Highland Middle School

This school definitely has some work to do to move into 2012. The teaching style is centered on one type of learning. Resources for Special Education/interventions are pathetic- RTI model is really non existent, and "referral" for "evaluation" is based soley on tests scores and grades. I don't feel there's a sense to truly help every child, if your child requires one on one its easier to label and move them out of the way. Not happy
--Submitted by a parent

People skills in a big aspecrt of education and the teacers and adminisration at this school simply do not have them! Not only do they treat children like they are in elementary school but theyshow that same courtesy to the parents. Many of the teachers and much of the administration still has the authoritarian style which is not recommended for ultimal learning. As well, this school does not have the resources or the correct staff in place to handle special needs children. Personally, I can not wait until my child is ot of this school because it is hurting his self motivation, self esteem and feelings of self worth.
--Submitted by a parent

Although I agree with Kim's comment on acedemic standpoints, I also feel that the chidren in the middle school are still treated as if they are in still in elementary school! Stickers and smilie face stickers are given on homework and tests, cupcakes brought in for birthdays, no bell is rang, not enough strictness given to these chidren on deadlines, projects, late homeswork, tardys, etc. The teachers even team up to make sure they do not have more than one test per night! What will these students do when High School and College hands them the way it really is? This will never prepare them for High School, nor will it prepare them for the real world! I have a student in the Honors Program at HMS, and I feel these children, though acedemically challenged, are still treated like babies. Middle School is suppose to help them transiton. They are not.
--Submitted by a parent

My son is attending the middle school and I was careful before I made any hasty judgements. After seeing his teachers and the year almost over with, I feel that the staff is amazingly educated, and understanding. They see each student individually, what their potiential is and how to encourage properly. This is a difficult time for most children at this age, but I feel that the Administration at this school completely understands the children.
--Submitted by kim, a parent