Pros
Intensity of purpose, highly structured environment so learning time is maximized for scholars. Students know what is expected of them at all times. Expectations are high.
Cons
Teachers are generally young and inexperienced and stressed out, and there is no time for professional development other than coaching from within the system. Best practices are not followed. This is the ultimate teach to the test environment with 5 and 6 year olds mastering the term "process of elimination" as they focus tremendously on taking standardized tests. Focus is entirely on test scores and data, not the cognitive development and well being of the child. Curriculum planners are focused on test scores and not on developmental needs of children. Very little if any hands on learning. Very few smiles on faces in this building. Intensity and rigor and urgency, but very little joy, which is really sad to see, especially with children in K, 1, 2, etc. Charter elevates them out of potentially failing situation in other area schools only to then deprive these kids in other ways.