Cardinal Newman School

I am writing this review to help parents make an informed decision when considering this school. I can only speak from my personal experience.I moved to Texas in February and enrolled my daughter after missing the private school enrollment deadline. We previously lived in Florida and believed one year here would be manageable. Unfortunately, the experience has been extremely disappointing.The enrollment process was disorganized and redundant. Although documents were submitted online, I was still required to bring them in person. There were no clear instructions, and we had to walk around the campus to find the enrollment office.“Meet the Teacher” day was chaotic and poorly communicated. When we finally located the classroom, I learned the teacher had 29 students with no aide. As a former kindergarten teacher, I know this is inappropriate. Two months later, I received a letter from the state stating the school was out of compliance with Texas’ 22:1 ratio.The first day of school raised serious safety concerns. There were very few staff members and no clear directions. At dismissal, my daughter was missing for nearly 30 minutes. Staff did not know where she was, and I had to use an AirTag to confirm she was still inside the building. She was found hysterical due to lack of supervision.Dismissal procedures remain alarming. Students are often unsupervised, and I have witnessed staff distracted on their phones and a child pushed from a 6–8 ft platform without immediate intervention. Backpacks are frequently left outside for days.My daughter has experienced verbal and physical bullying. Despite reporting this to the teacher and principal, no action was taken.Communication from the teacher has been minimal. Items are sent home without instructions, and multiple emails requesting clarification went unanswered. The curriculum is weak and below kindergarten expectations.After submitting documentation for private speech therapy four months ago, staff had not reviewed it and ultimately denied services, wasting valuable time.Overall, this school has ongoing issues with safety, supervision, communication, and academic support. My daughter will not be returning next year, and I do not recommend this school.

This school is terrible.Imagine living in the district and not having your children accepted just because your ex-husband has a house somewhere else, or being asked for a Texas ID and therefore denying a child an education. I don't think it's fair that they are denying my son an education just because I don't have a Texas ID or a permanent contract, even though I live here with someone and I'm giving you proof. What more do you want?

Very unprofessional in the last year or 2. Unorganized and shows favoritism to students who receives benefits. Will never recommend this school to any parent or student.

For those who want an honest review, this is it. Teachers - this school fails terribly in teaching. The teachers are brutal - you either have a really antiquated teacher who teaches by fear and criticism, or you have a relatively younger teacher who is socially awkward, with unresolved mental health issues, and uses the classroom as a therapeutic discussion of all the loss opportunities in their lives. Please, honest to God, RUN away from this school. Culture - there is a since of fakeness in this community. In one sense, they encourage you to join whatsapp groups with families - on the other side, if you take the opportunity to voice your concerns with the school/teaching- you'll be ridiculed and made to be a heathen for even provoking such discussion. Singular, outdated thinking and teaching. The "diversity" of this school is also lackluster and as backwards as the community. Academics - Many of the StJP II students pay for tutoring at Mathnasium or have other outside tutors to address the deficiencies in teaching. Safety - Drop off in the mornings are a joke. I've seen pick up drive-thrus at restaurants and grocery stores run far more efficient than this school. Teachers and staff who are supposed to be "helping" view morning drop offs as social hour and are seen huddling and chatting as opposed to getting the line moving. There are many other better catholic schools for children - St. Cecilia, St. Lawrence, St. Theresa, etc. Please reconsider applying to them instead of here.

We're so thankful we found Westside Montessori when we had a real need and our daughter was easily welcomed in.The Upper El teachers are incredibly kind, patient, and truly get to know each child as an individual. There's a nice balance between structure and freedom, allowing students to explore and learn at their own pace. The teacher's gently guiding them with respect and encouragement. When we had opportunity the observe the classroom we always saw students focused and enjoying their lessons. We also appreciated the sense of community the school offered—it feels like a second home. There are lots of special events and gatherings. I only wish we could have stayed longer. It's clear that the teachers and administration genuinely love what they do. Our daughter felt safe and comfortable at Westside, she gained not only academic skills but grew in confidence, responsibility, and leadership.We highly recommend Westside Montessori School!