394 Stephens Rd
Sylva, NC 28779

While I had high hopes for Cullowhee Valley, our experience has been disappointing due to a lack of academic support. My concerns regarding the environment with recurring issues of bullying, and unfortunately, the school's response was not what we expected. Despite bringing these concerns to the principal multiple times, the situation remained largely unchanged. Our child has been bullied for two complete school years and the story remains the same! The principal and a few select teachers have been so disrespectful to our child that he now shows profound and lasting effects on his mental, physical, and social well-being. He is also showing signs of Depression and Anxiety. My hope with this review is to bring awareness to this school and I hope that things can change moving forward. I am hopeful the Principal and teachers can take some time for self reflection and understand the long lasting effects they are having on the students. Especially my grandchildren! We hope to see a more proactive approach to student safety in the future.

Wouldn't have wanted to spend the last 4 years anywhere else. Smoky Mountain is a great school, filled with more school spirit than any school I have ever seen. We are well known for having the best basketball "student-section" in Western North Carolina, if not the whole state. Academically, I wouldn't say it is top-notch, but it is what you make it. If you work diligently and take initiative to make a way for yourself, you will be well prepared. But there is a lot of leeway to slack for those who don't choose to do so. My 1 complaint is that the guidance office is more or less useless in the college-prep department. I felt like I was all by myself throughout my process, swamped with applications and ill-informed about scholarship opportunities. But overall, I have had an amazing experience here at SMHS! The sense of community is impeccable and the environment is safe and welcoming. Great stepping stone!