Maine East High School

Our concerns centered on student safety and the school’s response to repeated peer mistreatment. Our child experienced ongoing negative interactions across both classroom and extracurricular settings. These included public embarrassment in front of peers and physical incidents that deeply troubled us. While any single event might have seemed manageable on its own, the pattern over time created an environment where our child no longer felt safe or supported. The emotional impact became increasingly clear. A child who once enjoyed school began showing significant anxiety and resistance to attending. We saw a noticeable change in confidence and overall demeanor. As parents, it was heartbreaking to watch that shift. We reported our concerns in good faith, hoping for partnership and clear communication. Instead, we experienced limited follow-up and a lack of transparency about how the situation was being handled. We were eventually informed that an internal review had concluded that no bullying had occurred. However, our family was not interviewed as part of that process. We were not asked to provide additional context before that conclusion was reached. This left us feeling unheard and excluded from decisions directly affecting our child. When we attempted to elevate our concerns to the board, we hoped for meaningful dialogue. Unfortunately, we did not feel there was a willingness to truly listen to our experience. At the same time, we found the enrollment contract to be entirely one-sided, offering no flexibility even under serious circumstances involving a child’s well-being. That rigidity added stress to an already painful situation. Leaving mid-year was disruptive and difficult. There were emotional, logistical, and financial consequences. However, once it became clear that our child’s anxiety was not improving and that we had exhausted internal channels, we knew we had to act. Since withdrawing, we have seen gradual improvement in our child’s emotional state, which reinforces that this was the right decision for our family. We share our experience so prospective families can make informed decisions and understand how toxic the culture is. We would not recommend this school.

My granddaughter attends this school and I felt compelled to do a review! I cannot say enough good things about has she has evolved since attending Embers! She is Kind..caring.. loving.. giving.. helps others.. cares for others.. From the principal to the teachers .. office staff and helpers that guide these children.. God Bless all you do and give! This school is AMAZING!