Research St. Gregory the Great School Private Schools in Portsmouth, Virginia

“My son attended St. Gregs for two years. We have disenrolled him for the 08-09 school year, deciding to give our local Va Beach public school a chance. While the education that he received seemed satisafactory, he did not thrive at the school emotionally. He was unhappy there. As another parent wrote, the after school care is terrible. It costs $175 a month whether they are there for 1 hour or 3 hours a day. There is little structure and the supervision is questionable at best. The religious education that the children receive is great, if that is your number one priority”

“This school is amazing! Their religous education is spectacular. Though the new principal is not as great as the school. If i could go back in time i would send my kid to St Gregory's instead of St. Matthew's.”

“No school is perfect but overall St. Greg's does an excellant job. My son's teachers have been good and he is way ahead of his friends attending public and most other private schools. As for the adminsitration, we are glad the old guard is gone. The new principal seems very old school but she seems nice and the change was needed. Bottom line is my son is more advanced than most and he likes goign to school.”

“I went to St. Gregorys school and spent High school in tutoring because I was so far behind in Math. We spent more time standing in line not having recess and standing in front of the class slapping ourselves or Sr. St. John would do it harder than learning.”

“We had a daughter that graduated from SGS and moved on to Catholic High School. We found that the school was overall mediocre in academics. Some teachers were very good, others were not. Administration was good, and as long as you agreed with them you got along. Parents' opinions did not really count and one felt at a loss as to how to help your child sometimes. My daughter felt behind at CHS, and generally happy to be done with SGS. In summary, a good school, not a great school.”

“We were really excited to send our child to St. Gregory's. The year started out ok but went downhill. There is a lack of discipline that I would not expect to be tolerated at a private school. Children who are overly aggressive are not dealt with. The after school program is expensive and of very low quality. Basically it's a free for all...the kids do the same thing every day (play on the playground, come in watch TV or play very old games) We were so disappointed. The school is also not working parent friendly...they cater more to to the family that has one parent who stays at home. After care is routinely not provided on half days and days off so if both parents work....you better have an alternate plan.”

“We are new this year (06-07). My children have attended other public and private schools. I have found SGGS to be the most welcoming of any school my children have attended. There have been ample opportunities for me to be involved . As far as 'clicks' I am unaware of this. I try not to listen to naysayers. I find them to be the ones who are unhappy in many areas of life. I have found the faculty and staff to be professional and caring. I feel any issues or concerns I have voiced have been handled immediately and with the utmost sincerity. I have the greatest confidence in SGS. Otherwise my child wouldn't be there. With only 150 words I cannot begin to tell you what a fabulous school SGS is! We are truly blessed in many ways to be a part of the SGS family.”

“If my daughter had not invested 5 years at SGS I would have pulled her and my youngest daughter out of this school this year. The administration in this school is only concerned with the bill. I am still considering if they will re-enroll next year.”

“I am a past teacher and parent. I have seen many changes over the past five years and it saddens me. Children deserve smiles and encouragement and I felt that in such a negative environment that SGS children could not fully thrive. I have been teaching in the public schools now and it is a refreshing change. Gone is the criticism and lack of leadership that I had at SGS. I would not suggest this school until major changes take place.”

“We have a rising 8th grader and have such positive praise for the St Gregory staff and administration. We moved to the Virginia Beach area last year and found the faculty and staff very welcoming. We have had countless opportunities to volunteer within the school and become involved. Thank you St. Gregory faculty and administration for a rewarding academic year for our middle school student! He will be well prepared for Bishop Sullivan Catholic High his Freshman year!”

“The school has been negligent in addressing concerns of parents. It is sad to see how this school has changed so much in 8 years. What once was thought of as the pinnacle in the Catholic schools has now fallen way down. Parent involvment is at an all time low, as is the level of satisfaction. Unfortunately, you are dismissed when you speak your concern.”

“I am shocked at reading some of these previous reviews. I and many other families from the school share a totally different perspective. SGS is a Great school! Faculty and administration are nothing but wonderful. Maybe it is time for the families that complain to move on. How can people be so negative? What are we teaching are children? Let's get on the right path and move on. Is this not what Jesus would do? I think so. God Bless us all.”

