Forest Ridge Academy

7300 Forest Ridge Drive

Schererville, IN 46375

21 Reviews

School District
Grade

PK-8
Type

private

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Reviews

Submitted by parent on December 21, 2024

This school may not be the right fit for everyone, speaking from our experience.While they offer a variety of engaging activities, I found them lacking in the fundamental resources and support that a school should have. Our preschooler had a short and unsuccessful period there, culminating in an unexpected request for us to leave with only a week's notice. This not only felt like a waste of time and resources but also made it challenging to find alternative care in the middle of the school year.Unfortunately, my child now experiences anxiety when entering any school setting, which is a significant concern. Additionally, I was disappointed to learn that deposits and school materials are non-refundable due to their "standard process."I also noticed that there were no requirements or assessments for the cohort my child was in, which raised concerns about the overall standards. The protocol and procedures for student removal are vague, almost nonexistent, creating mismatched expectations for us.We also felt that the school lacks diversity, as it seems to favor a specific type of student while not adequately addressing the emotional needs of the kids.Despite these challenges, I would recommend this school to parents of typical, average smart kids who are prepared to engage in the learning process. Parents should also be prepared for year-long donation requests via email, text, and automated phone calls, plus in average one week no school per school month. Overall, we’re relieved to have moved on from this experience.
Submitted by other on February 10, 2023

Can’t imagine not having Forest Ridge in our lives.
Submitted by parent on February 10, 2023

I live in a large school district. This has been a great option for smaller class sizes.
Submitted by parent on February 10, 2023

Forest Ridge Academy is a wonderful school.
Submitted by parent on October 27, 2022

Moved my daughter there for 7th and 8th grade best education ever they are way far Advanced and preparing for high school in 7th grade. Our only regret is not sending her there earlier
Submitted by other on July 01, 2022

A nice school but they don't follow through on things. They also choose to listen to gossip rather than facts.
Submitted by parent on December 26, 2021

I can't say enough good things about Forest Ridge. Our experience contrasts with Chicago private and public schools (K-8 and Select Enrollment), and we can say without hesitation that Forest Ridge is more academically rigorous than it's private primary school peers in Chicago which cost over twice as much and require outside tutoring for high school tests. But the school is more than this -- it is small, incredibly diverse and incredibly tolerant. It does not teach politics like Chicago schools, advocating one side of an issue over another. It teaches respect for teachers and individuals and all sides of a topic. But most of all, it is rigorous and expects the best out of kids and for them to put in 100% everyday. It is welcoming to everyone, regardless of race, religion, nationality or political identity (unlike Chicago). Forest Ridge is such a gem.
Submitted by teacher on November 14, 2015

I had the pleasure to be invited to return to FRA for a special visit. I taught French when the school originated. Not surprisingly FRA has become a model of enthusiasm and forward looking education. I recommend FRA to anyone looking for a safe, child centered environment where students are motivated to learn within an age appropriate and varied curriculum. You won't regret your choice.
Submitted by parent on March 30, 2015

Our son went to FRA starting in preK until the early elementary years. We started talking to friends that had children attended different types of schools : charter, public, private,etc. and were impressed with most results. We chose a different montessorri school for our daughter after extensive research and found both schools to be comparable in most areas but more reasonably priced. We again researched later grades in other schools, found they share the same "learning beyond the books" methods. Schools and teachers DO have signigicant impact in making sure children are challenged, motivated, self disciplined, and encourage a love for learning. However, it is just as much the parents responsibility! FRA did lack in letting our child slack in areas. The school they attend now gives appropriate consequences to their choices, good or bad, as in our adult life. We do have bigger class size, but feel our kids will have the ability to learn and work in more challenging settings. FRA, does accept all children, not just "gifted", contingent you meet the financial requirements. They can base tuition on income. Some private schools solely allow "gifted" children and do not lower tuition.
Submitted by parent on January 21, 2015

We put an incredible amount of thought into choosing the right school for our 3 year old daughter. Our first choice was the Univ. of Chicago Lab School. But with only a 30% acceptance rate and us having to affiliation with the school, that was not to be. We looked at many local catholic schools, and settled on FRA. In short, they have been wonderful. Our daughter fit in perfectly. The curriculum is age-appropriate and we can't believe the growth we have seen. She had never been apart from her mother until FRE. It went so well that we have gone from 3 days to 5 days per week.
Submitted by parent on August 26, 2014

