98 Island Avenue
Madison, CT 06443

I have had children attend this school from 2019-2021 and 2023-2025. During both those time periods, both my children and I felt supported by both the staff and administration. I highly praise the counseling department and, specifically, Mr.Canestri for his dedication and rapport with students and families.The 2019-2021 years were a bit unique due to covid and some periods of remote learning/social distancing. I feel it was handled well and my child still managed to thrive. I was also able to get my child testing and a 504 plan was initiated which has paved the way for my now teen’s success. In the 2023-2025 years, my child attended and enjoyed school, made some improvements in reading and felt supported. The areas my children somewhat struggled with at Baldwin were adjusting to the length of time of classes and the lessened time for recess and no playground. I do know the school worked on adding options for the students so it was improved when my youngest child attended and I recently learned a playground was installed.

Schools are supposed to be good and not hell

I honestly have never had much good to say about my child’s public school experiences in other districts. However, we have been impressed by Guilford High School. Our child has had amazing teachers — some that have provided not only a subject matter expertise, but also self confidence, and support that was very helpful. We had situations where we had to work with administrators and were also impressed by their thoughtfulness and caring. We were new in Guilford and it makes navigating things a bit more difficult than if we’d spent a lifetime here. I do think that kids can get lost when they don’t have an elementary school history in the district. However, after conversations with the administrators at GHS, our child was able to take advanced math classes, and other college-level courses (IB/AP). While I wish it had not taken us pulling out test scores or advocating for our child, it all worked out well. I think the guidance department is swamped and you need to read, be knowledgeable, and push for what your kid needs in order to fill out the eventual college applications. If you have the means, I’d suggest tapping into outside private paid counselors to double check a child’s trajectory early in their high school career (or attend their free online lectures). My child received some valuable advice outside of GHS counseling that ultimately made the difference in getting admitted to certain colleges. I wish they could have learned these things from the counseling office instead. I think the college admissions experience would have been challenging without the outside guidance. Overall, no regrets — our best public school experience ever.

The teachers and especially principal at this school are amazing, they are so caring and dedicated. The principal also keeps parents very informed and involved. I am so glad my children have the opportunity to go to MJS!