The Prairie School

4050 Lighthouse Dr

Racine, WI 53402

36 Reviews

School District
Grade

PK, K-12
Type

private

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Reviews

Submitted by parent on August 08, 2018

I love the schoool and the education my son is receiving.
Submitted by parent on June 20, 2017

This school inspires so many young minds. They take pride in success.
Submitted by student on May 28, 2017

With so many parent reviews on this site, I'd like to share my experience as a recent graduate of Prairie's Upper School. Prairie is an excellent school-- especially when compared with other education options in the area for high school. I only attended Prairie for my four years of high school, but the education that I earned after putting in hard work towards both the rigorous school work and countless extracurriculars I participated in made it well worth my time. Upper schoolers are pushed to become well rounded students inside and out of the classroom, with balanced academic requirements in various disciplines, as well as exercise, volunteer, and co-curricular requirements. The school's honor code and small size foster a tight-night, unique community which integrates students and staff in a manner that I've never seen anywhere else. Though excellent in many ways, Prairie is far from perfect. The past several years have shown less than promising trends due to the recent change in administration -- namely, the new headmaster. The school preaches honor and integrity but lacks such values among the higher administration. Special treatment is a very harsh reality at Prairie. It's also not a school for all types of people. Some people fit, others do not. However, if you are a good, dedicated, and outgoing student, Prairie is the place for you. Intellect is never ridiculed at Prairie. At worst, it's envied. At best, it's praised by teachers and students alike. In all, Prairie provides amazing opportunities for success both inside and outside of the classroom. Teachers truly want to help students learn, and students generally share curiosity and a desire to learn. Though each rose has its little thorns, Prairie sure is a beautiful rose. Even the campus itself is drop-dead gorgeous. I spent many the free period sitting outside on the patio getting work done. A beautiful environment really does inspire.Scholarships are available to those who cannot afford it full-price. After all, the ticket price is not remotely cheap. Though expensive, the education which Prairie offers is well worth it -- especially compared to other local options.
Submitted by parent on July 15, 2016

This school is awesome,the staff is great. The staff seem to work as a team, and focus on students individual goals and outcomes.
Submitted by parent on May 14, 2016

We love this school! The new teachers, programs and support systems are great! New music teachers are exceptional and the program is growing.
Submitted by other on February 03, 2016

I am almost 40 years old now and I went to The Prairie School from 4th grade until graduating high school. I look at myself as a successful entrepreneur and also my fellow classmates who now range from being an architect, artist, doctor, project manager, film producer, successful parents... well rounded individuals who are easy-going with the same fortune I had -- being able to attend an exceptional school. I can't comprehend the negative reviews. What I cherish most about the school are how the teachers care so much about each person and making sure that they are given respect despite being the student. Most of the teachers I had 20 years ago are still there. If you get a chance to go to Prairie, then consider yourself in the 'lucky' category. You'll be well on your way for a fulfilling future.
Submitted by parent on July 13, 2015

Our daughter is a recent grad from Prairie School, having attended since elementary school. She was accepted to 5 college/universities across the country and now attends OC in Los Angeles. The amount of scholarship money she and her classmates were offered for college was unbelievable! In fact, the college scholarship she received was more than we had to pay for high school!
Submitted by parent on July 09, 2015

I have been a parent here for 5 years and we love it. The program is strong and it is more than meeting the needs of our two very different children. Our gifted son is challenged and loves the arts program and our daughter who has few learning challenges is fully supported and is have a great year thriving in the athletic program. A few too many new students in the high school who can't keep up in class, but other than that, AWESOME!
Submitted by parent on April 21, 2015

Parent of a student who attended for 8 years. The good: - Its a lot better than RUSD - only choice in the area that is not parochial - great physical facilities - a lot of people in supportng roles - library, counselors, etc The not so good: - they do not plan schedues well, and provide poor schedule counseling. Dont count on classes your child planned to take being there Junior or senior year, and those that are are over subscribed (11 seniors on waiting list for introduction to psych???) - lack of flexibilty...expect zero customization to meet a students individual needs - for this level school and the cost, they dont have a very impressive college admissions list. - its quite pricey and expect a lot of additional costs added - its on the way down...enrollment declining.
Submitted by parent on March 20, 2015

Fantastic program, great teachers - so many options for my kids. The new head guy seems to 'get it', which could be good long-term. Beautiful new soccer field...there's nothing better around!
Submitted by student on January 06, 2015

I love this school. Coming here in 9th grade was the best decision I have ever made. The teachers care about us and treat us with respect. The work load is steady but no busy work. I wish there was a swim team, but other than that, AWESOME School!
Submitted by parent on January 06, 2015

