Step Up School

44 East 5th Street

School District

Step Up Schools Inc.
Grade

K-8
Teacher/Student Ratio

1:11
Type

charter

GreatSchools Rating

The school rating calculation is based on four ratings: the Student Progress Rating or Academic Progress Rating, College Readiness Rating, Equity Rating, and Test Score Rating each designed to show different facets of school success. Learn more about GreatSchools Ratings

Reviews

Submitted by other on January 04, 2022

Staff overwhelmed. Minimal educational resources. Students are crammed into a facility that is too small, cluttered, unsafe, and lacks any creative visuals. There are no 1st, 2nd, 3rd ... 8th grades, just children rounded up into categories similar to small, medium, and large, so the instructor is responsible for teaching multiple grade levels in a tiny, untidy classroom. The principal at Step Up was, at times, very unprofessional, did not deal directly with issues, was closed to any innovative educational applications, disorganized, untrustworthy, and lacked the interpersonal/communication skills necessary for the school to thrive. Discipline was not maintained and disruptive behavior was the norm. This environment was not conducive to learning and the kids suffered. No wonder the children consistently score at the bottom of standardized tests when compared to their peers. It's a shame that Step Up continues to operate. Whoever gave Step Up a 5-star rating either works there and/or is afraid they'll lose their job if the place folds.
Submitted by parent on August 30, 2015

My daughter goes here and she is excelling in every possible way. Her school work is great, she socializes and has created positive relationships with the other children in an awesomely diverse environemnt. I love that I have at least some relationship with every adult there and they all likewise embrace every student even if not in their class. This is a family of teachers. The atmosphere they have created is unlike the public school many of us remember, and they have done so much with so little. My child is taught to her level and the teacher will ask me if I prefer to challenge her or let her stay where she is. I can't imagine my child going anywhere else.
Submitted by parent on August 11, 2015

I'm a parent of Step Up & 3 of my kids have attended Step Up for the past 3 years. I'm sure that my kids food aren't served on, near,touching the copy machine or toner ink. They have an "A" from the health inspectors hanging in the kitchen. My kids are all extremely different and learn differently & are all very much learning. We went to see Jurassic World and my son could named every type of dinosaur and explain what it eats. The teacher, aides, support staff are all very committed to these children and go above and beyond for them. They do everything to help your child feel welcome, safe and cared about. It's small so my kids get the individual attention and are not just left wondering what in the world is this teacher talking about. If you want a team that is all about your child succeeding, cared about, safe, small groups, indivisible help & not just a number than this is the school for you. Go tour it and see.. #1happymama
Submitted by teacher on February 16, 2015

I am the Dean of Students of STEP Up schools this year. In all honesty, I am very saddened by the previous review dated Feb. 4 of 2015. My reason for this is because I never once heard from this parent about the concerns listed in the review. If I had, I would have put full resources into meeting this parent's needs much better. In fact, our school currently holds a wait list of parents who desire for their students to be in our school because of the wonderful education and student care happening at the establishment. Additionally, our lunchroom is an "A" rated food establishment. This means we are given the highest rating the Dept of Health could give to an eating establishment. Everything we serve is healthy and safely prepared outside the kitchen and served with great care. We have an amazing food service at the school. Once again, I am sorry this parent didn't choose to seek out help with his/her concerns regarding their child's education/food service needs. I guarantee if they had, the review would have been much more favorable.
Submitted by parent on February 04, 2015

I do not think this school has children interest at heart. The teachers are rude to the parents, the lunch is served in the same room as copier machines with toner. My child never wanted to go to school and came home with tears every day. There are two certain teacher who are bully students. the classrooms are a true hazard to student, and fire codes must not be a concern. This place needs to be shut down.
Submitted by teacher on September 02, 2014

STEP UP staff works diligently to help students achieve their best academically and enhances social skills through life skill training.
Submitted by parent on August 07, 2014

I am more than pleased with Step Up School. I have three children here with three different teachers. While each teacher has their own teaching style, they are all competent and loving teachers. I love all the technology. My kids love coming to school, I have no complaints in the morning. Thank you Step UP!
Submitted by parent on July 26, 2014

I am very pleased with the teachers at STEP UP. My child has been shown nothing by love. The teachers and aides are more than capable. Teachers spend countless hours preparing for their students and really try to teach my child where she is.
Submitted by teacher on October 18, 2013

STEP UP Schools provides excellent opportunities for students in the area. Students engage in learning through small groups and class sizes stay under 22. There is an infectious positive atmosphere that helps to focus student learning and achievement.