Why Families Choose The Academy

How did SAA stand out to you from other schools?
I clearly remember my campus tour like it were yesterday. All of the teachers and administrators I met were so nice, warm and welcoming. When I visited the classes of the older students, they all stood up to greet me and didn't sit back down until told to do so. There was a level of mutual respect that you don't see in other schools these days, and values like respect and manners are incredibly important to my husband and me, especially in a world where it seems like they are lacking. We especially love the format of lunch, where all the grade levels are mixed together, with the older boys serving the younger ones, and the younger ones having older students they can look up to. We also love the bond of brotherhood when these young men join companies once they start 3rd grade.

What reservations or concerns did you have prior to enrolling?
Even though we wanted a single-sex school, I had the preconceived notion that the environment may be too harsh, rigid, and lack nurturing. I was pleasantly surprised during my school tour to see the art teacher telling the 1st grade boys to twirl their paint brushes in their cups of water similar to how a ballerina twirls. The teachers for the younger boys have been incredibly nurturing and sensitive to their needs. Our family also has no relatives who are in the military, but this has never been an issue when it comes to inspection and drills. In fact, it's something that is incredibly inspiring and moving.

What characteristics were important to you in finding the right school for your child?
Rigorous curriculum, character development, high yet age-appropriate expectations for behavior, strong sense of community.

How did SAA stand out to you from other schools?
On our first visit, we were immediately struck by how happy everyone was to be there, students, teachers, and staff alike. We were also impressed by the common goal to discover and develop each boy's unique strengths, beyond just test scores. Friends who teach high school shared that the Academy boys always stood apart in class for their strong leadership skills and manners, which only solidified our school decision.

What do you value most about SAA's education?
In the early grades, we really appreciate the strong foundational reading curriculum, which sets the boys up as lifelong readers. We value the opportunities for unique learning experiences outside the classroom, from outdoor leadership weekend trips to team sports beginning in Pre-K. We love the deliberate intent to build leadership and public speaking skills. Perhaps most of all, we love the camaraderie that exists among the boys and is woven throughout the school, from the Pre-K/5th grade buddy program to family style lunches.

How did SAA stand out to you from other schools?
The focus on character education and the deep understanding of how boys learn.

What reservations or concerns did you have prior to enrolling?
I was worried that perhaps a same-sex education wouldn’t provide the opportunity for my son to learn how to interact in the real world. But I have not found that to be the case and the “Bond of Brothers” that exists at SAA is a gift that will last for the rest of these boys’ lives. They really know how to be good friends to each other.

What advice would you give a family considering SAA, but has concerns or reservations about applying?
Talk to a parent of a 6th or 7th grader. The real magic of SAA starts to become apparent as the boys mature into more leadership on campus. It’s an investment that will pay off for your entire family.

How did SAA stand out to you from other schools?
When we first considered SAA, from an education standpoint, we were most impressed by the reading level capabilities of the younger children. We also knew the school would reinforce the respect and manners we were instilling at home. Additionally, the brotherhood and connection between younger and older boys is something so unique and special about the school. Outside of school, when either of my sons sees an older boy, they greet each other by name. The family-style lunch and intentional interaction between grade levels is a tremendous benefit for the younger boys as they look to the older boys as examples.
 

What advice would you give a family considering SAA, but has concerns or reservations about applying?
Beyond the education (which is excellent), each of my sons are known, uplifted and cherished for their individual talents and personalities. Even when one of the boys may have made a mistake and needed redirection from staff, it has been treated as a learning moment to become the best they can be, not as a form of punishment. This approach to development has been instrumental in the building of confidence and a sense of self that couldn't have been accomplished without SAA.