St. Philip School

Two of our children attend St. Philip School in Noe Valley. I find it sad that one or two of the families are feeling frustrated. I honestly do not believe that any teacher or member of the faculty hold grudges or do not want to hear about complaints that parents or students may have. Even though my children are still in the lower grades, I have easily gotten to know the teachers of the upper grades. The Principal is very open to new suggestions, ideas and is willing to deal with the smallest of concerns. My sons learning difficulties were quickly identified and he is receiving extra curricular attention for this. The community spirit at the school is very, very impressive and families from many diverse backgrounds and culture attend. St. Philips truly is a hidden gem in the Valley!
--Submitted by a parent

LOL! It is a Great School for teachers! The middle school teachers are now in the process of cramming in all the lessons over the last few weeks school that they did not cover during the year. No regards for the students. Where did they find these parents to write 5-star reviews? I hope highschool is not like this. Student

St Philip's School is a wonderful neighborhood school with a strong sense of community. It's teachers are dedicated hardworking professionals. The principal is a very caring, compassionate person who in my experience has always been available to answer questions or concerns and very receptive to suggestions and ideas from parents.
--Submitted by a parent

St Philip s is an excellent school with amazing teachers. I have three children at the school, including one in the middle school. The teachers are very committed to providing a great learning environment for the children, and we feel lucky to be part of the St Philip s community. St Philip s is a small parochial school and is anchored strongly in the local community. The parental involvement is incredible. Students are well prepared for and go on to the best high schools.
--Submitted by a parent

I don't agree with the recent negative review of the middle school and I know there are many who also disagree with it. Frankly, I don't recognize the school they describe. I am a parent of a child in the middle school and my child is extremely happy there. I know many kids that have gone to the best high schools from St. Philip and were well prepared for that step. The school, like many others, is not without its faults, but the teachers, parents and administration all have the best interests of the children at heart at all times. The school community is second to none.
--Submitted by a parent

The "terrible middle school" reviewer hit the nail on the head. The parents are all talking about that post and nobody disagrees with it. There are lots of fed up parents that are too scared to speak up because their kids will be singled out by the teachers or they will get poor high school recommendation letters.
--Submitted by a parent

This school has a terrible middle school. The students are afraid of the teachers and therefore don't ask questions. The teachers DO NOT communicate with the parents and DO NOT want to hear from the parents. The Head of School does not control the school. The teachers run the show and not very well. They don't communicate with each other. The parents are afraid of speaking out in fear of not receiving a HS recommendation. The children spend lots of time studying for test that never take place. TO MUCH STRESS! The teachers don't talk to each other to coordinate schedules. Kids can end up having 4 large test on the same day as a paper being due. Moreso, the feedback from children in highschool is that they are behind their peers in math, science, reading, and technology. They have to drop their AP classes because they are inadequately prepared at St. Philips. Too bad because the families and kids are wonderful. But that is not enough to compensate for having a fearful, stressed out, exhausted child with no time for any joy besides because of the chaos at this school.

St. Philip School is a Catholic, family style school with the care and education of the students at heart. Parents have been very supportive of class activities and the Fr. Tony, the pastor is present and and very supportive of the students, teachers and educational and spiritual development of all. Mrs. Everett is an open door policy principal, who is a supportive Catholic administrator and believes in and implements the values of a Gospel life and Gospel values for all at St. Philip School. Phone for a tour and see for yourself.
--Submitted by a teacher

Popular after school programs include Science Adventures, Music, coordinated and well organized off-campus sports led by volunteer parents and Cub Scouting. There is a need however for afterschool assistance for students who desire to do their homework while waiting to be picked up by their parents.
--Submitted by a parent

Our 2nd Gr son's transition from an independent school was very smooth. The school is well run, parent involvement is VERY high. Lots of sports, science adventures, music clubs, and Cub/Girl Scouts. The library is expanding. But a global school email is needed for more effective communication.
--Submitted by a parent