You need to research your American school VERY carefully before deciding to part with your cash.
You are correct with that Graham, but that goes for any school. Let's not forget Cabair or PTC. Just how short are our memories?
You also imply that US schools are less capable of meeting EASA requirements. Any evidence to support that? As EASA is based on European Law, perhaps the CAA will no longer be the over riding authority or the highest standard. Therefore the schools approved overseas will be approved to the letter of the law and the 'old-boys' club will not apply.