South Ripley Junior/Senior High School

My son and daughter have both been bullied repeatedly at this school. I brought it to the attention of the teachers and staff on 3 separate occasions and then I will see a front page article in the paper about how they have a handle on bullying. I can assure you that is not the case. If you are a basketball star you have it made. Other than that, forget it. I will say the special education teachers have gone above and beyond to help my student, but not so much the regular teachers. Special education is done in an "inclusion" setup in a regular classroom with regular students. I don't feel this has been a good mix as my student has not done well in this environment and the regular teachers are not equipped to handle his special needs.
--Submitted by a parent

I have a daughter that attends this school and I always find out about eventssuch as band events and teacher meetings a day or two before it happens. there is very little communication between school and parents. For todays working family it makes things very difficult
--Submitted by a parent

I was a student at this school for about two years. And it was quite possibly one of the worst experiences I have ever had. The teachers and staff were just involved in the small town daily drama as the students were. Most everything was based on sports and who you are. Last names are a key at this school. If you know/are related to anyone, you're fine. If not, there's little to no friendliness. The staff is more apt to help an honor roll student or a sports star rather than those who really need help.
--Submitted by a student

Unimpressive, although a bit under the weather with the lack of dedication. It's a shame that the lack of a motivated student body causes the slack. A few bright minded individuals, including teachers keep the school going. Not everyone does their job, but most people give it a try. There is a small freedom of choice, backed by the support of funds in the form of grants. Maybe it's right, maybe it's wrong. I'm not the one to say. There are good times and there are bad times, but they are mostly friendly and people don't get anymore than a bit flustered. The grading system is not rigorous enough; this is shown by the schools testing scores. It's not all the teachers fault, after constant pounding from parents and students. The school needs a direct form of explanation for teaching procedures, while enforcing a greater incentive for actual insight gained.

The school system is going through a major overhall with a building and renovation project. Not only are these physical improvements taking place, numerous changes are being made to improve the curriculum and involve the community in decision making. The future looks bright.
--Submitted by a parent