“After reading the previous reviews I feel so much better that I am not alone in my frustrations! The children are not the main priority, publicity and 'looking good' is top priority for the principal. Not the good of the children. Up to 3rd grade I was satisfied but now this place is a nightmare. Academically I do not feel it is up to par an longer. The rudeness factor is high and the dog chased me down the hall a week ago barking. Is this a school or a pound?”

“We left SGS last school year after massive bullying towards our daughter. It was always blamed on her and not the bullies. Academically we have hired a tutor because SGS is way behind the Catholic school we now have our child attending. We feel that the principal was the ultimate bully in a sense for not properly addressing a major issue. Her teacher would say questionable things as well to the class. It was all about demeaning them. As a whole we were disatisfied with SGS. We expected more from a Catholic environment. Luckily we have now found that elsewhere.”

“Some horrific events have taken place at SGS and I feel ashamed to be a part of the school. Academically the kids are behind their peers at other schools. Negativity has taken root and it is an atmosphere of intimidation and fear of not being able to speak up for yourself. I plan on removing my children at the end of this school year and seeking education at another local Catholic school. I think the ugliness of the past year has taken its toll on not only the faculty and staff but has migrated down to the innocent children and parents. I am not pleased with the overall education my children are receiving and think some teachers and staff need training on how to deal with parents and problems that may arise.”

“Some of these negative previous reviews must have been based on very isolated experiences. For job reasons, we move to Virginia Beach and placed our children here during the middle of the school year. From the very beginning, the office extended a warm welcome to us and offered great support. Both the office staff and teaching staff have been emotionally and academically supportive to my children. The highest academic standards are put forth, and the staff seem willing to help by what ever means possible to ensure the children are doing well. Ample opportunites are available to volunteer, as well as opportunities to meet other families of students. They would not have such a large and stable attendance were they not a great school.”

“I have a child who has graduated from St. Gregory's and another child still attending. The Navy has moved us throughout the years. We have always made it a point to send our children to a Catholic school. We felt that the transition from school to school would be easier. St. Gregory's is by far the best school that we have attended. The academics are excellent, the teachers are loving and attentive and always willing to spend extra time, the administration has an open door policy, and the after school activities include everything from drama club to choir and many sports. St. Gregory's is a very large school. And, somehow I marvel at how it has managed to keep a small school feel. We feel grateful to be part of such a wonderful school.”

“Wow, where to begin. This is an awesome school with academics second to none, and superior leadership amoung administration and staff. I know since coming to this school from another private school, the parental involvement is huge. It's welcomed and appreciated. The front office is a friendly place and the staff is always quick to answer questions. The only cliques that I have seen at this school is the small group of discontents who thrive off of unhappiness. I've had 3 children go through this school and they are excelling in high school. SGS has a population of over 700 students...That in itself speaks volumes of the kind of support this school receives. If you're looking for a quality, academically sound education run by a loving and dedicated group of professionals, then look no further than SGS. This school continually has a waiting list, so get your name on it early!”

“SGGS is one of the most academically challenging schools that my children have attended. We are in the military and move often. My kids have had a very easy transition to this school. I do believe that this school has more clics than any of the other schools that we have attended, and that while the school has an agressive anti-bullying policy, bullying still occurs. Generally, the teachers attempt to stop this, but life happens, the behavior is not condoned. While the members of PTG/PTO are nice, the parents have no say in their selection, they are appointed by the principal. As far a Bailey goes, I have seen Bailey bark at strangers/adults that he may/may not know, I have never seen him behave improperly with the kids, I believe that he is protecting the children.”

“I can't say enough good things about St. Gregory's. We weren't 'born' into the parish, but came when our children were in elementary school. We felt welcomed and accepted right from the start. My children are challenged every day both academically and spiritually. There is a support system for new parents in place for those who choose to use it. I have found the board members of the PTG to always be friendly and open to new suggestions and ideas. The staff and administration is very caring and attentive. My children came from another Catholic school and I can attest that St. Gregory's is far ahead in what they have to offer. From academics, to religion based values to extra-curricular activities this school has it all. In reality is this school perfect..probably not to a select few who'd be unhappy anywhere, but to this family the answer is yes it's perfect!”

