Harvard High School

This school needs help. One of my children graduated last year and was not accepted into any of his three top choices, even though he was an "A" student here. He wasn't applying to Ivy League schools. Just normal State schools. Apparently, this school has a bad reputation in the college circuit. The parents are the worst. No one attends the band concerts, etc. It's really sad and makes me feel bad for the kids. My other student will not finish at this school - he is going to a nearby Catholic school this Fall. I wish I had realized this and had been able to do that for my older student.
—Submitted by a parent

this is my first year and its great the teachers are nice and they also are good at explaining things
—Submitted by a student

My son attends Harvard High School and we are pleased. Yes, there are improvements that we would love to see, including a new building; but the teaching staff is excellent. These are teachers who are there for the kids, obviously not the paycheck. My son is challenged by the teachers to improve, stretch and grow. There are good things happening at Harvard High School.
—Submitted by a parent

There are very few redeeming factors about Harvard High School. The building is dilapidated, most of the teachers are apathetic about helping struggling students, and there are few choices when it comes to extracurricular activities. Do not send your children to Harvard High School if you do not have to.
—Submitted by a former student

I would say that best part of the school is the music department. It has a lot of things you can do with out being in everything or feeling left out. It really isn't the greatest school, I would know, this is my 4th year here. All I can say is there needs to be a lot of improvment.
—Submitted by a student

I am currently enrolled in Harvard High School. It really isn't a very good school and it seems to be going downhill with the programs being cut and more undisciplined kids as evidence. The teachers are the best feature of the school. Most care about their students education that is not common. They do all they can with what is provided, which isn't much but they do make it work.
—Submitted by a student

I recently graduated from HHS, and I currently go to school in Peoria, IL. Most educational opportunities a parent could want for their child are available at this high school. HHS provides a solid curriculum, and the teachers really care about the students' progression. Every time my friends and I go back to visit, they swarm around us with tons of questions. While some extra-curriculars may or may not have been cut, there are still more than enough to keep your child busy. If you want it for your student, it is there (with the exception of swimming, hockey, or tennis), just as it is at any school. One thing I really like about the atmosphere at HHS is how much the parents are involved...they are always helping out. The principal has a couple of years under her belt now...so that helps. Harvard is a very tight-knit community, a good place.
—Submitted by a former student

I'm not a very picky person but when it comes to my children's education I most certainly am! I regret enrolling my children in this school and I am currently working something out to get them transferred. I have learned that my children aren't challeged well enough. Also, I don't like the fact that the school is cutting so many sports and after school activities. I wouldn't recommend enrolling your children to this district!
—Submitted by a parent

This school is the worst one you can ever go to. You will be so far behind if you go to school here. It is a very bad school. It has nothing to offer your kids. The teachers care more about getting on their computer then helping the students. I would think twice before sending your kid there.
—Submitted by a parent