North Reading High School

As an almost former student, I frankly don't know what these people are talking about. I had a fantastic experience at North Reading High School both in and out of the classroom. Stifling creativity? I doubt it. I will agree that the priorities of the school are geared toward the fine arts, but it doesn't make those departments any less good. The school's Drama club (Masquers), is one of the largest clubs in the school and one of the best in the local area. It's in its 40th year and has had two very different but equal as great directors. I had a wonderful experience with it. Our band has also won numerous awards as well. What I loved about NRHS was how personable everyone was. Its a small school, so you're bound to know everyone at some point. I recommend NRHS to anyone as I had a wonderful experience here.
--Submitted by a student

My two children graduated from this school. The lack of adequate teaching facilities and adequate college preparation is obscene. Many teachers are excellent and try hard so that the students can succeed. There is little effort to include performing and visual arts and lack of a foreigh language program that prtepares students forthe rigors of collge foreigh language. If your child is bright, curious and willing to learn, be prepared, this school will stifle that creativity. Both of my children are now in top rate colleges and to see their intellectual curiosity blossom once out of the narrow minded school system is wonderful. They are both succeedin despite their high school education. If you have an opportunity to send your child to private school or move from the community prior to ninth grade do it!!
--Submitted by a parent

I am a former student of NRHS and I am very happy with my education. The school does suffer from lack of funding, but the people who should be blamed are those who vote down the overrides. I graduated over a year ago and when I was leaving (07) funding for foreign language, art, and PE was all being trimmed-which is a disaster. Honestly most kids have no interest in a lot of these activities (IE: French, painting, gym). Besides the fact that is was becoming a factory for SATs and MCAS, like many other schools, the school has many incredible teachers. I found the English, Science, and Social Studies programs to be particularly strong and they prepared me well for college. Your student will determine their own education, but NRHS can provide many opportunities. Oh and from experience: drugs (and alcohol) are worse in neighboring towns.
--Submitted by a student

Honestly, I'm not sure that the parents in the other reviews have any idea what a high school should be like. The funding and priorities of this school only cater to the ongoing sports and certain recreations. This school is extremely close-minded in the way it is ran and lack the proper funding for their art programs. Their lack or extra curricular actives is astonishing, it is no wonder why this school has such a high rate of drug and alcohol abuse. I know all this because I am a former student that was lucky to get out of this place my senior year. My suggestions and views never were regarded. I feel that my education suffered due to the fact I went to this school.
--Submitted by a student

My daughter and I moved to North Reading in her freshman year from Andover. When we came her, she was fed up with school and became extremely rebellious due to the way andover had handled her. After 3 months in North Reading High School, she completely changed her tune and became an active participant in her education. I give North Reading High School kudos for thinking of the student and their well being, not just their education.
--Submitted by a parent

North Reading High does an amazing job of educating their students. The teachers are dedicated, hard-working and enthusiastic. There is a high level of parent involvement and positive energy.
--Submitted by Denise, a parent