Highland School

Posted: October 7, 2024

Posted: October 7, 2024

Posted: October 7, 2024

Posted: October 7, 2024

Posted: October 7, 2024

Posted: October 7, 2024

Posted: October 7, 2024

Posted: October 7, 2024

As the parent of a graduate, I can say that my 5* rating of Highland School only improved when my son went to college. He not only was accepted at a very competitive and highly ranked private university, he THRIVED. He was so much better prepared for all the challenges of college than his peers - most of whom also graduated in the top percentiles of their classes from highly-ranked secondary schools. The academics at Highland are superior, but just as important are the leadership values, service mindset, and executive skills development Highland provides - starting way down in the preschool grades. Students are respected, trusted, challenged and supported in developmentally-appropriate ways throughout their journey. Independent school education is a significant investment, even with financial aid, and I can't imagine a better return on any investment than the adult my son became thanks to his education at Highland School.

Posted: October 11, 2023

Posted: October 11, 2023

Posted: October 11, 2023

Posted: October 11, 2023

Posted: October 11, 2023

Posted: October 11, 2023

Posted: October 11, 2023

Posted: October 11, 2023

My kids have been attending Highland for several years now. We absolutely love the school. The teachers, the curriculum, the sports, the facilities, and the sense of family are all fantastic. We couldn’t ask for a better experience. Thank you, Highland!

Posted: January 10, 2023

Posted: January 10, 2023

Posted: January 10, 2023

Posted: January 10, 2023

Posted: January 10, 2023

Posted: January 10, 2023

Posted: January 10, 2023

Posted: January 10, 2023

I was hesitant at first about Highland because I had formed my own stereotypes about private school. When my son was being bullied (emotionally and physically) at the public schools without the principal doing anything to stop it, we turned to Highland. we had our son tour the school with us because it was ultimately his decision. When we started the tour, our son had his head down as he had grown to do through the bullying. By the end of the tour, our son had his head held high and said to Donna, "I want to go to your school". He saw right away the different environment at Highland compared to the public elementary school he was attending.
What I like best about Highland is they challenge the students and the parents to be kind but embrace challenge. "Practice makes progress" is the phrase used by the Middle School Director. My son has grown in confidence, independence and was welcomed by all of the kids even though he was the new kid.
My son is challenged academically with hands on work as well as the usual classwork. I feel like this is the best decision we have made to prepare our son for his future.
In addition, the head of the athletics program runs an amazing program called Young Hawks where the upper school coach the middle and elementary school kids, demonstrating leadership and community even through sports.
They do have financial aid so don't let the price tag stop you from exploring this school.

Posted: January 20, 2019

The teachers and administration understand each student is unique in his/her learning abilities and strive to maximize those abilities.

Posted: January 20, 2019

Bullying is not tolerated. The environment at Highland is welcoming and inclusive.

Posted: January 20, 2019

This school is truly exceptional in developing the “whole person.” It is superior to even the best public schools in every facet.

Posted: January 20, 2019

The course of instruction is challenging but manageable; perfect balance for a high-level college prep institution.

Posted: January 20, 2019

Teachers at Highland School genuinely care about the needs of each student.

Posted: January 20, 2019

An honor code is embraced by the students. Community service is an important part of the Highland experience.

Posted: January 20, 2019

Students at Highland understand and practice proper decorum. Discipline is enforced strictly and fairly.

Posted: October 10, 2018

Posted: October 10, 2018

Posted: October 10, 2018

We have loved Highland from the beginning (Pre-K) but now that our son is a junior and entering the college search process, we are learning just how effective the academic program is, especially in reading & writing, teaching superior study and time-management skills, and developing character and commitment to service. Our son is fully prepared to "learn, lead and serve" as the school's mission states.

Posted: October 10, 2018

Posted: October 10, 2018

Posted: October 10, 2018

Posted: October 10, 2018

Posted: October 8, 2018

Posted: October 8, 2018

There is zero tolerance of bullying, so there is none. The faculty take this very seriously. It provides a safe environment for everyone.

Posted: October 8, 2018

Excellent. Our two sons love this school, have made great friends, and benefited from the rich array of learning opportunities. No complaints!

