Examing CDL Training Costs from Companies

I would like to help others and get some FIRST HAND information from drivers of companies and from current or recent students of some of these company schools. I am trying to determine where the best training is for the money and what company to go with. I have only researched about five (major) companies and one private training facility (in the KCMO area).

I looked at the private school Roadmaster and Schneider, Swift, Stevens, CR England, Central Refrigerated Service, and Prime...I have not eliminated CRE, CRS, and Prime but did not look at there training. But would also like to have information on them if anyone has good data on them.

I do not know if the information on truckingtruth.com (which was updated on 11/20/2008) is accurate, but the site states:

To start with:
Roadmaster costs $6,495 for 160 hours of training **
Schneider costs $4,500 for 14 "days" of training
Swift costs $3,900 for "23" days of training
Stevens costs $5,995 for 21 "days" of training
**Not from that web site

With these three companies, all of the repayments are different, the length of time you must work is different, the pay is quite similar (low but understandable for a new driver) with a little difference, and some the additional costs are a little different.

I can look at these issues and make my own decision based on cost, length of the course, and any repayment or reimbursement, and what I believe is right for me, but what I do not know is:
How is the actual training?
How is the orientation at the company?
Are the trainers and/or mentors good?
Are the trucks and equipment kept in good condition?
I know there are varying opinions but how is the management and dispatch support for the drivers?
I know that I can hope to make about $35,000 based on pay scale and miles (if the miles are available).
Are there any other company schools that are good and companies that would hire a new driver living in Kansas City, MO that I am not familiar with?
Any other input that I am not thinking of?

Being new I am staying away from being an O/O for quite some time, if ever. Although I would enjoy some of the benefits of O/O, but I know there are many drawbacks. I am not seeking any opinions on O/O at this time.

Thanks for you genuine and honest opinions.