First of all, it's important to remember that you're the customer in the flight training. Your instructor may, at times, cover stuff that maybe doesn't seem pertinent to you at the time. However, this shouldn't be happening on a consistent basis, and it's your responsibility to say something to your instructor if it does.
As far as where you go for your flight training, I would recommend a pilot academy only if you're trying to fly professionally, and then only if you can't find another FBO close by your home.