Ballston Spa Middle School

I love the community in Ballston Spa. The community is very connected and supportive of each other.
--Submitted by a parent

I love Ballston Spa Middle School because my grandson goes there. The teachers and entire staff are friendly, helpful, and do whatever it takes to help a child, not only in furthering his education, but furthering his development as a person.

Two children attending. Elementray was great but Middle School not so great. It's ALL about NYS tests, rush everything. Some teachers, but not all, clearly care more about presenting material than whether or not anyone gets it. Bullys not dealt with despite the rhetoric you hear. Overall o.k. with good after school programs.
--Submitted by a parent

great school for learning
--Submitted by a parent

Having been in the BSCSD for over 11 years, I can honestly say from experience that this school district just keeps getting better and better. Tax payers should not be worried that your tax dollars are being spent in vain. The teachers actually care about our kids and the parent involvement keeps the schools up in the realm of excellence. The extracurricular activities are sure to please all. When there was a threat of losing our music program, community-based support became involved and we now have a stable and succesful music program.
--Submitted by Cheryl Sovern, a parent

Our third child is now attending BSMS, and each child's experience has been very positive. You can see how much the staff enjoys working with this age group as evidenced in the way they greet the kids in the hall, the time they spend afterschool helping, or just talking with students, and in the clubs, intramurals, and sports they provide. Great attention is given to help ease the transition into Grade 6, including letters and visits in the 5th grade classrooms by the MS principal. The 8th graders have opportunities to take advanced math, science and art courses, as well as complete their first year of a foreign language. The PTA is active in the school and maintains a strong positive relationship with the staff. Emphasis is given to making BSMS a 'Great Place to Learn.'
--Submitted by a parent

I have been in Ballston Spa schools for eight years now. Each years seems to get better and better- these schools are wonderful! I find that my GPA especially is much better than my siblings who attended different schools. I believe it is because of the constant help and support offered by teachers and staff at this school. There are so many options for me! They offer various school teams and extracurricular activities such as clubs and teams. The arts program is awesome! Drama, music, band, orchestra- chorus! Students have so many choices and wonderful opertunities! But my mom's favorite thing is the chances for parent involvement! Field trips, PTA, everything! And they always inform the parents about everything! 'BSMS ROCKS!'
--Submitted by Ash Busone, a student

I have had two children attending Ballston Spa Schools. One attended since kindergarten and is now on the High Honor's list in 6th grade and my eldest has graduated. I am extremely satisfied with the attention given by the teaching staff. The staff has always been attentive to my inquiries as a parent and both my children have had positive experiences at the school. I have been very happy with the academic, music, drama and sports programs offered, as well as the engagement and involvement between teachers and parents. Good work. I highly recommend this school district.
--Submitted by Naomi Alvarez Arvelo, a parent

I have had two children go through this school, the second finishing this year. When my first child started five years ago the school was ok but there were definite weaknesses. However, since getting a new principal and hiring several new teachers, I have found the school to be very adolescent friendly and academically sound. Both my children were able to take accelerated courses. They also had many opportunities to find their niche in extracurricular activities and sports. The teachers have been available afterschool for the children and I have always gotten quick responses when calling or emailing. The teachers were very enthusiastic and were very giving of their time and energy. I was especially grateful to the Launching Pad teachers who got many children interested in theater.
--Submitted by a parent

My child has needed a great deal of extra attention because of disabilities and the guidance counselors have gone way out of their way to give him so much extra help that I am amazed. He has been to 6 other schools so I can make a fair comparison. Ballston Spa has been, and still is doing a tremendous job and I fully appreciate them.
--Submitted by a parent