Haydenville

My two children attended this school over a 9 year period. The staff is caring and responsive. We had one bad experience with a teacher, but the administration handled it well and of course a parent can't expect to love every teacher. They offer a cool gardening program that gets the kids outside, and they have a lovely playground and green space. My children liked their time there and we felt like the staff welcomed us in to volunteer often. Tracking salamanders was one favorite activity for my older son. The PTO is strong and supports many of the teachers financial needs!

Anne T. Dunphy is a small, rural school. Many of the kids in the school come from town families that have lived there for generations. The school is suspicious of newcomers and those who do not fit the "townie" mold. Our family has observed racism (from other kids) that goes unresolved and without consequence. The Principal is a townie herself and is afraid to stand up to the children of her peers, who are often the most problematic. The entire environment is hostile and she is at the root of the problem. Academically, the school is just average. If our child is middle of the road, they will be fine. If they are ambitious or struggling, they will be left behind. There is no "gifted" program in the school. Extra work for the students means extra work for the teachers, so it's never given. There is no language program and the music teacher is a complete joke. Massachusetts has "school choice" and I recommend you choice out of this school, unless you are the child of a townie and who is looking to relive their own glory days.