“I have been affiliated with St. Greg's for many years. Times change, teachers change, kids change and in the end, attitudes change. I hear good and bad when I used to only hear good about SGS. I am happy they teach foreign language again since that was taken out a few years back. I know the class size is smaller now but that is a good thing I think. I don't think the VP is bad. I do see she does a good job and is always nice and smiles at people. I think the Principal needs to work on smiling and being nice to moms and dads. Academics are challenging and the elementary school has good teachers.”

“We are a military family and have been at SGGS for a few years. Being a new family it was difficult to 'get in' to the group and be offered jobs at the school. The available jobs are never offered to everyone. This includes paid teaching jobs. That is my main gripe. I have had issues with a few teachers but if Mrs. Foster could personally train all the elementary school teachers then SGS would be the best in the state...country! Her overall approach and loving smile to each child makes a parent feel good. The principal does not have that smile very often. Academics are ok. Transition from K to GR1 is hard and alot is expected from the kids that they were not taught in K. Parents are all over the place volunteering but like I said, mostly hand selected ones.”

“I graduated two years ago and am now in a great public HS. I was academically prepared for HS. I liked it alot when I first started at Saint Gregory. I wish I was offered Spanish or Latin so I did not have to take it now in HS. I wish I had better memories.”

“There are two sides to every story and this is the case at our school. You can not please the masses but you can try and it is the lack of trying that has people scrambling to find alternate education. I have personally been humiliated by the principal in front of other parents. I do have to say I feel the academic portion of the school is top notch for the most part. My children are a grade ahead of their public school peers. I see some caddiness coming from some teachers. Rudeness to the children and parents. As a past volunteer, I was privy to teacher conversations, etc. I was appalled at the lack of compassion in a Catholic school. There are some great teachers there. I find the front office unapproachable. It is a very uninviting atmosphere and you are often standing there ignored for a few minutes.”

“I think the best way for me to summarize our 16 years (2 daughters, K through 8th grade) of experience at St. Gregory's is through the words of my youngest, now a freshman in a very good public high school and ,thus far, having a wonderful high school experience. She said to me the other day, 'I miss St. Gregory's - I miss the teachers and the administration and all the students! I miss the family atmosphere, the fun, the Masses, and even the work! I miss everthing and would love to still be there!' (Paraphrased a bit, but not much...) The spirit of St. Gregory's will always be a part of the McNaught family. We owe much of who we are to SGGS. I can't imagine any family not feeling that spirit, but maybe they wouldn't feel it anywhere. I'm sorry for them.”

“We have children who have attended SGGS for 9 years. I cannot say enough about the superior quality of academic programs that are provided to the students. My oldest is in high school and is far ahead of many of his peers. The majority of teachers will go out of their way to help the students to succeed both academically and socially. The school has numerous extracurricular activities to choose from. As far as the parent involvement, there are alot of ways to be involved and the majority of parents want to be involved. Overall, I am very pleased with SGGS and the quality of leadership!”

“We are new to SGS and have nothing but wonderful things to say about the administration, teachers and other students. My girls love their 'new' school and have felt welcomed since day one! They are being challenged academically and the extracurricular activities have helped them to make new friends who share similiar interests. We love it here!”

“We came to St. Grg's several years ago from another catholic school. We have been satified with the education our children have received. St. Gregs is like any other school out there; you will find people who are unhappy and have had a bad expereince.Can I say there are no cliques no. The people in the clics don't even realize they are being exclusive. They haven't a clue at how unwelcome they make new people feel. If your child hasn't been born in to the parish, your an outsider. I find that most of the parents are involved to the level that they feel comfortable. Are special privileges given to some people, yes without a doubt. If your on staff your child is specialand can do no wrong. Finally, parents have no say in who represents them to the parish or PTO. The PTO is selected by the principle.”

“I graduated from SGS 3 years ago and my sister graduated last year. We both are in a very academically challenging high school, and thanks to SGS are doing extremely well! My father was in the military so we changed schools a lot before getting to SGS. Right away the school felt like home. Both the teachers and students were very friendly and the principal and her staff quickly learned our names. Both my sister and I felt challenged with the work we were being taught, and the teachers were always available and willing to help if we found we needed them. The school has a strict anti-bullying policy and the school was a place we always felt very safe. We never felt that the teachers had favorites, but did feel like they genuinely cared about everyone.We both felt like Sister Patricia was always available to speak to us about anything.”

