Sutton Middle School in Atlanta | Military Town Advisor

Category	Rating	Details
Test Scores	8/10	The Test Score Rating examines how students at this school performed on standardized tests compared with other schools in the state. The Test Rating was created using 2025 Georgia Milestones End-of-Course (EOC) Assessment data from Georgia Governor's Office of Student Achievement, and using 2025 Georgia Milestones End-of-Grade (EOG) Assessment data from Georgia Governor's Office of Student Achievement.
Student Growth	7/10	The Student Progress Rating measures whether students at this school are making academic progress over time based on student growth data provided by the Department of Education. Specifically, this rating looks at how much progress individual students have made on state assessments during the past year or more, how this performance aligns with expected progress based on a student growth model established by the state Department of Education, and how this school's growth data compares to other schools in the state. The Growth Rating was created using 2025 Student growth data from Georgia Governor's Office of Student Achievement.

Posted: September 1, 2026

We have had the best experience with three children at Sutton Middle School. Great schools start with great leadership. First and foremost, the principal is exceptional. He specializes in communications and even though there is a large student body he is always quick to keep the parents informed at every turn and make the school feel like a family. He rewards students for great grades and behaviors and pushes every student to their best ability- creating great memories and events the kids are excited to attend. My children have been able to explore a vast array of activities and interests before and after school. While some schools don't have programing for 6th graders, my boys have been able to play on sports teams as well as every other club at that early grade level. It is a confidence builder for kids to take risks and try a new interest. Clubs like Debate team, Academic Bowl, Dungeons and Dragons, Reading team... the list goes on. We have enjoyed our time at Sutton and could not recommend it more highly!

Posted: September 1, 2026

Posted: August 31, 2026

We are new to Sutton Middle School this year, and so far, we have been really happy with our experience. As a new middle school parent, one of the things I appreciate most is the communication. The administration does a great job of keeping parents informed about whats happening at school and making sure we know about the opportunities available to our students.

The teachers have also been great about communication. Each teacher provides a syllabus and clear expectations, which has made the transition to middle school much easier for both me and my student. I feel informed without feeling overwhelmed.

Most importantly, my student is enjoying school and having a really positive middle school experience. There are so many clubs, extracurricular activities, and sports, and I love that there seems to be something for every child. Were excited to be part of the Sutton community and happy to be Cougar parents!

Posted: August 31, 2026

Posted: August 30, 2026

One child has completed 3 years at Sutton and currently have one in 6th grade. My oldest is well prepared for high school and showed significant growth in all areas over her time at Sutton. My 6th grader loves middle school so far and is benefitting from the bifurcated campus, which helps with the transition from elementary school. She loves her teachers and is being challenged in math but appears to be getting good instruction.

Posted: August 30, 2026

Posted: August 26, 2026

Our oldest child just finished Sutton and our youngest just entered 6th grade. We have been impressed with the level of communication from all teachers, staff and administration. We had some difficulty, academically, at the beginning, but the teachers were more than willing to invest extra time to ensure our child had a firm understanding of the content. We couldn't be happier with the Sutton community!

Posted: August 26, 2026

Moving from a private school to Sutton was the best decision for my daughter. Despite her academic success at her previous school, she was often unhappy in the environment. We have watched her thrive to her fullest potential AND build a solid community of peers. Her teachers and the administrators love her and have no problem with giving her plus us the most encouraging feedback!
Thank you Dr. Merriweather and the entire Sutton family for being such an amazing part of her journey!

Posted: August 26, 2026

Posted: August 25, 2026

Our daughter has had a great experience at Sutton. We have found that she has been challenged academically on the gifted track, and she has had several truly amazing teachers that inspired and motivated her. She's also had a great experience with extracurriculars - she has tried out several sports and clubs, and she loves being in band. The school does a great job encouraging students to step out of their comfort zone and try new things. We feel a strong sense of community at Sutton and have been impressed with how involved so many parents are. We strongly value diversity in a student body and have loved that our daughter is getting to know people from outside her neighborhood bubble. Having grown up in Atlanta and attended private school myself, I have been very impressed so far with Sutton's academic rigor and the overall student experience. I feel that, at Sutton, our daughter is on a great path to be well equipped for college, a career, and life.

Posted: August 25, 2026

Posted: August 24, 2026

Large school - pros - many school and/or PTA sponsored sports, clubs, events. Cons - two campuses, the buses (actually an APS issue not the school). Great scores, great teachers, great ability for students to find a club, sport or team to get involved with.

Posted: August 24, 2026

Sutton is a fabulous school, and we feel so lucky to have such a wonderful school right down the road. Both of our sixth and eighth graders are thriving, and we couldnt be happier with their experience.

Dr. Merriweather is a great leader who sets high expectations for both his staff and students. The Sutton community is truly special and continues to grow larger and more engaged every year.

