Bishop Dunne Catholic School

Bishop Dunne has academically high standards, and does a fine job preparing students for a post-secondary education at a 4-year college/university. As another parent mentioned, the distinct character of the school is a positive. Don't be turned away by the older-looking buildings. There are a number of large scale remodeling projects in progress, and in a year or so, the building will be modernized. If you're looking for your child a strong learning environment that is academically challenging, and also looking for ample extra-curricular opportunities, take an honest look at B. Dunne. It's a great option.
—Submitted by a parent

I found that the Bishop Dunne community was so welcoming to my son who attended since the 8th grade and graduated last year in the class of 2012. My son was accepted to many top colleges thanks to Bishop Dunne and the rigorous curriculum they provided. Besides from excellent academic programs they also have a large number of sports and clubs that my son enjoyed and met life long friends in these activities. Overall Bishop Dunne was an excellent experience for my family and even though it may not be the best looking or wealthiest private school in Dallas, it makes up for it in distinctive character and a healthy learning environment.
—Submitted by a parent

I have two daughters who attended and graduated from Bishop Dunne. My oldest started in the 9th grade and my youngest started in the 7th grade. They are both in college now and have very fond memories of the teachers and students. They both feel that the strict but compassionate discipline and the rigorous academics have prepared them for college. One of my daughters had difficulties with a student at one time but the school intervened and through a dispute resolution type process the two were able to get past their differences. I believe this is one of the best schools in Dallas and I feel fortunate to have been able to send my children there.
—Submitted by a parent

I am a current Bishop Dunne student and I don't like the school. If you want a good quite environment then this school is not for you. You can not walk anywhere in the school without being shoved aside by tons of other students. The students are not nice. They can be very mean not just to other students but to teachers to. The students swear in class, and completely ignoring the teacher . It is so bad that the teachers can not get done what needs to be done. Few of the teachers have given up and break down in class. The students find it funny and aim to make teachers quit.

As a former student, I can easily say my time at Bishop Dunne was well spent. There is a very close-knit evironment throughout the student body and friendships amidst the challenging academic setting were easily made and maintained. I cannot say enough good things about this exemplary school. The one fault I found in this school came as a result of an ongoing illness which forced me to miss the majority of a school year. As I began to fall behind in my classes some teachers were very helpful and supportive while others were not. Eventually I was transferred to an entirely online curriculum, but I was often unable to reach my online teacher. After months of struggle the school administration informed me that this was still not enough to advance me to the next grade. I was devastated and eventually transferred to a different school. Bottom line: this is a terrific school as long as your student is unlikely to be missing an excessive number of school days.

The school has an excellent administration with a clear vision for its future, a dedicated and highly qualified faculty, and cultural diversity among students with no indication of ethnic conflict, just fidelity to the precepts of the school and the Catholic Christian faith along with enthusiasm for learning.
—Submitted by a parent

Wow is all I can say about the 14 April 2010 comments... Our son started attending BD this year after being at Canterbury Episcopal School for 8 years. It was the best decision he ever made, because he has blossomed this year. He has been fined ONCE all year for not putting his cell phone away in a timely manner. This school is wonderful and all you have to do is follow the rules. You are SUPPOSED to wear a belt and why do you need to chew gum at school? It sounds like this family saved all of the families and faculty that are at BD and loving it a lot of grief!!
—Submitted by a parent

This school just wants your money. with all of the ridiculous fines the hand out to the students like: no belt-$10, chewing gum/cell phones:$25. its like they look for students to do wrong. I hated this school when i attended

Awsome school, the Principal shows to be a great leader and keeps the school competive with surrounding schools. The schools shows to be academically sound and has a high success rate on preparing students for college.
—Submitted by a parent

My experience with Bishop Dunne was less than satisfying. I found Bishop Dunne's greatest concerns are financial matters not educating the children. There was a staff member that was extremely rude to my child after he left Bishop Dunne.

Well bishop dunne has great qualities and my son loves it there. He says thats the best school his ever been to. They really get me and my wife involved and we just luv it there.
—Submitted by a parent

It is off the scale!! IT is such a wonderful school with great staff and a loving prinicipal!! There is true teaching in Religion and Academics. Other Catholic schools could learn from Bishop Dunne!
—Submitted by a parent

My child is graduating this year, and I am more than confident that she is prepared for college. They have a counselor who worked in college admissions, so she has first hand knowledge of what colleges are looking for. The students get to use Naviance to track their high school path, such as PSAT, ACT, AP courses, etc. The diversity is another plus. Unlike other schools that are predominantly white and sterile, this school offers a real world experience with all walks of life...from children of NBA stars to regular parents like us. I encourage you to come by and take a tour!
—Submitted by a parent

Most teachers are fine and do what they love to do when they can control the unruly students in most classes in the middle school. The demographics in the middle school does not lend itself to parity. I witnessed numerous egregious acts/behavior at various times during the school day and at school sponsored events. The school needs to be more discerning with all applicants. They need to consider a students conduct and moral integrity. Yes, the school does have smart boards,ipods, etc.
—Submitted by a parent

Bishop Dunne has an excellent academic program, one that is both challenging and interesting. The teachers are available for assistance and they work hard to insure student success.
—Submitted by a parent

Awesome says it best! Small personalized classes in a medium sized setting. Faculty are fantastic, at least ten are Notre Dame grads. Loads of AP course options, free tutoring 5 days per week in all subjects, teachers who are at once both energized and caring. Fantastic technology and awarded by Intel as a top technology school. Extraordinarily well rounded, kids come from all walks of life, which is a major plus in my book. Students are encouraged to get involved in as many extracurricular pursuit as their schedule permits. Storied athletic program, yet their heads are on straight when it comes to priorities. There are newer and bigger facilities, but tverall a great environment, a great education and a very reasonable price compared to some schools in Dallas.
—Submitted by a parent

My children's comprehension and involvement with current events and their overall community responsibility is attributable to Bishop Dunne's caring enviornment. They continue to thrive and celebrate diversity thanks to the positive atmosphere.
—Submitted by a parent

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic School is a small inner city school. The school offers music class, sports, and various other activities. Parent involvement is not as high as possible but there is enough to make a difference.
—Submitted by a parent

Sending our son to Bishop Dunne Catholic High School has been the best move my husband and I have ever made. The atmosphere at Dunne is so warm and welcoming. Administrators, teachers and other parents are extremely caring and giving.
—Submitted by a parent

BD has been a blessing for us. Our two children have been there for 3 years and the experience has been more than positive. The academic environment is challenging; the teachers have high expectations for all students. The faculty all work to ensure student success and they are very caring.
—Submitted by a parent