We have just enrolled our child into the Young Scholars program at FRA. I cannot believe the motivation and excitement that the teachers have. After day 2 my 3 year old came home saying Spanish words and actually knew what they meant. The Instagram photos posted help make us just as excited as my daughter is everyday she comes home. If the last 2 weeks are any indication of what is to come I am so glad we enrolled her. THIS IS NOT A DAY CARE, it is a school. I agree with some of the comments on fund raising that it can be overwhelming especially for middle class parents but hopefully the cost will out weigh the costs, especially when it comes to education.
Submitted by parent on February 13, 2014

I can not say enough about this school. I am not a contributor as stated below. My kids have had incredible success there and in high school as measured by the preparation FRA gave for high school. Mine are not babied. They are held accountable. This school is fantastic! Please start the high school! The need is tremendous! As the public schools fall apart FRA just keeps getting better!
Submitted by parent on February 12, 2014

The Teachers at Forest Ridge are amazing. They work one on one with the students and go above and beyond what is required for a teacher. Many parents who believe the children are babied need to understand most of the students at Forest Ridge are doing work above their grade level. Some students have several grade levels higher than average. The children are pushed harder at an older age but it prepares them well for the workforce in the future. The fundraising is a little hard but it keep families close and well informed with the school and staff. Overall it is a good school and i believe it prepares the children well for high school.
Submitted by parent on November 16, 2013

I would agree that there is a double standard when it comes to grades. Students who have parents who are big donors are allowed to turn in work late and get higher grades. Also, how can you have administrators running around more concerned with events at their former places of employment and leading the charge to oust the Head of that school. If I were the Head here I would be watching my back.
Submitted by parent on April 26, 2013

Some of the teachers are wonderful and teach responsibility, accountability, and go beyond their job. Others allow kids to turn in assignments late, "fix grades", give extra credit, etc. Where is the accountability? If my child turns his assignment in on time, don't allow the kid who was lazy and mom is upset by a bad/no grade to nag you into changing the grade! My child worked hard and sacrificed to turn his work in on time. I know some of my son s classmates have received grades on report cards that are questionable. Hmmm....the quality of a teacher does not always equal the grades of the students. Most of the children are great but some are lazy and irresponsible. Help them by making them accountable! Otherwise, class sizes are wonderful and class trips are nice.
Submitted by parent on March 14, 2012

I have looked and looked for a great school for my children and I finally found it!!! The teachers have such a passion for teaching and that excitement rubs off the students. The family atmosphere creates a wonderful environment for learning. When you walk through the front doors you feel how special the school is immediately!
Submitted by parent on March 13, 2012

I completely disagree with the post from January 24. My children have received an excellent education through all grades at Forest Ridge. Teachers have been completely honest with me regarding my children's progress and I have had no surprises! My children are not superior intellectually and the teachers all gave a huge amount of effort into seeing them succeed. As a result, my children all know how to work hard and follow through on their tasks. I owe a lot to the school for the wonderful education my children all received. I still support this school and will for the rest of my life. I believe in their efforts and everything they stand for.
Submitted by parent on March 13, 2012

The small classes, high standards, and caring faculty provide a safe and positive learning atmosphere. The academics are exciting and my children are loving the journey!!!!
Submitted by parent on January 24, 2012

My daughter attended FRA a few years ago. Although, my daughter received high markings, I feel it was only because of the extra help she received outside of school. They rarely give low grades, even if deserved, which may help the child's self esteem but does not accurately measure where they are at academically. The fundraising is ridiculous and an embarrassment. You pay for the small class size and technology. Instead of teaching responsibility and accountability, I found the teachers baby the students by sometimes letting low grades slide or even changing grades because it has a poor reflection on the teachers and school. , I would not recommend this school....especially after the 3rd grade
Submitted by parent on December 09, 2011

Our children attended FRA, and we were very pleased with the education they received! It's not just an ordinary school you take your children to, it's like dropping them off with an extended family. Our oldest continued with the same style of learning and went to a private college for the small class settings. I would highly recommend this school at all levels knowing our children were provided an excellent education and prepared for success in their future endeavors.