Sherwood Githens Middle

4800 Chapel Hill Road

School District

Durham Public
Grade

6-8
Teacher/Student Ratio

1:14
Type

public

School Map for Durham Public School District

GreatSchools Rating

The school rating calculation is based on four ratings: the Student Progress Rating or Academic Progress Rating, College Readiness Rating, Equity Rating, and Test Score Rating each designed to show different facets of school success. Learn more about GreatSchools Ratings

Reviews

Submitted by parent on May 12, 2024

Would not recommend due to the principal.
Submitted by student on April 09, 2024

This school is so good because the teachers are amazing and nice
Submitted by parent on February 27, 2024

Do not bring your bright, neurodivergent child to this school. The principal Dr. Lanier will swear that he will take care of her, and then fail her at every turn. We moved from California and I think we expected too much. We wanted diversity and hence chose to send our child here. But the entire year has been one giant 504 fiasco. Moreover, I am a disabled mom. The principal actually mocked me in a 504 meeting, in front of other administrators and my husband. I reported him to the district. Not long after, I was sent a letter informing me that I could no longer communicate with my child’s teachers or anyone else at the school, and I am also banned from picking her up, with the threat of being arrested. (I can barely walk due to polymyalgia rheumatica and Giant Cell Arteritis. I am hardly a threat to anyone.). Now my gifted ADHD child is terrified of her teachers, no longer wants to attend school and no longer has a parent advocate at a school, which is not complying with her 504. She is also bullied by teachers for her disability.
Submitted by parent on August 03, 2023

A Stellar School with Dedicated Teachers and a Focus on Student Well-beingI recently had the pleasure of experiencing Sherwood Githens, and I must say it has been a transformative educational journey for my child. As a sixth-grader, my child's transition from a middle-ranking student to a top performer was remarkable, and I attribute this success to the outstanding teachers and the school's nurturing environment.One aspect that truly sets this School apart is the incredible dedication of its teachers. Their commitment to their students' academic growth and overall well-being is truly unmatched. They possess a deep understanding of the importance of social and emotional intelligence, ensuring that students not only excel academically but also develop essential life skills.One of the school's standout qualities is its zero-tolerance policy towards bullying and violence. The administration takes these matters seriously, fostering a safe and inclusive environment where every student feels protected and respected. This emphasis on fairness and support creates an atmosphere conducive to learning and personal growth.What impressed me the most was the individualized attention and support provided by the teachers. They go the extra mile to ensure that each student's needs are met, regardless of their learning style or challenges. The school's commitment to Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) is commendable, as it allows students to receive tailored support, enabling them to reach their full potential.My child's enthusiasm for attending Sherwood Githens is truly heartwarming. The teachers' ability to make learning engaging and enjoyable has instilled a love for education in my child. I often hear them eagerly expressing their anticipation for the school week to begin, eager to return to the supportive environment that has become their second home.In conclusion, Sherwood Githens is a remarkable institution that stands out for its exceptional teachers, dedication to student well-being, and commitment to academic excellence. If you're seeking a school that not only educates but also nurtures and supports your child's growth, this is the place to be. I wholeheartedly recommend Sherwood Githens Middle to any parent seeking an outstanding educational experience for their child.
Submitted by parent on July 03, 2023

There are some good and bad with Githens but overall not a place that feels positive.
Submitted by parent on May 03, 2023

My daughter is attending this school for sixth grade, and it's been a demoralizing introduction to middle school for her. She has an IEP that's barely accommodated; one of her special educators who's supposed to see her biweekly shows up... whenever. She has a problem area of study that I notified her teacher of in September and I've had to initiate communication with her throughout the year, every time her grades return subpar. It's a clear indication that she's having trouble understanding/comprehending the subject matter and her teacher barely reaches back out to me, except to say that they're "working on it." Teachers never initiate contact or show concern for my child's progress. I practically have to beg for insight into what her classroom experiences have been like. This school is overcrowded, the teachers are overtaxed (and a few of them vent/overshare their frustrations with students). One quit in the middle of the school year and my child has had teachers reassigned twice this year with very little notice. We hate it and she won't return for 7th grade. (Everyone who works in the front office is amazing, though. And the exceptional children team does the best it can with very limited resources.)
Submitted by parent on February 28, 2023

Terrible school with dishonest people. I wouldn't trust them with anything. The headmaster is the head of this snake.
Submitted by parent on December 26, 2018

Can it be rated in the negative. This school would be better torn down and left an empty lot... better learning would take place.
Submitted by parent on December 07, 2017

My daughter goes to this school. This is her first and last year there. The teachers are good while the principles aren't correspondent. She loves going to school but is being harassed and bullied by Mr. France. Mr Bennett called me, the parent, and instead of solving he was very arrogant and loud being protective over his staff. What about the students and how they feel. They have an opinion and feelings. I as a parent want to remove her from this school. How do I go about doing so when this school is within her district. How would she catch the bus back to her old school, where she didn't have any issues with the staff. She aqciure good grades and hasn't been suspended. She doesn't get into trouble but yet is being harassed.
Submitted by parent on August 22, 2016

