Oliver Wendell Holmes Junior High School

I moved to davis in 8th grade. The counselor at Holmes sent me to a phycologist because he didn't believe my description of my previous school. He didn't think any school could be that bad. I soon came to realize that Davis schools were so much better than other schools, that many staff and students simply didn't understand how good they had it. They lived in a happy fantasy. I moved back to Davis after going to college out of state so my kids could attend Davis schools. My Holmes experience was that good.

This school is absolutely faboulous. They have a great core curriculum and the students are not only taught advanced material that not even the college preps can claim the prepare, but it also teaches response ability. To top it off the staff is top of the line. I've never seen such devoted human beings, they really strive to make these childrens lives reach their potential to the max!
--Submitted by a parent

Academic programs are very good-overall good teachers, intense curriculum; heavy on homework especially written projects and papers. Art is available as an elective--it was very good. Music is available primarily if you have already taken it--not much available for beginners. The basic sports are available after school as well as a number of clubs and activities. Parents are very involved in almost all aspects of the school. However, despite their involvement in academic standards, high expectations for grades, little emphasis seems to be placed on helping teens and pre-teens learn coping skills or social interaction skills. There is a significant amount of disrespectful behavior at Jr. High including name-calling, sexist and racist comments, physical intimidation, etc. All of this happens when the kids are at lunch or between classes. There are not enough adults around to intervene and no 'homeroom' or class time to discuss issues.
--Submitted by a parent