“My family has been associated with St. Gregory the Great School since 1965. It is an outstanding school, which has unfortunately come under coordinated attack by a small and anonymous group of disgruntled parents. The staff, teachers, and curriculum are the finest anywhere. Any issues that are honestly presented to the principle are honestly and sincerely addressed. It s a wonderful school. If you have a chance to get your child in, take it.”

“SGGS is by far the best school both academically, moraly and spiritually in the area or for that matter anywhere. My son graduated from there and was one year ahead of the other students when he went to high school. They offer advanced math, english, spanish and have a state of the art scinece lab and great technology and other programs. We too are a military family and had to move after spending six years there. The catholic school that my daughter attends now is not up to the standards of SGGS. Also, we are moving back to the Virginia Beach area and will definitely put our child entering first grade into SGGS. The staff and administration are incredible, they are there for the children and care deeply about the needs of the chidren and parents. I would highly recommend this school to anyone.”

“As a former student of SGS, I would have to say that St. Gregory's prepared me for the academic challenges of high school very well. The teachers at SGS are friendly and patient, while the principal is kind and knows each student by name. If there are any problems with gossip or cliques, they are addressed immediately. SGS has advanced courses including Pre-Algebra, Algebra, and Spanish 1 for middle school students. Spanish is taught in all grades and students have PE, Art, and Music or Band weekly. Overall SGS does an excellent job preparing students both academically and religiously.”

“My daghter was blessed to have been able to attend St. Greg's for her last two years of middle school having attended from another private school. The students from all grade 1st to 8th welcomed her with open arms. She made friends easily because of the warm Southern Hospitality and Christian rearing that is taught at the school. Where she had been at, students did intimidate and bully other students. They also were super clickish and did not welcome new students or even were kind to students they had been with since pre school. This was one of the reasons why I took her out. It wasn't until I had volunteered in depth and put long hours behind the scene to know what went on in the school. St. Gregs is geat! My daughter loves it and continues her friendship with the student body even in high school.”

“I am delighted with the education that my daughter is receiving at SGGS. It was a last minute decision to switch her from public to private school, and the administration was very responsive and accomodating. I can't say enough good things about her teacher and the curriculum. The depth of topics and the sophistication of vocabulary and themes really pushes my child to a higher level of analytical thinking. The organizational qualities of her teacher are the best I've witnessed in academia. She keeps the children on task and informed while holding them responsible when they fail to meet the requirements. My daughter is able to participate and compete in sports at a younger age than in public schools. All this coupled with catholic spiritual growth makes SGGS a great choice for us. We are happy at SGGS.”

“I'm very happy with the academics at St. Gregory. My children are challenged in every subject and are always motivated to learn. Some teachers in the middle school have better personalities than others but all are very professional. A teacher with a not-so-good personality teaches my child to mature and get a feel for what real life is about. We need to learn how to deal with everybody. I love the emphasis in reading and good morals. I'm very proud of the band teacher. The principal has always answered any concerns that I've brought to her attention and she's very professional and pleasant. She cares a lot about everyone and knows every student by name. I know families with low resources that she has helped so they can keep their children in the school. One of the best things for me is havings Catholic sisters among the teachers. They're great!”

“Every time I tell someone that my child attends SGS they respond with how wonderful of a school it is. I'd have to agree. I feel that the teachers have been extremely friendly and approachable. I feel that children are encouraged on many different levels and in a way that makes them feel good about themselves. It's great to have parents so involved in the school because it allows us also to be more aware of what's happening with our children.”

“We have had students at SGS for 6 years out of the last 10. It is by far the best school we have encountered in our multiple military moves. It is academically challenging, but with tutoring available for those finding it tough.It has a loving staff and a 'family' feel. The teachers and staff truly care about the students and their values development as well as academic development. I volunteer at the school a lot and have seen first hand the way the teachers and staff try to live out our Catholic virtues on a daily basis. Our family is involved in church activities, scouting program, sports program and band program. Our principal (and asst.) are loving, but firm, who always have time in their busy day to say 'hi' to the parents by name and make them feel welcome. We are blessed to have SGS.”