Posted: October 8, 2018

Posted: October 8, 2018

Posted: October 8, 2018

Posted: October 8, 2018

Posted: March 7, 2018

Posted: March 7, 2018

Posted: March 7, 2018

Posted: March 7, 2018

Posted: March 7, 2018

We wanted to send our (at the time) two year old to a private school that he could go to from preschool through 12th grade. We were so excited to find Highland! Everyone in the beginning was so welcoming and nice- we thought we had found a great fit. Long story short, our son was having a really hard adjusting. He was having some behavioral issues (keep in mind he had just turned two at the time so this was completely normal) The teachers and the director of the Lower School had NO idea want to do with him and made me feel horrible about the situation. Whenever we pass Highland now, he says to me “they were so mean to me.” They even went as far to suggest a weighted vest and for him to go see a psychiatrist. I couldn't believe it. We pulled him out immediately. We will never send him back here. Unless your child is perfect, don’t send them there!

Posted: March 7, 2018

Posted: March 7, 2018

Posted: February 3, 2018

Posted: February 3, 2018

The Honor Roll assembly was this past week. At least 90% of the students walked across the stage. Grade inflation much?

Posted: February 3, 2018

Posted: February 3, 2018

Posted: February 3, 2018

Posted: February 3, 2018

Posted: February 3, 2018

Posted: November 8, 2015

My children have been at Highland School for a year now and I can honestly say that there's a dramatic difference from the public school education we had experienced before.

The academic classes are far more challenging with an emphasis on writing, presenting, and class participation that wasn't possible in their crowded public school classes. Athletics and the arts are not just an afterthought. They are essential to school life and an integral part of the learning experience.

The faculty are more that just dedicated teachers, they are educational experts who demand more from every student while respecting individual personalities and different learning styles. Our students receive individual attention that is simply not possible in a public school setting.

Moving to Highland has been a life-changing decision for our students and family. I'd strongly encourage you to check it out for yourself!

Posted: November 8, 2015

I said it in an earlier topic. The teachers at Highland are more than just dedicated teachers. Many of them are educational experts who are constantly working to advance their own understanding of their students and new teaching methods to engage them.

Posted: November 8, 2015

At this year's back to school night, it was so refreshing to hear many of my students' teachers say that they didn't believe in giving lots of homework.

Some have embraced the notion of the "flipped classroom" which makes lectures available for students to watch at home and frees up classroom time to work collaboratively on project and assignments – while the teacher is right there to answer questions or provide direction.

Posted: November 8, 2015

Highland students are held to a strict honor code from a very young age. Because of this, the faculty model a level of respect and integrity that the students model in their behavior in class and toward their fellow classmates.

Posted: October 20, 2015

Posted: October 20, 2015

Posted: October 20, 2015

Posted: October 20, 2015

My children have thrived at Highland, each in his/her own way. The academics are strong. However, I think the sense of community and ownership are what truly set Highland apart from the pack. Students are able to affect change and make a difference at Highland. The depth of the education Highland offers goes well beyond the classroom. My children are growing into curious learners, confident self-advocates and invested citizens.

Posted: August 29, 2015

We love this school...our children are thriving! They are learning so much more than the "regular" academic stuff. Study habits, organization, and time management to name a few. Real-life skills that they weren't being taught at our previous school. Everyone at Highland strives to make sure your child is doing and becoming their best.

Posted: August 29, 2015

Posted: August 29, 2015

Posted: August 29, 2015

Posted: April 1, 2015

This school is second to none. The school's focus is 100% on the students and they offer creative and challenging programs. In addition, the faculty/staff and students provide an outstanding learning environment including a highly competitive athletics program. All my kids have flourished at Highland and actually enjoy going to school each morning; even after spring break. It is a "true" school community and many of the programs define this experience and approach to learning. Thanks!!!

Posted: February 8, 2014

The worst school that I have ever been to !!!!! It's the waste of money, the students focus on what they wear. And the school academics is so poor.

Posted: October 4, 2012

I attended the PaulVI vs Highland Girls Varsity Volleyball game this Friday night at PaulVI with my neighbor. I was shocked at the poor sportmanship that was displayed by the Highland team. When I went to pulbic school in western Pennsylvania we were taught to always display good sportmanship. Our schools demanded it. It was part of developing good character. A trait that would last a lifetime. Looking at your websites you claim to prepare your students for college addmission. You state that you are the best. Your young ladies did not show good character on the court. Everytime PaulVI would serve; The Highland Team would yell loudly to distract them. Shame on Highland. PaulVI relied on skill and not on poor sportsmanship and won the game. I was very disappointed in the "ladies" from Highland. Watching Highland warm up, I was impressed and expected more of them. They should honor themselves in displaying good manners on the court. They have a very skilled team.

Posted: September 24, 2012

Yes Highland is expensive, but you without a doubt get your moneys worth. The teachers and admins are extremely dedicated to making sure your child is as successful as possible. From a parents point of view it makes me want to go to school again! I know my son enjoys school as much as possible for a teenager. They make the days seem less stressful and long with breaks and a much more relaxed environment than in public school. Food is delievered almost every day from various places like Tropical Smoothie. There are most definitely people who are wealthier than others but it doesn't make much of a difference. There are groups of friends but for the most part everyone knows everyone and they all get along and support each other. It is truly a great school and if you are considering any schools in this area you should pick Highland!

