Menlo

I am so sorry about my spelling. I graduated a very long time ago. I meant *opportunistic.

If all you complain about is how Menlo is arrogant and elitist, how rich the families are, etc., but not how amazing the quality of teaching is, you should not go there. Many kids from families that did not/could not donate mega amount, also enjoyed the school and was praised for what they do, not what their family have. The school tried so hard to recruit (and provide financial aid if needed to) different background of students in order to make diversified student body. When things don t work out (did not get accepted, failed in classes etc., bad behavior), some bad feelings going around. I did not remember "Who are your grandparents in the application, could you show? "What can you give to Menlo?" You can give time and wisdom.
--Submitted by a parent

This school is arrogant and elitist. They teach their students to live in an uncompassionate, narrow cocoon. Just look at their application for starters .... "Who are your grandparents? (so Menlo doesn't overlook anyone with money and status)" and they also ask parents of applicants "What can you give to Menlo?" ie., money. I can't say enough bad things about Menlo School.

Too many people have drunk the Kool Aid at Menlo. It is a beautiful campus with top notch facilities and very good faculty. However, it is a school for the unbelievably privileged and elitist families. The level of parental involvement is stifling to the point where I cannot imagine any student actually becoming independent! Menlo's sports programs are excellent but the school values athletics more than academics in middle school. The sixth grade class has not cracked open a book all year. The upper school college process is daunting and the administration clearly favors those families who have contributed mega-bucks to the school. If you are not "in" the upper strata, don't bother coming here and feeling like a nobody. Your kid will hate it.
--Submitted by a parent

I graduated from menlo over 10 years ago. I was very lucky to receive a scholarship from this prestigious school. While I am very grateful for the excellent education I received, I wish there was more support for students that don't fit the Menlo mold (students of low-socioeconomic background and students of color). I felt very isolated while I was there. I am sure I would have gotten more out my education at Menlo had I felt more supported. I realized what I was missing when I went to a very diverse and supportive college.

I think that this school is very accepting, and makes you really feel good. I entered afraid and unsure, as a minority, but as I progressed, I have realized that I had nothing to fear. This school has given me so much, and welcomed me fully. I wish to go there for the rest of my education.
--Submitted by a student

My children and I joined the Menlo community with great enthusiasm; unfortunately that has not lasted. This is not a place for strong girls and for students of color. My kids have gotten a good education but never really welcomed into the core of Menlo. Disappointing.
--Submitted by a parent

Menlo is a great school. it teaches people so much it is from 6th grade to 12th grade. it has a great sport program. you should put your child at Menlo!!!!

Menlo is an excellent school with an engaging & challenging curriculum. The head of school is always looking for ways to make the school even better. All teachers are wonderful & love their career & love to teach. In addition to academics Menlo provides many opportunities for the students such as a rich music, art ,drama, sports program. They have many clubs such as computer, yearbook, art, board games, chorus and many, many more. Parents involvement is high. I have an 8th grader who loves going to school everyday. Not only is our child learning, we have learned as well. Some of topics which we have learned from her are Genetically Engineered food, the 3 Gorges Dam in China & use of children soldiers in parts of Africa & Asia. We spent 6 dissatisfied year in the public school system & have no regrets in making the switch.
--Submitted by a parent

Menlo School has a wealth of resources at its fingertips: the sports programs are first rate, money is allocated for a lunchtime speaker series, musicians from around the world frequently perform. The population at Menlo is not diverse; however, the school is attempting to address the lack of both socioeconomic and ethnic differences. The campus recently added new buildings to the upper school campus, so the most of the buildings have been built within the last seven years. The faculty and college counsellers (four in 2007 to serve 140ish students1) provide an academically challenging curriculum while remaining supportive. Overall, a solid school.
--Submitted by a teacher