Watson B. Duncan Middle School

I wouldn’t recommend anyone to go to this school, my son was able to walk out of school. They don’t put them in the right classes that he needs. He has a condition, And my daughter, she was lost in a field trip. I wouldn’t recommend anyone to go to the school. I haven’t felt satisfied or safe towards that School.

i count my blessings that my child was able to go to Timber Trace. He had several teachers who had Masters degree, one teacher who had PhD. During the pandemic, his Teacher Ms. Martini, was the only reason we were able to make trough the chaos during the pandemic. Classrooms get additional teachers to help students . The school psychologist, speech therapist and the whole ESE team are amazing. They worked very well with my child and us to make sure the student was supported. In the 6 years we spent with them, there was only one teacher who had short temper and was in general not nurturing. She left the next year. I think the principal is amazing, she is at every single event, running around doing lots of hard work. I thank the administration , the teachers, everyone who works in the school for giving us amazing experience. I truly recommend this school.

Dwyer High School should have a higher rating in my opinion. My child just completed the 9th grade and he absolutely loves Dwyer. He was pleased with all but one of his teachers, and I do understand his reasons, but overall he and I both think they’re doing a great job. They have really good sports teams and his coach goes above and beyond for Track/Cross Country kids. Any issues with bad apples at the school are addressed promptly. I don’t have anything bad to say. The principal cares about the students and runs the school well. I hope more parents and kids give reviews because I don’t believe the 5/current rating is accurate.

Principal Corey Ferrera is the reason for my son’s departure from this school. She has demonstrated a consistent lack of compassion, empathy, patience, and understanding toward students with unique challenges, particularly children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Rather than promoting inclusivity, her leadership fosters division and creates an environment where the needs of ASD students are not adequately supported.The former ESE Coordinator appeared overwhelmed and unsupported, which is especially concerning given the high population of ASD students at this school. Classroom ratios were often unsafe, and staff were overworked, yet there was little compassion or advocacy from administration. While there were a few dedicated and caring staff members, many did not advocate for students out of fear of retaliation. Several of the staff who truly cared have since left, which speaks volumes about the work environment.Most alarming, my son left the classroom and was later found at the playground. Had it not been for staff members who genuinely cared enough to inform us, my husband and I would never have known. This raises serious concerns about student safety and accountability.The school board should thoroughly investigate Principal Ferrera’s conduct and leadership, particularly regarding her treatment of children with disabilities. With strong, compassionate leadership that truly champions all children from all backgrounds, Allamanda has great potential—but unfortunately, that leadership is currently lacking.

The school eventually exceeded my expectations with dedicated teachers and a supportive staff. They truly partner with parents who are engaged and willing to collaborate. The school feels safe, and their aftercare program is excellent, my child loves it. Like most Florida schools they could use some more support and funding for special needs children.

I have noticed a change in the school over the years that is very disappointing. It was very warm and nurturing the first year we were there. But we noticed a trend that if you have an issue, your child or you became the problem. If you point out an issue about the academics, you are told your kid has a learning disability. If you speak up about bullying, you are told your child is just sensitive or it nothing was seen. If you are a parent that speaks up, you won't be happy here. If you want a secure school with a beautiful campus, but don't care about the academics or bullying, then this is the school for you.