Rippon Middle School

Very disappointed in this year's math & science program. My son placed 1st in his category at the science fair and placed 1st in the overall category for his grade level. He was to participate in the county wide science fair. His science teacher did not register him. We didn't find out until we went to set up the evening prior. My son and myself were very upset. We spoke with science fair coordinator/math & science program head, but unfortunately there was nothing he could do. The following Monday, not a word was spoken to my son about the mistake. I spoke with his Gifted Ed. teacher and the principal. The principal apologized and my son was given his apology a day later after I requested one. His science teacher did not own up to her mistake and pushed the blame onto my son. She is the adult and he is the student. He issupposedly in the Math & Science Program and you'd think they'd encourage student growth and want to increase the perception of the school. How does this happen? Very sad. Luckily, this is his last year there and this the only bad apple, but it was a big one.
--Submitted by a parent

I think Rippon Middle School is an excellent school. The teachers are great, and have a great friendship with the students. The way they teach the students is magnificent. The principal is very nice, and obiously knows what shes doing. The school has many assemblies and special occaisions.The band program is excellent, with a great teacher. This school also offers a Math and Science Program, which gives the students chances to really understand and participate with the subject. To be honest, bullying and things as such are happening, but not very often. Every school deals with this. I strongly recommend this school to anyone who is interested.

I went to this school for a year and a half, and I can honestly say it was one of the best experiences of my life. Most of the teacher are great, but there are a few, like in every school, that are kind of below average. I loved all my teachers, the band teacher is my favorite :). The band is a great program, and the other music classes are getting better. I think they got a principal since I was there, and they renovated. It is really a great school.

RMS is by far the most dysfunctional school my son has attended. It appears that the school administration is out of control. There seems to be a heavy focus on punishments and not academics. I have walked in the office several times for various reasons and they are very rude and impatient to parents and students. I would not recommend this school.
--Submitted by a parent

This is an excellent school with caring teachers who work late daily, so they can focus on teaching. Although there has a been a turnover of principals-- five principals over the last 18 years, teachers work hard at maintaining a sense of continuity for all students. They offer students an opportunity to excel; although it is up to the student to choose how they will participate. Being located in a bedroom community, many parents spend a great deal of time at work or in traffic, thus limiting their involvement. The school offers frequent technological use, but many students do not have access to a computer and/or the internet at home. Also the lack of parental involvement affects being able to take field trips. Teachers spend a great deal of money on supplies such as pencils, paper, etc. Teachers work well with the requirements of system as well as the situations.
--Submitted by a teacher

This school is by far the best school I have been to. I have moved many times in my life and have to say that this school sets high expectations. Some teachers are mean, but they get the job done if you just listen to what they have to say. This school is definitely bully-free and drug-free. It is not really based on the parent to rate, for the children go to this school so they know the most information. And kids exaggerate a lot. I myself am a kid, but show to be very mature. I am an honor roll student. It's up to your kid to do what's right.
--Submitted by a student

Most people who say they don't like this school have kids that are out of control. The truth is, this is a great school with high expectations for kids and their parents.
--Submitted by a parent

this school is the best Middle school in Woodbridge
--Submitted by a parent

Oh My God ! Where do I start! my daughter has been a student at RMS since the 6th grade and it has been a nightmare! The administration spends way to much time trying to accuse students of wrong doing that they have forgotten to praise and motivate and care about their students! my daughter hates going to school at Rippon. I have to say that I have been a mother for 31 years having two grown sons I have had a lot of experiance with dealing with school staff and this staff is the worst by far. I almost can't find the words to explain how bad this school is! If you are moving into this district I hope that you can afford private school! PLEASE DO NOT LET YOUR CHILDREN GO TO THIS SCHOOL!
--Submitted by a parent

i go to rippon middle and i say its not to good. some teachers are just horrible and one gets the job done right.But he's a bit mean.Some cared about us but then stop caring.We've had one field trip and it was to the old country buffet.so the school to me is below average.
--Submitted by a student