Chrysalis School

We are so glad that we found Chrysalis. It has been such a positive experience for our three children that we feel we need to share how special it is. It is so unlike most other schools that it is difficult to do it justice in a few words. It actually took us a while to really understand what we had got into and how lucky we were. In "mainstream" schools, importance is placed on standardized syllabuses and testing, with the laudable aim that "no child is left behind". Everyone is expected to develop at the rate of the average child. At Chrysalis, every child is an individual, and their education is tailored to their strengths and weaknesses. They may be two grades ahead in Math, but grade-average in most other subjects. As each child can develop at their optimum pace, there is no child to be left behind. Having a deep understanding of the individual means that children are matched with teachers who have complimentary teaching styles. If things aren't working out, the emphasis is on finding what works best for the student, rather than expecting the child to adapt to the teacher. The students feel included and respected and so are more respectful and inclusive of others. As a result, Chrysalis kids learn how best they learn, rather than simply being taught things. This frees the learning experience to be more fun and exciting, rather than a chore to be endured. The aim is to develop lifelong learners, with the flexibility to adapt to changing environments, coupled with a strong sense of self and understanding of one's own strengths and weaknesses. As the emphasis is on each student's needs, it can be confused for a school for special needs. Although it is much more flexible than most schools, it is not geared up to cater specifically for children with significant learning deficits. The emphasis on child-influenced education can worry parents who are concerned whether their child is keeping up with their peers. And many people can't imagine that you can still be learning if it's not a chore. But for us, we know of no better school for helping our children grow and develop to be the best they can be.

My son graduated from Chrysalis two years ago. He attended grades 6 through 12, and I couldn't be happier with his education. The teachers adapted to his needs, and he was consistently challenged. The school requires less homework, which concerned me at first, but I trusted their judgement. I came to realize that quantity of homework doesn't really matter, as my son is now making the President's list routinely, in college, for his academic achievements. He liked to play video games. Chrysalis created an environment where he wanted to learn. He even took a horticulture class and found he enjoys working outside and getting his hands dirty. I highly recommend Chrysalis.