Dryden High School

My two daughters graduated from Dryden recently. Dryden school district has many fine qualities including many activities and a good sports program. Unlike the larger Ithaca district, you don't have to be a superstar to participate on a sports team. Also unlike the larger Ithaca district, the safety of the students is not in question because of fights, gangs, etc. While the academic programs are more limited, if your student is motivated, they will do well. There's a good partnership with Tompkins Cortland Community College nearby with opportunities to earn significant TC3 credits during high school. There are drawbacks, but they are no different from any other semi-rural school district. Both of my girls went on to competitive colleges and are doing well there. They were well prepared.
--Submitted by a parent

One of the worst school systems I have ever encountered. The administration is absolutely oblivious to the problems within the system and doesn't dare depart from a 'status quo' stranglehold. As a result, the students suffer.
--Submitted by a parent

I graduated from Dryden in 1999 and continue to be involved in many aspects of this school. When tragedy struck the school, we were supported and the teachers and administration continue to do so on a day to day basis. The administrators do care about this school and the students attending. I coach middle school aged girls, some of whom go to Dryden. Dryden's programs continue to expand and reach even higher levels. Please, while evaluating the quality of the extras Dryden has to offer, keep in mind that NYS has instituted extremely high Regents standards that is making the lives of our teachers much more difficult and the chances to include a more varied academic experience difficult.
--Submitted by a former student

HS is the best performing school in the district but it has a lot of problems. Terrible superintendents for the past 12 years and board members who advance their own causes and are cheerleaders for the top contributed to the sad demise of that school district. Educational opportunities and programs for advanced students are always put on the back burner. Rampant favoritism towards certain teachers and kids is quite obvious. Dryden School cater to mediocrity and favors low end students. This school went down the drain since many people moved out and the rest simply do not care to come and expose wrongdoing. Superintendent with the majority of the board members never answer legitimate complaints, but try to compliment each other for the lousy job they are doing. The only bright star in that school is HS Principal, but he can not improve anything without the board and superintendent backup.
--Submitted by a parent

If your child has specific concerns with depression and you want a partnership with the school to ensure success - our experience has been rather negative. The issue of teenage depression and teacher understanding needs to be explored and fully understood by teaching staff. The words some teachers use to their students in our experience has been totally inappropriate for any age level and has actually been detrimental toward my child's success. In example -- you wouldn't tell a cancer patient 'what's the matter with you? You think you're dying? Get over it.' Unfortunately this has been our experience and I have taken steps toward prevention. But there was no one who from the school end who would take the steps to mentor my child. It is rather tragic from a personal stand point.