Billings Middle School

Above expections. Would choose this school again even if I moved and had to opt in from out of the school zone

Olympic Hills is a real hidden gem, with fantastic teachers and leadership, and a diverse, caring community. Since the newly renovated building reopened in 2017, the now larger school has been able to offer music, art, and technology classes. It has a huge and beautiful library and extras like a science classroom, garden, and even a pottery kiln that we are still growing into using. The PTA is small but strong and works very well in a supportive relationship to the school leadership. There is now a Spanish-speaking parents' council as well, and bilingual instructional assistants in a number of languages. All three years we have attended so far, we've just felt that the whole school is just...nice. And that is such a breath of fresh air these days.With the focus being on literacy across the curriculum and promoting the wellbeing and learning of at-risk or disadvantaged students, students who qualify for advanced learning are a little bit on their own when it comes to enrichment, but there is an advanced math group that meets once a week, and the teachers are generally very receptive to additional assignments or work you'd like your child to do. For my son, the focus on social-emotional learning in a diverse setting, as well as the strong instruction in health/PE, art, literacy, etc. has been great. For now, we think this is more important than being pushed/accelerated in math, science, coding, geography, etc. Because this school preserves his curiosity and love of learning and teaches strong reading skills, he's able to learn a lot of that at home or through library books. There is a Boys and Girls Club for on-site after school care, which we all love as well.

St Matthew provides a wonderful education and environment. It is truly an extension of the home and family. Kindness is king, academics are appropriately rigorous, the staff is dedicated, and the parent volunteers are tireless and committed. I was blessed to have receive my education at St Matthew School, and my kids love their school, teachers and friends. Returning to St Matt as a parent was like a giant hug. It is amazing knowing that the school community has our back as we try our best to raise our kids to be kind, and to be confident to use each of their talents to better the world.

We have greatly enjoyed having our child in the preschool at NSFS. The teachers and staff are incredibly caring and attentive. Our child wakes up every morning so excited to go and learn and play with her friends. As parents, we greatly appreciate the fact that they are being exposed to a different culture and language. We are thankful to be a part of this community!

I used to have my son at a nationwide daycare and I didn't feel he got much individualized care or attention. Since being at Laurel Academy I feel like my son really is getting the education I want him to have and it getting one on one instruction with their small class sizes and ability to work with children individually each day. Also, some behavioral issues that had started to crop up have gone away, as the daily environment is one of order and calm instead of chaos. I really love Laurel Academy and the teachers and staff.