Cistercian Preparatory School

Incredible education and formation but you have to get a Form master that is experienced because the one we got several years ago was completely new, and I mean he had never worked with boys of this or any age. This caused for him to make poor decisions, even question reported incidents now knowing how to handle them (doubting the boys). Many parents were dissatisfied and said he was not the "one to go to" when we needed something. This caused some boys to not trust him due to fear as well because they seemed to think he expected them to be perfect, as they said. Plus add all the academic pressure, it's not for everybody. Many boys remain quiet about how they truly feel about this pressure or their parents ignore it because they want them to graduate from Cistercian. We loved the family community there, everyone has good intentions but there is way too much pressure and if I had more sons I would never consider this school again. Why stress them so much at such a young age? Another upper school boy said his Form master humiliated a boy by making him get on his knees for not listening. The boys didn't think that was funny and didn't laugh-we know this boy. So sad.
—Submitted by a parent

I cannot imagine a better place for bright boys than Cistercian. The pace of learning is fast, but doable. The dedicated teachers are second to none. The school emphasizes the importance of respecting everyone from teachers to classmates. The dual emphasis on intellectual and character development makes Cistercian a truly unique academic environment. We feel so lucky to have our son there.
—Submitted by a parent

An incredible school with exemplary academics but you have to be lucky to get a Form Master who knows what he's doing. If you get a young priest he may not know how to handle a lot of situations that arise in middle school. Very challenging, must have a self-driven son to handle the excessive work, tests, quizzes and quests almost daily. However, the formation they receive is incredible if your son can handle the pressure.
—Submitted by a parent

CPS is the most formative education you can offer your adolescent son. The bedrock of the institution is a focus on character development that you will be hard pressed to find elsewhere. I'm a grad, went to the Air Force Academy, completed my service, and am now at Columbia Business School.

Cistercian Prep is an amazing place...smart young men compete academically and athletically in a focused, morally grounded, Christian environment. Graduates soar at the college level...where ever they decide life takes them. The 8 years under the same Form master creates brotherhood among most of the boys. I have one graduate and 2 still at CPS.
—Submitted by a parent

I'm an alum, went to Stanford after graduating Cistercian. I really thrived in Cistercian's challenging environment and would recommend it for gifted children.
—Submitted by a former student

Top notch academic standards. The boys have a form master (mentor) that stays with them throughout their years at Cistercian.This is a great advantage for the boys. All the teachers have at least a Masters degree in the subject they teach. The extracurricular activities such as sports provides a great bonding experience for the boys. Each form becomes a family, with its unique qualities and features. If you have a son at Cistercian, you and him are blessed! It doesnt get any better than this in Texas!
—Submitted by a parent

First class academics, greatly improved facilities, and world-class religious instruction in an environment that is designed for exceptionally bright young men. As a monastic order, the Cistercian monks have centuries of experience in the education of boys. Their experience with socialism and communism enables them to stimulate bright young minds with a uniquely pro-american viewpoint.
—Submitted by a former student

This is an incredible all boys Catholic school (grades 5-12) which incorporates VERY strong academics along with spiritual growth and a strong sense of community.
—Submitted by a parent

Cistercians are devoted educators who have developed the perfect method to educate, challenge and motivate bright minds. They promote critical thinkers, independent students and good hearted boys. The have a safe and nurturing environment.
—Submitted by a parent

A great school,one of the best in the country.Excellent,caring and professional teachers and administration. The work is challenging,but the students are very happy and well supported.
—Submitted by a parent

This is the best available school in the DFW area. The Academic program is excellent. The Cistercian Monks are very involved, they have the knowledge and the know-how. They do a fantastic job as teachers and administrators. The curriculum is pretty accelerated, but most of the kids just love the school and they don't mind keeping up with their homework.
—Submitted by a parent