Agawam High School

I have graduated from this school, and now my daughter is a Freshman at AHS. The two experiences could not be more different. When I was a student, the learning structure was aweful, the teachers had very little interest in their students, and all the extra curricular activities centered around sports - there were not many options if you had other interests. However, my daughter has joined several clubs and has had a really positive experence with each of them. The teachers are much younger than those I had, and have a fresh take on how to communicate with teens and keep them interested in topics covered in class. The teachers that I've met of hers have taken a real interest in her progress and advancement. This school has come a long way in one generation.
—Submitted by a parent

i went to this school and it is much to strict. There are barely any activities for the students to attend. they need to loosen up. other that that it is not a bad pschool to attend
—Submitted by a student

The school has changed a lot for the better. Kids have more freedom (not too much) and are respected. Great things are happening at this school.
—Submitted by a student

I think Agawam High School is a wonderful school. I'm currently a sophomore at AHS, and its been one of the most wonderful experiences of my life. If theres ONE or TWO teachers that are bothering you or your son/daughter based on bad teaching skills, then you need to understand that 1.not everyone is perfect, and 2. you are allowed to go to guidance and have them switch your teacher but take the same course or another course depending on yours or your son/daughter's grades at any point in the year. I did that with 2 of my teachers freshman year, and I'm very glad that I did that. All teachers are more than willing to help anyone.If you don't work hard in this school, you won't succeed.
—Submitted by a student

This is not a very good high school. I wish I had been lucky enought to attend another school but alas, funds prevented that. I would say that if you can, find an alternative for your kids. This school seems stuck in another time as far as teaching methods and isn't terribly inspirational.
—Submitted by a former student

Agawam high school is an excellent school to attend. It is challenging and offers a wide variety of clubs and after school programs. The parents seem to be really involved in their childs education.
—Submitted by a former student

I graduated from AHS in 2004. My brother is currently a senior at the school. The atmosphere was very uninviting. The students have to wear nametags everyday. I am all for student safety safety, but i dont think name tags being displayed is the way to do it. I was never worried about my safety when i was enrolled at AHS and i didnt wear a nametag. I think something else has to be done. On the other hand, students were rushed through the curriculum in order to cover everything on the MCAS. I think deciding weather a student graduates should not be determined over a single test.
—Submitted by a former student

I don't know what you people are talking about who say that it's like a prision. AHS is a great school that allows you to excel in education and life. The teachers are great and are always there for their students. I am a student so take it from me.
—Submitted by a student

I think that overall the school is, okay. Other than the fact that there is more drama at AHS then anyone that I have ever talked to has ever experienced.
—Submitted by a student

The AHS I knew is no more! I have lived in this town for 40+ years and gone through the whole school from K-12.My 15 year old daughter is now going to the AHS and I'm disturbed by what I'm hearing is happening there.Many of her teachers are acting inappropriately ie: applying makeup in class during the session,eating their lunch in front of them in class,actually swearing at them as well. This can be validated if you ask your kids! What I want to know is 'Where is the Principal and where are the adults who are leading our kids?'I have found talking to faculty has done nothing to resolve issues with my daughter and have found that they support their peers over the people they are there for--the students! - An Angry Parent
—Submitted by a parent

My child came home everyday from school believing that it was more of a prison than a school. While I can appreciate the fact they want to keep our children safe, they should be more woried about educating them than what clothes they are wearing.
—Submitted by a parent

In comparison to the other schools in Western Massachusetts, the school offers one of the best learning environments if a student wishes to excel. However, if the student is just going to school because they have to, they will be pushed along from grade to grade. But, for students with the drive, teachers are more than willing to make sure your child is challenged. Outside the school, I must say the community and its citizens are absolutely wonderful.
—Submitted by a former student

This school is terrible. It is like being locked up inside a state pennitentary. Principal needs to give the kids some freedom once in a while.
—Submitted by a former student