Lick (James) Middle School

1220 Noe Street

School District

San Francisco Unified
Grade

6-8
Teacher/Student Ratio

1:14
Type

public

School Map for San Francisco Unified 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 February 06, 2025

James Lick is a little gem of a neighborhood school. My son’s 3 years there prepared him well for Lowell, where he is now a freshman.
Submitted by parent on February 23, 2023

We chose James Lick for our now 7th grade son in part because it was our neighborhood school and are so glad we did. It's small enough that it feels like a community and very manageable. Our son has found his own little crowd. Principal Herrera is dedicated and sharp. The teachers that I've met are enthusiastic and challenge our son not just to coast. The no cell phone policy is a real added bonus.
Submitted by parent on October 25, 2022

It is my kids' first year at JLMS and so far they love it - new friends, excellent teachers, and an awesome community.I've been impressed so far with all the clubs they provide, and the overall positive communication with the administration and the teachers. Special mention to the amazing theater program! As far as the low score rating, I think this is likely because there are English language learners but that hasn't affected my children's academics.
Submitted by parent on April 28, 2022

Great school for my baby miguel. He cares so much about this school and wouldn't choose any other. Every day he comes home with another A and a smile on his face. He was a little lonely in Elementary school. He has a new best friend and works with his teachers for more of an understanding of the school. Would Totally recommend it.Best,Sharon Douglass
Submitted by parent on April 28, 2019

My son has some stories that are unfortunate, but not unique to this school. He wouldn’t leave it for any other. Support your kids, enrich, make friends from different backgrounds, it’s a great place.
Submitted by other on August 29, 2016

Class disruptions are pretty common sadly. That is tough for the kids that actually want to learn. The needs of students vary so much and there are some very high needs students here without adequate support. For one teacher to handle a full class is challenging to say the least. Some classes will be fine but some are full of distractions that take away from the learning environment. Fights during lunch are common. My daughter saw one in the first few days. It's too bad, the remodel was good for James Lick but I doubt that investment will turn around this school.
Submitted by parent on May 24, 2016

We came from France in October 2015, our son enrolled in James Lick and had great support/understanding from teachers, staff, administration and director during his first weeks of adaptation. During the whole year, until graduation, some teachers have been really awesome. The whole family thanks James Lick Middle School for this great experience.
Submitted by other on April 27, 2013

james lick brings back a lot of good memorys.. im an ex student (69) ! ! yes a very long time but it was one of the best experience that I had..and it still brings a smile to my face whenever I think about my time at James Lick,,,
Submitted by other on January 05, 2013

I really enjoy attending Lick. I do feel challenged academically and I am glad I picked it. I have found problems with our principal, who changed the dress code this year to make it much stricter and less admitting. Lots of my friends are there with me, so it loosened the tension last year. Overall, it's a pretty good school, even with its history of gangs and bullying and violence.