Galvez Middle School

My 13 year old honor roll student went from being a happy outgoing person to someone with a broken spirit, terrified to go to school because of the bullying. She has always been and still is a respectful kid, well liked by teachers. There were several instances where she was cornered by kids (the same ones each time), and reported it to the principal, who did nothing. When I met with fr principal, she decided to look into the problem and never got back to me. When I followed up, she explained that the kids did admit to bullying, but still chose to not hold them accountable. During Leap testing, an 8th grade boy snapped a pic with his phone of the janitor using the bathroom, pants to his ankles. The janitor was furious, and wanted to call the police. The principle asked him to not follow through be side it would affect Leap scores. The kid was not written up. She has allowed kids from other schools to attend our school dances, even though it's against rules. There have been so many fights that she chooses not to report. My oldest daughter attended GMS and didn't have these issues. The day this new principle took over, it became a nightmare.
—Submitted by a parent

Horrible bullying problem at this school. The administration puts the blame on the victim. This is the worst administration I have ever seen. My child has been through Kindergarten to 6th grade with NO problems ever. Within 4 months at this school, she was suspended 3 times. The principal, assistant principal and guidance counselor are a joke. Unless you were born and raised in this town, you are treated like garbage. Next year we are going private.
—Submitted by a parent

This used to be a wonderful school but it, like most organization, is only as good as the leadership and this principal truly is out of control. She refuses to implement any activities to ensure all are engaged in learning, such as science fairs and encouraging the setup of clubs. If you are part of the elite group, good for you, otherwise I would tell you to run!
—Submitted by a parent

The principal, assistant principal, and staff at GMS are so wonderful! They treat the children with love and respect, and receive it in return. High educational standards, safe environment, lots of extra-curriculars, and a great group of kids! I feel very blessed that my daughters are able to attend this school.
—Submitted by a parent

Well, since the wonderful principal left last year, this school has been going downhill in many ways. It has become like a military type environment and all the positive energy that this school used to possess is now replaced with negative energy due to the new principal and the way she is running this school. My child used to love it there and now he is very unhappy with the whole day. I am just glad that this is his last year. We truly miss the old happy environment that used to be what GMS was known for ... mainly due to the great principal who set the tone but is no longer there.
—Submitted by a parent

As a mother of a 5th grader with LD I have been pleasantly surprised by the flexibility of the principal and assistant principle and the willingness to work with me. It is obvious they try to keep the school positive and fun. We are looking forward to 3 more great years here!
—Submitted by a parent

I love Galvez Middle School. I am a 7th grader and I do not want to leave. Not only is the dtaff great, but the pricipal is so much fun! We have a lot of fun at Galvez and the band is the best! We are going to State Festival! Go band! The football teams are great! (we are the champs) Galvez Middle School rocks!;)
—Submitted by a student

We just finished the school year and my daughter, Bailey, who will be an eighth grader next year, was sad to see it end. I am very happy that her experience at Glavez has been so positive. Her father & I are very proud of her hard work & good marks. We would like to thank all of the great teachers at the school.
—Submitted by a parent

I couldn't be happier with Galvez Middle. The teachers, Principal and support staff are the most dedicated people I have ever met.
—Submitted by a parent

As a single parent, finding a quality school was of the utmost importance to me. I have to commend the principal and staff for their leadership and dedication to the students. I am disheartened by the negative review that I read on this site, & wish to assure other parents that Galvez is a safe, friendly, & developmental environment where any parent would be proud to send their child. You will be pleased by the educational standards and achievements at this school. With regard to the extracurricular activities, I feel that participation is key to healthy development & self-esteem. The programs at Galvez are excellent. My son is actively involved in sports and band. He is excited about his achievements, & can't stop talking about the new band director and all of the great things that he is learning & participating in this year. Thank you Galvez Middle School!
—Submitted by a parent

I currently have a daughter at Galvez in the band. She has really found her interest in life. The music program has really heightened her interest in school this year. I really have to give credit to Ms. Markwood for running such a wonderful band. The Principal has been so supportive of everything and runs a great school.
—Submitted by a parent

I think if you are looking for a good school where the parent's opinion counts this is the last school you want to go to. If you have a complaint, the principle always takes up for the teacher and never addresses the problem. As far as the extracurricular activities go, the football, dance team, and cheerleaders have always been more important to the school than for instance the band.
—Submitted by shelley tressitt, a parent

I believe that our school is a very good school and the staff is great at keeping the children on their toes about right from wrong. Keep up the good job! Our children will get a good education with the job the school staff is doing, teaching and keeping the bad out of the school.
—Submitted by Stacy Jara, a parent