The McGillis School

An outstanding preparatory school that builds confidence and a desire to learn. Many of the class projects are cross-curricular learning experiences that integrate math, literacy, history and science. Students that are highly motivated may take a project further & are encouraged to do so. From a young age, writing, verbal communication & presentations are encouraged, which builds tremendous confidence. Students that are ahead in a subject are given alternative assignments (such as in math & writing). Individualized instruction, in a small class environment, ensures the needs and interests of all children are met. The children are respectful and do not display overly competitive feelings of academic superiority. Teens that graduate from McGillis are well prepared to take on advanced coursework and extracurricular offerings available in high school. I do not feel McGillis is pushy, rather, the real goal is to provide a solid foundation and a well rounded educational experience. We know a number of teens that have demonstrated the value of this education. The teens we know are confident & not arrogant & score very high on standardized scores like the ACT.
--Submitted by a parent

The McGillis School was an excellent choice for my children, one of whom is now ready to graduate high school. Given that the reviewer from January 2011 did not even edit his post for typos, I don't think his negative comments should be taken too seriously. Matt Culbertson and the administration at McGillis are very in-tune with the students and the day-to-day operation of the school. I am always impressed to hear the administrators refer to each student by name. The teachers are outstanding. Jocelyn G., in particular, is a 10 among math teachers. She goes the extra mile to make sure each student is learning atbhisor her own level. The homework load is balanced, and the school has increased their music, theatre, sports and extra curricular programs. I would urge any parent to consider the McGillis program.
--Submitted by a parent

I have three students at McGillis and although it is painful in the pocketbook, it is worth it when your children enjoy going to school everyday! The most important thing a a school can instill in our students is a love for learning, that does not mean sending them home with lots of homework, it means building a strong foundation and an appetitie and curiosity for more. It is not all about the scores, and at McGillis my children thrive with a close knit, caring community both faculty and parent.
--Submitted by a parent

I am surprised and saddened that so many people are unhappy with this school. I have been a student at this school and found it has been amazing for me, going to a new school this year has highlighted how lucky I was to have gone to this school. I consider myself an advanced learner and McGillis has helped me every step of the way. The teachers are amazing, the curriculum is great, and, even though it is a Jewish Value based school, everybody is accepted and welcome into the community.

MY CHILD IS AT MCGILLIS AND I HAVE BEEN HEART BROKEN THIS YEAR. THE MATH THAT MY CHILD IS DOING IN THE CLASS IS 1 WHOLE GRADE LEVEL BEHIDE KIDS THE SAME GRADE IN MY HOME AREA. I HAVE FOUND FROM MY CHILD THAT THE TWO TEACHERS IN THE CLASS DOESN'T READ WITH ANY OF THE CHILDREN. MY CHILD I REALIZE IS BEHIDE AND WILL HAVE TO SPEND HIS SUMMER MONTHS CATCHING HIM UP. I WISH MY HUSBAND AND I WOULD HAVE MADE DIFFERENT PLANS THIS YEAR FOR OUR CHILD . I LIKE THAT THE SCHOOL IS FRIENDLY BUT VERY LACKING IN HELPING CHILDREN TO DO WELL IN LEARNING. I SAY THAT IT WAS A TOTAL WASTE OF MONEY THIS YEAR!!!! WISH I WOULD HAVE WENT SOMEWHERE ELSE.
--Submitted by a parent

My granddaughter has been a student at McGillis for several years, and thrives there. But more important, she has a friend at the school with a learning disability who thrives there, and to me this is important, each child is taught as best possible.Caring + educational quality = 5 stars from my point of view.
--Submitted by a parent

My child is a middle school student at McGillis and I could not be happier. As a professional in the field of education, I investigated every public, independent, private and charter school in the region. I know without doubt that we are all fortunate to be part of this learning community. This school recognizes the essence and value of education and imparts on its students a deep sense of personal responsibility for themsleves and others. My son can learn anywhere but he cannot learn anywhere what McGillis teaches him. They work openly, respectfully and transparently with families. As they now grow in size and programming, it is clear that they are enhancing excellence within their educational programs in all ways. Our family has had to make adjustments to be able to send our child to an independent school and at McGillis, we have no regrets whatsoever.
--Submitted by a parent

This year The McGillis School is consumed with paying for its new building. They have lost focus on educating children. We got a letter that indicates that our tuition will be raised by over 15% for 2010-2011! I don't feel that my child is getting any increase in education value. When we enrolled in The McGillis School there was an emphasis on 'the child' and 'the community.' Gradually the emphasis has morphed into 'we want to be Rowland Hall.' There is no support for special education. You get to talk to the school psychologist who refers you to outside sources. Come to McGillis if you are smart (not too smart) and compliant and if your family has a whole bunch of money. Don't expect an actual 'education', my kid is supplemented with homeschool websites and curriculum.
--Submitted by a parent

As an experienced educator, I have worked in several quality independent schools in the U.S. The McGIllis School is an excellent place to work and for children to learn. The faculty is professional, caring, and cohesive. The Administration challenges us to perform at our best, and they support the work that we do. Continuing education is expected and we work together to provide a quality, holistic education for our students. I have not worked in a school that has accomplished so much in such a short amount of time. I love being a part of the McGillis community and would not work anywhere else in SLC. McGIllis is not just a school to me, it is family.
--Submitted by a teacher

such a step up from any school my children have attended. A miracle i found it. the teachers are above and beyond excellent.
--Submitted by a parent