Colin L Powell Academy

This school is a HOT MESS! My child has an IEP, but there are only TWO teachers in the entire school who are qualified to teach these students. They have several "aides" who are just glorified babysitters and are unable to TEACH the students whenever the teachers are out (which is often because they have to be present at all of these IEP meetings for each individual student). My child was sent home the FIRST WEEK OF SCHOOL with 3 different and distinct bruises, one of which was on the forehead. No note. Not seen by the "nurse" (they SAY they have one, but I've never seen or heard of this person even though I am up at the school at least 3 days EVERY WEEK because the teacher calls me non-stop to pick up my child. And I JUST found out that she isn't supposed to be doing that AND that she never notified anyone else that she was requesting that I pick my kid up!! The staff lies daily. I could ask them about the same exact incident on different days of the week and get a different answer every time! No one knows what is going on. Ever. Every question has a cagey and indirect answer. They're HORRIBLY disorganized. No real pickup/drop off process. Safety (aside from the rampant bullying--almost every parent I have spoken to has a story) is a huge issue. I have seen no fewer than 4 children run out of the side doors without anything to stop them. And what's worse is the staff would just WALK to retrieve them! WALK! As if they can't get far away. Oh yeah, there are no REAL gates around this school. It looks like they have gates, but they do not connect to anything and actually do not keep anyone inside. Please do not do it! Run away! Go private if you can because this school and its foolishness is just not worth your child's happiness or future success.

Indian Queen became the place that reminded me why I fell in love with teaching in the first place. Walking into the building each day felt lighter. The students are not only well behaved, but genuinely eager to learn. It was refreshing and uplifting to be surrounded by teachers who truly enjoy being with their students. There’s a real sense of joy in the classrooms and a culture built on collaboration, support, and learning from one another. You don’t feel alone here—you feel like part of a team.The parents are incredibly supportive and deeply involved in their children’s education, which creates such a strong partnership between home and school. And under Dr. McCall’s thoughtful guidance, the school is run with care, clarity, and heart.Indian Queen didn’t just give me a workplace—it gave me back my passion.

I hate this school. It’s literally so horrible and I’ve been here for so long and the walls are practically falling apart.

I think this school is an amazing place and community! I am a former student of Waynewood elementary school! I loved how involved all the staff was! Especially my principal! I have created so many bonds and friendships at this school that I want to carry next year through high school. All the teachers I ever had were hands on and invested in my learning! The staff makes everyone feel included! There are always fun events that take place during the day or afterschool! Overall I think this school is a 10/10 experience!