We have also been impressed by how well Sutton prepares its students for high school. North Atlanta High School has commented on how prepared the students coming from Sutton are, which speaks volumes about the strong foundation Sutton provides. We are so grateful to be part of such a supportive and exceptional school community.

Posted: August 24, 2026

We have been very happy with Sutton middle school. Dr. Merriweather, the principal is awesome!

Posted: August 24, 2026

My children have enjoyed attending this middle school, and I believe it has prepared them well for the academic demands of high school. The principal is highly engaged and genuinely cares about his staff and each individual student. Many of the teachers also lead with compassion, which is especially important during the often-awkward middle school years.

The dual immersion program provides a unique and valuable experience that many students at other schools do not have access to. One opportunity for improvement would be to place the strongest math teachers in sixth grade, since it is such a foundational year for building math skills and confidence.

Posted: August 24, 2026

Posted: August 23, 2026

During my time at Sutton Middle School as an involved parent and an active PTA member, under the leadership of principal Dr. Merriweather, I have seen the school go from strength to strength. Not just from a direct improvement in overall student performance and achievements, but also in the quality and caliber of his team, especially teachers. Teacher rention is almost at 100% and for the most part we have had very prompt and supportive responses from all teachers. Dr Merriweather does an exceptional job at communicating with parents, maintaining transparency as well as responding to parent feedback with action, not just lip service. SMS did a good job preparing my current freshman (2026-2027) with the exception of Spanish language, so until SMS can adequately prepare its 8th graders for Spanish 3 at North Atlanta High School (NAHS) it's best for them to switch over to a different language when they go to NAHS. I will strongly encourage parents to do their own research, go to the school tour, email the principal, ask the hard questions and make an informed decision based on facts, not half truths and old narratives.

Posted: August 23, 2026

I have one child who is currently attending and one child who completed middle school at Sutton Middle School, and both children have had wonderful educational and social experiences. One child is an extrovert and the other is an introvert, and both found here social circles, academic niches, and teachers who helped them to feel safe and included. The teachers and principals are very communicative, and a truly believe that my students have and are receiving a top notch education.

Posted: August 23, 2026

My children have grown tremendously since entering Sutton MS. While a large middle school by enrollment, both of my daughters have been able to develop meaningful relationships with both peers and staff. Sutton offers many great educational programs as well as extra curricular opportunities.

Posted: August 23, 2026

Sutton impressed me beyond my expectations. Dr. Merriweather is dedicated and so excellent in governing the school. My daughter has had nothing but a great experience in middle school!

Posted: August 23, 2026

Posted: August 22, 2026

Sutton is a great school with a supportive staff and an engaged parent community.

Posted: August 22, 2026

Posted: August 20, 2026

We have had a great experience with Sutton Middle School and I keep recommending this school to others that have kids reaching middle school age - you should strongly consider Sutton as an option! My kids have thrived at Sutton; they've made great friendships, been challenged by the classes and the teachers, gone on fun class trips, found sports & activities to try, the list goes on. The school leadership cares tremendously about helping prepare students for high school and beyond. We have been very happy with our local public middle school!

Posted: August 20, 2026

Posted: August 16, 2026

Sutton is an incredible place for students to learn and grow. Students are challenged academically and personally, preparing them to succeed in high school and beyond. The teachers and staff are dedicated, responsive, and genuinely care about every student. I cannot say enough wonderful things about Sutton. I am incredibly grateful that all four of my children have had the opportunity to attend and grow into amazing young people.

Posted: August 16, 2026

Sutton has been such a great choice for our family. My child takes all the advanced classes and is in their Dual Language Immersion program and the teachers have been really great.

Posted: August 16, 2026

Posted: August 15, 2026

This school has come a long way in a few short years. There is an incredible community of staff, teachers, and PTA who help children as they experience this transformational life stage. I love that this school encourages independence but is also a soft landing space as they learn. The teachers are very willing to partner to support students and the principal is engaged, responsible, and generally exceptional.

Posted: August 15, 2026

Posted: August 12, 2026

Our daughter is in her second year of Sutton Elementary (7th Grade) and we are having such a great experience. She is in the accelerated classes and they are so challenging. I am so impressed with the heightened level of teaching and learning at Sutton. It is a big change coming from Elementary (for both the students and parents) but for the most part it has been pretty smooth. While I wish there was more communication between parents and teachers (there are just a lot of students and each student has 7 different teachers) the administration is helpful with keeping parents in the loop. I also like how they expect the kids to be responsible and independent but appreciate how they are helping with student planners and executive functioning skills.

Posted: August 12, 2026

Our family has been so pleased with our experience at Sutton. Dr. Merriweather, the principal, has such an amazing philosophy on what middle school should be. It should be a place for kids to make mistakes and learn from them! It should a place to try new activities and make new friends!
My middle son is currently at the 6th grade campus. What a blessing it is to have all our 6th graders at one campus by themselves! They learn how to change classes, navigate their schedule, and open lockers without the fear of 7th and 8th graders watching. Everyone is new together at the 6th grade campus! Parents still walk their children to the door and hug them. Its heartwarming to see 6th graders not have the pressure of being more mature.
My oldest is now at North Atlanta and went to Sutton. Middle school is a tough time, but I believe Sutton made it as fun and engaging as possible. Also, Sutton prepared my oldest for his current rigorous schedule at NA.
There are so many clubs and sports the students can join to help them find new friends. The PTA has been welcoming for parents to meet each other and get involved.