I don't know what the last comment is talking about. Prairie is a student centered school that focuses on the big picture and long term growth. If you want your child to be an unmotivated test taking drone don't send them to Prairie. The whole program is designed for gifted and talented students with the Compass Program providing support. The results at Prairie are excellent with 100% college placement and the alumni graduate from college on time, with honors and jobs! The only test that matters is the ACT and the average score is 26.5. The school is ranked #2 in the state by niche.com. We love the school's emphasis on the whole child building their character, creativity, communication and problem solving skills. We feel fortunate to have our kids at the school. The teachers do not have tenure and treat us and our kids with respect. The teachers are true partners. We don't know anyone who is tutored and the ipod is a great tool for organization and creativity. Our friends whose kids have graduated are all thriving in college.
Submitted by parent on November 30, 2014

Don t waste your money on the education that is not worse it. I agree kids love it . Reason it is not about rigorous education. No real testing, no spelling bees, no foreign language until 6th Grade, no actual grades till 7th Grade, no gifted and talented program.School will tell you, that their math program is one year ahead. Yes, starting 5th Grade they are trying to teach 6-7th Grade Math. However, most of the children are not ready. Majority of parents are supplementing with additional tutoring. Starting 5th Grade, parents have to rent an I-pad. As a result, 10 year old kids taking videos, pics at school, posting them on social media. Parents are left with the task of controlling their children s internet usage instead of education. There is no PTO! Parent involvement allowed only for fundraising and volunteering.A good indicator of quality education is the list of Universities, graduates attend. It is not impressive.The School is losing attendance and this year new administration started to advertise more. It is also visible at www.greatschools.org, where an increased amount of reviews were posted in recent year only.
Submitted by teacher on October 16, 2014

Having been on staff at Prairie for five years, I am kicking myself for not exposing my four grown children to a Prairie School education. The dedication of the teachers is immeasurable - always challenging and encouraging students to go a step beyond... The opportunities to learn go well beyond a 'desk' education - the glassblowing lab, theater productions, rocket science experiments, musical performances, athletic programs - all combine to give students a blueprint for their future learning. I am fortunate to be a part of this wonderful school.
Submitted by parent on August 15, 2014

We are current Prairie parents. What Prairie has provided for our children cannot be measured. They are leaders, they work hard, they are compassionate, they feel accountable, they are goal-setters. They are good kids with friends from many backgrounds and cultures. They understand that they are very fortunate to attend Prairie. We are not wealthy, and receive financial aid, just like 40% of other families at Prairie. Our older children entered college far better prepared than their peers. We thank Prairie for giving our kids an awesome start in life!
Submitted by parent on August 15, 2014

Prairie School develops kids to be successful academically, but also prepares them for future in college and workplace by encouraging active participation, opportunities for leadership, fitness/sports/healthy lifestyle, and community service. Yes - there are a lot of wealthy families at Prairie, but these are families that are community leaders in volunteering, donation, and supporting organizations outside the school. The majority of families have hardworking parents who make trade-offs to afford Prairie. Being a full-time working mom, there was great peace of mind knowing our kids were in a safe, nurturing environment, with teachers very tuned into to our family. Communication between administration, teachers, and parents is great. No child gets lost in the shuffle, and individual talents and strengths are encouraged. The main reason we choose to stay living in Racine is because of Prairie School, we truly believe there is not a better educational offering or investment we could make in our kids.
Submitted by parent on August 13, 2014

The best education in SE Wisconsin. I am an alumni who was able to get into the school of my choice. I am a parent of three who attend the school. The small class sizes are great for teachers to really teach each child individually and inspire them in many ways. A well rounded education with high aspirations of academic, athletic and personal development are keys to Prairie's success. Prairie is a must for parents looking for the best opportunity for success of their children.
Submitted by parent on August 12, 2014

Our children attended public school prior to Prairie. Moving them was the best decision we ever made! It is a misconception that the school is only for the "elite". A large number of students are from middle class or modest backgrounds. The school literally has a plan to help ALL students fit in that includes assigning a "buddy" to help acclimate them during their first year. It's wonderful to know ahead of time that your child will not be sitting alone at lunch! That is just a small example of how much the staff/teachers care about every single student. And we can't say enough about the academics. Our kids were head and shoulders above their peers when they got to college. Our experiences were so positive, we continue to support and volunteer at the school, and attend sports games and fundraisers, although our children graduated several years ago. There are many Open Houses and other opportunities to visit Prairie to see what the school has to offer. Make time for a visit if you are interested in seeing an amazing environment that your child can be a part of!
Submitted by parent on August 12, 2014

Great school - all the way around. I have three kids who attended Prairie all the way from K - 12 and it was perfect environment for them. This school is the main reason I stayed living in Racine.
Submitted by parent on August 12, 2014

The Prairie School is a wonderful place for students to not only learn, but to blossom to their full potential. The teachers are engaged with the students and take an interest in finding the best way to help each student learn. Students get a great deal of hands on experiences in the Sciences, the Arts, and sports. This gives Prairie Students a very well-rounded education. Prairie helps students not only to get into great colleges but helps them be prepared to meet the rigors of college classes. Both our daughters attended Prairie from age 4 through high school and have become confident, compassionate, well-educated young women. Our family has recommended Prairie to many of our friends and will continue to do so.