Central Middle School

I have 2 children who currently attend CMS - 6th and 8th grade. I have been very pleased with the caliber and caring nature of the teachers and principal. Yes, they have a bullying awareness program - that doesn't mean there is a bullying problem - but rather a goal to prevent one. Is there bullying, yes, I'm sure there is to some degree at every school - the point is that it isn't tolerated at CMS. It's a big school with over 1,000 students - bound to be a major shock to anyone coming in from a private school. There is also a lot of parental involvement.
--Submitted by a parent

As a former student I'm only being honest when I say this school has quite a lot of problems, and this had a very significant effect on me. This school's student body is entirely run by cliques and there really isn't anything effective being done to at least decrease this; there are punishments, but they are seen by students as a reward for poor actions and a way to get out of class rather than something meaningful. There are a lot of problems with violence and bullying. I can't say the teachers are awful, because they definitely aren't, but I feel like there is often little control in the classroom.

My son transferred here from public school in 7th grade and I wish he had attended all along. The teachers are of such high caliber, and are so caring about the children's progress, both academically and socially. The school community is very engaged and active with one another through in-school and extracurricular activities, that it creates a warm, supportive environment for the kids to thrive.
--Submitted by a parent

My children went to a private Christian school for the first 6 years of their schooling. They transferred to Central Middle School for 6th grade, and have had a successful year. Being a former 6th grade teacher myself, I can say that yes...there is a great emphasis on MSA, but it is how the school gets funding. Yes, there is bullying and poor language from students. Yes, there are teachers who are sub-par. But, you can find poor language, bullying, and sub-par teachers in ANY school. My children are in some of the advanced classes and I am finding they are enjoying their teachers and classes. The foundation their former school provided far exceeded what Central Elementary provided its students, so my children are excelling in middle school. Public school is what a family makes it. Your involvement makes the difference. Know the teachers, their expectations, and have high standards of achievement for your child. The principal at Central is no-nonsense, and has high expectations for student behavior. Sadly, cell phones are a source of distraction for many students and it is silly for students this age to be bringing them to school. Phones should be banned at middle school.
--Submitted by a parent

This is a lousy school. There is a lot of violence and bullying. The curriculum is dumbed down and the emphasis is on teaching to the MSA tests. There is no way that my daughter will go there next year. I am extremely disappointed. DO NOT SEND YOUR CHILDREN THERE.
--Submitted by a parent

Ok guess I will update this school for those who do read this to decide to move to the area. Well run dont move here or if you do look into other schools like St. Andrews or St. Marys. This school really has no intrest in teaching the kids, they still have Drug and Bullying issues, And if your kid gets caught with drugs and has an IEP He can return after one day suspention, They want the kids to respect them but dont have respect for our kids, They accuse kids of doing drugs and putting them in closets and shinning flash lights in there eyes, This school is a big JOKE they dont teach at all. Do to the no child left behind act they all are unless you have a child that is already smart. I think the board of Ed needs to place undercover students there to see what really goes on. And if you volenteer theres a time that all parents cant be in the school. What are they hiding from us?? Just asked the kids 85% or more will say that this is not a good School. I think the teachers everywhere should get graded on how there students are learning and if you are not makig a difference in these students life find a new job. Also once they label your child it follows them to the High School. RUN!
--Submitted by a parent

This school is very racist and violent. I can honestly say I don't even know my kids anymore.
--Submitted by a parent

As a parent, my student has not progressed the way I would hope. Our neighbor sends their kids to Indian Creek, and the kids are much more intelligent. There is also a lot of violence and bullying. I fear that High School only can get worse.
--Submitted by a parent

I maybe shouldn't give this school an average, but the teachers are hit or miss. My daughter had phenomenal teachers and then some who were so uninspiring that they she learned more on days when a substitute was on duty. In addition, the administration speaks to and expects the least of students. All students are treated as if they are all anti-academic, drug-dealing, sex-crazed maniacs. I'd like to see a little more in the high expectations department, especially recognizing and celebrating the achievements of the top learners.
--Submitted by a parent

the teachers are nice but to much volger violence and bullying
--Submitted by a student