Bala-Cynwyd Middle School

Great school, wonderful teachers, they want to make EVERY kid succeed. Great philosophy in dealing with 6-8th graders.
--Submitted by a parent

Dr. Andersen is an excellent leader and communicator. Most teachers have or are working on their advanced education degrees. The curriculum is robust with many offerings found only in private schools.
--Submitted by a parent

Lower Merion School District is all I've ever known for my whole entire school career, but Bala Cynwyd Middle School has certainly been the highlight, so far, of my sojourn to graduation. Academics are superior to most other schools in the region, with well-educated and caring teachers and three world languages to choose from: Spanish, French, and Latin. Three extra-curricular academic programs are provided: Science Olympiad, TSA, and MathCounts. All of these cater to a student's interests and hobbies. Recently, Bala Cynwyd's Science Olympiad team took 1st place at the State Tournament for the first time, beating another phenomenal school and a private independent school from Pittsburgh to advance to the National Tournament. 'Many' doesn't begin to describe the amount of athletics programs are provided at Bala Cynwyd. There is much more to this school, but if you want an exceptional education for your child, this is the place to go.
--Submitted by a student

I luv Bala Cynwyd! I was new to this district but I got so many friends at BC. Teachers on team 6-2 are the best, and Dr.Pron is best computer teacher ever! There are great electives for World Language and the cafeteria food is awesome. There isn't a big amount of homework, and the music program is fantastic. It's a big school, and takes a little while to get used to. But if you have to send your kid anywhere, choose Bala Cynwyd Middle School.
--Submitted by a student

As a BC alumni, I have to say that this school isn't as great as I hoped it would be. The music program is better than most schools, but lacking compared to that of Welsh Valley (the other middle school in the district). Most teachers are good enough, some are great, but there are a good few who never should have been hired. Many of the teachers have unrealistic expectations for the students, and overload them with homework and tests because they assume the students can handle it. The facilities are good, but the gyms and cafeteria could use some work. BC's strengths are in its art program and extra curricular selection, but its teachers and classes need some improvement. Bala Cynwyd is not a terrible school, but for such a good reputation, it really doesn't measure up. A very average school.
--Submitted by a student

Mostly very good to excellent teachers. Strong principal. Music program quality has decreased with change in personnel, not as enjoyable for students. Math a strength. Latin, also strong, other language instruction not as strong, perhaps the curriculum and lower expectations for other languages in middle school? This is a safe and well run school, less homework than I would expect.
--Submitted by a parent

Excellent facilities. Divisive principal limits acheivement by placating parents rather than enforcing discipline and supporting faculty. Faculty has excellent credentials and potential, limited by principal's devotion to public relations and elimination of parent complaints, even at the expense of academic integrity.
--Submitted by a teacher

BCMS is the best school in LM! There are some weak teachers (like anywhere) and the scheduling of extras (like having to pull-out for orchestra and challenge) is bad. Scheduling is always a problem and even when they tinker w/it, it doesn't improve. Should also have sports options for 6th graders --teams don't start til 7th. Otherwise a great school! Strong principal (Dr. Haupt) keeps everyone (teachers too) in line
--Submitted by a parent

Academic programs generally good. General level of teaching is good but there are definite exceptions. Surprising number of weak teachers considering the high pay, good working conditions, and generally good reputation of Lower Merion Schools. Plenty of extracurricular, sports, art and music. Butlike most large middle schools it is very easy for the individual student to get lost in the crowd.
--Submitted by a parent

Academic: only math is tracked, and language arts should be. More than half the kids go to honors level classes in high school. Not as much homework as I expected. Teaching varies, with some outstanding and some mediocre. Music- bands, including 2 jazz bands, orchestra inc. chamber, bell, choirs Art- beautiful art room Theatre program after school- very popular Sports- open to all except basketball, which is by try-outs Parental involvement very strong.
--Submitted by a parent