letter to learned and understood the alphabet and numbers. That was incredible. Every educator works beyond work expectations to make sure evry child move on with their classmates.
I would like to fund available for the school entirely for staffs and students to have materials and resources and able to have gym and art all year along.
This is a parent voice that's amplified by thousands.
Thank you
Thank you

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Ann Glannon, Francis W. Parker graduate parent

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Ann Glannon, Francis W. Parker graduate parent

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We sent our children, who are now in their 30s, to Parker because of culture and curriculum, which are inextricably linked at Parker.  The culture is intentionally created to enable and support learning how to think, and provides lasting value to the students and families who attend.  Our children routinely cite ways in which they see their Parker education serving them well in their adult lives, describing it as one of the most valuable and formative experiences ever.  That’s a school that inspires!

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Glenn Penna, Francis W. Parker Board Chair

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Glenn Penna, Francis W. Parker Board Chair

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Puts them in touch with who they are as a learner!

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Kalista Teacher at Francis W.Parker Charter Essential School

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Kalista Teacher at Francis W.Parker Charter Essential School

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During Community Conversations like we had this week, students are empowered to set and understand the school culture they want.

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Myrca, Family Member KIPP Academy Boston

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Myrca, Family Member KIPP Academy Boston

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Charter school has help my children to not give up, find different ways and respect others views. My children went from a close bud to a blooms flower. Going for opportunities instead of letting opportunities pass them by. Wanting more and looking inside and developing an identity of their own, with respect, honor and commitment to things in their paths.

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Ashley, Family Member KIPP Academy Boston

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Ashley, Family Member KIPP Academy Boston

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My charter school KIPP MA inspires every child by creating a future without limits. KIPP recognizes the talents and gifts of each student allowing them to showcase their abilities through various modalities, while building up their confidence. My school community is inclusive of all students, while giving them opportunities to have their voices heard all while preparing them for the different paths they may choose. Regardless of their paths, all students are quipped with the tools, skills and knowledge needed to be successful in the years ahead. Co-authoring is a huge component of our community working alongside parents and families, giving us various opportunities to become actively engaged in children’s educational experience to best support them. The teachers are very dedicated in working with all students to reach their full potential.

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Mark R. Sanford and Gabriela Garcia, parents of Sammy R. Garcia, 10th Grade Student, Salem Academy

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Mark R. Sanford and Gabriela Garcia, parents of Sammy R. Garcia, 10th Grade Student, Salem Academy

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The effect Salem Academy has had on our child's development has been impressive and comprehensive in its influence on character, informed learning, social awareness, and the continued scaffolding of skills-and knowledge-based instruction. Salem Academy has certainly provided our child with a first-rate education in a highly supportive and challenging environment, led by bright and engaging teachers and an administration that understands how to inform, guide, support, encourage, inspire, and hold students accountable. The school gets things right. Students are inspired by good teaching, and the influence of both their peers and educators who are motivated to see their students not only succeed, but more importantly, to excel. We are fortunate to have discovered a school that takes its mission seriously and seeks to educate nearly every aspect of a young person's trajectory through these critically formative years. Now more than ever, the education Salem Academy provides its students matters.

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Talia Bigelow, Francis W. Parker Charter Essential School Class of 2000 

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Talia Bigelow, Francis W. Parker Charter Essential School Class of 2000 

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Parker is literally catering to every single child by employing a methodology centered using individual student interests to cultivate learning across multiple subjects. The teachers constantly shift to meet the changing needs of students while students are able to voice concerns, questions, comments, etc and be heard and feel a part of the learning community. I am certain that without Parker I would not have grown into the success I now enjoy.

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Jennifer Saxe, Francis W. Parker Essential School graduate parent and board member

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Jennifer Saxe, Francis W. Parker Essential School graduate parent and board member

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Parker celebrates each student as they are and allows them to thrive and grow into the person they want to be, not the person that others feel they should be.

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Christine Regan Davi, Francis W. Parker Charter Essential School graduate parent and former board chair

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Christine Regan Davi, Francis W. Parker Charter Essential School graduate parent and former board chair

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At Parker, the “student as worker, teacher as coach” principle allows students to embrace their learning journey, advocate for their passions and understand how to use their minds well — these are skills that I know will continue to benefit my graduate for a lifetime.

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Hannah current Parker Charter Essential School parent

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Hannah current Parker Charter Essential School parent

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Francis W. Parker Charter Essential School creates a supportive learning environment for my child through the advisory program and in particular, the personal learning plan (PLP) that is developed there. Having an advisor who knows my child well and who helps her to create, monitor, and reflect on, learning goals that are specific to her, is invaluable. It builds a scaffolding from which she can fly!