Noel Grisham Middle School

This school really took a turn for the worse this year, with way too much teaching to the test - the upcoming STAAR test. It's unfortunate, because there are some good teachers at Grisham, but their lessons are tightly controlled by administration, from what I saw and heard. Also, the school became more crowded this year, with bullying and fights becoming more common. We transferred our child to a charter school, where we discovered he was behind in both math and science, though his grades had been okay at Grisham.
--Submitted by a parent

There are some good teachers who work hard and are very dedicated. Unfortunatly, they are burdened with the constaints of the IB MYP program (this is not the diploma program) and a school principal who is inept. Parents are involved, but when school administration is not open to input, it is very frustrating. Parents are so fed up, many have sold their homes over it.
--Submitted by a parent

The band program is amazing. Challenging, energetic, dynamic. I'm so impressed. Unless you are in the top tier of classes, the academics are only so-so. We were at a middle school in VA where the "average" classes could easily be compared with the honors classes at Grisham. I can't say that I've been bowled over by the teachers at Grisham, either. I haven't picked up a sense of enthusiasm coming from the classroom. My other problem is that if you don't make the massive time commitment to the athletics program, then you are essentially out of luck for P.E. It's either fourteen hours a week or nothing at all. Can't they have a P.E. class that is separate from the athletic program?
--Submitted by a parent

I love going to Grisham because I love the clubs, the actitivities, and the classes!
--Submitted by a student

The students and parents at Grisham are outstanding in their effort & support. The faculty truly cares about each child being the best they can be. Morale is high due to effective leadership and collaboration between colleagues. A wonderful place to work!
--Submitted by a teacher

This is the best school ever;teachers are great,students are smart. I love Grisham.
--Submitted by a student

Grisham has the best enviorment for use kids and it makes school worth going to. Iam very glad to be attending the school in 7th grade. This years we are covering many things in all classes and the teachers have a good way of doing it. Students aren't pressured at all but there are practically no slackers. This is a very good school and love going there.
--Submitted by a student

We have been pleased with the academics, teachers and social aspects of this school. This is the best middle school in RRISD. The teacher to student ratio is superior. The school is not so large (like some neighboring middle schools) that the students get lost. The administration is excellent. These children are truely doing high school level work and each child is accountable for turning work in..not a place for slackers! The parental envolvment is fantastic and the band is the best in the state!
--Submitted by a parent

I love my school because it has the best social activity than any other in Austin! Iam basically friends with everyone and theres no bullying and theres always entertainment. It makes everything fun while going to Grisham Middle School. -McCall =)
--Submitted by a student

This school has been an amazing establishment for my children! Also with 9 kids i really think about what school is best for them! Also the school just became and IB world school meaning that you child will have a better chance of getting into a harder college without the TAG and other stuff like that. The school set higher standerds this year and has the best teachers than any other middle school in texas making it easy for you child to be part of this wonderful IB school!
--Submitted by a parent