7553 Weather Worn Way #F
Columbia, MD 21046

My children have been at this school for 4 years and we have had a very positive experience.We chose to move to this school pyramid because the school demographics are diverse. We have mixed race children and wanted a diverse background so that they would be surrounded by peers of all races. HES has a very good balance of children of all races, and minority representation in all areas is higher than the national averages. There is also a good mix of socio-economic diversity so that my children understand the concepts of privilege and compassion and learn how to be inclusive to people at all socio-economic levels.As for the teachers and staff, we have had wonderful support from the front office staff to the teachers to the paraeducators (counselors, special education teachers, and other support staff). My children love school, love their cohorts and love the staff. My children want to participate in many of the extracurricular activities because the school fosters a wonderful sense of community. So when there are special events outside of school hours, my children actively want to see their friends, fellow students and the staff for special events. This sense of community helps make my children enjoy the school and the atmosphere and want to learn. They have thrived in this setting. The pandemic was a very challenging time and my children had difficulty learning remotely. The teachers did a wonderful job trying to accommodate the students and families remotely in a very difficult setting. The children were so grateful to be back to in-person school and returning to school after such a challenging period only increased their desire to learn and be in school. The teachers did a really great job in transitioning the children back into in-person school, adapting to the varying degrees of learning loss and bringing the children up to speed at or above grade level.I do want to make a comment about some of the lower ratings (3 stars and 1 star). I think it is unfair for Great Schools to leave such old reviews up. All of the 3 star reviews are from 9 years ago and the 1 star review is from 10 years ago. In that time, the principal has retired and the former assistant principal is now administering the school. Many of the teachers have changed from that period, so the school is very different from when those reviews were posted. Reviews from more than 6 years ago should be limited.

My kid is thriving at Hammond High and is in mostly AP/GT courses. Assignments and feedback are very organized. He seems to be enjoying himself, despite the long study hours . He enjoys friendships that are supportive. Ms. Reid is an engaged and effective Principal. The school sends emails to parents daily. The teachers are mostly veteran instructors who have command of their subjects. They care about the kids and enjoy them. This school appears to be an inclusive community. I am astounded by the opportunities provided for the students to help them on their path to being productive adults. The books, projects, and discussions are often college level. There is something for everyone. The upgrade of the building is wonderful.

Equity issues, especially regarding sexism & ableism. Needs work on communication In the administration, but other than that this school is an average middle school in HOCO. The teachers (especially in the English departments) are fantastic. Your child will be able to succeed here.