Posted: August 12, 2026

Posted: July 23, 2026

I am a parent to a rising eighth grader, and have found Sutton to be an overwhelmingly positive school experience. Middle school is notoriously difficult, but the structure and systems put in place at Sutton have made the transition to and pathway through middle school enjoyable. The sixth grade campus was a godsend. Having a separate space for students to come into their own amongst their peers, without the pressure of the older 7th and 8th graders was so nice. Then moving over to the 7th/8th grade campus came with more independence and higher behavioral and academic expectations. I love how the IB MYP program is implemented and it is easy to see how these children show up as more worldly, empathetic, and reflective than the average pre-teen as a result. The school goes above and beyond to recognize desirable behaviors as much as academic and athletic excellence, which I appreciate. The academic preparation, exposure to the arts, language immersion, clubs, and athletics my child has been a part of, have been top notch and I have not regretted, for a moment, our decision to purchase a home in this school zone.

Posted: July 23, 2026

Posted: July 20, 2026

My daughter just finished 7th grade at Sutton and is heading into 8th, and it's been a great fit for her. The two standout parts of her experience have been the Dual Language Immersion program and the advanced math track.

The DLI program has kept her Spanish language skills sharp and growing in a way that feels genuinely rigorous, not just a token language class. She's continued to build real fluency and confidence, and the teachers clearly know how to challenge students at this level.

The advanced math track has also been a highlight. She's been appropriately challenged, and the pacing has kept her engaged instead of bored, which was a real concern coming out of elementary school. It's clear the teachers know how to differentiate for kids who are ready to move faster.

Overall, Sutton has been a strong middle school experience for my daughter, and I'd recommend it to other families looking for a school that takes both language immersion and math acceleration seriously.

Posted: July 20, 2026

Posted: July 19, 2026

Our daughter is about to enter the 8th grade, and her experience at Sutton Middle School has been fantastic. The teachers are genuinely enthusiastic about their subjects, and that passion has rubbed off on her (i.e., straight A student). The administrative staff has been communicative, supportive, and encouraging.

Beyond academics, the school offers numerous opportunities in sports and academic competitions and the arts. With regard to the arts, our daughter has participated in the school play, talent show, and band. She also went on memorable field trips to Williamsburg, VA and, for a band performance, Orlando, FL. She even loves the cafeteria food!

As a parent, I've been impressed by the school's focus on safety. We haven't heard about any issues in this regard during the last two years and are perfectly comfortable sending our child to school each day. We also haven't had any issues with bullying, but we appreciate that the school system provides an anonymous reporting system just in case.

Our only critique is that we wish the school would enforce stricter limits on homework, including assignments that weren't officially "homework," but were too time-consuming to complete in class. A few teachers (not many) have been overly enthusiastic with assignments, which sometimes made it tough on our child to maintain a healthy school-life balance. Unfortunately, one or two enthusiastic instructors can have a negative impact in this regard.

Okay, to those who have the means, don't even think about wasting your money on private school. Sutton is an incredible school with a strong academic and extracurricular program!

Posted: July 19, 2026

I have been nothing short of impressed with Sutton MS. Academically, my kids GMAS scores have improved from high performing to Distinguished Learners. But Im a parent who wants a school to do more than prepare my kids academically, and Sutton MS delivers. Sutton MS has engaging teachers and administrators, and its curriculum of arts, athletics, and extracurriculars creates opportunities for every child to discover their interests, develop skills, and gain confidence.

Posted: July 19, 2026

I was a little nervous for my son to start 6th grade last year. I was nervous about how many students there were, I was nervous if he would like it and if he would get the attention he needed. I took a tour of several schools and after I toured the 6th grade campus I felt very confident that this was the school my son should go to. My son thrived in 6th grade! The teachers care, offer tutoring time, are very communicative, there are after school clubs for every interest. I've been very happy with Sutton and looking forward to 7th grade.

Posted: July 19, 2026

We are starting our 3rd year at this school. Our experience has been great. Our student is in the DLI program which has been impressive and he is fluent in Spanish. Socially he has enjoyed the large diverse population - with such a large student population it really forces kids to engage with so many different kids through out the day. The parent involvement when needed has been very positive. The sports and activities give students additional ways to connect and feel part of the sutton family.
The energy of the principal and teachers has been bright and positive. The last two years far exceeded our expectations here.

Posted: July 19, 2026

Posted: May 3, 2026

Don't send your kids. Terrible experience with children coming home having learned nothing other than their teachers political views.

