Holland Hall

Our two children just completed their first year at HH's primary school...and we could not be happier with our decision to move them over from Monte Cassino. It was not an easy decision but after completing the first year, we have realized that the two schools could not be more different from a methodology standpoint...HH looks at each student as an individual and provides them with the tools necessary to learn at their own pace. Individual accountability is stressed from a young age by allowing children to manage their "have to's" and then based on completion and behavior they are rewarded with "choice time" to spend however they wish. I was initially concerned about losing the religious aspect but HH exposes the children to the "Golden Rule" which is a lifelong lesson that even as grown-ups and parents we need reminding of. In addition, we believe there is more diversity at HH then what others may believe. Children with different ethnic backgrounds from many of the surrounding suburbs are in our children's classes. We believe there is no better investment than in our children and it is worth the sacrifices to send our kids to the best school in Oklahoma!
—Submitted by a parent

Academics, Arts and Athletics all play a huge role in the development of a Holland Hall student. We believe, their focus on critical thinking along with written and oral communication skills will provide the best overall education and leadership training for our children as they prepare of life. Having lived in various cities across the country, nowhere have we made the kind of connections with families like we have within the Holland Hall community. The friendships being fostered will last a lifetime and that only adds to the overall experience at the school.
—Submitted by a parent

As a Monte Cassino grad unsatisfied with my freshman & sophomore year spent at a highly ranked TPS high school, I sought out transfer to Holland Hall. I won't mince words: Transferring for my junior year was the best decision of my life. I am convinced that it the most progressive education in Oklahoma, and it is a fantastic community to be a part of. The transition was at times rocky, but my grades improved because I was being challenged in every class. I've developed personal friendships with teachers, students, & coaches that have lasted past graduation and I could not be more fortunate for the teacher-student relationship the modular schedule fosters. My year at college in Boston has shown me that my education rivals that of my peers from the most elite prep schools in LA and NYC. HH is a liberal school, but AP tests are largely obsolete and I'm the better for the abstract, thought-provoking material I learned than the memorization and regurgitation common at other area high schools, public & private. Every student will encounter social difficulties--it *is* high school, after all--but send your child to HH if you want them to be a well rounded thinker and world class student.

Unfortunately, Holland Hall used to be a wonderful institution. Over the years it has succumb to being "politically correct". It is a Christian school, however, they cater to other religious groups instead of staying true to its values. In the Primary School, they did away with the Christmas Tree. It was eventually called the Holiday Tree and ultimately it was removed altogether just to appease 5 families. They have changed Head Masters 4 or 5 times in the last 7 years. If you complain be very careful. You will get labeled a "trouble maker" and you will eventually be told "maybe this is just not the place for you". It is hard to believe that the most expensive school in the state of Oklahoma wouldn't have better policies than this.
—Submitted by a parent

We've been at Holland Hall since our child was in first grade and we have had a wonderful experience. The teachers, staff, and students made her feel welcomed from the start and all the parents jumped right in to help our parent transition as well. It's truly like joining a family. Now after several years of being here and moving to MS our experience hasn't changed. The teachers do a superb job of assisting, guiding, and developing strong academic skills, computer skills, language skills, humanity skills, and so much more. Students take the lead in many areas incorporating public speaking and interpersonal communication development both individually and as a team. I truly enjoy the open communication with the parents and we never feel out of touch and we have built so many lasting bonds with the other families and the staff. I would highly recommend Holland Hall for other families wanting a safe and fun environment where their child will develop strong academic and life skills.
—Submitted by a parent

My three children started at Holland Hall this year--two of them in the high school and one of them in primary. They have had no problems integrating with other students at all, and are very happy. All three children came from an IB curriculum, and Holland Hall had no problem understanding, translating, and giving appropriate credit for the courses in that system. This situation could have proven very difficult for my son entering the school in grade 11, however all of his teachers helped him to make the transition to the American system without relaxing their academic standards. I am so thankful that, despite this enormous change in our lives, my children are thriving academically, socially and emotionally at Holland Hall.
—Submitted by a parent

Holland Hall is giving my daughter an excellent foundation in education. She has a safe place to explore and grow. We have only had positive experiences with the faculty and staff at the Primary School. They are professionals that always seem passionate about their jobs. The reading and language programs are outstanding. Our daughter attended a Tulsa-area public school last year. Horrid parents can be found everywhere. If you can afford the heafty tuition bill, other parents should not be a reason to keep your children away from the unique learning environment that HH has to offer. If your work schedules prevent you from being able to volunteer at the school just make sure you get time off to attend all the wonderful programs and plays. The students shine with pride in their new abilities. I am sad that, despite being a Christian affiliated school, there is no real religious education. In an attempt to make everyone happy, the students and parents are bombarded with a virtual comparative religion medley at every holiday. It seems the Christmas tree problem mentioned below was solved by removing it.
—Submitted by a parent

Holland Hall primary school offers a very solid academic program along with exceptional opportunities in art, language and music. The curriculum is well developed at every level and provides many opportunities for a child to excel to meet their full potential. I have been delighted with all of the teachers my two children have had at every grade in the primary school, including pre-school. Having moved to Tulsa from out of state, I was concerned that we would not find a school that would meet our expectations academically. I am happy to say that Holland Hall has exceeded my expectations.
—Submitted by a parent

