Douglas Byrd Middle School

My daughter goes to this school and she loves it, especially band. Mr. Starling is an awesome teacher!
--Submitted by a parent

My daughter attends DBMS and we have never had any problems with the teachers or adminstrators. This school has apparently come a long way since Mrs Alford has been there. This will be my daughters last yr there and I am glad they have such caring and supportive teachers. I have read the other reviews about the school uniforms and I know that they do enforce these rules.
--Submitted by a parent

I don't know whether any of the previous reviewers from 2007 have bothered to inquire about the progress of DBMS, but the facts and figures speak for themselves. As of the 2007-2008 school year, DBMS is now a high-growth school with exemplary leadership and teachers. The fact of the matter is that everything hinges on GREAT leadership. When this changed, the school dramatically improved in every area. Don't take my word for it. Check the facts!

I am a new teacher and heard a lot of bad things about DBMS and went into the job a bit nervous. The principal is incredible though and came determined to change the image of the school and raise the score. Hat off to MRs. Alford because I believe she certainly is doing the job. The staff is working hard and there is hardly a free minute for anyone. It is a tough job because many students seem to have inclinations toward negative behavior which can be attributed to many things. We work hard here and need more parent support (which is growing , not knocking it!). If we keep this trend up it will prove in time that this is an excellent school. A great school is made up by the whole community not just the school staff and students!
--Submitted by a teacher

I'm a student at DBMS. In my opinion this school is a great choice. The new principle we have is almost like a mother figure to us students. The principle is very nice and listens to any problems or concerns. She was a former Principle at Ireland Drive, where many students attended before going to DBMS because they are right beside each other. She has a great education and cares for each and every child at school. And of course just like any other school DBMS has flaws too but trust me DBMS is Great. the Teachers are great also they have fun with the students but know when 'its time to get down to business' but as I said Before DBMS is Great and is a very good choice. Thank You
--Submitted by a student

I'm a parent of DBMS and I am not pleased with the school. Our kids need people that are not only willing to hear but to teach and have positive way of teaching. The security is not acceptable either. I tried to get in touch with my daugther teacher and she never was available and never answered my email. We are seriously in the process of changing to another school. I feel sorry for the kids that go to that school
--Submitted by a parent

We have been so disappointed with DB Middle School on every level. The teachers are impossible to reach, the administration doesn't want to be bothered, and the students are treated like they are criminals (and act accordingly). We are selling our home and moving to another district...that is how bad it is.
--Submitted by Jen S., a parent

well all I got to say is I was a student at byrd till I moved but this school is the best I ever been to.
--Submitted by juvahne bramwell-wright, a former student

I'm a student at Douglas Byrd and I think it a very good school to go to.
--Submitted by a student

Our family did not find this school to be up to par for our eighth grader. It was very hard to contact anyone with questions about his progress. He had special needs and we do not believe that those needs were met in any way. they are constantly 'on lock down' so they are missing important classes. they have 'uniforms' but no one inforces this so while i was making my son follow the rules he was being made fun of for not breaking them! i am very happy to be moving so my son will no longer be a part of this school!
--Submitted by a parent