South River High School

Overcrowded...poor administration...teaching to the test. Have never even had a glimpse of the principal nor have my kids. Counting down the days for my kids to be done with this school.
—Submitted by a parent

Amazing STEM precalculus and calc teacher that has brain based activities everyday. I heard that she won Teacher of the Year from her last school system. My children just love her and have never felt so successful in previous math classes.
—Submitted by a parent

The school is very nice, for the most part. Most of the teachers are helpful and easy to learn from, and even make learning as fun as they can. Keeping in mind that it IS a high school and teens generally are what they are, I think this school's student body are wonderful. I do, however, notice quite often that the school has strict policies on things that don't really have a significant effect and does not stress enough the rules and consequences for other, more severe things; and as a generally well-behaved student, I can say that this does cause trouble sometimes.
—Submitted by a student

As a student, I think that the school is, for the most part, a very good school. As most high schools do, South River has a diverse enough student body that you can find somewhere where you fit in. The teachers are, for the most part, very good, and there are very few incidents (ie, Fights). I enjoy my time at the school.
—Submitted by a student

Education isn't too bad. but the teachers hav their favorits, i am a student and i dont really like this school
—Submitted by a student

There is much violence and bullying here. If you aren't the "right" person, you are just another speck of dust to wipe off... If you don't necessarily like to drink and party, then forget about being a part of the students. As a student, and based on my experience, I'm just being honest.
—Submitted by a student

OK, just to update this a little; I am currently a student at South River, and from my point of view this is a wonderful school! I mean, of course there are a few of those teachers that aren't really exciting, but I'd say about 90% of the teachers are pretty awesome. They make learning fun & they are easy to talk to. There are also tons of extracurriculars, there's something for everyone. As for rules; they could be a little stricter on some things, & lenient on others, 'dont sweat the small stuff' really. I got a MIR ( minor incident report) for having a cup of coffee in the morning! Teachers are allowed coffee! Socially; Wonderful! It's such a nice atmosphere (it's kinda crowded this year though). Of course you have a few jerks, smokers, and snobs here and there, but again its high school.
—Submitted by a student

South River is a Blue Ribbon School and among other excellent ones, it is the most prestigious. Yes the school is becoming very crowded, but its respectability is still entact. With a new principal, dress codes are enforced more. Last year smoke alarms were installed into every bathroom; smoking is not tolerated in our school, we DO prohibit it. The class of 2007, in which I belong, is graduating with less than 500 students. The teachers are for the most part very kind and do whatever they can for the benefit of their students. Extra curricular activities help provide for a more well-rounded student. Discipline can and should be stricter. Overall, my experience at South River has been very enjoyable and though there are people who (in)volunarily taint the name, the staff and students try to compensate it in many other ways.
—Submitted by a student

A truly great school that has not reached its potential..... standards too low.... Too many extracurricular activities....takes too much time from student academics..... Discipline lacking.....a firmer hand would increase student performance...parent have too much control....
—Submitted by a parent

South River is a good school. But, I believe that it is becoming over populated. In 2001 the graduating class had about 300 kids, in 2007 there will be almost 700 students in the graduating class. They are also doing what they call 'block classes' students go to 4 classes for 90 minutes each. Everything depends apon how your child learns. My brother is a junior and is struggling because his math teachers change everyday(depending on A day, B day)just seems inconsistant to me! And, because of this the math testing scores have gone down. But, South River cares about its students.And, if you are an involved parent it seems to make a difference, but honestly that is the case no matter where you send your child! This school to me is JUST how it is rated slightly above average.
—Submitted by a former student

South River is a great school! Students are offered an atmosphere inspired by art (murals in the school) and teachers who care. It's true that not all the teachers are amazing, but there are some who truly inspire students. The school is overcrowded, but that makes things more fun to get through. Students are able to socialize and school spirit is on the rise. Anyone going to South River would be lucky. -a student.
—Submitted by a student

There doesn't seem to be any leadership for staff and students from the principal. Some students are not even sure what he looks like.
—Submitted by a parent

Teachers need to lighten up, and listin to what students have to say.Also, teachers need to be more open, and accpeting of the students. Many things could be better, some are okay, but this school needs a better staff of teachers in my opinion. I have had many problems there in the 3 years I have been there, with teachers, administrators, and other students. The administration needs to be more invovled in these issues.
—Submitted by a student

Good school, generally good teachers. Overcrowding has a negative effect on students, teachers and administration. With county push to put students in AP and Honors classes, there is no obvious support for students who are not able to function strongly at this level. Many students are stressed trying to juggle EIGHT classes with homework and extracurriculars.
—Submitted by a parent

Rapid population growth outpaced facilities leading to overcrowding. Excessive reliance on oppressive levels of homework. Good college prep but unwelcome burden on students who have extracurricular activities. Need to lighten up.
—Submitted by a parent