Posted: May 3, 2026

Posted: November 6, 2025

This is the most anti étic and unprofessional school, promote bulling and dint help kids with especial needs

Posted: November 6, 2025

Posted: November 5, 2025

My child has had a great experience at Sutton. They've made new friends each year, and the students are genuinely kind. The parents are engaged, and the teachers are enthusiastic about what they teach. Faculty communicate clearly about expectations and offer support when students need help. Dr. Merriweather and his team are dynamic and deeply passionate about creating a school that helps every middle schooler grows. With so many clubs, every sport you can imagine, and such a welcoming environment, theres truly a place for everyone to find their people.

Posted: October 27, 2025

I have a 9th grader who spent all of her middle school years at Sutton, and we had a very positive experience with engaged teachers and parents. She made wonderful friends and enjoyed being part of the yearbook club. My 7th grade son, an athlete who had played baseball a bit half-heartedly for years, discovered both cross country and lacrosse at Suttontwo sports he now loves. Neither of my children experienced behavioral issues or problems with other students, and both had the chance to go on memorable school trips to Williamsburg, Washington, D.C., and New York City.

Principal Dr. Merriweather and the administrative team are approachable and responsive to parents, and the PTA plays such an active role in supporting the schoolwhether its through sports, clubs, or teacher appreciation events. Their involvement truly adds to the sense of community that makes Sutton special.

Posted: October 27, 2025

Posted: October 3, 2025

Our Sutton experience has been amazing. 6th grade is an adjustment for students and parents and Dr Merriweather and the teachers at Sutton have made communication and correspondence a huge priority. They publish curriculum newsletters, provide proactive updates on school happenings and upcoming events, and are ready and able to reply quickly and effectively if any questions arise. My son has been excited to go to school, working hard on his school work and continuing to show growth! Hes challenged and engaged in his classes. There are also multiple sports, clubs and activities for students to get involved as well as class trips! Very pleased with our experience!

Posted: October 3, 2025

Posted: March 10, 2025

Sutton has made incredible strides towards excellence over the past few years. We are so proud to be a Sutton Cougar family. We believe it is so important to invest in your local neighborhood school, it benefits everyone. One of the elements that makes this school so special is the parent involvement in the school. It have built great Sutton community. This middle school is working it's way to be one of the top schools in Buckhead.

Posted: March 10, 2025

Posted: March 10, 2024

Sutton is a fantastic place to be! Our principal is exceptional- creatively solving for ways to push our students towards their maximum potential. He encourages all students to be their best, rewards them for positive behavior as well as finds ways to uplift those who are struggling in school. He cares deeply and is incredibly passionate about his career. While the school is large, there is a way for everyone to get involved. Kids are able to participate in all types of activities starting in the 6th grade. I love that the 6th graders have their own campus as they adjust to middle school and learn how to become independant learners.

Posted: March 10, 2024

Posted: February 21, 2024

I believe this is school is the best in APS school system
Great principal leading the way.

Posted: February 21, 2024

Posted: January 10, 2024

It is a great School with an International Baccalaureate program, STEM-oriented, very strong educational progress, and teachers doing everything possible, above and beyond, to pass their knowledge to kids.
Kids get all the support possible and plenty of clubs to choose from. Debate club starts in 6th grade. Not so many schools offer this club. Junior Beta Club/National Honor Society club speaks to itself; robotics, 3D printing, chess, art club, sports, you name it.
Two of my kids attended this school, and if I had chosen the school again- Sutton would be my choice again. It's a great gifted program, where kids get 3 high school classes in 8th grade.

Posted: January 10, 2024

Posted: November 10, 2023

I have a 6th grader and he is loving the school. I was worried after reading reviews about bullying but we have had nothing but a great experience so far. He has made so many friends and looks forward to school each day. He has really good teachers and we are really liking the principal. They have lots of sports options at the school too, which we love.

Posted: November 10, 2023

Posted: July 20, 2022

Sutton middle is no good, I wish I could rate a zero! They do not support their students or their teachers. Bullying is out of control, and the principle(s) dont even care. Teachers are over worked and underpaid. Horrible school

Posted: July 20, 2022

Posted: March 2, 2022

I'm a student here and i'm here to tell you this school is HORRIBLE. The administrators claim to care about the well being of everyone that goes here yet they don't take action in conflicts between students unless it escalates into violence. There are serious issues that are left unchecked like cyberbullying and the administrators punishing the entire school for something a small group of kids did. The teachers never care about bullying even if it's happening in front of their own eyes and it seems like a lot of them are just there for a check and not to teach us

Posted: March 2, 2022

Posted: February 17, 2022

The school overall has good amenities, being that it was the old high school. However, I find that the teachers are disconnected and are more concerned with receiving a check than engaging fully with the students. I also think that the school can do a better job informing parents about things that are happening inside of the school (i.e.: students being caught with knives, pellet guns, school bullying/violence). As a parent I would like to know these things as they are happening., not finding out from my child days or weeks later. Overall though if you have time to instill the importance of school and education in your child, they can get what they need out of the school.