Regarding the loss of AP classes... the did away with AP because too many colleges didn't accept the credits even if the students did well on the test. HH now offers concurrent enrollment with TCC - you can take classes down the street at TCC during the school day, and TCC credits are easier to transfer to a college. I'm an alumni of Holland Hall & now a parent of 2 elementary age daughters who atttend. Concepts are introduced using visual, auditory, and tactile methods in the primary school. That's HUGE for my kids, who have dramatically different learning styles. Every single teacher knows your name, and your kids names. The amount of parental involvment is staggering (and wonderful). Tuition is jaw-dropping expensive, but worth every penny. We've made many sacrifices to ensure that our girls will get the same education I recieved. With regards to snobbery, there is going to be some of that at any school. HH isn't immune, but they've made huge efforts to diversify the student body. There's a group of friends for everyone - and wealth doesn't equal popularity anymore. Usually the friendly, polite brainiac holds that distinction, and she/he is friendly with everyone.
—Submitted by a parent

Great school with some problems. Teachers are great but currently the headmaster has very poor interpersonal skills and communication skills. He has the tendancy to be rude and condesending to parents how are footing the tuition. School will improve when he is gone at the end of the school year.
—Submitted by a parent

Three of my children went to HH kindergarten through 12. I am incredibly saddened that all children cannot go to such a school. The education was intense, realistic, comprehensive of all its citizens, and an excellent life experience. It IS intellectually elitist, but that is OK with me. My children have learned to think outside the box.
—Submitted by a parent

Unfortunately, bullying has become a serious issue at Holland Hall. They don't even recognize the term bullying. They feel it is over used in our society. It is a very liberal school with liberal values. If you hit a student you don't even get expelled. The academics are slipping as well. All AP courses have been removed. At this price you could go to Cascia Hall and receive a much better education.
—Submitted by a parent

As an alumnus who started Holland Hall in 8th grade my first year was a little bit of a challenge with children who had been there their whole lives. I should have been there and my parents wished they had moved me prior to 8th grade. Academics are excellent. At that time the school motto was "In pursuit of excellence" and I must say that it has stuck with me throughout my life. In everything that I do excellence is the goal. I was very challenged academically since I am someone who has to work hard and things do not come to naturally, but I was taught that hard work pays off. Development of character was present for mind and body and I was challenged on the field as much as in the classroom. Some of my athletic times taught me strong life lessons as well. I am a mother now who lives in Texas in a small town where there is not a clear cut "great school". Replacing and trying to repeat the classical education that I received at Holland Hall from even the college like high school schedule to the expectation of excellence is our current challenge. If only it would be that easy. Let me also clarify that I was a middle class child and really believe this foundation is unprecedented.

My child has attended Holland Hall since preschool. However, I feel that if you aren't from Tulsa you simply don't fit in. Everyone is from Tulsa and/or were sorority sisters. Most women have never worked, therefore they spend most of their time gossiping or backstabbing. We are impressed with the academics, but disappointed in the lack of parenting and pretentiousness that surrounds Holland Hall. Therefore, we are seeking a more appropriate environment for our child.
—Submitted by a parent

Our daughter starts Holland Hall two years ago. At first I was not so fond of the school but I quickly noticed changes int the way my daughter works. That school is really the best in town, academics and life skills are well balanced and kids are so happy and fortunate to be there. I am sure she will stay there up to the end.
—Submitted by a parent

Holland Hall is a good school but far from being among the best in the country! They have limited advanced placement classes and no IB program. For the child who is motivated and independent, this is the right place. However, HH fails tremendously when it comes to children with ADD/ADHD or children needing structure. That is not to say that these kids couldn't be successful somewhere else. The system here doesn't allow it and the staff won't make serious changes to address it.
—Submitted by a parent

Holland Hall is undeniably the greatest school in the region -- and among the best in the nation. Striving for excellence in Academics, the Arts, and Athletics, Holland Hall successfully creates an environment that invites students who excel in any of these three categories. The schedule is a huge plus, as it allows much needed time for accomplishing homework, and receiving help from teachers. Teachers and students interact loosely with each other making great relationships. There is a huge workload, and stress is not uncommon, but the college prep received is incredible. It is not the right school for everyone, but for the right students, Holland Hall is an incredible place.
—Submitted by a parent

Our kids have been at HH for the last 11 years starting with preschool and each year I am amazed at what they're learning. They are always challenged and prepared. We could not be happier with their education and overall development.
—Submitted by a parent

Holland Hall gave me a glimpse into a world that I only hope my kids can experience and I have higher standards because of my time there. Students' friendships and relationships traverse socioeconomic classes. The teachers truly do want students to learn. Parents owe it to themselves to look into Holland Hall for their families.
—Submitted by a former student

My son begged us to send him to Holland Hall for High school. We did and it was the most painful year of his school life. Even though we have above average income, he was teased, called names, and excluded because according to the other students, 'he was not a real Holland Hall student'. The indifference and the faculty made it even harder. At parent teacher conferences, one teacher did not even know which language he was taking from her. Sport participation was a nightmare. Although I have been active at other schools as a volunteer, and attended any parents program I was aware of, We were not included ever as a family. High school is too late to enroll your child at Holland Hall.