Falcon Cove Middle School

Our child started at Falcon this year. We are impressed with the high quality of challenging academic programs, especially GEM math. I went to good private schools and feel that the quality of this public school is comparable. Also, this big school feels small because of a great sense of community. However, the amount of homework in advanced classes has been overwhelming for the whole family, with about three hours a day including weekends (6 periods x 30 minutes = 3 hours). Some parents who share this concern have improved this situation with alternatives such as virtual school or adjusting the level of some classes.
—Submitted by a parent

This is the best public school if not the best school in the Southern (Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton etc.) Florida area for advance students in both athletics, and the main curricular subjects. To start this off, I will say I am not even a student that attended here. But, I have some proof. The Falcon Cove Soccer Team (personal experience) is the finest in the surrounding area. They have won the county championship 10+ times out of 15 times. If you have a child who plays select or travel soccer, they will benefit here. Also, Falcon Cove's math program is fabulous. I participated in various math competitions last year, and Falcon Cove was always in the top 5, if not the top 3, schools. Also, Falcon Cove had a enormous amount of students who made Duke TIP last year. It was one after another after another. If you don't know what Duke TIP is, it is where 7th graders take the SAT/ACT and score better or equal to most high school seniors. To have THE finest soccer program and an exceptional education based on the success of the school in various programs/competitions, it is a wonder this is a public school.

My husband is a government employee so we have moved around plenty and this is by far our worst school experience ever! My son has a 504 and the teachers have said he is just lazy and will not follow a 504. The principal does not respond to any emails or telephone calls and there is no accountability for what happens in the school. This is your school if you have a mainstream child or one with sever deficits but otherwise, they will just fall through the cracks.
—Submitted by a parent

I'm afraid Falcon Cove is going the way of many schools in Broward - down. Two of my children graduated from Falcon and I have a child in 6th grade now. Unfortunately, my child's teachers are not very good. My child is in advanced classes, yet the classwork and homework could be completed by a 4th grader. One of my child's teachers is NEVER at school. I'm hoping it gets better next year or we will be looking for an alternative.
—Submitted by a parent

I love this school so much. Honestly, some teachers are nice. The class where I learn the most is in GEM math. In my three years at the school I can say it's the strongest program. I've had Caruso, Orband, and Stupp. They're amazing and teach so well. The guidance and administration is great! Literally, anytime you need help they're there(:
—Submitted by a student

Horrible drop off and pickup before and after school. Many fights at school also.
—Submitted by a parent

This is a great school.I have one ESE student and one mainstream student. They are both thriving. The teachers are tough but fair. The ESE teachers are focused and attentive to the needs of the students. They understand that some ESE students do not need to be pulled out of the class for support and seem to want to help the children. Understand that it's also important for parents to be involved and not just rely on the teachers to do all of the support work. As a mom of an ESE student, the combination of encouraged students, dedicated teachers and supportive parenting is an ideal match. My 7th grader came home and said her math teacher, Mr. Schiano is awesome.
—Submitted by a parent

This is the best school ever and I just got to this school. The Princibal and Assistant princibal are the best! I love it hope it stays this good and have all the after school activities that it has now!
—Submitted by a student

I like the shool. Advanced and gifted programs are very good. Great 6th Science teacher in Advance Program. Too much pressure and stress on 'projects' and the parents are obviously 'over involved' with them. With projects, reading and homework, kids can not have time to play an sport after school. The only time for exercise is in P.E. class otherwise is very difficult during the week. They have small size classes. The Spanish class is very good, they really learn. Crazy traffic at drop-off and pick-up times, you can expect a waiting time of 15-25 minutes in line!!
—Submitted by a parent

very happy with the school. If you move to Broward, this is the only school you'd want your kids in!
—Submitted by a parent

Here's the straight scoop: the mainstream curriculum is disappointing, advanced and gifted are great. The band program is, under Director Anthony Williams, the crown gem! Too much emphasis on 'projects' and the parents are obviously 'too helpful' with them. The teachers seem to get this. Mr. Lipshutz is awesome, Mrs. Klein is rough on her kids but produces results. The school is way overcrowded, but enrollment is falling and a new middle school is scheduled for construction in 2008. Don't expect the teachers to hold your hand; children are required to become independent and parents need to show interest and initiate communication. Crazy traffic at drop-off and pick-up times . . . the buses are a God-send.
—Submitted by a parent

This is a big school so it's hard for kids to get involved in activities. But the administration tries to get kids involved - and parents, too. The math dept is the strongest one, especially if your child is in GEM math.
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter is an advanced-class 6th grader. She is receiving a good amount of challenge but it is not overwhelming for her. Just the right amount of homework and projects. I am not impressed with the guidance counselor...no followup.
—Submitted by a parent

I like many things about the school, but have been very disappointed by the lack of commitment of some of the teachers we've encountered. We rarely get feedback from them, even when my child is not performing up to par. I have asked to be contacted in these instances to nip problems in the bud, but it doesn't happen.
—Submitted by a parent

This is a big school that has its share of pros and cons. For some kids, it's easy to feel lost here. The GEM math program is outstanding. Overall, though, the quality of classes were inconsistent.
—Submitted by a parent

This school provides excellent quality academic programs and the level of involvement by parents is also excellent. The school also provides a very safe atmosphere where kids can learn and expand their social skills.
—Submitted by a parent

Very large school, but with a great and active staff. Lots of communication available.
—Submitted by a parent

The school is well-rated,with top test scores and innovative programs. Administration is committed and goal-oriented. It's very big and crowded, especially between classes, but somehow most classes are not overwhelmingly large. Strong parental involvement.
—Submitted by a parent

Awesome school, safe, highly intelligent kids and involved parents
—Submitted by a parent

excellent teachers best school in Broward County
—Submitted by a parent