McNeil High School

This school was so terrible when I went there (2011-12), I ended up graduating online just so I don't have to deal with that mess. Fellow students would rather pretend not to hear you than to see what you want, the teachers don't care if you actually learn or not, they just want you to do good on the TAKS, the principal treats the student body like 12-year old delinquents, the campus police force has officers that unnecessarily intimidate students, the bus drivers seem like they were hired right off the street of downtown Austin, and the atmosphere gives you an unneeded "down" feeling. One time I was sent to ISS (It was my fault, nothing the school did wrong here) for three days, and one day when lunch was sent up to us all we got was two slices of bread, a slice of cheese and an apple. The ISS supervisor gave off a frustrated sigh when we told him that we did not get meat in our sandwiches, and when he came back with the proper lunches, he literally threw them onto a desk like they were a backpack. The district also lies to students about policies, for example we were told that if RRISD was not independent, the student body would be forced to wear uniforms. I hope they change soon
—Submitted by a student

McNeil is pretty awesome. My son goes there and loves it. They have a policy that EVERY student be involved in some extracurricular activity. I think this is a great policy because it keeps teenagers out of trouble when they are involved in something they enjoy.
—Submitted by a parent

I have had one child who went 4 years there and one currently enrolled and have not had a good experience. They give the impression to me of not caring (not responding to emails, meetings where people didn't show up, and treating kids with medical problems as if they were causing trouble on purpose) I would NOT recommend McNeil.
—Submitted by a parent

I loved all my teachers at McNeil and always felt safe, and challenged intellectually in the class room! I definitely enjoyed my four years here.
—Submitted by a student

It has great kids, a variety of activites for all kids - theater, performing arts, sports and even FFA. I have been to see it all!
—Submitted by a parent

I finished my Freshman year there, and I have never hated school more. Some teachers would never be there on time, and there's too many students. The class average size is around 24-30 students. It's makes it very hard to learn, and uncomfortable. I had my worst school experience there, and am not going back next year. I wouldn't send any child there.
—Submitted by a student

Challenging academics. Down to earth students. Excellent band and choir programs.
—Submitted by a parent

We have just finished our freshman year. I still can't believe how far the school just exceeded all of our expectations. My son never was a athlete and had trouble making friends. The academy gave him a place to be with people who think like he does. He loves the challenges they present him with. The JROTC gave him a team to become a part of, and a sense of pride. He cant wait to get back for the fall semester.
—Submitted by a parent

I love Mcneil, personally. Very diverse student body, and the teachers are very easy to get along with. As a freshman, this is my first year to attend a High School, and I really enjoyed spending my first year ther
—Submitted by a student

I loved McNeil! The fine arts and extracurricular activities there are great. I was definitely challenged academically with AP classes, but still had a blast being envolved in school clubs. With few exceptions, the teachers there were awesome! Very helpful and very caring! If you put in the effort, they are always willing to spend their own time helping you. It had it's trouble makers, but overall I always felt safe.
—Submitted by a student

I initially was very scared as a parent because this school was so big. My son has done very well. He has had very caring teachers with great communications (with a couple of exceptions). We were very greatful to have Ms. Dorn as a counselor. She seems to really care about her students and the school.
—Submitted by a parent

This school is academically diversified, offering a broad spectrum of core classes and electives. My daughter attended McNeil and we were very pleased with it. They have an excellent fine arts department; the teachers were adequate; the administration fair; and parents (those who cared) were involved with their children. When my daughter had a problem in a class there was always before and after school tutoring (often by the teacher) provided as well as tutoring during school hours. If I had to point out a flaw it would be that they didn't seem to enforce the dress code with some of the girls.
—Submitted by a parent

McNeil H.S. was hugely disappointing for our son entering as a freshman from within the district. We really sensed a lack of inclusion by teachers and even the principal as he made the adjustment to high school. Follow-up from meetings where we discussed our concerns was slim to none. Sophomore year has been better but only because he has 'learned the ropes.'
—Submitted by a parent

I love McNeil High School. I do think there could be better communication from teachers with parents though. McNeil has the very best guidance counselor I have ever met. Dr. Blair really cares about the students and the parents. She is always willing to help!
—Submitted by a parent

I have had one child graduate from McNeil and one child is a freshman there. We have been very pleased with the teachers and administrators at this school. My son is in 2 pre-AP classes and is doing well and encouraged to succeed at a level that is challenging his intellectual abilities. The teachers go the extra mile to support the students and the administrators and counselors make an effort to learn the students' names. They connect with students and I appreciate that.
—Submitted by Karon Henderson, a parent

Excellant school, the administrators are visable and know students by name. Friendly. Teachers do care and help is available at all times. They have the same issues that high schools do, but I think there are awesome.
—Submitted by a teacher