McDougle Middle School in Durham, North Carolina

“While there are many fine teachers at MMS, the leadership is sorely lacking. Rather than cultivating a positive growth-oriented environment, the atmosphere borders on that of a prison governed by a warden. The school is not run in the best interest of the students, rather decisions seem to be made with more regard for what is easiest for the administration. Opportunities for creative learning are stilted. Many of the other middle schools in the district have a wide variety of creative learning opportunities that are just not available at MMS. One has to believe that the poor leadership contributes to low morale amongst the staff which in turn limits their enthusiasm for going above and beyond the minimum expectations. Overall, a very frustrating and disappointing middle school experience. We will be glad to move on.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“This is a great school. I am a new 6th grader here, and so far, the teachers have been great about welcoming us. I would say this is at least the best school in CHCCS, maybe better. The teachers have been helpful, and everybody at this school is great”
This review was posted by a student.

“It's the best school in north carolina I goto this school and so far I haven't seen nothing bad happen here.”
This review was posted by a student.

“This is our first year here, & our last. I have a 7th grader with special needs. They're no help to the kids at all. Discipline is almost non-existent. Teachers turn a blind eye to bullying & teasing. Issues have to be reported to the counselor, assist. principal or school officer to get resolved. It's been a constant battle all year to try & get the things our child needs. Admin is very good at blowing parents off. Emails & notes get ignored by many teachers. Other than report cards, communication from school is non-existent. I never hear about events going on at school. We heard CHCS were the best schools. Not true for special needs kids. We're looking into other schools. I'm done with this one.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“This school is okay, but not great. They do offer a wide selection of ellective classes. The school counselors are awesome. There's a no bully policy, but teachers won't listen to the kids if there is a problem. So parents have to get involved for things to be taken seriously. If you have a special needs child, don't come here. This school really believes in homework too, even on weekends. Be prepared to have to help with homework a lot. This school looks great on paper, but not so great once you actually get in it. I wouldn't recomend this school to any of my friends.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“Excellent programs, thoughtful teachers, great school! Middle schoolers can choose from different languages, variety of electives, and a supportive team environment.”
This review was posted by a parent.