Posted: February 17, 2022

Posted: January 14, 2022

The teachers aren't easy to talk to, and the counslers can't do anything about it.

Posted: January 14, 2022

Posted: January 5, 2022

If possible I would rate this school zero stars. Administration does not care about the children in the school. They changed math curriculums without notifying the parents. Since COVID there is no clear communication on how to meet with teachers to discuss student progress. The principal at this school is inept and runs it like a prison. When a group of kids were in dress code violation, she punished the entire 7th and 8th grade classes by taking away their outside lunch times. There was an incident where a couple of kids messed up the 7th grade bathrooms, and they locked the bathrooms for a MONTH without telling parents (I had to hear from my students). Bullying is not addressed and students are not treated equitably. We will be moving out of district. It's a shame because we had some really good teachers. If you are able, please send your child to another school.

Posted: May 21, 2021

We would not recommend going to this school or ever considering it. There is absolutely no organization at the school, and it seems that the principal sometimes has no clue about what happens. Communication about events at this school is also terrible. We usually have no clue about what is supposed to happen or how it is supposed to work. Some students know what is supposed to happen with such events, some others dont, and information from teachers about the same stuff has been different on numerous occasions. Freedom for students is also little, and terrible rules at this school make it hard to enjoy the experience here. There is more to be said. Please search for another school.

Posted: February 28, 2020

This school has no control over anything. Kids jumping on desk, yelling and acting like thugs. One teacher slammed my son's phone down (destroyed it) after he took a video of the chaos in class to show me.

Posted: February 28, 2020

This experience has been horrific. Not only will my child not be going back, we are moving! RUN FROM THIS PLACE.

Posted: January 7, 2020

Good Middle School bringing together young adults from various Elementary Schools in different parts of Atlanta at a crucial age where they are testing daily. The teachers are dedicated and offer many opportunities for the students to do well in their classes offering extra time outside of class if the student is willing to put the time in. Sutton is a good example of the diversity of the real world and shows students what it is like to work together in groups in their classes on a daily basis. The Administration consistently communicates with parents and students on discipline actions and the school offers class assembly gatherings where students learn about things outside of the classroom as well. This school is striving to prepare the students for High School and we believe our 8th grader is well prepared. The Sports, Clubs, and Activities and Sutton are exceptional!

Posted: January 7, 2020

Posted: August 28, 2019

The principal has put in place a strong admin team with the same goals.

Posted: August 28, 2019

I am very impressed with the new talent that has been brought in by current principal Johnson.

Posted: August 28, 2019

Social Emotional Learning is in the forefront of the education.

Posted: August 28, 2019

This is our family's 4th yr at sutton. I was surprised at what an easy transition from elementray to middle school my kids had both socially and academically at Sutton. The vast number of sports and clubs offered really allows each student to find their niche. Now that I also have a high school student I've been able to see that he was prepared for the rigor of high school.

Posted: August 28, 2019

Google classroom and 1:1 laptops have streamlined the amount of homework to very manageable for my student.

Posted: April 13, 2019

To blame administration for two faculty deaths is unfair, cruel, and classless. The families and friends of the deceased would be INCENSED if they knew their loved ones' deaths were being used in this manner. Sutton's current administration, along with its GoTeam, have worked and are working to hire elite teachers who will implement IB/MYP with fidelity and without complaint. Principal Johnson did inherit many staff members who simply refuse to comply with MYP implementation. Transportation is a nightmare, but, Community, where are you? Step up and help us put pressure on APS Transportation so that each campus has its own set of buses. There are fantastic things happening at Sutton Middle School every day. We offer a robust athletic program, myriad clubs, sensational arts instruction, and, with a few exceptions, challenging and engaging classroom instruction. Come and visit!

Posted: January 9, 2019

This place is in perpetual chaos. Teachers are not satisfied with leadership. I, as a parent, am less than impressed with the new leadership team post Ms. Sofianos. Communication is horrible. Discipline is rarely addressed. At any given time when you are in the building, students are seen wondering the halls during class time skipping class with no supervision or reprimand. Students have been caught with and using illegal substances among other behavior issues that need immediate addressing.

Posted: January 9, 2019

I think reasonable attempts are made to accommodate learning needs.

Posted: January 9, 2019

Bullying is rarely dealt with. And when it is, the bully gets a slap on the wrist and returns to class. It frustrates the teachers because their hands become tied. And students in the classes with the disruptive kids are made to be miserable and their learning is affected.

Posted: January 9, 2019

Staff turnover is VERY high! My daughter had her math teacher switched mid-quarter to accommodate numbers. Her math experience went from bad to worse. Teacher morale is abysmal and it shows.

Posted: January 9, 2019

Students routinely skip class. IB is a dog-and-pony show. Admin does not show respect to teachers. Students who come from supportive homes for the most part exhibit these characteristics.

