Patrick Francis Healy Middle School

The current principal, Dr. Monica Burton, has trashed this school. Students have the worst NJASK scores in the state (lowest 5 percent). Instead of working with the teachers to make a difference, she fires ALL who question her non-ability to lead, inspire and raise student achievement. ?Dr. Burton has had over 50 percent teacher turnover/replacement in the last 3 years - and the school is still failing. This points to lack of effective leadership. This is a Priority School and the RAC of Essex is considering a charter for this site. Dr. Burton had a prior bad reputation at Washington. The students do not respect her because she puts more focus on painting hallways than putting money into teacher copy machines, paper and supplemental reading material in classrooms. Avoid this school at all costs. Children leave this school less educated than when they arrive.

They frequently have a new principal, which can be a downside. While there are some quality teachers who inspire their students to succeed, schoolwide test scores are very low. The current principal seems more committed to improving the office decor, updating powersuits and designer heels, descending the office tower once every few days to check on teachers. Form over function, all talk no substance. "If it looks good..." Safety at this school is also a concern, students fight constantly, and most are unmotivated. Parents, this is not a good environment for learning, if that is what you hope for your child.
—Submitted by a teacher

The teachers are excellent the food is good and the classes are fun and educational
—Submitted by a parent

This is our first year at Patrick Healey Middle, as my daughter is an eighth grader. Two days into the new school year, she is excited and I am pleased with her schedule. I optimistically look forward to the upcoming year.
—Submitted by a parent

I've worked at the school for many years. It's a horrible place for anyone who is committed to quality education. Under the previous principal, there was evidence of positive change. There are some talented teachers still there who are hardly recognized for their dedication and genuine desire to help the children. Gifted students go there and turn into unmotivated out-of-control youngsters, and the school is becoming more and more unsafe. Teachers are depressed and overstressed and the principal is a poor leader. Students fight each other and assault teachers too. Parents, do whatever you can to send your child elsewhere.
—Submitted by a teacher

Being a current student at this school I think this school is terrific.This school does have some bad influences and students that sometimes keep the teacher from teaching but what schools don't have that.Patrick F. Healy has many programs to recongize the progress students make and rewarding programs like National Junior Honor Society.This school its ups and downs but its no different from any other schools.just because the test scores are low doesn't mean students don't try and are not willing.they just need to study more and that don't mean there bad students either.To close everything I think this school is terrific it might be shakey for first time students attending the school but it will all turn out somthing positive.
—Submitted by a student

I disagree with the comments made by theese students. If you read thier reviews you will see that there are many grammatic errors. Someone in that school is not doing their job! I suggest that before you start bragging about how good your school is, learn how to write correctly. I was once a student at Whitney Houston, I chose to go there becuase it was better than any other school! The teachers at Whitney are excellent. They take their time and teach the students. Check the test scores, I garantee that you will see who is actually doing there job and who is not! Having 'cool' teachers is not always someone you need, you need to have guidance and support first! Then you can decide whether they are 'cool' or not. I say, Be my teacher first, then be my friend! I'm sure other parents would agree!
—Submitted by whitney houston student, a student

Being a current student at Patrick F. Healy I would say that the school is out of control. Its nothing that the staff can do about it's their parents. Students are unable to learn because of disruptions in the class room and teachers do nothing about it and the parents neither. Kids get suspended and still come back to school acting the same way. Dont get me wrong its not the worst school in town but it could be better.It was nice being a Patrick F.Healy this year but I really don't want to go there next year.I've only been at this school 7 months and i'm tired of it. Students run down the halls like its a zoo and they have nasty mouths. I see that Mr.Kafele is trying to get the students leaded down the right path but he can't change everyone's academic scores or there behavior its there parents that need to get involved.
—Submitted by C G.K., a student

Being a student at Patrick F. Healy now is a blessing. This is my first year and i love it. Despite all the negative rumors thats going around our wonderful principle Mr. Kafele is really trying his best to rise test scores and academic performance. Patrick F. Healy is a awsome school. But just because theres a number of students who don't want to do the right thing that dont mean its everyone.
—Submitted by a student

As a student at Patrick F. Healy Middle for the past three years, I have watched this school make a wonderful transition for the better. We recieved an extraordinary principal, Mr. Kafele, and he have truely inspired ALL of us to do their very best. He gave us strive and determination to achieve excellence. The teachers are also out of this world! Their teaching methods make you want to learn and do more. They provide a loving and caring environment for ALL students. Patrick Healy also provide extracurricular activities to build your leadership skills. Yes an education is important, and Healy really stress that,but they also prepare you to be a leader instead of a follower. Overall, Healy is an excellent school despite all the negative media coverage. I would recommend this school for ALL elementary students making the transition into junior high, because it is truely a wonderful school.
—Submitted by a student