MacKintosh Academy in Denver, Colorado

“We were looking for a middle school environment for our son that would provide a positive transition from the small international school he attended when we lived overseas. Mackintosh proved to do that and more. The teachers at Mackintosh are not only skilled educators, but also wonderful human beings who create an atmosphere much like an extended family. At this school, character and compassion are valued as much as analytical thinking skills and creativity. The needs of each student are thoughtfully taken into consideration. Planning, reflection and communication skills are developed through the practice of self-evaluation, in-depth discussions, teamwork, and an excellent performing arts program. Topics are supplemented with interesting hands-on projects and field trips. Our son is now in a large public high school, but his experience at Mackintosh helped him to develop the confidence and character he needs to negotiate the many choices and opportunities he now faces.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“We have both our son and daughter attend Mackintosh and they are very happy at this school. They have attended different gifted programs at DPS, and this school is excellent in being flexible and in understanding their needs. The academic program is challenging and promoting active learning. Our kids like the units of inquiry a lot and PE every day. The head of school is a great advocate for gifted girls. The school is willing to accommodate a bilingual component in the curriculum, to facilitate learning in their native language as well. The students feel a sense of community that extends over grades and classrooms.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“I have two children who go to Mackintosh and have been very pleased. Mackintosh has a strong IB program that allows students to learn higher level thinking skills and global awareness. The faculty at Mackintosh is AWESOME as well. Teachers are knowledgeable, well educated and genuinely caring. The school's philosophy of teaching the 'whole child' holds true too. Because of the strong curriculum, IB program, and caring environment- I would recommend Mackintosh whole heartedly.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“What makes a school? The people: teachers, head of school, specials teachers, parents of those who attend and most importantly the children who attend. It is a rare event that you find all the 'people' at a school that care and are compassionate about everyone involved. My children are challenged academically and most importantly to me, socially. They are learning not only to apply compassion in everyday life situation with others, they now have a very high standard for how others treat them. The self respect and esteem they have developed in their very short time at Mackintosh is unparalleled. The transparent approach the Head of School has with the classroom teachers fosters an environment of open communication with parents and teachers and leaves no room for miscommunication. My children will benefit their whole lives from their experiences and continued experiences here to come! First Class people with First Class Results!”
This review was posted by a parent.

“Mackintosh Academy has proven to be a safe and encouraging place where our children have been able to learn to care deeply about the world around them, be sensitive to the needs of those in our community and been stimulated intellectually and nurtured emotionally beyond compare. The care and interest that the staff at MA provides is so authentic and compassionate to each individual student and family. MA provides a forum for continuous communication in an open and honest way that promotes an excellent parent-teacher-student relationship. The balanced view of the whole child resonates through each teacher up through the head of school and is reflected in the respect the students show each other. MA is a place where strengths are celebrated, areas of need are supported and everyone is honored for who they are. We are fortunate to be a part of such an amazing environment.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“My daughter attends Mackintosh, this is her second year. I could not be happier with the school. They are challenging her academically and developing her interpersonal skills. But, probably the most important advancement to me is her social awareness and concern for others.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“Finding out that your child needs a speciallized education can be scary and exciting and a challenge. We did our homework and visited many schools before choosing Mackintosh Academy. Upon the 35 minute drive to our first visit to the campus I had already decided it was too far to commute each morning for school. But, after our meeting and a tearful face, we left knowing that the school was the perfect fit for our daughter. We have been there for just 2 years now and besides the commute, which makes for great bonding time, I have only positive things to say. While I love the idea of my daughter doing wonderful in her academics the idea of building her character is extremely important to our family and that is what Mackintosh is great at. One visit to a school wide function and you feel something special and different and wonderful!”
This review was posted by a parent.

“Have had our son here for two years thus far and he will finish up here. Its the first school he has really embraced. They really cater to smart kids who don't want to work within the traditional four walled classroom. The best part I have seen is that they don't even know they are learning until for example at the Thanks giving day table my son explains why he is thankful that he lives in American and explains what life is like in several other countries including disease, their economies, their health care system and juidicial departments. He never knew how much he had learned! Good work Mackintosh!”
This review was posted by a parent.

