Strong data hides lack of culturally responsive teaching - Teacher Kauffman School Employee Review

3.0
Apr 6, 2020
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Amazing teaching staff, dedicated teachers, partnership with families. Incredible deans and social work team.

Cons

EMKS administration cares about having yes-men surround them. They have 0 administrators who are certified in administration, much less who have degrees in admin. They use tactics such as gossip, bullying, straight up lying, and intimidation to get their way. They have a facade of feedback. They say they want teachers feedback, and want to make the school better, and in some cases, adjusting feedback does make changes. However a majority of the time, adjusting feedback is met with conversations about "mindset" or questioning if the teacher is on board with the organization's beliefs. As far as student progress goes, far too much attention is given to testing, data, and bubble kids. Instructional coaches only give feedback on routines and procedures and after multiple years, I could count on one hand the number of times professional development actually helped me become a more effective teacher in my content. The expectations of students in regards to their management and course work is abominable and if I was a parent I would never be okay with the way that teachers are coached to talk to my children. The guise of being "culturally responsive" has been lost on the decision makers of this organization.

Explore other reviews about Kauffman School

5.0
Jun 7, 2026
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

I have had an overwhelmingly positive experience working here. The culture is welcoming, respectful, and inclusive, creating an environment where employees feel valued and supported. Staff accomplishments are consistently recognized and celebrated, which helps foster a strong sense of appreciation and motivation. One of the organization's greatest strengths is its commitment to clear expectations and established guidelines. Leadership strives to apply policies consistently and fairly, creating a sense of trust and accountability. Expectations are communicated clearly, and employees are provided with the resources and support needed to meet them successfully. I have also found that work-life balance is respected and encouraged. The organization recognizes that employees are people first, and that support is reflected in both its culture and day-to-day practices. Colleagues and leaders work collaboratively to create a positive, caring environment focused on helping everyone succeed. Overall, I truly enjoy my work and appreciate being part of an organization that invests in its employees, celebrates their achievements, and demonstrates a genuine commitment to both staff and students. It is a rewarding place to work and contribute.

Cons

My experience has been largely positive.

5.0
May 26, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

EMKS is intentional about teacher and leader growth. We focus on technical and adaptive growth. I can honestly say that every leader space in which I sit is focused on retaining great talent and supporting the people who work incredibly hard for students and families. Teachers and leaders are strongly supported by a robustly-staff Network Team -- operations, technology, data, etc. Our philosophy is that teacher and leader time should be spent on the things that only teachers and leaders can do, and the Network Team makes sure that can happen.

Cons

I'm sure similar to the work at any high-performing school, the work never feels finished. The world changes, student and family needs evolve, and talent priorities shift over time. It's incredibly rewarding, but the job is never done.

See reviews by: Helpful|Rating|Date|All