Interview with Junior Academy PARENT, Shima Kassirian

Junior Academy provided the individual attention my son needed, something I felt was lacking at the larger private school he previously attended. Although I was investing a significant amount financially, the larger school didn’t give him the kind of attention that met his needs. At Junior Academy, the focus isn’t just on academics or social-emotional development but on supporting the child as a whole. The smaller school setting and the commitment to attending to each child’s specific needs made a significant difference.

The shift in my son’s demeanor was dramatic and quick after moving to Junior Academy. He had been quite anxious at the previous school, though I didn’t initially recognize it as anxiety due to his young age. Within two or three months at Junior Academy, I noticed a visible difference in how comfortable he was and how much he looked forward to going to school. He was visibly happier, and going to school became something he wanted to do, rather than something he felt he had to do.

Junior Academy has created a close-knit, family-like environment where my son feels truly supported. He doesn’t feel judged and is encouraged to be himself. They respect his opinions and his unique learning style, which enables him to thrive and be his best. This environment allows him to learn without the fear of judgment, fostering a deep sense of belonging and confidence.

As a busy mom with a full-time job and three children, I appreciate the clear and proactive communication from Junior Academy. If there’s an issue, they inform me but have already figured out how to address it, explaining what measures they’ve implemented. This allows me to stay informed without constantly making decisions or shifting responsibilities. I trust the educators to decide what’s best, much like patients rely on my expertise as a physician.

Many people aren’t aware of the school, or they have preconceived notions despite its long-standing presence. I believe that Junior Academy doesn’t market itself as effectively as it could. They rely heavily on merit, which is commendable, but they could benefit from being more proactive about communicating their strengths to the public. During visits, they could be more explicit about what they offer and how they’re unique.

I initially worried that moving to a smaller school meant fewer extracurricular opportunities, but Junior Academy exceeded my expectations. My son was much more involved in sports, outdoor activities, and clubs than he had been at the larger private school. They offered everything from skating to skiing and even more inclusivity in sports and clubs, which surprised me. Junior Academy provided not only opportunities but also a better, more inclusive experience.

One of Junior Academy’s biggest strengths is its respect for each child’s unique way of learning, which is especially possible in a smaller school setting. They focus on critical thinking and individual learning patterns rather than didactic teaching. By tailoring the education to each student’s strengths, they foster self-esteem and engagement, allowing each child to showcase their strengths and feel good about their progress.

Junior Academy appeals to parents who are invested in their child’s holistic development, not just academics. While the school does a good job with academic subjects like math, they also focus on shaping well-rounded individuals. The emphasis on social and emotional well-being alongside academics helps develop children who know themselves and are socially and emotionally healthy.

Since joining Junior Academy, my son’s confidence in his academic abilities has grown significantly. He won the grade five science fair, which led to him advancing in science classes and skipping a grade. This wasn’t merely about advancing academically; it reinforced his belief that he was capable of excelling. He also enjoys the ski trips and friendships he’s formed at the school, highlighting the unique opportunities Junior Academy offers.

The teachers at Junior Academy are carefully selected, often bringing specific expertise and a shared philosophy that aligns with the school’s values. Many teachers have been with the school for years, which helps maintain a stable and supportive learning environment. The principal, in particular, is highly supportive and respected by the students, fostering an atmosphere where children feel heard rather than afraid.

If you’re looking for a school that genuinely focuses on meeting each child’s needs, Junior Academy is a great choice. Beyond academics, they emphasize social and emotional well-being, providing a strong foundation in all areas. For parents who want less stress and the peace of mind that their child is well taken care of, Junior Academy offers that assurance, allowing parents to feel secure in their child’s education.

I wish someone had advised me earlier that each child’s learning needs are unique and that the most convenient or popular school might not be the best fit. Starting my son at Junior Academy earlier could have saved us both some stress. It’s essential to find a school that aligns with your child’s needs, even if it’s not the obvious choice in the neighborhood.