C.D. Hylton High School

TV production and the CISL program are real draws. The new principal is slow in making impact and leadership. Mrs Custard made connections with the students and parents and this school is not what it was under her watch. Class sizes are large and classroom management in regular classes is often poor. There are pockets of outstanding teachers. Certainly one of the better schools in eastern PWC but still has room to improve.
—Submitted by a parent

The school is huge and being a public school, they have to educate ALL the kids. As you'd guess, that means that regular classes are full of not so motivated kids with all kinds of issues. Class sizes are often over 30 and the teachers, while trying, have to teach to the lowest level. If your child is average or above, you will need to fight to get them in the right classes. Don't buy the mantra that Virginia schools are top in the nation, because as you know, there is more to school quality than testing. Just keep fighting. A kid could get a good education at this school, but only if their parents are paying attention.
—Submitted by a parent

C D Hylton is an excellent school. Our rising junior has had 16 great teachers to include the gifted program. She has learned so much I. Academis, clubs and sports from great teachers and coaches. The front office has the friendliest staff that are very professional. It is the most diverse school in PWC which enhances her culturally. CISL, Chorus, MUN, AFJROTC are some of the many greats of the school. The new principal gave a truly inspiring speech at this year's graduation. Great school which deserves a much higher rating.
—Submitted by a parent

My child just graduated from Hylton. I do not like the new principal and was disappointed that the previous principal that my child had from 9th thru 11th grade was not there for graduation. There is one administrator who I think is very unprofessional. Also, there are many staff members who show favoritism. The staff should treat each student equally. Hylton needs alot of improvement.
—Submitted by a parent

Hylton is a wonderful school! The teachers really care for you and want you to succeed. plus, the CISL program is great and gives you new perspective on how to view other cultures and tradions
—Submitted by a student

Hands down the best public school in Prince William William county!! My daughter entered Hylton as an EMR/Special Needs student. The Administrators and Staff set high goals early on for her and she met each and every one with flying colors. She graduated this past June 2011 and is now pursuing a degree in Health Information Managment. Mrs. Custard was able to successfully connect with her students, their parents as well as her staff; she is a rare gem indeed. My only regret is that my youngest daughter will not have the pleasure of entering Hylton student under her leadership. Go Bulldogs!!
—Submitted by a parent

My son graduated from Hylton in 2005 and went on to complete college with honors in 2009. My daughter is a student there now. I think the best guage of a school is do the kids want to be there and the answer is a resounding yes. Why, because it's safe, the Principal walks the talk and her staff are aligned with her. Students are held accountable and they are challenged daily.
—Submitted by a parent

Hylton is a wonderful school. Strict, yes, but that is why it is a great school. Mrs. Custard keeps the student under control. There is not another school that I would want my children to go to. It is safe, the staff is wonderful and caring. Teachers care about the students and their education. My children came out a better person. Both of my children had Dennis Brown for band and marching band and I could not think of a better person to have taught them music and things about life. Hylton is an awesome school and I rate it superior. Keep up the good work Mrs. Custand. You are great.
—Submitted by a parent

they are very rude and too strick for my kids
—Submitted by a parent

As a recent graduate from C.D. Hylton High School I can't be more proud of the education I received there. Mrs. Carolyn Custard is strict but fair, always willing to listen to everyone and make the most of any situation. The teachers there run the gambit of the good to bad scale, but many of my past teachers were amazing. While any school has some bad teachers Hylton always puts her best foot forward. The student body at Hylton is diverse and well rounded. One thing I'm proud of the school is how much they get students involved with afterschool programs. No matter what you like as a student, there is something for you. The students themselves are wonderful. I never felt threatened or less than others. The CISL program is great and helps students in numerous ways. If you are looking for a school in Prince William county, stop by.
—Submitted by a student

I am a freshman at Hylton. The school is awesome. The teachers work hard to help you. The upperclassmen help you not push you around. I am in the CISL (Center for International Study of Languages) program it is a great program that guides you in the right direction to get you into college and have fun as well. Hylton is a great place to be and I'm glad I transferd there from my base scholl Garfield.
—Submitted by a student

The students are passionate, active in their community and school, and the principal is an excellent example of school spirit. The CISL program is an incredible experience that inspires students to take more AP classes, and to immerse themselves into other cultures through travel, exchange programs, and language requirements. The school is safe, there aren't many problems between students, and the staff is friendly.
—Submitted by a student

I had two students to attend C. D. Hylton! Go Bulldogs! One son graduated in 2005 and a daughter in 2007, but she was suppose to graduate in 2008. She finished in three years. The school has great administration and awesome commaderie and teamwork. The Principal is great as well! A real leader. I can't wait until my six grader gets to be a Bulldog!
—Submitted by a parent

This is a great high school The commitment of the teachers is outstanding. The course selection is like being in college. The extra curricular opportunities are outstanding. Can't say enough great things!!
—Submitted by a parent

I am a senior, and have been here for three years. The past school that I went to was Robinson Secondary School in Fairfax. The teachers here and take the time to talk to you if you are falling behind...and yes the principle here is awesome, shes is like a second mom to me. I have to agree, they should let up on the attendance rules that they have, but Ive been on time to class everyday for two years...When I was at Robinson you could rome in late to class, and some of the teachers would not care, and do nothing, but at Hylton, if your late you go straight to your admin, and get a detention. Well, cant wait to grauate...GO DAWGS!
—Submitted by a student

The specialty program for International Studies and Languages (CISL) at Hylton is extremely well run thanks to Margaret Holt. This school offers and extensive array of AP courses and has a Social Studies Department that is second to none. Eighteen of the twenty-one teachers my daughter has had in the last three years range from very good to phenomenal. Hylton offers great diversity where not only are differences tolerated, they are celebrated and respected. Behavior standards are high yet students are able to relax and enjoy themselves. The list of extra-curricular programs is mind boggling. The only weakness I have encountered is in their administrative staff. I would highly recommend this school to anyone contemplating one of their programs.
—Submitted by a parent

I'm not a parent, but I did attend CD Hylton Senior High school...and loved it! I have gotten into my share of trouble at Hylton, but in the end, I appreciated it, because it made me realized how much the faculty actually cared about my actions and well-being. I would not be able to make the same comment about my previous high school...
—Submitted by a former student

Like most high schools in metropolitan Washington D. c. Hylton offers quite an array of courses for it's students. Sports activities are some of the best in the state. there is a swmall core that performs at a very high academic level. Teaching staff is adequate and class size is normal.
—Submitted by a staff

By far the best experience I have ever had Hylton provides students with a quality education and spirited atmosphere were studentd can achieve thier true potential if they work hard. I am a student and there is no other place I would like to recieve my education from than Hylton.
—Submitted by a student

Hylton High school is not a very good school. first of all they are very strict and they need to lighten up on the rules and less strict punishment Not to mention the teachers at the school, now dont get me wrong, some of the teachers are great, some of the best teachers I've ever. and u dont get detention you go straight to saturday school i mean COME ON give us a break. were their to learn not to sit in a room for 4 hours and do nothing! ~karen
—Submitted by a student