I sympathise but to use the title 'American flight schools' as a generalisation for shoddy practice is a little unfair. I can name several very professionally run flying training providers in the USA, I can also name several poor ones! Like any country they have a share of both good and bad, for such a large investment you really have to do lot's of homework on choosing the right school, location, aircraft, instructors etc etc, price should probably not come into it although it is tempting to go for the biggest glossy advert and the cheapest price (not saying thats what you did). I have been caught out in the past with a flight school in the UK, I did not do enough research and it cost me more than it should have done. You live and learn.
If I were trying to choose a school now, I would certainly ask to be put in touch with current and ex students and see what experinces they have. If it's a reputable school they will happily put you in contact with past customers.