Pros
They serve amazing students and and colleagues are talented, optimistic, hard-working...and many stay because of their own drive and commitment.
Cons
Terrible implementation of outdated one-size-fits nobody systems. Nothing locally responsive. Schools micromanaged by a top heavy, self-serving central "leadership." They get results through punishment and shaming- sometimes public shaming- of students. No actual "curriculum" to speak of despite the large, expensive curriculum team. Central leadership shows little respect to school level leadership and sees no benefit in school level leadership decisions. Changes made to the most fundamental structures multiple times in a single year. Loudest teachers are often the only ones who are heard. Big equity problems on the staff. Promotions and advancement opportunities offered to people of color regardless of performance in an attempt to solve for their diversity woes. No worthwhile professional development to speak of. CEO uses endeavor as a platform to put himself in the spotlight. Poster child for the school to prison pipeline. IEP students do not get their accommodations and are disproportionately failing and disciplined. No SEL supports to speak of. Makes me terribly sad that these amazing students have this awful, joyless, ineffective option for their schooling.
