We often ask students, parents, and alumni to reflect on their APR experience.  The following excerpts come from students who have commented on the Academy community in the middle school and in the high school.  In addition, we include an unsolicited letter from a parent of an eleventh grade student writing to the faculty and staff.

More for the alumni

8TH GRADERS:

• The teachers here aren't like teachers in other middle schools. Teachers at APR care about students' grades and about students as people.  Because of that, student-teacher relationships here are closer and more respectful than in other schools.

• What I will remember most are the long hours and the stacks of homework but you always had those certain teachers who made you feel good and welcome to come to school every day.  The field trips were always good, especially D.C. which brought us closer together.

• I remember last year when a famous football player came to talk.  He was actually a part of the '72 Dolphins, a team that never lost a game and went on to win the Superbowl. He talked about how every night instead of partying he studied the playbook.  That diligence eventually led them to having an undefeated season.

• I like the connection all teachers have to students at APR. Middle school made me feel like I was at home: comfortable and fun.  My favorite memory was the D.C. trip.  It was fun but also a great way to build responsibility. Also I will always remember the 7th grade museum night.  It was fun to show off everything we learned that year.

• I'm trying to do my best here this year.  I want to show continued improvement. That's something that colleges look for.

• Every year our 8th and 10th grade excels on the MCAS.  We embrace our incoming sixth graders each year as they adjust to such a new environment full of intense work, discipline, and of course, Chinese.  Through our hard work and with the guidance from our beloved teachers, we have set the foundation for a school that will undoubtedly show the world that there is an inventive and better way to learn.

• Communication is constantly happening.  Every Friday we get progress reports.  These progress reports list all of our grades, tests, quizzes, and homework for the whole trimester.  This helps us keep track of what we need to make up, what we can re-do, and it helps us look back and review before a test.

• Every student in the school is assigned an advisor that they meet with.  This advisor really helps you get your work done and does not let you fall behind.  And they are great for tutoring!

• Opening ceremony is when the whole school comes together and the teacher gives out a neat award called the "GAMBATTE" which goes to a student who has showed persistence and perseverance in their work. When we come together it makes me feel as if we are a community and family.

June 13, 2002

To the Academy of the Pacific Rim Staff,

I would like to take the time to let you all know that I appreciate the hard work, dedication and support that you provide daily in educating our children. From the time that APR opened its doors 5 years ago, I have watched my child as well as others grow into confident, capable young people.

APR staff has provided our students with many opportunities that students in other schools do not have access to.  Marcus has been exposed to many cultures, ideologies, and historic landmarks. Such as the opportunity to go to China , the trip to Washington DC , and visiting local colleges such as Harvard and MIT.  This has given him a vision of what he can achieve in life. He has learned that his life doesn't have to be limited to just his neighborhood or community, with the right skills and education he can have access to the world.  Marcus has also been challenged by new experiences. By participating in the modules such as United Nations, mock trail, and the newsletter he has been given a glimpse of what knowledge looks like when it is implemented into real life situations.  The PREP experiences have also been a challenge as well as a learning experience for him as well as for us as parents. PREP has helped Marcus to start to plan for his future.  It has helped to think about what skills he will need and will be required to perform certain careers.

I am also pleased with the academic focus of the school, it has provided Marcus with high standards and expectations of what he is capable of achieving.  The teachers are aware of his skills and abilities and are continuously challenging him to think reflectively and aspire to higher levels of learning.

I have said all of this to say thank you for spending the long hours, taking the extra time, being role models and encouraging my son Marcus.  You all are valued and appreciated for the important role that you play in educating our children.

Sincerely,

Helen McCroskey