Smith-Cotton High School

I actually graduated from Smith-Cotton. Therefore, I can fairly say that one may receive an average education there. You get what you want out of any education, but there are very good teachers walking the halls of Smith-Cotton. There are a few bad ones as well, but such is the case at nearly all high-schools. Those who would say that Smith-Cotton is anti-science are simply ignorant to the truth, and have not visited the school. They base their ultra-biased opinions on the actions of a fringe minority. Historically speaking, this has been a very improper way of forming opinions. I could say, for instance, that because some islamic extremists are suicide bombers, then all islamic people are as well. This would be an ignorant, stereotypical statement however. In the same way, just because one Sedalia school district teacher made a comment one time that was wrong, then the entire school district is anti-science. This is likewise not a fair judgement. That being said, Smith-Cotton is a fine school if one is willing to learn. You will receive whatever education you want to receive. The new school building is fantastic, and the fine and practical arts programs are superb.
--Submitted by a student

I Think our schol isa great school. I love Smith-Cotton and i wouldnt change a thing about it!
--Submitted by a student

Anti-0science, pro-religious in the extreme. Teaching philosophy and Administration stuck in the 1860s. The cant of this school is entirely based on memorization/regurgitation; original and critical thinking are harshly discouraged. And education here will guarantee your child is left behind in our technologically empowered society.
--Submitted by a parent

Very close-minded about science and knowlege. The school administration seems to confuse religious faith with scientific fact and gives them both equal footing in evaluating student activities. Not the kind of worldly, intelligent approach I want my kids to be exposed to.

If your goal is to ensure that your child is wholly unprepared for any skilled job, smith-cotton is an excellent option. It's a fine option for low-achievers, but if your child is above-average (or even just average), I'd strongly suggest finding an alternate school.

With three children in the middle school program (one soon to enter S-c), I can't say our school is performing to the level it should for the resources and facilities it has available now. Pretty buildings are like a facelift - they fix the outside but do nothing for the inside. We spend our lives teaching children the difference between 'want' and 'need.' As adults, we should lead by example and encourage our schools to focus on the needs of our students, not necessarily the wants. Having said that, the district does employ several fantastic teachers and many other more-than-adequate educators. Throughout our 8 years in the district, I cannot say my children have ever had a 'bad' teacher. The school district suffers from socio-economic discrimination and this may factor into the reluctance of the community to build new schools in upperclass neighborhoods.
--Submitted by a parent

As a former S-C grad, 1978, mother of a college freshman, S-C freshman and Heber Hunt Kindergarten student, I am seriously considering moving before by daughter reaches middle school. The district's inability to build a new high school is a major reason for this decision. Yes, I loved S-C when I graduated. My sister and brother graduated in 1958 and 1961. However, I do not feel that, even though most of the teachers are adequate. Yes, that is the word that I would use. No better and no less, the building itself is not suitable for the ever changing needs of this world. I feel that even though the teachers and administration are doing well, the city itself will short change us. I will not allow my own child to be treated as a second rate Person.
--Submitted by a parent