I never thought I'd be writing a review like this after spending thousands in donations on top of…read morenormal tuition. The school does not live up to its marketing pitch. However, most of ESK's flaws will not be readily apparent to those visiting. You'll likely assume that your kids are in a small class and teachers are working with them. But, if you read no further than here, I suggest that you consider what ESK is actually teaching (the actual core curriculum) and compare it to national, local, or other private school standards. It falls drastically short - particularly in reading, history, and science. They don't even have textbooks or teach basic phonics in the lower grades. Problems: 1) While they hang their hat on the student/teacher ratio, the additional teaching assistant more often just allows the teacher to slack off. This surprised us because, like most people, we thought that more teachers would mean more attention. However, that didn't happen. 2) Instead of the usual schoolwork, a lot of class time is spent on projects designed to continuously impress the parents. Regularly, you'll get something like a laminated book with a storyline about how mom and dad are awesome. But, at the expense of this, there's not much time for the true nuts-and-bolts of teaching your kid. Among other things, ESK skips over phonics and does not even have textbooks to send home (just copies of worksheets). Since ESK doesn't conduct tests or assign grades, parents may not notice deficiencies until it's too late. It's a "participation trophy" philosophy that is, in the end, harmful to kids' academic success. The fuzzy standards also help teachers do whatever they want in teaching. This is particularly true for one 1st grade teacher who favors studying butterflies and outdoors over reading and writing. Likewise, in Kindergarten, our child went many weeks without doing reading assignments because the teacher just didn't send anything home. In second grade, the teacher had a love for Civil Rights, politics, and Black history. Again, fine material for older kids or college, but not for 2.5 months of class time in second grade. The peculiar history lessons also created confusion since there was no clear timeline or context (as one would have with most American history textbooks). 3) Schools should be apolitical. As a middle of the road guy, I'm bothered by right or left political indoctrination of my elementary school kids. In this instance, ESK has a decidedly liberal political agenda and incorporates it into the curriculum. They also teach inappropriate content at a young age. We had enough when our 7 year old child was assigned a book entitled, Maya Angelou: Journey of the Heart by Jayne Pettit. On pages 16-18 of this book, there is a graphic description of a young Maya Angelou being molested by her mother's boyfriend. 4) If you plan on earning money to pay the $15,000 tuition, be prepared to take a lot of time off for the various activities during the school day. Very little, if anything, is scheduled for after school. 5) The new headmaster is an ineffective leader. He previously led a NC charter school ranked average by that state. Moreover, unlike the former headmaster, he lacks charisma and was unable to handle routine issues. 6) If you are a Christian, you'll be disappointed by the fact that ESK seems to shy away from embracing the religious aspects that could offend someone. During the holidays, there was always an email practically apologizing to non-Christian students for having Christmas and Easter events. Overall: There are much better options in Knoxville. ESK puts on a good front. But, it is woefully deficient in how it prepares children for later academic success.

Wow! What a great school. We have been so impressed. I love seeing pictures and videos of what goes…read moreon during the day through the parent-teacher app. Our daughter started JK4 with a basic knowledge of some sight words and what sounds letters make. Within 3 weeks of class, she was reading... and FAST! She also tells me certain arithmetic facts and wants me to quiz her. She's made great friends here, and I love that she gets to play outside often. The teacher incorporate outside activities into the lessons. I appreciate that her weekly schedule includes P.E., library, art, music, and two foreign languages. I also like that the cafeteria food is farm-to-table. Parents are encouraged to participate and visit. The students attend chapel every day, and I love when my daughter tells me what she prayed about. I have no complaints about ESK.