“This school is amazing through and through! Our kids are getting a great education that is rigorous but compassionate and supportive as well; they are pushed but just enough to challenge them- not make them feel overwhelmed. Principal, academic leadership, and teaching staff are responsive and collaborative. Our family feels like we are on the same team as the whole school, and that the objective of the team is to nurture and challenge our kids to help them become who they want to be. We highly recommend Mackintosh.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“Our experience with MA has been outstanding. The atmosphere of the school is very warm and caring. They want to do the best for your child and help them find their motivations and successes. The opportunities for further study/advancement that have been presented have been enormous and challenging. The staff is very familiar with giftedness and the challenges that may come with it. Problems or concerns are addressed quickly and respectfully. The IB program is different but has provided a fantastic perspective to the learning experience. They work with you to make sure your child is being challenged and at the correct math/vocabulary/reading level and do not apply a one-size-fits-all philosophy. Not every school works for every child/family but this school has helped to put the love of learning into my child. And that is a wonderful thing to have.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“Mackintosh Academy s philosophy of being sensitive to the development of the whole child and cultivating a community that is aware of the social and emotional sensitivities and appropriately nurturing them is the reason we decided to look into this school. Our son was struggling in our neighborhood Denver school. He wasn t struggling because it was a bad school; he was struggling because it wasn t a good fit for him. Perhaps that is the most important thing to remember when looking at different schools what is really best for your child. Our son is now in his second year at Mackintosh, and we are extremely pleased with the quality of his education. Besides incredible specials/teachers (performing arts, physical education, visual arts, Spanish), his homeroom is truly a home for him. He has two of the same teachers and one new teacher this year. He feels like they understand and get him. From our standpoint, we see three caring teachers who truly can and do differentiate all the diverse learning styles and differences in his classroom. His individual needs (academic, social-emotional) are being met. Even though this is a gifted school, there is still a huge range of where the children are socially, emotionally, as well as academically. The head of school has a huge heart for all the children and we are so pleased with the depth of her knowledge and compassion. We are so thankful that we were told about this hidden gem of a school.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“i was the string of 'continued...' postings. one last thing i forgot to mention is that the middle school overall leave several gaps in a students education and they have a way to lax way of looking at discipline. when i got to high school i was doing some minor catchup socially, disciplinary, and with school work. i would urge anyone who is in middle school to bug the teachers about a much stricter late policy (if possible) because even though it will make your life harder now, in the future you will be much better prepared.”
This review was posted by a other.

“We feel so fortunate to be part of the Mackintosh community. And it is just that, a community. My daughter needed a school that was going to attend to her exceptional academic needs as well as her need to be a part of something bigger than herself and the world she sees everyday. She has grown so much academically and as a person since she has started school at Mackintosh. She comes home happy, enlightened and filled with information to share about her day. She has a passion and empathy for others that is far beyond her age and is welcomed at a school like Mackintosh. I feel it is my job as a parent to make excellent educational decisions for my child and the communication and attention that I receive from the Head of School as well as my daughter's teachers has been invaluable.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“We have two children attending Mackintosh and are delighted with the high quality of education they receive. They are consistently challenged by teachers -- and have become strong, independent thinkers. One of our children is dyslexic and at times has needed accommodations at school. His teachers and the Head of School have addressed his needs with great sensitivity and consideration. Instead of being an 'at-risk' student, our child loves to go to school and is excelling academically. We are grateful to have found a 'home' at Mackintosh.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“Just the best thing that could happen to our family. Caring and profesional Teachers and Principal.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“My two children have attended Mackintosh for several years, and I have been so pleased with the school's International Baccalaureate curriculum, dedicated and caring teachers and staff, and the community of families. My children have been consistently challenged academically, and nurtured socio-emotionally -- they love their teachers and peers and are always enthusiastic about what they're learning! The teachers are incredibly caring and empathetic, and always available to parents and students. The administration truly cares about staff and students. I highly recommend Mackintosh Academy for serving its gifted and talented students with compassion and integrity, and for maintaining a balance between academic rigor and nurturing the 'whole child.'”
This review was posted by a parent.

“My daughter struggled in the public school system and is thriving at Mackintosh. The IB program is well developed, the teachers are fantastic, and the school creates an amazing sense of community. For the gifted child, Mackintosh is an amazing opportunity. It addresses the way these children think and allows them to challenge themselves, while still holding them accountable to necessary standards. We couldn't be happier, even with the big price tag!”
This review was posted by a parent.

