Calavera Hills Middle School

Any parents who complain of bad teachers, unless you've met and talked with said teacher, don't judge so quickly. A student that dislikes the class may form immediate dislike with the teacher. I, for one, think that the staff is friendly and eager to spare time to help students. The student body itself is (mostly) willing to lend a hand if someone needs help. Like I said before, don't blame the school for its kids and what its kids do, because that cannot always be controlled. In all, great programs with phenomenal teachers, classes that pertain to nearly every student's needs -- and if not -- the teachers are there to help out. Five stars.

I'm so disappointed in this school, and I will pursue removing my child from CHMS for 8th grade. So many bad experiences with too many teachers who've forgotten they are role models for our children. Truly disappointing.
--Submitted by a parent

I heard many great things about this school and feel very let down this year. We have had a recurring problem this year and have had an extremely difficult time getting the schools administration to be responsive.
--Submitted by a parent

My child attended Calavera Middle school all three years. She is a freshman at Carlsbad High School and has amazing grades. The 8th grade team (honors English, Social Studies and Science) were outstanding. She is in honors English, science and math with solid A's in every class. I also loved having her at a smaller middle school. Yes, there are less activities offered, but that didn't bother us at all.
--Submitted by a parent

Wow! I am impressed this year! The math is challenging and science is great. I feel that they should let the people win the haunted bingo though!! I lost a lot!! and the two people next to me won!! But back to topic, this is a great school with much much to offer. Drama is a big standout with my school. Ms.Hancock is a great, caring principal. She is a GREAT asset to the school. Student Centerd Learning Community is a great motto for and AWSOME school!
--Submitted by a student

Far too many of the kids here are mean and use foul language casually. We moved from a school where enthusiastic teachers and respectful kids were not uncommon! Come on, you live in 'paradise', get some character!
--Submitted by a parent

Just wanted to repond to the notion that academics is second rate at CHMS, as an alum. I have had wonderful experiences. . . 1. In response to the academic stature I am currently a junior with a GPA of 4.7 and ranked 3rd in my class of 770 so hows that for academics. 2. On top of that the theatre program here is stellar. Second to none, I learned so much from this program that I still find beneficial in my life such as teamwork. . . I also did this on top of school and as you can tell by the above statement it didnt hurt me! and also the music program is privately funded and doesnt draw from school funding. Great Job Mrs Gardner!
--Submitted by a student

Coyote Cavern Productions truly makes CHMS & CHE unique schools. No, it isn't at the same level as the drama class. They serve different students that might not have the opportunity to be in drama or it may be addition to their class. It is so refreshing to see students have an opportunity to be involve in something that helps them grow and shine outside of the classroom. is ok as it gives students the opportunity to participate in the arts when they not have the opportunity otherwise.
--Submitted by a parent

To July 2nd post: Coyote Cavern Productions is a privately funded after school musical theater program that was originally started by parents at Calavera Elementary. When the middle school opened, it started recruiting the middle school kids as well. CCP has nothing to do with the Carlsbad school district and therefore, is not funded by the district budget. CHMS has a drama teacher that is paid by the school district, but the department does not have the same $25K funding that CCP works with, nor the parent support. The high school doesn't even have that sort of funding for their musicals! CHMS is fortunate to share the production company with the elementary school on their campus. Unfortunately, I think it takes away from having a real middle school musical production, and limits the number of middle schoolers who participate, since the musicals also include elementary school students.
--Submitted by a parent

I think the school is great with not so many students and its in a very nice area. My girls love it. We moved from the riverside area to out here and what a difference in them and their school work......
--Submitted by a parent