“It's rather unfortunate that a parent who perhaps has some very unfounded personal issues would choose this forum to spread such untruths. St. Gregory the Great School has had and continues to have a stellar reputation in this community. This school prides itself in the care and nurturing of it's students as well as academic excellence. You would be hard pressed to find a better school anywhere. I've had 2 children graduate from SGS and they are flourishing in high school. My husband and I credit their success to the solid foundation of academic and moral teachings and values that were instilled upon them at St. Gregory's. This is a quality education..both academically and religiously sound, taught by a large group of competent and caring teachers and staff. If you are thinking about sending your child here, come in and see for yourself..you won't be disappointed!”

“Wow, where to begin? To start the leadership at SGS is not the best. From the top down it seems that they are not at all happy to be there with our children. You hear teachers say degrading comments to kids, name calling from teachers to kids, and teachers giving dirty looks to the kids. It is turning into a sad state of affairs at SGS. The current administration seems to have run the place into the ground. NO longer are families beating down the door to get their kids in. They are running instead to other schools!”

“I am a teacher at St. Gregory's, and I cannot say enough. The teachers, counselors, and administration will bend over backward to make sure that students are getting the best Catholic education possible. We concentrate on fostering growth in the whole child. Students study religion daily and often discuss religion topics in other classes as well. Catholic life, virtues, and morals are taught in a way that students can apply them to their daily living. There are so many extracurricular activities available--science bowl team, newspaper, choir, band, soccer, field hockey, cross country, track & field, drama club, opera club, basketball, art club, and I'm sure many more that I am forgetting. If you are looking for a Catholic school in the area, I would strongly recommend St. Gregory's. Financial aid is available to families that qualify.”

“I have had children at SGS for over eight years. My children are getting a good education, and we appreciate the opportunities they would not have had at public school (religious education, Spanish, band, soccer, choir, etc.). Most of the teachers have been excellent, the school does a good job of keeping the students safe, and they have a rigorous anti-bullying policy. However to enjoy all this, we have had to endure the rudeness and uncaring attitude of the administration, a deaf ear to complaints, and blatant favoritism. Not only do teachers have favorites, but amongst the parents and PTG there is an 'in crowd' too, and only their opinions carry any weight. For our family, it has been worth it to put up with the discourtesies, but for others this price may be too high to pay.”

“I am a former student of this school and I am very grateful for the education I received. The students are very well-behaved. The academics are fantastic and there are wonderful extracurricular activities available. The teachers, many who have been there a long time, are very dedicated to their students. I have nothing but good things to say about this school and have no reservations about sending my own children there one day.”

“St. Gregs is by far the best school my family has been associated with. In routinely helping our children with their homework and participation as a volunteer and attending parent/teach conferences, I am convinced in the sincerity and genuine concern by the faculty for the Catholic development and academic achievement of the students. Clics are inevitable with children as they progress into their teen years. The principal has her focus pointed in the right direction and has been a pleasure to work with.”

“I have been blessed to consider St. Gregory the Great School my 'home away from home' for 12 years. My association with the school began when my daughter entered pre-school. I immediately joined a very active and envolved group of volunteers who welcomed me and made me feel valued. My daughter florished. She grew academically and spiritually as a result of the care, compassion and dedication of the faculty and staff at the school. I enjoyed the positive environment so much that I applied for and happily accepted a faculty position 8 years ago. I have found the staff and the administration are dedicated to meeting the needs of our students. We have many programs to address the needs of the struggling and the gifted student. My daughter is excelling in a very competitive high school because of the solid academic foundation St. Gregory provided. I highly recommend this school.”

“I have a daughter currently in 7th grade at St. Gregory's and a son who graduated last year. I have always found the administration to be dedicated to the spiritual and educational well-being of both my children. Has their time there been without problems? No, but any time I felt the need to speak with the administration or teachers, I have always felt that my concerns were attended to in a fair and friendly manner. There are extracurricular activities that appeal to students who are interested in athletics, art, music and service, among others. There is a high level of parental involvement for those who are inclined to be involved. In other reviews some have accused the school of being clique-ish and the administration to be uncaring and I believe nothing could be further from the truth. I would invite those parents to look inward for answers to their complaints.”