“I love Mackintosh! I started at Mackintosh when I was three and I went there for eleven years. Mackintosh molded me into a very academically advanced student when I arrived at high school. Mackintosh completely prepared me for high school and life and is an excellent educational institution. It provides a small environment that allows for one-one teaching and growth as an individual. The staff is amazing and the teachers really care about the students' success. When I left Mackintosh I took my SATs and scored 1700 soley from the amazing education I recieved at Mackintosh. For anyone who wants their children to excell and recieve an education that promotes success and a love of learning, Mackintosh is the school for you!”
This review was posted by a student.

“I have two kids that attend MacKintosh. Both very much enjoy the fast pace learning. Very good environment for kids who have the abilities to learn quickly. I have no doubt that when my kids leave 8th grade they will have no difficulties in college. Very well prepared. I have read the reviews of unhappy parents/kids. There must not be too many because I havent met them. Great teachers and administrator who cares.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“Ha ha the teacher quality is 4 out of 5! Thats funny! In middle school some of the teachers are not really teaching. They are always... it seams taking care of a problem and just forgets about the rest of us. They are unfair!”
This review was posted by a student.

“I believe that Mackintosh is an Excellent school. I have been going here since i was 7. It is an amazing environment. If even one student has a problem t is fixed right away. There is definitely no favorisum by the Head of School with any of the students. If one of her own children has a problem with the school or there classmates she will take over the role of a parent and help her child in any way she can. Sometimes 'favorisum' is caused because one student over the other has special needs and needs some extra support. I highly recommend this school.”
This review was posted by a student.

“I do not like how I have to work off of a worksheet for homework in Pre-Algabra. I think the curriculum has gone down hill big time sence last year.”
This review was posted by a student.

“My son graduated from Mackintosh Academy last year. I have been so impressed with his ability to easily integrate into a public high school. He has had an air of confidence and sense of self that I feel was nutured throughout his 7 years at Mackintosh. It has been wonderful to see this intelligent yet awkward boy, grow into a young man, eady to take on greater challenges in the community. I credit all of his teachers with this success. I especially appreciated PE daily and an outstanding performing arts program. The math program allowed my son to progress much faster pace than he would have in public school.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“It isn't that Mackintosh doesn't get gifted education, it's that the administration is more interested in projecting a caring image than actually cultivating it. When it comes down to it, the only thing that matters is what the Head of School wants, not what is best for students.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“Our negative comments do not result from lack of value placed on deep respect for self or for respecting and appreciating diversity of community. Our negative comments result purely from our son's needs not being met, but more than that from the Head of School's disregard for the changes that need to be made at the school to make it a great place for gifted learners who are not twice exceptional. Our son is highly gifted but doesn't require any special accomodations emotionally or socially. He just needed to be academically challenged. No time for that due to so many students who have special emotional, social or academic needs.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“Mackintosh Academy is an amazing community of diverse learners and master educators. Self-acceptance and a deep respect for the world is nurtured. Academics are tailored to each individual student since GT students inherently have a huge range of capabilities. I suspect that many of the negative comments out here are the result of a mismatch in parent/school philosophy. Deep learning and questioning is present at all grades, but it is not a place of academic competitiveness. Rather students individual needs are thoughtfully met. My students have experienced many different types of learning environments in the Denver metro area -- none met their social-emotional needs and individual academic requirements quite like Mackintosh has. I am forever grateful to the wonderful head of school who has made this amazing community possible. We have truly found a home.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“My child is in middle school at Mackintosh. I agree with the positive comments about the teachers -- almost all of them are caring and skilled teachers. I also agree with the comments that the administration is more interested in filling seats and projecting a particular image than offering education. A lot of great middle school students have been leaving because the middle school lacks discipline, leaving the kids that were the problem to begin with. It makes me wonder if I should keep my child on a sinking ship.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“I attended this school for three years. The teachers and curriculum are excellent. However, the discipline process is absolutely terrible. The discipline process is terrible. The administrative and visual arts section of the school lacks, ensuring no one is offended. This school is no longer what it was due to this,”
This review was posted by a student.

