Northwoods Park Middle School

SO IMPRESSED with this school! Offers Spanish starting in 6th grade. Divides kids by ability level--AIG is gifted, AVID is college prep and higher-scoring kids driven toward college, and then there's the general ed. classes. ALL teachers and specialists are SO DEDICATED! Usually get a super friendly greeting every time I visit or call the school. Fantastic sports teams for 7th and 8th graders to play on, cheerleading, music programs--this school has it all! Thrilled with everyone!!
—Submitted by a parent

Sounds exactly like the principal at Jacksonville Commons Middle School...just a few miles away. Mrs. Pylant has got to be the worst in Onslow County. My advice, move far far away and never return!
—Submitted by a parent

I have been at Northwoods Park two times just to check on my son's progress. At a time when schools want parents to show an interest in their child's education and say they want to see parents in the schools, my experience has been just the opposite. Mrs. Fidalgo has asked the teachers to ask me to leave each time. The teachers were welcoming and aware that I would be dropping in observe my son for a short time and were more than happy for him to "show case" what he's learned. I in no way was interfering with their schedule or taking them away from their duties. Mrs. Fidalgo just wanted me gone. She doesn't even have the professionalism to tell me herself. Three days ago she was suppose to call me and discuss I suppose why I shouldn't be there. I've yet to hear from her. The teachers who work with my son are phenomenal and really love their job and their students. Mrs. Fidalgo doesn't possess enough people skills to fill a thimble. I am very much outraged with the principal's rapport and I am convinced that any good that comes from the school is due to the dedicated teachers and has very little to do with the principal's leadership.
—Submitted by a parent

This school is negligent in enforcing their policies and the faculty and administration are there for a paycheck. Many times I walked into the office and noone personally knew my name nor my child's name. The principal has no leadership capabilities and the students run the school.
—Submitted by a parent

I never agree to commit on a school, they are full of 'i do not believe thats', my experience with northwoods park middle, school the pass two(2) years has been a 'blessing' at this present time, i have been able to 'relax' not stay in the 'attack mode' just in case something goes wrong and they try to make me believe that it is my 'child's fault', not because they do not want to do anything to help.The teachers we have had are wonderful, helpful, and trusthable, something i have not been able have or believe when it came to a 'few' teachers. I will be the first to admit that my child has 'educational problems' but, need the input from the teachers, if they are willing. This we had recieved at this school and i greatly thank them and appreciate the multi-tasking that they do daily, thank you
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter attends this school and she does not like the programs offered. I am very disappointed in this school. I fill money, time and resources are used for the gifted children and the general education students. This school has caused my child to have anxieties and a nervous stomach. We need more qualified Teachers and more Parent participation.
—Submitted by a parent

i love sending my child to northwoods! the teachers and staff are fantastic!! I've never known a more wonderful school :D
—Submitted by a parent

I love this school. Im a sixth grader there. It is probalby the best school in Onslow county. It is IB too! IB rocks your socks!
—Submitted by a student

My son has attended NWPMS for 1 year. The opportunity to participate in the NASA course and the robotics class have made a significant improvement in his enjoyment of school. The teachers are willing to communicate with parents and exhibit caring for student success. This school is probably the most academic rigorous out of all the Onslow County Middle Schools and by far a kinder school than many others. The guidance department is involved. It is one of the last few neighborhood schools surviving. I love the fact my children can walk safely to school.
—Submitted by a parent

My son is in his second year at NWPMS. He has had an outstanding experience both academically and socially. His teachers have been passionate about teaching middle school children and very 'in touch' with how to best meet the diverse needs of this age group. My child is academically gifted and has been intellectually challenged. The administration is outstanding! They know the majority of their students by name and are visible throughout the building throughout the day, beginning with arrival where students are warmly greeted. There has not been a day yet that my son has not been eager to go to school.
—Submitted by a parent

I was a teacher at NWPMS and have first hand experience with the administration and faculty. The administration is very disorganized. The principal and assistant principal do not communicate. The administration DOES NOT zealously advocate student safety in its handling of discipline. Punishment is inconsistent and students who commit identical offenses are punished with drastic inequality. Some offenses go unpunished by some of the students with the biggest behavior problems. There is very poor morale among the faculty.
—Submitted by a teacher