100 Sim Dawson Road
New Bern, NC 28562

The environment at this school is becoming increasingly untenable for students. We are constantly dealing with a lack of pedagogical stability because so many teachers are either brand-new or quit halfway through the year. This 'revolving door' of staff means there is almost no consistent discipline or authority in the building.Because the administration can't keep experienced teachers, the student culture has devolved into something really hostile. There is a pervasive amount of homophobia and transphobia in the halls that goes almost entirely unchecked. It’s common to hear discriminatory slurs and targeted harassment, but since the staff is always changing, nobody is held accountable.It is extremely difficult to focus on my education when the social climate is this bigoted and the leadership is this fragmented. A school shouldn't feel like a place where you have to worry about your identity being attacked just because the adults in charge can’t maintain a stable environment.

Stay far away from this school. Your kids are not safe. Bullying is swept under the rug, the staff protects the bullies. The staff tells lies and cover up and protect certain students. There’s something suspicious going on at this school and it won’t be long before it’s exposed.

I have so many wonderful things to say about my son's school, that it makes it difficult to find a starting point. We were blessed with a very bright child who is incredibly sharp and asks questions like who, what, when, where and why about everything and will very seldom settle for a simple yes or no. J.W. Smith affords my son the type of learning environment that is truly conducive to having all of his questions answered. He has made the principals list three times in a row. I thank GOD for his academic achievements but also for the EXCELLENT teachers that influence his life daily, and shape and mold my son's mind and character. In front and at the helm of every great team is a great leader. The Principal is doing a phenominal job and has the support and endorsement not only from the staff but the parents as well.My son looks forward to school each and every day, including turning in his required home work assignments. I'm certain that other parents feel equally as impressed as I am that J.W Smith School goes way above and beyond the call to make sure our children leave there with the very best and highest quality education they can. I am and will be forever grateful!!!