“I am not at all impressed with Mackintosh Academy. My son attended 4 years there. For the tution fees around $12,000/- per school year kids are better off in public than Mackintosh. Academically poor and it looks that they want to fill up the class to get tution fees and not looking the kids are gifted and talented.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“My child attended Mackintosh with very poor results. The administration seemed more concered with filling classrooms than focusing on making a good fit for the child. There is very little concern for children who fall behind. If you need any special help you will struggle to figure it out, pay for it, education the teachers, etc. I feel many gifted children are also ADD or have some sort of sensory integration dysfunction or even dyslexia. Mackintosh admits these kids but the teachers don't know what to do for them. Please beware. I don't know many kids who intetrate well into public school from Mackintosh.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“My child attended Mackintosh for several years. The teachers are amazing which is the biggest strength of this school. Their enthusiam and love for these children are evident. The school itself is poorly run however, and discipline is lacking . The teachers and the administration especially are not open to suggestions or ideas from the parents. There is poor communication with the faculty and the parents. The IB program is good, however there is too much emphasis on meeting these requirements and the children therefore are lacking the knowledge that their peers have gained in other schools. Having my child evaluated after his elementary years was concerning to me as he lacked the infomation he needed to integrate into a public school. A tax paying Douglas County education is the same (minus the $13,000+/yr) if not better. The kids love Mack though, and that had made us very happy as parents.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“My daughter attended the 06-07 year. At the public school, our daughter was distressed at the lack of respect and inconsistency of enforcing rules. Here, the IB principles and attitudes were lived each day in her class. Enthusiastically embraced by the staff, this allowed her to blossom academically. Every class had math at the same time so no matter how old your child was, they attended the math level that suited them best--not the one which suits 'most kids their age.' The drama program was fabulous. The school is small, so there are trade-offs: lack of sports teams or afterschool programs. To feel of the spirit of this school, go to the graduation--every class not only attends, but participates in this wonderful event. If you have a caring, sensitive and bright child, this is a fabulous school. If we still lived in Colorado, we'd still be there.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“My child was a student here last year. We had a miserable experience. There is no teacher accountability, the administrator allows the teachers to run classrooms as they wish despite parent complaints/concerns. The administrator admitted several months into the school year that she hadn't observed the classes that year. Parents' opinions and concerns are not welcome -they are the experts, parents know nothing. The administrator talks a very good talk when you first meet her but there is no followup. There is a lot of favortism at the school including the administrator's two children who attend - just hope your kid is not in their class! Note very carefully that the majority of the positive reviews are from teachers, not parents. There are some wonderful schools for gifted kids in the Denver area, unfortunately this is not one of them. The concept is great, the administration is lacking.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“I have taught at other schools in the past but Mackintosh Academy has the best curriculum and learning environment for children that I've seen. Teachers at Mackintosh truly care for their students and go beyond expectations to ensure that they are comfortable, challenged, and inspired. The I.B. program that Mackintosh offers nurtures the gifted child, stretching their thinking and develops them into well rounded students. In my opinion, the quality of learning is truly superior to other schools. Also, parents take an active role at Mackintosh and teacher- parent relationships are outstanding. As a teacher, I am so fortunate to be apart of such a wonderful team. As my own children get to school age, I wouldn't consider another school for them!”
This review was posted by a teacher.

“As a teacher at Mackintosh, I feel very fortunate to be in such a supportive, compassionate, well-rounded school. Mackintosh recognizes the children s individual needs and works hard to support these needs. The values at Mackintosh help the children to learn how to think, and how to use their knowledge in the world around them. The community of students, staff and parents are truly exceptional. I am honored to be an educator at this school.”
This review was posted by a teacher.

“My children have thrived at this wonderful school. They are able to be themselves-smart and caring kids. Strengths are celebrated and weaknesses are nurtured. The teachers work incredibly hard and really know each child.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“My son is a bright and extremely reticent guy, the most important thing about middle school at Mackintosh was that he was valued and honored for who he is and therefore, he emerged from middle school whole and sure of himself and his values. The transition to a much bigger school went smoothly and in his words was 'underwhelming'. No, he's not an overachieving, straight A student, but Mackintosh prepared him to think critically and problem solve-something I think is lost in the CSAP driven world of many public schools. The specials classes were also so important for his development. I wish every school (including high school) would require kids to go to PE every day. I also loved that he had to be in the plays. It wasn't something he would have chosen, but he had fun with them and learned so much.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“Mackintosh provides a unique opportunity for children to grow intellectually and emotionally in a safe, caring environment with an outstanding 10-1 student/teacher ratio, with an authentic emphasis on the arts, both performing and visual.”
This review was posted by a teacher.

