8 5th Ave
Linden, NJ 07036

I am a senior looking to graduate on time in a University. My first year in my University was very hard to adapt to considering the lack of preparation Linden High school provided. My peers and friends in my University claimed it either did not feel different, or was in fact easier. They all come from better districts and received exceptional educations that DID prepare them, unlike Linden high school did for many of it’s students. I had to reframe my own thinking, form of studying, and even writing to succeed in my University. While the high school teachers are mainly kind, the educational system is failing its students. My sibling was absent from school for over half of their last year with no repercussions and literally straight As. Allowing this led to a lack of discipline when moving onto college— and a drop out after the very first semester. From what I know many of my previous class mates have dropped out of college as well or have only pursued an Associates. While there is not necessarily anything wrong with that, I would say I blame it on the faulty education we received. I have taken classes teaching me that this is meant to encourage students to stay in school and get their high school diplomas, but I think this is merely an immediate solution that leads to more long term problems. It is a vicious cycle preparing students for failure rather than preparing them for success.

I would rate my experience 1 out of 100 because they don’t really teach you anything...

My child has been attending Highland Ave School since Kindergarten. The teachers in each grade level were competent and highly involved in my child's academics. All the teachers I've worked with have shown their committment and dedication towards the children and I especially love how my child's current teacher, Mrs. Kefalas uses out of the box methods to obtain additional learning resources to assist the children with their academics. The class has a Smart board and other technology available to make the classroom interaction more fun. My son enjoys his class and is eager to go to school. I also find it easier to be more involved with school functions because the staff is so welcoming and nice. Love this school!!!