Posted: January 9, 2019

Despite the negative, Sutton has positive points. Teachers are gifted certified. They also have a 1:1 technology ratio and resources abound. Teachers utilize the Google Classroom platform to organize coursework which is helpful for students who suffer from organization issues.

Ive sent 3 children through Sutton (last one currently in 7th grade), each under a different principal, and this current one Ms. Johnson is by far the worst. Very little class. Puts out ultra positive tweets about the school and bad mouths teachers behind their backs. One of the first comments I heard her say when she arrived is this is not my staff, I inherited this staff. No wonder morale is so low and turnover is so high when she views them as residual. She gives and commands very little respect from staff and students. I know several staff members from her previous school in Johns Creek and the stories coming out of there werent so hot either (Google it).

The level of IB education in this school has improved over the years, but still PALES in comparison to the feeder elementary schools and the programs at North Atlanta.

Dismissal from school is a nightmare. Bus students leave later than any other APS middle school. It puts a burden on the kids - they may as well pack an overnight bag because the 2nd round doesnt leave until almost 5:00 at times. This also burdens our bus drivers and teachers. As a result, the carpool line is backed up quite far along W. Wesley. One of many reasons morale is so low. Not to mention that two teachers died under this current leaderships watch. How much their ailments correlate with the leadership remains to be seen but the correlation is interesting.

I wish there were more positive to say. 5 or 10 years ago, I could have rated this school significantly higher. Not anymore unfortunately. Hopefully relief from APS is coming soon like the positive change of leadership over at Brandon this year (all former Sutton leaders). GO Team needs to wake up and address some of these issues.

Posted: January 9, 2019

Some assign a reasonable amount, and some assign more than a middle school mind can handle especially those who are involved in extra curriculars.

Posted: March 29, 2018

Administration handles complaints about bullying very poorly. They choose to sweep them under the rug and have responded to complaints on more than one occasion by saying "that didn't happen" even when there is evidence that it did.

Posted: March 29, 2018

Gail Johnson is an extremely ineffective principle. She has very little idea what is going on in her school. The grade level principals don't communicate with each other and the kids are often getting mixed messages. The school seems very chaotic.

Posted: March 29, 2018

Teachers have expressed to me that the are frustrated with administration and that they don't feel supported. They seem overwhelmed and uninterested in their jobs.

Posted: March 29, 2018

I would describe this school as chaotic. There is an obvious lack of communication between administrators. I've reached out to express my concerns and was dismissed. Teachers are uninterested in student development and not very responsive. My overall perception is that no one really enjoys what they do and most seem like they don't want to be there. Students deserve better.

Posted: September 17, 2016

It really depends on the teacher. There are wonderful teachers like Madame Zemmali (French) and Dr.Edwards (S.S) that are great teacher. But then there are less then stellar teachers, who having boring lesson plans and boring monotonousness assignments. There are a few teachers that have wonderful personalities but aren't good teachers. There is a point you go, is there anything other then worksheets they can give us.

Posted: September 17, 2016

There is a lot of homework. It can be overwhelming as a student to have to complete it. Some students just don't care enough to do it. I would love to see less homework.

Posted: September 17, 2016

As, I previously stated there is a discipline problem that needs to be addressed. The school is not necessarily at fault for every misbehaving student, but for some it is. As factors like home life and even the people they socialize with can have an effect on how they act. Some of the students are downright rude. These kids are in an environment that cultivates these behaviors.

Posted: September 17, 2016

Coming from a student currently at Sutton, Sutton is not the worst, but still not the best. This year we do have new leadership, a new principal, Ms.Johnson. Before you read the rest beware I am in all accelerated classes, and I score in the top 1-5% in testing. Homework in most classes, no matter what end of the spectrum, can be very overwhelming and with extracurricular activities it can be extremely overwhelming. There are some wonderful teachers, but there are also ones that can't seem to grasp the fact that they are here for us not the other way around. I would say there is a discipline problem. One thing about being at a public school is that anyone can come no matter what they've done. Daily, I hear many things that as a queer youth, I don't enjoy hearing at all. Being in advanced classes helps with separating yourself from immature adolescents, but you still have your connections classes where you can be with anyone. I personally love theater and might want a profession in the field later in life, but some of the people in that class are simply despicable. Some of my classmates have absolutely no respect for teachers and their own peers. You can't get through any connections class without having some badly taught 12 year old yelling out a profanity or interrupting the class in some manor. Even in some of my advanced classes, somehow there are under-performing children managing to stay in the class when they don't deserve it. There was a kid who was in my ELA class last year who only showed up about half the year, barely did any assignments and he somehow is in my advanced ELA class this year. There are many sports you an join, but most of them have tryouts in the same week, meaning if you don't get into a school team you have to go outside of school. Regarding musical theatre, there is a fall musical which also has tryouts the same week as sports. As its only the second month of school there may be more opportunities later but as of now if you don't get in the musical you have no other in school options. You can create a club but the process is so long and annoying. I am currently in the process of creating a club, but I would enjoy seeing that process made easier. There is definitely room for improvement. But there are worse schools across Georgia. If you even have an inkling of doubt about sending your child here, try for other schools.

