Testimonials

What parents, students & teachers say about MAA:

How would you describe Milwaukie Academy of the Arts?

"It is a project-based instruction program that provides students with a smaller pool of teachers who get the chance to know the kids. This allows staff to help students overcome weaknesses and build on strengths."

"Milwaukie Academy of the Arts is a charter school embedded in a comprehensive high school that uses theme and project-based learning designed for students who are right-brained or artistic thinkers. The school was developed by teachers who saw that many of their bright, artistic students could be more successful academically if they were taught in different ways."

"Milwaukie Academy of the Arts provides students with education that has an artistic focus. As students, we can learn through art, integrate it, and apply it to our lives."

"Milwaukie Academy of the Arts is a school that cares deeply about academics and students. The teachers are very helpful and love to see their students improve. In this school our curriculum is more art-focused than in a typical high school. We learn through group projects, using hands-on approaches. The students and teachers work together to create a family-like environment."

"Milwaukie Academy of the Arts is a public charter school within a public high school. it has a core group of teachers who emphasize incorporating the arts into core subjects like science and math. It's the best of both worlds -- the student/teacher ratio of a small, private school with all the traditions and opportunities of a larger public high school."

"Milwaukie Academy of the Arts is an exceptional learning environment in which kids learn in more creative ways and get to know their teachers on a more personal level. This makes students feel accepted and unique."

Why did you choose Milwaukie Academy of the Arts?

"We chose the school because of the theme-based learning, the personal attention from teachers, and because our son felt he could be successful here."

"I chose the school because I love art, I love doing projects, and I needed to have a healthy environment. When I heard MAA is like a big family, I knew that was the perfect school for me. I've never really had a family, and MAA taught me what Family really means."

What type of student is the best fit for Milwaukie Academy of the Arts?

"For the student who needs to have a correlation between academics and right-brain thinkig, MAA provides alternatives."

"I think any student is a good fit for MAA. It is unfortunate that some kids think that if they aren't "artsy," then they should not choose this school. The fact is that any student looking for project-based learning, a college prep program, or any type of visual or performing arts should apply to Milwaukie Academy of the Arts."

"This is a good school for students who don't fit into mainstream education and those who like to be hands-on with their learning."

"Milwaukie Academy of the Arts is the right fit for students who are serious about school and want to go to College. The teachers will help prepare you for college and encourage you to keep your grades up so you can succeed not just now, but in the future."

"Any student is a good fit for MAA. I feel like MAA is open to anyone, and that if they want to come into this school with an open mind, anyone could love it and do well here. If you are interested in smaller classes, and individual attention, this school is for you. Being artsy is a plus, but it certainly isn't needed."

What do you like most about the teachers at Milwaukie Academy of the Arts?

"The teachers here are highly trained, experienced, and gifted. They make great mentors for their students. I have no doubt that they must have been carefully selected."

"Teachers here expect commitment from their students. They have high expectations of performance and capability. They have control of their classes. Milwaukie Academy of the Arts and Milwaukie High both reward performance and don't simply punish misbehavior."

"Teachers make learning fun and interesting. I was shocked to hear that my daughter's favorite class is science!"

"MAA teachers are very respected, respectful, and available. Teachers work to build long-term relationships with students and their families."

"These teachers are hard core. They love what they do. They know how to get all the information to us no matter what ways we learn best. They know their students by name and go out of their way to get us the help we need, when we need it."

"I am pleased by the enthusiasm of the teachers at MAA. They visibly enjoy their subject areas and students. They are engaged in student interests, and they present material in creative, fun ways."

"Teachers at MAA give just as much effort as students are expected to give. They love their students unconditionally and they never give up on us."

"I like that the teachers here communicate with each other about their curriculum and work together as a team. Because of the small class sizes and team approach, they are better able to keep tabs on students on a more individual basis."

What do you want to tell students and parents considering Milwaukie Academy of the Arts?

"We are very happy that we chose this school for our daughter. We were concerned that she wouldn't know anyone and that she would get lost in a big school, but she made fast friends, and the teachers have worked very closely with her, even staying after school to help her understand things better. We are very happy here and recommend this school to those looking for a more individualized high school experience for their child."

"Milwaukie Academy of the Arts offers a unique learning environment. Even students who are not into art may find the different teaching style helps them find success in areas where they may struggle."

"Don't hesitate! Come into the program with an open mind, and you will succeed. The students and staff are very accepting of everyone. One warning: You will have lots of friends, guaranteed! I haven't met you yet, but I already consider you family, and I hope you love this school as much as I do."

Last Modified on November 2, 2010