Downington Middle School

My daughter is in her second year at DMS. First, the new bussing situation is unacceptable. Children must walk to and from busses through the busy high school parking lot, to the high school next door. For this reason I now drive my child both ways each day. One thing DMS does we'll is teach kids how to manage their time and schedules. Academically though I am not impressed with DASD at all. We move frequently and both of my children are far advanced in English, Science and History. My child has learned no new material in these subjects since we moved to Downingtown after 4th grade. Her current 7th grade history teacher does not teach, but babysits while the kids copy text from photo copied material in folders. We are at the mid-term of Q1 now and all lessons have been taught this way. I'd estimate that at least 50% of the work is project based and done in groups with inadequate supervision. This typically results in one child doing the work,a fair amount of social drama and no real learning. Considering all the accolades DASD receives, and the tax rate for the district, I expected more rigorous curriculum and a better learning environment. We have been disappointed.

We moved here recently and have been delighted with DMS, Shamona Creek Elementary, and DASD. I have an 8th grader and a 5th grader and the staff, teachers and students have been very helpful. The band/music program is a big improvement over our prior school district (Marple-Newtown) and the social environment is much more welcoming. I'm looking forward to my kids graduating from high school here.

In the two years my son has been a student at DMS I have found most of the teachers are there to collect a paycheck and not teach our children. They always have an excuse. In the private sector employers do not want excuse they want results and anwers. The Principal is a waste. Maybe he should send less time making YouTube vidoes and more time running the school.

DMS has excellent and supportive teachers! The band program is fantastic! With sports, plays, clubs, ect... there are plenty of ways for students to get involved. Very welcoming environment and wonderful staff. As a parent who has had 2 children attend DMS I am very happy with the Downingtown school district.

Downingtown Middle School is a phenomenal school! The administration, teachers and staff are all amazing people and do a superb job. I have nothing but positive things to say about DMS. THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR ALL YOU DO FOR OUR CHILDREN!! Keep up the incredible work you do!