Posted: April 27, 2016

If your child is not in the advanced classes don't send them here. This has been the worst year of our school career. My daughter is 6th grade and I regret not pursuing my other option of private school. This school focuses more on behavior correction and not educating the students. Thank God the end of the year is near. Needless to say we will NOT be attending 7th and 8th at Sutton. We were warned by other parents but chose to give it a try...what a big mistake. The assistant principal is a joke, don't ever go to him with an issue.

Posted: April 3, 2016

I have 6th graders at Sutton Middle School and they love it! The sports programs, art, music and club opportunities are amazing. The project based teaching and learning has really exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend it!

Posted: December 28, 2015

Our oldest is in 6th grade this year and is doing wonderfully at Sutton! At first, he was overwhelmed by the workload, but has now learned how to manage his time effectively. He has made many new, very polite and well mannered friends and has a strong social network (probably too strong)! We continue to be impressed with his teachers, who expect a lot from him and hold him accountable. The quality of education is excellent and the many sports and clubs that Sutton offers is exceptional. He loves attending Sutton and we're glad we decided to give it a try!

Posted: September 13, 2015

My son is a 7th grader at Sutton. So far so good. He attended Sutton in 6th grade as well and he is in the accelerated program. I love that his class sizes are small. He loves Sutton. He tried out for the football team and did not make it but desire to try again next year. Currently he is on the cross country team and is looking to join the Chess Club next week. He is excelling in all of his classes and is very disciplined about homework and staying on top of his assignments. There is a wide range of sports, clubs and activities to get involved in. The school is wonderfully diverse and the school facility is quite nice. I think Buck Greene is doing a fine job and the teachers are a committed bunch! Great job Sutton team!

Posted: August 16, 2015

My son was nervous to begin 6th grade last year, and we considered private options, but decided to give it a try and by December he had decided he really wanted to stay at Sutton. He has a solid crew of great friends, but we really did make the effort socially to get them together on the weekends and strengthen those budding relationships (in hindsight that may have been the single most important thing we did). It is economically diverse, which I think is a good reality check for my kids (who are beginning to notice that they do indeed live a very privileged life). Overall I think that Sutton really looks and feels a lot more like the elementary schools the kids come from than people understand. In my experience so far the negatives are far exaggerated and the positives are highly under-communicated. Weve been most appreciative (and maybe even surprised) by the quality of the teachers (many of whom came from the private schools) and the class sizes (a few of my sons advanced classes have 14 or 15 kids). Its a big school, but like a big state college, kids find their niche, and because its a big school the options for sports/clubs/activities are seemingly endless. I highly recommend that Sutton is worth trying we are very grateful we did.

Posted: July 15, 2015

Sutton is a school that definitely pushes its student to reach their full potential and ensure that at least 80% of the student body obtains mastery of material. Yet, Sutton can continue to improve their disciplinary and the disruptions the go on during class. Teachers should also realize the amount of homework given to students can be overwhelming especially with late release. Still passionate teachers and eager students makes Sutton such a renowned school.

Posted: May 23, 2015

We are now going to another school. This has been the worst year of our lives.

Posted: May 23, 2015

They could be but they're too caught up in politics and their own personal issues. They are never there, even when they are. Just try to get anyone to answer the phone or an email. I don't know what they're doing, but it's not teaching.

Posted: May 23, 2015

Every single class sends homework every single day. You do the math. They don't get home until 4:30-5:00.

Posted: February 10, 2015

My son is a student at Sutton and he and I both love this school. His teachers are amazing and he is doing better than he has in a long time. I was concerned that being a quiet kid he might get picked on but that has not been the case. I am so happy we came to this school.

Posted: December 7, 2014

I am a Sutton alum and I want to start off by saying that Sutton is a great school with a motivated staff who cares about its students and their futures. I wanted to write this review b/c, in reading other reviews, I was saddened to read the posts from students who have been bullied. Middle school, unfortunately, can be hard to deal with and downright scary for students who are bullied. As a school, the way to curb this is to support all of the students by promoting togetherness so they can see that they all deserve a quality education to better their lives. When I went to Sutton, labeling problem students as "ghetto" was common also, but this is not fair to them and it needs to stop. Middle school is a time where a lot of kids struggle to be accepted, and it is critical to their futures that they learn, despite differences, they all matter and they all are believed in. Students, don't place your classmates in a box by labeling them, as each of you are so much more than a name. Believe in yourself, treat others the way you want to be treated, and you will overcome your tough times and be a stronger person for it. You will make it!

