Wayland Middle School

For the most part, the academics are very good, however there are a few classes in the various grades where the teaching is not great. The students are unfocused in many classes. Language and behavior both inside the classroom and in the halls needs to improve. Bullying happens often in the cafeteria and teachers usually ignore bullying if it happens in their classes. Even though the school does make an effort with their anti-bullying program, it barely impacts the overall school climate.

The middle school, was once a bright spot in this district, sadly that is no longer true. Academically it is top notch, but the current administration has changed the atmosphere at this school. There is a remarkable lack of discipline. Yes, there are rules, but they are not enforced. The children run wild in the halls, use foul language (in front of faculty!,) dress in an inappropriate manner, and show a grave disrespect for their teachers and their peers. The principal is ineffective and distant with both students and parents. The administration and the teachers are horrible at returning emails and phone calls-I have to actually physically go to the school and hunt people down to address my concerns. Bullying is tolerated and even excused. The administration talks a good game, but it's all talk. I'm always so confused after parent teacher night because it all sounds so good, you find it's nothing but a veneer. There is a new superintendent and I hope he'll be able to correct this mess. Academics are certainly important, but growing good, responsible citizens is equally critical and the middle school in Wayland fails at that part of their very important responsibility.
—Submitted by a parent

WMS provides the perfect transition from elementary school. The staff truly cares about the students and understands the unique demands of this age group, both academically and socially. We are lucky to have such a great school in our community!
—Submitted by a parent

I am a student at the school, and it's been a great expierence being a student at WMS. There is good energy at the school
—Submitted by a student

Though the whole district is good, this is the gem of the system. Kids are excited to learn, teachers are excellent quality. Resource program is very good for most kids that are in it (GREAT for my own daughter). Music program is very strong, particularly the band program. Each grade also has a special field trip that unites the students and focuses on that grade's topic. 6th does a bike trip to Walden Pond (Thoreau), 7th to an organic farm and special caves(Rachel Carson and the environment)8th to Cape Cod and Washington (Martin Luther King, earth sciences. Kids learn to study, and can qualify for advanced math all three years and advanced science in 8th grade. Civility and participation are also important.
—Submitted by a parent

Very Very Good Music Program, Jazz Band one of best in state! Smart Real teachers for the most part, most very smart, and good at teaching. Very helpful atmosphere, always someone willing to help any student for anything. Trusting enviorment, yet still with control. Parents are incredibly involved. Drama program in general is just INCREDIBLE! Music Teacher WROTE the musical, and its going to be published. MCAS Grades excellent. Downside (maybe upside)is that a lot of homework is given. I am in the 7th grade, and i get between 1-3.5 hours of homework a night. On project work nights i have 3-6! High standerds to meet! But learn an incredible ammount. Very diverse community. No fights, grafiti, very clean. Violence isn't tolerated. Has a pretty decent arts and media department. pretty good network of computers, laptops, and desktops (250+ comps). Small classes. Overall, incredible school, with room for unimportant improvment. :D
—Submitted by a student

Above average but not excellent school experience. Wayland has good but not progressive school system; excessive administration restrictions that are inflexible. The teachers make the middle school and education tops, school administration from principal through superintendant are overrated and a bit arrogant. Teachers to excellent job to challenge students with work assignments and developing self confidence in preparation for high school. Town designates considerable money for school system which provides ability to maintain this high level school system.
—Submitted by a parent