Joseph A. Foran High School

The school has a report card two years old that scores low with students feeling a connection with the school. This should be improved. There is a lack of encouragement to bring student musicians into the music program and athletes into the program.The rules differ for each student and discourages.The administration listens but does not act.I think the guidance center has too much work because most of the time there is no response. I AM looking at other schools and towns.This has been a big disappointment.The teachers I can speak of deserve good stars and some great.One teacher has difficulty in knowing how to bring all students into the learning experience.My child has a high average but this is not good enough since not feeling connected in the school and is not encouraged to use skills and strength that stand out and that can build teen esteem.Sometimes teachers have work requirements that are unreasonable and this is a result of the administration. I attended the open house. Students were guided in their presentations. These were not informative.One presentation was about what this school has and the other high school in town does not.I was disappointed because this is a reflection of the school environment/ethics and not what I wish for my child. Another student presented a magnet school of the arts as if this is the same at Foran. There are distinguishing differences and students and parents have a right to know in greater detail what is available.Parents are not aware that well known artists and musicians teach students at the school of the arts.The programs are rigorous and many of the students reach all-state and scholastic levels and travel overseas.The magnet program for aqua studies is a lot more than going out on a boat. Students who left the programs or who did not attend should be guided to present through research on what is offered to avoid bias. I read the presentations as a reflection of what the students are learning and being taught rather than what the outside programs offer.Early in the morning I would like to see staff and students not cut through the private condo drive way to cut off the people patiently waiting in line for similar end results before school starts. Some of these students are in clubs that describe them to be good citizens.I counted 45 "Foran" cars cutting through private property to serve one's own needs in 3 days.

Good school, great teachers. If your child puts in the effort, they will have a rewarding experience. Great art classes and AP courses.

This high school has an excellent music / band program. Students are encouraged to be independent and to strive. AP classes are not for everyone, so be on the lookout for falling grades. Parent oversight and advocacy is required.

This is an excellent high school with dedicated staff, teachers, a great selection of AP classes, and a wide-variety of extracurricular activities.