Posted: July 26, 2012

Highland's evolution over the years has continued to impress me. They've embraced a lot of young teachers who've brought a lot of passion and fresh ideas to the classroom who compliment and work well with the faculty that have been there "forever". Socializing with teachers now, rather than being taught by them, its great to hear them talk about summer programs they attend and their theories on teaching, behavior, etc...that once the bell rings they don't just "clock out"...Having graduated from there, it's been great to see the school's concerted effort to stay engaged with alumni - the way students flocked back to the school for the reunion to see their old teachers, not just their classmates - I think speaks volumes. I think the school really does create a sense of an extended family and accessible support system. Of course the facilities and programs keep growing - I wish they had all of those things when I was there! I paint a pretty rosy picture...no program, place or person is without it's faults, but I think they work hard to identify and remedy them. Overall I think the school's a good place with good people and continues to move and grow in a positive direction.

Posted: July 24, 2012

We have two children at Highland and have been a part of the school for eleven years. Our children continue to have a wonderful experience at Highland. The individual attention has allowed them to grow academically and emotionally. Highland's community spirit is contagious, you couldn't ask for a better learning environment for your child.

Posted: July 23, 2012

My family has had a wonderful experience at Highland School. It is a place where teachers, students and parents work together to achieve amazing things. The academic program is perfectly balanced. Children are encouraged and supported in every aspect of school life. Highland's focus on character, leadership and environmental stewardship is also important to our family. We love being part of a school that gives back to the community in so many ways.

Posted: June 24, 2012

What is going on here? Most of the good teachers are now gone. There are only a few left. They are only staying until they can find better jobs. This year, an inexperienced, middle school teacher with a bachelor's degree was chosen as a department chair over an experienced, teacher with a master's degree; a department chair was fired because she spoke her mind; a talented faculty member was fired to make way for a "favorite" to get the job; a headmaster friend was made department chair and the current chair was ousted; titles and bonuses are freely given to the "favorites." It really is a shame that this institution has been allowed to decay and to become one person's kingdom. Send your child somewhere else. This place is full of inbalance, favoritism, nepotism, unfairness and back-stabbing. Did anyone notice the misspelled words in the rating before mine? And this person is defending the academic standards? Too ironic!

Posted: January 22, 2012

PLEASE READ THE WHOLE RATING! Whoever wrote the coment a few pages is lieing. Highland DOES has a 100% collage rate so I don't know how you think all the people at Highland care about are Field Studies and Sports. This is a well rounded school and I don't know why you think that it is not a collage prep school

Posted: June 4, 2011

We have 2 childeren at Highland and could not be happier. After our local public school could not help our son with his dyslexia we found Highland. They teach the Barton program and my son is now a totally different person. He used to cry and hate homework every night was a fight. Now he comes home eager to complete is work and is now reading on grade level. He was over a year behind when he started. While any private school is expensive, we looked at it as an invesment in His future. The teachers are great and really care and more importantly they communticate VERY well with us and let us know any issues they see. If you are not happy with your public school and can afford it Highland is a great option.

Posted: April 18, 2011

Highland is truly a school that fits some, and not others. I am a Highland graduate (of the high school) and I could not have had a better experience. I was able to take classes and play sports that I would not have had access to in public school. That being said, I had a favorable experience because teachers liked me. There is absolute truth in what others have said - some are chosen above others. In a class of 35 students, AP classes were held and scheduled around a group of 3-4 of us. Everyone else had to deal with the leftovers. It's a good thing we were good kids, because it was an "inmates running the jail" type of situation. I was rarely reprimanded for anything. Others were unfairly targeted for all kinds of dress code or honor violations. This particular instance had nothing to do with financials. For whatever reason, I was liked and so Highland was a great experience and prepared me well for a top tier university. Others who weren't in honors or AP classes weren't held to any sort of standard (or, those who weren't expected to really excel), and thus weren't as prepared. Self-motivated, driven, and academically competitive students tend to be the type that thrive here.

Posted: April 15, 2011

My granddaughter has been at Highland for 6 yrs and we are quite impressed with the entire environment. It is a loving, nurturing school where respect is both taught and practiced by all. A family atmosphere is evident by the interaction among all grade levels. Academically, it is demanding and provides a well-rounded education. Mr.Berg and all of his staff accomplish outstanding results in all fields.