We have a rising 8th grader with ADHD. The teachers and staff work with parents to make sure every student has the opportunity to succeed. I firmly believe (and there are scientific studies that back up) that exercise is truly the best medicine for ADHD. Githens not only has required P.E. for every grade level but the have frequent physical activity days. This innovative system is when a rotating schedule of one designated class in the day's schedule will take the kids somewhere for physical activity. No hiding on phones, moving the entire period. There are 19 (yes 19) sports teams at Githens, more than any other middle school in the district. They have an incredible band program lead by the very talented and devoted Mr Blackburn. They still have art and drama and multiple music classes.Principal Williams leads an impressive, caring staff. Cant wait for my daughter to attend next year.
Submitted by parent on August 18, 2016

I have had two children attend Githens. Both students enjoyed going to school each day (as much as middle schoolers do), felt safe and most definitely felt a part of a vibrant community. The student population at Githens is very diverse, both culturally, economically and academically. While this level of diversity can present challenges, the staff and students see it as one of the strengths of the school and embrace it. Teachers and administrators work diligently to give each child what s/he needs to succeed in the world beyond Githens, and they hold each child to a high standard of behavior. My (current) high schooler left Githens prepared for the academic challenges of high school, and my eighth grader will do the same. They've enjoyed meeting new friends, participating in the strong music program and have both had a chance to take up new sports while in middle school.Test scores cannot and do not accurately reflect what goes on in the classrooms of this school, and yet, so much of the Great Schools score is dependent on them. I would urge anyone considering Githens to walk through the doors and see what goes on each day.
Submitted by parent on August 15, 2016

We have had a great experience at Githens. We have a rising 7th and 8th grader. We are very fortunate to have a amazing principle as well as awesome teachers that support our students needs.
Submitted by parent on August 14, 2016

My daughter is a rising 8th grader at Githens. We have been very pleased with our experience at GMS. It's a large school with a close-knit community feel to it. The principal, Tonya Williams, does an exceptional job setting high standards for the students and staff. It is no surprise that she was a recent DPS Principal-of-the-Year award winner. Githens also boasts the 2015-2016 DPS Teacher of the Year and Middle School Guidance Counselor of the Year. The PTA is active and parents are involved. We look forward to another great year ahead.
Submitted by parent on August 12, 2016

Principal Tonya Williams is an amazing administrator who motivates her staff to expect the best from themselves and the students they teach. She addresses problems quickly and effectively. She is also fun, approachable and liked by the staff and students. The PTA is very supportive of the staff and the programs of the school. I have had 2 kids go through GMS and they loved it.
Submitted by parent on August 12, 2016

Our son had an awesome six grade year at Githens! Amazing teachers an support staff... Looking forward to next year!
Submitted by parent on August 10, 2016

We have a rising 7th grader at Githens. In 6th grade we had a very positive experience, and looking forward to 7th grade.
Submitted by parent on August 10, 2016

We LOVE Githens!!! Our son is a rising 8th grader and we have had an excellent experience! The administration, teachers, and staff are great - always doing what is best for the students! Principal Williams is amazing! I have never met an administrator so dedicated to their school. And her example is a positive model for the teachers and staff, who are always go the extra mile for our kids. Our daughter will be in 6th grade next year and she is so excited to be a Githens Raider! Wouldn't send my kids anywhere else! Proud to be a Githens family!!
Submitted by parent on August 09, 2016

My student came to GMS last fall as a 6th grader, and although we were uncertain on the school based on ratings, i must admit that she had a stellar school year! Thanks to the fresh ideas from Principal Williams and the entire GMS teaching and admin staff, the school is a great place. If more parents get involved, i'm certain GMS will be the school to watch!
Submitted by other on August 09, 2016

We love Githens Middle School! Although the student population is quite diverse, there is a great sense of community at Githens. The principal is a strong leader who advocates for our students and is well respected by students, teachers and parents alike. The PTA is robust and welcoming. Githens boasts a wide variety of athletic teams and an athletic booster organization committed to keeping our student athletes with the gear they need. The band is the place to be at Githens! They are truly a "band family" and they get invited to play at some great venues: Durham Bulls' games, UNC/Duke women's basketball games, etc... plus a trip to Florida for the 8th graders. Githens also has a growing strings program. My children have been challenged and nurtured by caring and committed teachers at Githens.
Submitted by other on August 09, 2016

Githens is a wonderful neighborhood school! There is a real community feeling within the school. GMS is ethnically and economically diverse. The Principal is a strong leader who has earned the respect of the faculty, staff, parents and students. Our outstanding faculty has been voted prinicipal of the year, middle school counselor of the year, and teacher of the year over the last three years. Our fine arts programs have doubled in size over the last two years. Our sports programs regularly bring home district championships. Parents and teachers work together for the benefit of the student. GMS is not perfect. There are some bumps along the way for some parents and students. The same sorts of things that any school would experience. This is a LARGE school with a wide variety of students. Overall, both of my children have had good experiences at Githens. We have found it to be a very supportive learning community over the last six years.