Minisink Valley High School

Both of my daughters graduated from Minisink. The principal is excellent. I find the remarks about diversity frankly offensive. Often prople from New York City arrive with a chip on their shoulder and assume that they can whine instead of work and get good grades.
--Submitted by a parent

This school is one of the best in the state. We have the highest percent of graduating students that go on to college, proving we have a good education department. I highly disagree with the post made on June 5th, 2005 stating that there isn't enough cultural acceptance/diversity. In every one of my classes, there are a wide range of ethnic backgrounds and such. No one is treated better or worse than the other based on their backgrounds. I love the teachers, and I, personally, do not believe there is any favoritism, as said by the poster on May 23, 2005. They have a great sports department and guidance as well. Highly recommended!
--Submitted by a student

I'm an alumni of this school. I never really appreciated the programs and experience that I've had at this school until I was already at college. I am more than proud to say that I came from Minisink, especially at such a large school like Penn State. The school provides more than enough opportunities to succeed. The teachers are well-qualified for their jobs and provide help when needed. As for diversity, I disagree with the post on June 12, 2005. The school has been evolving into a more diverse school. They are not seen as an outsider at all, nor are they given less opportunities to succeed. Our sports always do well and programs such as FBLA are becoming increasingly known throughout the state. I highly recommend this school to anyone.

Most of the teachers in my daughters school were very knowledgeable about their subject, although some more than others. They have a great music program that puts on about 3 shows a year. The art program usually has their 'art show-cases' out in the hall for when the audience comes in. The Drama club in this school is amazing. The kids build the sets and props usually themselves or parents help out. Other activities in MVHS include varsity and j/v sports like football, softball/baseball, volleyball, wrestling, and swimming. MVHS also has an Army JROTC. The school has many other clubs to offer like Bible club, art club, SADD, Varsity club, ACT, and Gamer's Guild. The parents could be a little more, but over all they do get involved if need be. Over all, I'd say my child is attending one of the best schools in Orange County.
--Submitted by Gina, a parent

We've lived in the Minisink School district for two year. In general I am pleased w/ the academic program they offer, but I feel that the staff needs to take more of a hands on role w/ the students. And that the district does not promote diversity as an enhancement to eduction. I've been informed by staff that the district 'is not ready' for students from other backgrouds. For this reason I feel that it is the resposibility of the school district to encourage acceptance of all cultures. Would I recommend the Minisink School district? This honestly depends on the character of your child and their ability to tolerate being treated as an outsider. Growing up in NYC I've never had deal w/ such an environment but it is clear that a child that did not grow up in this environment may have to deal w/ more than just homework.
--Submitted by a parent

Minisink is not great, but just okay. The academic programs are only average; there's few opportunities for advanced kids. The art department is very good, as are the music and drama programs. And yet, some teachers there are very egotistical; they care more about themselves than the students. I am a student there, and I rank 15th in my class out of 420 kids. It doesn't work. Also, there's favoritism among some teachers and students, and some discipline problems. But that's just my opinion, maybe you'll like Minisink more.
--Submitted by a student

It's a fantastic school with great classes and an equal opportunity for all. It has many after-school activities and has wonderful teachers, staff,and facutly. It has wonderful music programs as well.
--Submitted by Megan Liporace, a student