East Side Middle School in Kiryas Joel, New York

“I'm a 7th grader at ESMS, it's the best middle school in the world and I love it!”
This review was posted by a student.

“I go to ESMS, and I'm an 8th grader this year. I love it! Everyone, even the teachers, are nice and have a sense of humor...it's a very small school, but that's what I love about it; everybody knows everybody. The math program is very challenging and successful. I have learned so much in this school.”
This review was posted by a student.

“ESCS has great extracurriculars and great education it s an all around great school”
This review was posted by a parent.

“I love ESMS, I'll definitely miss it as I graduate this year. I look forward to the new school building and the lockers even though I might not get to see it. Besides the crowded hallways, ESMS is perfect.”
This review was posted by a student.

“i go to east side middle, and i really love it! all the teachers are very supportive!”
This review was posted by a student.

“i go to east side middle school and this is the best school i have ever been to. all the teachers are fun caring and nice. everything there in east side middle so fun. for example instead of just learning about the greeks you are pretending to be spies from there enemy. east side middle school is great and i love it!”
This review was posted by a student.

“This School is amazing! i love being here and i dont regret ever applying for this school. am absolutely in love with he school. Great friends, teachers, and staff. i cant believe how fast these years went by! im graduating now and honestly i dont want to. It's going to be hard to say good- bye to everyone. The school has made me feel so comfortable and so at home. i can definitely be myself here. no doubt about it = )”
This review was posted by a student.

“ESMS is the best kept secret. Absolutely the best school hand down. It may feel as strict to someone; however kids learn discipline, self control and respect. Few complaints about the old building, forget about that. That will not affect your kid s education. Teachers are great.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“I am a parent of a 7th grader. My daughter said in July, 'I love the summer, but I cant wait for school to begin'. This is an amazing school. The teachers, principal, secretary, security guards, all are special people. The teachers are passionate about learning, and in turn the children are too.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“ESMS is a great school with a caring staff and a small environment. I had a great experience there, everyone knows everyone.”
This review was posted by a former student.

“I am a senior at ESMS and I have no regrets. The three years that I have spent at this school, I must say were the best years of my life. The teachers are willing to help you, with anything whether it be personal or academic. Although the hallways are small, that is how I met most of my friends, in the jams that from time to time occur. If I could I would stay in this school longer, but I can't! I recommend this school to anyone who is looking for a top-notch education with teachers who care about their students.... :)”
This review was posted by a student.

“I am a student at ESMS, and as i write this, i am doing some math homework. The homework level is huge, but if you can manage your time it isn't too bad. My teachers are mainly clear and through, but sometimes things can become mixed up. If you are thinking about my school, then, great choice!”
This review was posted by a student.

“What can I say about ESMS? I absolutely loved my three years there. All the students become part of a family and although the hallways are small, I'm pretty sure everyone will agree that it helped us get closer. All the classes at ESMS are challenging and, in my opinion, in the AP levels so you don't have to worry about AP classes or anything because getting into ESMS is already advanced! The teachers are amazing, and I am not being overdramatic when I say they are willing to help you anytime you need them to; whether its about something personal or if it's about school work. All I've got to say is, ESMS is the best middle school anyone could ever go to! Much thanks to our wonderful principal, David Getz.”
This review was posted by a former student.

“Great teachers. No music program. Only Spanish, art and gym. Elective and Advisory round out the day for a decently comprehensive program . The principal is . . .WONDERFUL and has taken this school several levels forward. The facilities need work and the were originally built for an elementary school child's size so it does have that 'crowded' feeling. Afterschool programs do exist. The parent involvement exists, but always drops off after elementary school. Relatively safe neighborhood, unless your child likes to show off their gadgets . . .Very convenient library across the street. Great for late pickups and research . . .”
This review was posted by a parent.

“really good school..great staff but small hallways.”
This review was posted by a student.

“This school has challenging academics, yet don't be too fooled: the workload is more quantity than quality. Nevertheless the academics are decent. The teachers and kids are very pleasant, and there is much diversity here, making this school a good learning environment. The extracurriculars, art and music classes aren't great, but they aren't any worse than most other schools' extracurriculars. All in all a solid school, if not an outstanding one.”
This review was posted by a former student.

“This school is very advanced with lots of challenging classes for every academic ability. The teachers are kind to the students and welcoming to giving extra help. All the latest sports are available along with the latest musical technology. Many parents are involved with the school.”
This review was posted by a former student.

“It has great teachers. It is specialized. My child leared a lot there. You have 2 take a test 2 get in.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“East Side Middle School is a small, close community school. The physical space is small, and unattractive (but the city has approved funds for a new state of the art building), however, the academic focus is strong. There is no music program, and no real sports program, but i suspect this will change with the opening of the new building. As for the teachers, they really care about their students.”
This review was posted by a parent.