John Muir Middle School

Unfortunately Muir didn't achieve Distinguished School status. However, that was only because the state changed the criteria after we submitted our application. We barely missed a target in one category. Our state reviewers raved about the school. I am not the only teacher who cares about ALL my students. There are many. Ask former students.
--Submitted by a teacher

Muir did not earn the California Distiguished School award this year. The administration and teachers don't take any responsibility for this failure so don't expect the school to earn the award anytime soon. The administration and teachers seem more concerned with limiting the lunchtime sports activities of the boys and eliminating lockers for the students (yes they have to lug 30 pounds of books around all day - I would like to see the administration and teachers do it too) than they are in doing their job - teaching. Just look at some of the posts from students on this web site: poor grammar, no capital letters, improper punctuation.
--Submitted by a parent

I agree with previous comment about the poor leadership at this school. I had 5 children go through JMMS. They all struggled, regardless of their performance in previous school or BHS. I had both administrative and teaching staff tell me they were too busy to provide extra support when a child was struggling. Administrative staff have extreme punitive focus that seems to cause more problems than it corrects. I would avoid this school at all costs.
--Submitted by a parent

I and several other parents of boys had so many problems with this school. Muir seemed to more concerned with treating the boys like they were in a juvenile hall than building them up. Every little thing was treated as a major offense, even regular child's play.. My son came into Muir as a 6th grader with a shinning record from his previous school in another state. He always had excellent grades and participation prior to his time at Muir. After two years at John Muir we have decided to transfer him out before his spirit is broken any further and the ridiculous disciplinary record they create hinders him from being accepted into a high school of his choice. My son is not perfect but far from this "bad" kid they made him feel like while attending this school. I would say think twice before sending your son here!
--Submitted by a parent

Some excellent, dedicated teachers here, Rothacher (both) and Nancy Martin (geometry) to name a few. Choir and Instrumental Music programs are very good. Safe campus. Administration does a good job with the diverse populations sharing the school.
--Submitted by a parent

This school is the best and i approve it for anything!! they have treated me like a queen and they really do have the best teachers!! the principal is great and so are the students!! the students have a lot of manners and great personalities!! i wish this they made more schools like john muir!!!

The comment made by 'parent' on August 13, 2009 is questionable. The school is very good. Choir program is one of the best in the state. They encourage children to be very involved and take pride in themselves, their school and their education.
--Submitted by a parent

i dont think this school is great. it has bad teachers and i am taking my child out.
--Submitted by a parent

Great Choir program. Great teachers and princapal.
--Submitted by a student

I think that this school is almost like a second home. There is a low rate of intolerance and hate.
--Submitted by a student