Posted: September 24, 2014

I had a child at Sutton from 6-8, and my second child is in 7th grade. We have had an excellent experience all-round. My children have both been in the accelerated program, which is an entirely different experience than the mainstream program, or so I hear. I am glad for the diversity. Kids need to know how to relate on all levels, and this school certainly gives that opportunity. The only downside, really, is that there is a very large economically underprivileged element at Sutton, mixed with an almost-equal number of kids from a lot of privilege. There is an enormous divide, providing a perfect storm for some bad behavior. That's not a reason not to go. And not everyone from an economically challenging background exhibits bad behavior anymore than Buckhead Brats are all mannerly (and they can be the WORST). So it's a FANTASTIC school. You just have to learn some 'duck-and-dive.' But I highly recommend. It is an excellent private-school alternative. My 9th grader is at North Atlanta. So far, so (very) good.

Posted: August 7, 2014

We have an eight-grader who loves Sutton and has performed well there. He is involved in clubs and sports and enjoys his classes and teachers. He is in all accelerated classes and has been challenged academically each year. I can't speak to the standard classes or to any disciple problems b/c we have had none. The student body is very diverse, which we love. He has met friends from Italy, Portugal, etc and has been exposed to life outside of this "Buckhead bubble". Take a tour and see if it's right for your child.

Posted: April 17, 2014

This school has been a great opportunity for my grandson future. He's doing well and could be doing better but this is not do to the schools but I want my grandson to set larger goals for himself.

Posted: January 4, 2014

I'm an 8th grade student at Sutton, and the school is very average. The teachers there are for the most part good, but if you end up with a teacher that you don't like, i would recommend you do your best to switch class as early as possible in the school year. the administration is great. But when it comes to students, it's absolutely awful. It's a mix of superficial 'preppy' kids, and ghetto kids. There are few to none of the 'normal' ones. unless your child is going there from the beginning (6th grade), don't send him there, because it is really hard to adapt. Although this is an 'average' rating, i'm on the verge of rating it below average. Other than that, Sutton just moved into the old North Atlanta building, which is a really cool building.

Posted: December 19, 2013

I am a 7th grade student at sutton my year so far hasn't been great the teachers are really fantastic but most of the Kids are ether a bully themself are being bullied. I have issues with bullying this year 2 times the first time the assent principles did suspend the kid but the second time the teacher they called in made it fell as if it wad my fault and so the assent principles did nothing. Now if I have another billing issue I don't know wear to turn. So if you don't have to please don't inroll your child in sutton

Posted: October 3, 2013

I'm a student a sutton in 6th grade and I absolutely hate it! I'm in 6th grade and most of the kids are ghetto. No joke! They all cuss and do inappropriate things. I do love all the teachers there's not a problem with them but the students are terrible. I love the staff as well, Mr. Hudson, Mr. Cone, Ms. Miller ect. I would really wanna leave this school but all my very close friends go there. Also before you say I don't believe you with the whole "ghetto" thing then here's a story that happened a couple days ago. I was walking to carpool with my friends when all the sudden this kid runs out of his classroom with his teacher chasing after him, the student slaps the teacher and says many cuss words to her. Honestly, DO NOT put your child in sutton, they can get bullied, or even jumped. Again I love the teachers and the staff but the students are terrible

Posted: September 28, 2013

I'm a student that goes to Sutton, and it's a very good school! The staff is super kind, and I made all kinds of friends! Wherever you look, people are there for you and willing to help.

Posted: August 15, 2013

yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes.

Posted: May 6, 2013

My child is a studenthere at SMS. I would not recommend your kid here. Most of the teachers are great! But the students have no class, and most of them are ghetto. Random kids get jumped and bullied. There is a lot of drama here. The "principal" and administration care less about the students and more about their reputation and budget. Many of child's my friends have been in a situation where they have been bullied, harassed, and threatned and the bully said they were being bullied. Both of them were told not to talk about it ANYMORE. Now, the situation could get worse. If a kid can't get advice from their friends, what's the point? In conclusion, don't waste your time with the administration and go straight to the police or courthouse.

Posted: April 14, 2013

My son attends sutton currently (7 grade) and really likes it. He is in challenge classes and although I don't really feel that he is being challenged to his highest potential he is still learning a lot. The band program is great! Mr. Denson (the band director) is wonderful. I have heard good things about the orchestra and chorus/guitar teachers as well. I am disapointed that we have to move.

#	Name	Type	City	State	Overall Rating	Distance
1	Garden Hills	Condominium/Townhouse	Atlanta	GA		1.5 mi
2	Heritage Farms	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Marietta	GA		15.6 mi

Base	Distance
Dobbins ARB	8.5 mi.
Fort Gillem	15.2 mi.

Sutton Middle School

Atlanta, GA 30305

School Ratings

Refine Search

National Ad

Sutton Middle School

Atlanta, GA 30305

School Ratings

Refine Search

National Ad

Email Address *

*We take your personal information very seriously and will never give it to a 3rd party. If you don't enjoy the email series, you can always unsubscribe at anytime.*

We take your personal information very seriously and will never give it to a 3rd party. If you don't enjoy the email series, you can always unsubscribe at anytime.