Russell Middle School

My son has been going to RMS for two years now. He had been going to Gwinnett County prior and WOW, was I glad to be in Barrow County and have my son go to RMS. The teachers there are absolutely the best. I was having some learning problems with my son and Dr. Wood, the Assistant Principal and some of the teachers there took such an interest in my son and helping him. I actually felt that they became part of my family. If there is a problem, they take care of it. If there are issues, they overcome them. I can't say enough about this school and the team of caring teachers. You will be impressed for sure. Keep up the good work, RMS!!!
--Submitted by a parent

I really have pride for RMS. My kids have had a great experience there. You can tell the teachers really like each other and get along well. Kids look up to that. The principal is tough but friendly-all it takes is to get to know him and you know he is doing a good job. The asst. principal is the same way, tough but friendly. They get the job done and you don't have to worry about your kid being ignored because of some hoodlum in the classroom. My opinion is that this school has really improved in that area and now even those problem students are being punished but also encouraged. That is what we need. Someone who will get the job done right and the folks at RMS are doing it.
--Submitted by a parent

Russell Middle School is an excellent school with many loving and caring teachers. They emphasize student recognition and work hard to address the individual needs of their students. Dr. Claxton and Dr. Wood are great leaders, and I feel my child is receiving a quality education. I know there are kids once in awhile who take away from the learning of the good kids but I think they are dealt with the way they should be. Unfortunately all schools have this issue but I don't think it's as bad at RMS.
--Submitted by a parent

Russell is a good public school, better than some in this area. And it's not overcrowded! My son excelled at Russell and had a great 3 years there. Plus, he was prepared for high school. The teachers and principle are great and really care. Report any problems and they will be dealt with immediately. The only way to know what's really going on at your child's school is to get involved! They welcome parent involvement and volunteers.
--Submitted by a parent

I feel that RMS is an excellent school. The teachers are very caring and competent, the administration is supportive and adequately handles issues. I see great comraderie among the teachers and staff. This makes the students feel safe and is very conducive to learning.
--Submitted by a parent

I am very heartbroken over the negative comments left on this board. I have 2 children that attend RMS and have also became a partner in education with this school. My oldest in the 8th grade and my second is in the 7th grade. Both children and I love this school and choose the ' Stay put ' option for both children and I also have a son that will attend in the 2006-2007 school year. I am very involved in this school as a parent and partner and I do know that problems are handled up front with respect and in a timely manner by the principle and staff. The staff has always put the needs of my children first and that is what prompted me to become a partner in education with this School.
--Submitted by carla forrester, a parent

My son started this school in the middle of 7th grade this year with failing grades from Gwinnett County and and he passed with good grades and I think this school is a very good school. I drive a school bus for Russell Middle and I think that the principals have done a very good job with discipline. My son really likes this school and no matter what school I drive for he will continue his middle school years with Russell Middle. I think the teachers are very good at their job.
--Submitted by Tammy Thornton, a staff

My son did not have a good three years at RMS. They also forget sometimes that they are NOT there to amuze the other students, they are there to teach and help one grow but in my opinion they did a poor job in doing so. I also feel as though the administration is too laid back and did not take the proper responsibility in giving students punishment according to the wrongful acts the student may have commited. Disapline is a big problem at RMS and nothing seems to be getting done about it.
--Submitted by Melanie Ann Mustin, a parent

My child has had a great experience at this school. He is in the 7th grade and for the past 2 years he has had an excellent team of teachers. He had one problem with another student and I think the principal handled it quickly and effectively. We love this school!
--Submitted by a parent

I love the school and the teachers I have met so far. However I would like to see more extra opportunities for the 6th graders. As well as the gifted program. I think that the gifted program needs to be a variety of classes instead of just langage arts. The staff and teachers are great. Other thatn those two things this is a great school.
--Submitted by a parent