Mayfair Laboratory School

I cannot say in words how thankful I am for Mayfair Lab but I will try. The curriculum is aggressive, homework is given to kindergarteners, students are expected to conduct themselves appropriately. That is all true. In return, the teachers really do care about each and every student. They are the kind of teachers you dream of: educated (Masters-level), fun, compassionate and creative. They are truly invested in my son. The students have harvested and grown their own flower, fruit and vegetable gardens. This year, Mayfair Lab was one of only two Louisiana schools (plus one university - LSU) recognized as a Green Ribbon School by the US Dept of Education. The morning announcements are broadcast by students similar to a news station via the school's Youtube channel. Academics is their primary focus with environmental and digital arts studies. The parents are very involved as well. I didn't know a school this awesome even existed. I love Mayfair Lab!

IMayfair does an exceptional job of going above and beyond in ensuring the success of every student. They go so far as to offer free tutoring to help student who feel they need reinforcement and better understanding in key subject areas before Spring testing. During the year teachers make sure they maintain open communications with parents. They do what they can within the constraints of time and regular instruction schedules to listen and understand every child`s needs. I find talking to teachers and staff to be fairly easy. There are many events, field trips and meetings throughout the year with which to steal a minute or two to touch base. All in all, this school is not for everyone. Children who lack the ability to focus, or are easily distracted may find it difficult to keep up with the pace. It`s a Laboratory School, very structure, but nurturing. There`s a time to work..and a time to play. Our children love it and thrive beautifully.

This school is patterned after the often lauded LSU Lab School. Since this is a magnet school, of course the students have to test into the school and maintain a certain GPA in order to stay. I understand all that. However, my experience has been that the teachers throw out a bunch of information and just hope that it sticks. There is no real concern for whether or not the children actually understand what was taught. They leave it to the CHILDREN to ASK for help and low grades are ignored as an indicator that a child may not understand a particular lesson. They roll right on to the next lesson, leaving any child that may not have understood to fall behind. Also, because these children are considered "smart", there is no tutoring provided EXCEPT when they believe it will impact the schools overall grade. I have not been impressed at all by this school. They talk a good game, but in my opinion, that's all it is.