Research Surprise Lake Middle School public Schools in Tacoma, Washington

“Federal policies that encourage hidden agendas is common in most schools. This one is no different. I do agree that there are great teachers at this school, but many of the issues, as described in the 11 Jan 08 post, truly lies within their management. Standards should be maintained and the students should be held accountable but still assisted in an educational way and not a 'fudge the numbers' way. I have seen some of the classes at this school crumbling with few books and lack of maintenance while others flurish. Now, I don't want to throw all the punches at the administration, more parents need to be involved too. Following up on their children and helping them with their shortfalls works wonders for the childs progress and behavior.”

“Obviously, my opinion is quite different than the former one. The teachers are wonderful and do want the children to be their very best; they are not easy with grading and if students are missing work or doing poorly, they do require students to come in during lunch time and get parents involved as well. Over all, this is a great school and my son absolutely loves it. Everyone is different but my son is learning and keeping up well. Don't by pass this district; no one can keep everyone happy and of course, I get irritated at times but they are far and few inbetween.”

“I am shocked at this school, and a lot of schools in Washington. If you want your children to pass classes with grades they do not earn then this is the school for you. They continue to lower standards for students, making it easier for them not to care about school or anything in their lives. There minimum standard for passing is a D, and again they have reevaluated their grading policies so in reality if your child is getting an F it will be moved to a D. They keep say that we are getting children ready for high school and college. No they are not they are getting them ready for failure in the real world. They are showing them that mediocrities are completely acceptable and that doing the bare minimums in life is enough. I could not be more frustrated with these school districts policies, and this school that my child is going to barely make it out on in the real world. I would bypass this school district if I were you.”

“I think this is a wonderful school, teachers are helpful, my daughter struggles in math and the teacher is giving her extra help. I like that it is very internet friendly, grade checker is great and each teacher having there own email for teacher parent comminication is perfect. I have been pleased with everything they do. Compared to the large school district nearby this school is outstanding.”

“Not too long ago this was a very good school. Over the last 4-5 years the caliber of the teachers has declined (especially with regards to math), however, there are still some exceptional teachers at this school. In this entire school district, I believe this is the only school that is dragging the district down.”