This is a review of the Liberal Arts and Science Academy at LBJ High School. When we attended the school's presentation, we were assured it was as much an arts as a science academy. This was not the case. Our son, who is not particularly gifted or interested in math or science but is very bright in the liberal and fine arts, was demoralized by the teachers and administration. The liberal arts teachers were neither creative nor motivating. After two and half years we watched a very bright young man become doubtful that he was bright. When education convinces bright children they are dumb, you have the opposite of education.\r
LASA is a good school for kids who are science and math wizzes. Otherwise it is a disappointment.\r
Additionally, the potential diversity that could come from the interaction of the magnet and non-magnet students is lost with the greater separation of these two groups. I'd give this school 4 stars for math and science kids - 2 stars for liberal arts and the learning environment. \r
We are happy he is now in a school that enhances his self-respect and motivation. LASA compromised both.
Pros: Bright generally well-behaved students at LASA
Cons: Excessive emphasis on math and science - lack of creativity in liberal and fine arts
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