Willard High School

My kids came in as homeschoolers,we were very wary of public school in general. My oldest is now a junior at Drury and had a very good high school experience. The choral music department is fabulous! I only hope Mark Lawley is still there for my fourth graders when they get there!
--Submitted by Beth Spindler, a parent

Willard provided me with a great education. I graduated not only prepared for college but also prepared for the 'real world'. This school district is amazing and always goes above and beyond for all students. I am proud to say I attend K-12 as a Willard Tiger.
--Submitted by a former student

I personally agree with the third parent review, the politics in this school are rampant. If you dont have a certain last name or arent well known there, they could care less about you or your opinions. And it does no good to go to the school board for any problems, they back their teachers and stick together no matter what! Pity for the kids who aren't well known in that town! Myself and plenty of my friend's whose kid's go there have had numerous problems with favoritism, and problems with the so called leaders in that school, but nothing ever changes or gets done about it. Its not near the excellent school system that it professes to be! No-names beware!
--Submitted by a parent

I am a Willard graduate. Although I did not go to Willard K-12, I have recommendations for this school district. As with anything there are always going to be pro's and con's. Both of my kids have received excellent education and I am very comfortable with college for them because of the school district. I must of course give an applaude to Mr. Chris Church and his direction of the Cutting Edge band! He teaches disciple, respect, leadership and an excellent work ethic! This will last your child a life time! I am proud to tell anyone my kids go to Willard!
--Submitted by Michelle S., a parent

My children at different times were in the accelerated dept., one was in special needs, they played on the basketball, football, track, and baseball teams. They played in the band. There isn't much I haven't been involved in the Willard Schools. I am not from Willard originally but I moved there to give the schools a chance. They exceeded my expectations in every single area. I cannot imagine a better school district. The things I disagreed with, which were very few, I was at least allowed to voice my opinion on. The leaders are very willing to listen and even change their opinions and direction if they think the community and parents may have a better direction. ...that's my opinion.
--Submitted by Kelli Propst, a parent

School politics are prevalent at Willard. Willard has an infamous history of favoring particular students and families in all regards including but not limited to: sports, academics, hiring/firing. Particularly, residents of Springfield in the Willard school district beware! Members of the school board lack a general 21st century common sense and have a tendency to make irrational decisions and treat people unfairly. There have also been serious questions regarding the integrity of the voting process for the school board. Quite a few parents/former students would agree with my assessment.
--Submitted by a former student

We moved to willard so my children could go to the schools here because of their great schools. My husband moved here in kindergarten and finished his high school career at Willard. It is a great school district and a great town, everyone here is very supportive of their kids.
--Submitted by a parent

Willard has and always will be THE best school district you could send your child to. There are no 'gangs' or problems with drugs or alchohol and ther are many great things to participate in. Such as, basketball, football, soccer, wrestling, volleyball, cheerleading, a huge asortment of club. But, best of all is the band, 'The Cutting Edge', which has been the #1 band in the region of competition and also named(undefeated) 417 magazines's best marching band.
--Submitted by a parent

My son is a Freshman at Willard High School.I would'nt dream of sending him elsewhere...Being a graduate myself, I choose this great school from the very 1st day of kindergarten, and my son could'nt be happier...
--Submitted by Patty Durham, a parent

My son attends Willard High. Above all since he has been attending Willard his overall attitude has changed dramatically for the better. He is out there involved with the community. He now goes out with his friends. He has made many friends at Willards (JR-ROTC) program. (ie) Naval Science. I think the teachers and staff of a school especially the principal makes all the difference of the school system. Keep it up Willard! You will always win my vote!
--Submitted by a parent