First of all, it is concerning and a red flag when prior posts that might reflect negatively are…read moreremoved. Because an institution touts itself as being excellent isn't necessarily a fact. Yes, considering what is available in this area, this might be an option for Christian education. But CAK is lacking in several areas. The teacher turn over rate is high. Therefore consistency in programs is not there. The school has grown, which is not necessarily a good thing. Administration needs to be more careful in monitoring the growth. What is being sacrificed in order to bring in revenue? Our expectations for this school were high as we just had an excellent experience (in another state). The atmosphere was TRULY happy and joyful. Lots of high-fives, hugs, and esprit on the entire campus. It was palpable.. From both faculty and students. And top-notch programs where students were achieving academically, spiritually, and emotionally. Sadly, for the rate of tuition, CAK is average.

This school is amazing! Compared to all the other schools I've been to this place is the Bomb!…read moreTeachers are nice and make class very interesting, and it keeps my classmates and I engaged in the topic(s)

This is a fantastic church! We've been involved at CUMC for years. There's a servant heart amongst…read morethe congregation and the church is always involved in many service projects. The pastors are great and always available when needed. There are many small groups to choose from and there's a large, awesome children's and youth program.

I stopped going to this church right before the last national elections. The elder minister was…read moregiving a sermon that was a thinly veiled directive as to who to vote for in the coming election. No minister or church tells me who to vote for. There is real weight in the separation of church and state and I believe wholeheartedly that religion stay out of politics. Unfortunately, religious leaders do not agree with this. Just look at the Pope. But, I expected better from a Methodist minister. I stomped out of the service and never looked back.

Northstar Church is a non-denominational church that is located in West Knoxville next to Brown…read moreSquirrel Furniture. We are a congregation that seeks to glorify God with our lives. Purpose Statement: "To bring people into a vibrant, personal relationship with Jesus Christ."

My husband, dad and I attend here as often as possible. Due to the nature of our work, we can't…read moreattend every week. Scott Cagle is an awesome pastor. We have been here 50 times plus and each sermon has been terrific. He has great energy and passion. Every single time I have left this church, I walk to my car thinking to myself how great the service was and how thankful I am to be a Christian (for 31 years). I went to a church for a long time that had a Pastor that beat us down - every single service. He would say he was just preaching the word and his preaching was a hard style. Looking back, that is not what it was. He wanted to shame us and make us feel defeated. I left there every Sunday feeling sad and nearly hopeless. Scott Cagle is the opposite. He is very uplifting and encouraging. GOD IS SO GOOD!

Tate's School is a dream learning space for kids and parents alike. Beyond its impressive campus…read moreand mountain cabins classrooms, Tate's has a serious curriculum taught by dedicated educators who teach advanced content using holistic learning approaches through which kids naturally develop key practical skills. We value the life skills that our children are developing and the care that they receive by their teachers and the School personnel. Tate's School is a family run center that feels warm and safe by the children and their parents. We observed in these years that respect is a very important value at Tate's and, being an expat, multicultural family, is a key aspect that we hold in high esteem. We wholeheartedly recommend Tate's School, for those searching for a serious, competent educational center where children and families grow strong networks.

One of the best learning environments I've ever experienced. The curriculum is well rounded, the…read morecampus is beautiful, and to top it off the teachers are so caring and compassionate

This church focuses on teaching from the bible. There is a welcoming atmosphere which is hard for…read morea large church to do. Humble leaders, no stuffiness. The teaching leaves you with conviction and addresses all aspects of life. Good for new believers and for those that are more mature in their walk with the Lord. They offer small group bible studies, mission trips, youth programs, and many specialized ministries to help and inspire people where they need it.

Love the choir & the pastor. He teaches from the Bible. Very strong speaker. Loving congregation.read more

Beyond exceptional and kind people. I am so thankful to have met them and they are always…read morerespectful and considerate when I have a question. Highly recommend

From the owner: The mission of Grace Covenant Baptist Academy is to partner with families in providing a superior…read moreChristian education, consistent with Biblical principles, within a secure, loving environment, recognizing God as the source of all life and truth, and leading students to discover their individual gifts for spiritual, social, emotional and intellectual development, thereby equipping students for the pursuit of excellence and integrity under the Lordship of Christ.