“I am a parent of a child at SGS and I must agree with most of the negative reviews posted here -- I too believe the administration to be rude and have a caustic approach to 'non clic' parent. There is also no academic flexibility -- all classes are geared for the student with the least abilities (there should be some advanced math and science courses as well); religious teachings are typically stale and plastic catholic approach.”

“Being a military family, we have traveled all over and had our children in Catholic Schools around the country. This is by far the best school we have ever had the privilege of being involved with. The academics far exceed anything we have encountered thus far, the teachers are warm and genuinely care about the students. The administration is very concerned about the overall well being of the students and is always readily available to the parents. This school has wonderful opportunities for volunteering and a true sense of community. I can't say enough about how blessed we feel to be a part of St. Gregory the Great School.”

“St. Gregory Catholic School is a place where students of all abilities can flourish. Teachers are willing to help students before and after school. Resource teachers are available during the school day. Religion and Catholic values are a priority. Students are able to take music or band, art and computer each week. Spanish is taught in every grade and 8th graders are able to complete Spanish I. An advanced math program offers pre-algebra and algebra. But the important thing about St. Gregory is the feeling that you are part of a family. I have been associated with St. Gregory for more than 20 years. In every school there are things that are not perfect. In every school teachers, parents, and students compain. But when looking at what is important-- is St. Gregory doing the best job possible in educating your child? The answer is a resounding YES!”

“I'm a middle schoool student at this school. I'm very surprised with the previous comments submitted. They make the school sound horrible, but it's not! The non-bully policy is definitly enforced, with multiple 'chats' and class discusions. Also, people say that religious educations is limited to 'book-learning.' This is my 5th year at SGS, and each year my religion teacher has brought out in-depth discussions during calss. Even during morning prayers and in the cafeteria during lunch virtures are discussed and displayed. And next, teacher calling students names is false. No teacher has ever called a student a name that I know of. I do know though, that if you're a trouble making, rude student with an attitude, then teachers won't like you as much as others, but don't they have a right to?! I guess some parents just use this site as a place to blow steam.”

“I am a student at this school. I have a lot of friends there that are easily made. I am always dealing with rumors that happen all the time. I have been going to this school all my life-things never change. The same girl(/boy) is every teachers pet. Year after year...Anyway,if you`re looking for a school without clics,girlfriend-boyfriend,and etc. this is school has it all. I mean EVERY grade!1st-8th!Probaly the worse thing is the principal.I`ll give her a 1. Yep. Thats what I think.”

“As a past parent, we were not happy with the overall atmosphere and attitudes of some of the teachers or parents. As a volunteer, I was able to observe a lot behind the scenes. It did not involve my child but I was not happy with what I saw and heard. Overall academic quality was pretty good. Religious teaching is confined to 'book learning' and does not apply or translate over into character building on a daily basis where students actually learn to apply principles to daily life. There are teachers who consistently verbally humiliate and bully students and do not set a good example. All in all, no better than public schools when it comes to reinforcing values. Parents are highly involved but I found many of their attitudes were questionable - gossip was rampant and depressing. Many people like it there and I guess there's a place for everyone.”

“This has been a most rewarding experience for our son as well as us, the parents. I daily impressed with the love and committment the teachers and staff show the chldren. They foster a positive learning environment where the children love learning and enjoy being challenged. They identify early if intervention is needed so no childs needs go unmet. I could not have dreamed of a better learning environment to cultivate a love of learning that will last a lifetime. The No Bully policy is enforced and children learn acceptance and tolerance of those things different. This is a model educational facility. The school is swipe card secure, and in todays world that is reassuring that our childrens safety comes first.”

“I have had the pleasure and joy of having seven children attend this school. Now however it is our grand-children that attend this school. The teachers are always dedicated to raising the bar of teaching and giving students a very positive educational experience. the student that pass through this school do so gaining confidence and skill that pave the way to lifelong learning skills and eventual graduation from many top ranked Universities and Colleges. A student gets a broad well balanced education opportunity while also learning the basic principles of the Ten Commandments and religious education. This school is definately a five in the rating of fantastic educational enviroment.”