“As a teacher at Mackintosh Academy I am honored to be an educator within such a positive and heart filled environment. Within our school one will find a community of learners that are inquiring about the world around them through a rich academic curriculum that is supported by experienced educators. In their learning, the students acquire and apply not only academic skills, but social skills as well that are valuable in the classroom as well as in their own personal lives. The staff and families of Mackintosh are committed in making a positive influence in the educational experiences of all the students by appreciating their differences in learning. It is a compassionate school where it is a joy to watch the students love to learn.”
This review was posted by a teacher.

“Mackintosh Academy has offered my children an excellent education. The school philosophy revolves around honoring the whole child and I have seen this to be true. The academic program, enhanced by the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program, is outstanding. Students develop a love of inquiry and learning. I have been impressed by the teachers and administration in both their communication and listening skills.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“This is our daughters first year at Mackintosh and we couldn't be happier! During the last eight weeks, my husband and I have noticed tremendous growth--both academically and socially. There are many components that make Mackintosh such a unique learning environment. Some of these components include, small class size, highly qualified teachers, International Baccalaureate accreditation, amazing leadership by the Head of School, and the 'family like' atmosphere. We are blessed that our daughter has the opportunity to attend such an amazing school!”
This review was posted by a parent.

“As a teacher at Mackintosh Academy, I am grateful each day to be part of a compassionate, intelligent and conscientious community of teachers, students and families. Mackintosh strives to teach the whole child-head, hand and heart- by addressing the differentiated needs of each student and honoring them as individuals. Each classroom is a fusion of individuals exploring the world together. With the International Baccalaureate Program as a foundation, each class investigates concepts to deepen knowledge and develop skills. The children continuously explore what it means to be an IB learner, and are encouraged to take their learning and put it into action. I am thrilled and honored to be a part of this excellent program.”
This review was posted by a teacher.

“Mackintosh Academy is the best school in which I have ever taught in over 15 years of teaching experience. The International Baccalaureate accredidation is not merely a label but the attitudes of everything from compassion, creativity, and curiosity to empathy, enthusiasm, respect, tolerance, and more, are taught intentionally on a day-to-day basis. I started at the school as a substitute teacher. I remember my first visit being so impressed with the kind of learners being shaped here that I deeply desired to work here full-time. Happily, that has happened, and I love implementing the kinds of teaching that form our students into reflective thinkers, principled risk-takers, and caring, open-minded, knowledgeable communicators. I highly recommend this school for all of the reasons above, but also because it is a genuine community of people who have keen minds, compassionate hearts, and are global actors, working for a better world. Barbara VB”
This review was posted by a teacher.

“As a teacherf at Mackintosh Academy, I really love working here. Our IB, student directed/techer led curriculum is wonderful. Students get to do a lot of exploring and discovering on their way to learning. The small class size with two teachers per room is one of the best parts of the school. We are able to address the needs of students with many different learning styles and learning needs. There is lots of time and room for individual attention. I have found this one-on-one time to be the key to growth, improvement and overall learning. We are also blessed to have a parent community that is involved, interested and supportive. The education of the children is truly a team effort between teachers, students and parents.”
This review was posted by a teacher.

“I attended Mackintosh Academy from the time I was 4 years old until I finished 'Division Four'. I transfered into public school and only then did I realize that I had missed critical basic skills in all basic subjects. While the administration attains bragging rights for teaching elementary level students biology and algebra, in reality the subjects are skimmed over in a manner that allows students to forget everything they absorbed within a short period of time. When I transfered to public school, I was so far behind in all basic subjects that I needed to go in for extra help sessions with teachers just to keep up. Don't assume this is because Mackintosh made a mistake in accepting me; I recieved top marks in my time there. I caught up with much effort. I would consider a different school for your child's education.”
This review was posted by a former student.

“Mackintosh Academy has been a disappointment for my family. We 'bought into' the promise of individualized care and unfortunately this is not the case. Our experience included no true commitment for individual learning needs. The staff relies heavily on parents to fill the gaps. Although this is a 'gifted' school we saw no evidence that academically our children were excelling, in fact, when we transferred to the public school of choice our children were behind in more than one subject. I strongly recommend you look elsewhere for quality education that will prepare your child emotionally, academically and socially.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“I have two boys who attend Mackintosh. They love the school and I love the close knit relationship built between parent, child, and teacher. They truly know my children and when there is an area of weakness they jump to help them achieve success. The teachers at Mackintosh are beyond incredible. They are passionate, caring, knowledgeable individuals that know how to insight and ingauge these children in a way I've never seen before. My children love their teachers and they get loving support to achieve their very best.”
This review was posted by a parent.