Pulaski Academy, Little Rock | Fees, Rankings, Address, Admission, Vacancies, Reviews & More

This is a cautionary review for those looking to enroll their child in Pulaski Academy. First, let me preface this by saying that the school based solely on academics is decent. The children are not under educated by any sense of the word. However, I’ve felt that on several occasions that grades were given much too easily, and children were given far too many “passes” on unsatisfactory assignments. Although this is a private school so of course they only have themselves to answer to.

My biggest concern with this school is exactly what may attract some families to it. This school has been known to be a “country club with books and chalk boards”. Not all but the majority of the parents seem to be “aloof” to those who are not within the “circle” of Little Rock social life. The saddest consequence of this is that this behavior trickles down directly into the children. Some families avoid this school due to extremely heavy bullying and mistreatment from students who feel they are “above” other students. Now, we know that things such as this occur at quite a few private schools around the country. However, some of these other private schools boast extremely impressive teaching staff and alums go on to attend stellar colleges.

PA boasts neither of these. Some in state public schools beat Pulaski Academy handily within this realm. Therefore for the money and quality of education, you can find far more quality private schools in the capital city. Many more with better staff, and most of all a more welcoming community of parents and students.

PA has been such a blessing for my family. One of my kids has had some learning and developmental issues that were identified and patiently dealt with by the staff there. I don’t think things would have been handled half as well in the public school system.

I also appreciate the diversity of opportunities at PA. Whether your child is a jock/artist/nerd/drama nut/budding scientist, there is a place for him here. No one area of learning is discounted in favor of another.

The PA families also reflect diversity. There is a wide variety of religions, races, incomes, nationalities, and backgrounds represented in the student body. Anyone who would tell you differently hasn’t spent much time there recently.

Besides being a parent, I’m also a regular substitute for all grades at PA. I see for myself the level of skill and commitment of the teachers there. They challenge the students, and demand a lot from them, but they also care deeply about them. When I spend time in the high school classrooms, I see the result of this. I see young men and women who are bright, well-rounded, respectful, and happy. That’s all I need to see to know that PA is an excellent choice for my family.

The school decision is one that no family makes lightly. The decision we made to attend Pulaski Academy was reinforced in every way throughout our first year—from emotional development, the multidisciplinary approach to learning, and the care and attention during arguably the most challenging year with the pandemic. We knew our daughter was loved, cared for, and challenged academically just as everyone is. PA is excellence all around in action and not just words. We are proud to be part of the family and cannot wait for times to return to normal so participation only becomes richer.