Princeton Latin Academy

Po Box 8077

Princeton, NJ 08543

10 Reviews

School District
Grade

K-10
Type

private

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Reviews

Submitted by parent on March 06, 2013

A very interesting school with a unique philosophy, PLA can be a place of quirky charm that grows on you. The best aspects of it are the caring, dedicated teachers who work closely with each student to provide an individualized education to meet that child's needs. The heart of the school is based in the people, not facilities or equipment. The negative aspect has to do with some personal ideas of the headmaster. It's understandable why some families leave in frustration. Either you love him or you don't - he is gifted but flawed, as we all are. Some parents escalate a disagreement with him and pull out, which can be a shame when the child is being well served. I don't know of any other school where your child will be loved and honored as a unique soul the way he/she can be at PLA. That is sheer magic, and the reason why so many (teachers, as well as students and parents) are passionate about Princeton Latin Academy. "No significant learning occurs without a significant relationship." -- Dr. James Comer, educator
Submitted by parent on June 06, 2012

This is a small school offering a classical education. With the low number of students in each class, the teachers are able to give additional attention and allow individual students to learn at their own pace, and ensure they learn the material (and not lost in the crowd). Although not formally accredited, this is a very good school for students who want to learn but may need additional assistance, or for those that want to learn and not be held back; the teachers will challenge individual students based on their demonstrated capabilities. In addition to other academics, the school teaches basic latin and greek, art history (for high school), and has an annual opera which involves the whole school. Note that the school does not have the funding/equipment of other schools (eg, no fancy whiteboards or computer labs).
Submitted by teacher on May 22, 2012

Princeton Latin Academy is a truly unique school in every way. The curriculum, school location, faculty, and diverse student body make it an exceptional place for children to learn, grow, and ultimately become better people. PLA also encourages a strong focus on the arts, and students participate in a variety of creative endeavors throughout the year. Most notably, students write and perform in an opera every spring. All students, even the youngest ones, participate in the opera. It is an event that really brings everyone together. As a former teacher at PLA, I can also say that the school environment was a wonderful and welcoming place to be a part of. Not only did I enjoy my job, my colleagues, and my students, I also became a better teacher because of my two years at the school. Its unique philosophy and dedication to the classics forever changed how I look at teaching and learning, and ultimately made me a more confident and competent educator. I am forever grateful for my two years at this wonderful school.
Submitted by parent on April 26, 2012

It would be dishonest to let these glowing recommendations stand unchallenged. I was a parent of PLA students. We were happy for some time. An unfortunate personal situation required us to withdraw, but when the faculty learned of our intent, they punished our CHILDREN, who were already suffering. The headmaster instructed his staff and other students to ostracize the children, who were innocent victims. Sadly, this is an established pattern with this school. Shame on PLA. Much of what the school promotes and teaches is good. Unfortunately, the unprofessional behavior of the administrators and some teachers far surpasses whatever benefits the classical education provides. Circumstances do not seem to matter to the administrators. The personal feelings of the headmaster are of utmost importance, and must be enforced by all staff. This has happened to many PLA families. The school would be much more successful and desirable if the headmaster would not take every disagreement or change of circumstance as a personal insult. A very great disappointment for this family..formerly big supporters of this school and it's philosophy.
Submitted by parent on March 17, 2012

I am a parent of two alumni and have attended my 18th opera in a row. I know I speak for my children and my spouse when I say that we are indebted to Magister Perulli and the Magisti for the education we all experienced.
Submitted by other on March 16, 2012

I cannot speak highly enough about this school! I attended PLA from Kindergarten to eighth grade, and I consider it a second home. The teachers are extremely knowledgeable, dedicated to the students, and inspiring. I have a deep love of learning that was developed at this school - I remember hating summer because I was away from it! I am extremely grateful that I received a classical education, because I have a large foundation of knowledge that has helped me immensely in school. I am able to connect the things I learn in different classes and come at material from many angles. The opera is an integral part of the curriculum, and I haven't missed one in 19 years. The students write it themselves and take ownership of the performance. The students truly bring the characters to life, and through this the students themselves come alive. I can think of no better experience than the opera for teaching students about coming out of themselves to create something meaningful. I am now working towards a Ph.D. in physics, and I owe my continuing desire to learn and love of science to this school.
Submitted by teacher on October 16, 2011

I have been teaching here for ten years and I would not want to teach anywhere else. The curriculum, which is based on a classical education, is unequaled; the faculty, which is made up of intelligent, caring people, is inspiring; the parents, those who understand what we are doing, are generous and committed; the students, whose academic needs are diverse, are happy. Take a moment to speak with the alumni, and you will hear how much they enjoyed being at Princeton Latin Academy, how much they learned from their teachers, and how truly life-changing was their experiences at PLA, especially their experience of the opera. If anything sets us apart from other private schools--and there are many things--the opera experience at our school is it. Our annual opera is the cornerstone of our curriculum: the eighth grade, using a great novel, write the lyrics, the faculty and parents help stage it, and entire student body performs it. And only an alumnus or alumna fully understands its importance.
Submitted by other on October 16, 2011

You will never find a school that can educate children in a more original and impressive manner than Princeton Latin Academy. The staff, curriculum, and setting are a combination of traditional learning and progressive attitudes towards education. The result is class after class of graduates who are as prepared for the future as anyone could be.
Submitted by parent on February 28, 2011

GREAT SCHOOL! Cultivates a love for learning. This small school accepts each child's personality and infuses a classic education. Best thing I ever did for my child's eduction.
Submitted by parent on August 24, 2008

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