Hamilton Middle School

Posted: August 15, 2025

this school is TERRIBLE. all 3 of me going here they have never been on top of anything at all. i have been going there since 6th grade and all of a sudden they remove me from the school as if i never was enrolled, they are acting like the don’t have all of this in their hands, they refuse to return any phone calls or emails. we have gone through at least 3 principles in 1 year. just overall a bad school.

Posted: August 15, 2025

Posted: August 15, 2025

Posted: August 15, 2025

Posted: August 15, 2025

Posted: August 15, 2025

Posted: August 15, 2025

Posted: August 15, 2025

Posted: March 7, 2025

Posted: March 7, 2025

Posted: March 7, 2025

Posted: March 7, 2025

Posted: March 7, 2025

Posted: March 7, 2025

Posted: March 7, 2025

Posted: March 7, 2025

Terrible school from the front office to the principal, They tried pushing trangender with a news letter and I called the principal emailed him about my concerns, never called me back, called dps to complain, then my grandson was getting picked on by 5 boys nothing was done about that. Then my grandson got hurt nurse never called my daughter, then another teacher didn't let my grandson get on the bus, because of a pass that the school requires not the bus driver and told him to walk home. This is the worst school I've ever seen. My grandson has missed a lot of days cause of this school. If I could give them a zero review I would. I think they need a revamp of that school from the bottom up.

Posted: January 24, 2025

The school year started off great but the new principle has no clue what they are doing. This school was on the way up with the former principle but she moved on. We heard from other families that this school was not very good but we decided to give it a try and now we are sorry we did. The front office staff is rude and not very organized. Avoid this school at all costs.

Posted: January 24, 2025

Posted: January 24, 2025

Posted: January 24, 2025

Posted: January 24, 2025

Posted: January 24, 2025

Posted: January 24, 2025

Posted: January 24, 2025

Posted: December 18, 2024

This school has presented nothing but challenges. In 6th grade my son had no SPED teacher the entire year and his IEP was not met. We pulled him from the school at the end of the year because one teacher in particular treated my son as a criminal and would kick him out of class almost daily for the mildest of behavioral issues.

I sent him to a different school for 7th grade, but relocated back to Hamilton's neighborhood before the start of 8th grade. I enrolled my son again with a promise from the school that things had changed. They have not.

This school does not communicate with parents at all. Discipline is handled internally with no communication sent to parents. Bullying is extremely prominent with nothing being done about it. My son doesn't feel safe at school and constantly tells me about threats being made to him and his friends and the school does absolutely nothing about it.

In an age where teenage suicide caused by bullying is extremely prevalent within our society every school should take threats and bullying seriously, but Hamilton looks the other way. My son has had to defend himself and his friends numerous times and has been punished for it.

DO NOT SEND YOUR KIDS HERE. LET THEIR ENROLLMENT PLUMMET AND ALLOW THIS SCHOOL TO BE SHUT DOWN. It's a black eye on DPS.

Posted: December 18, 2024

Posted: December 18, 2024

Posted: December 18, 2024

Posted: December 18, 2024

Posted: December 18, 2024

Posted: December 18, 2024

Posted: December 18, 2024

Posted: December 18, 2024

Posted: December 18, 2024

Posted: December 18, 2024

Posted: December 18, 2024

Posted: December 18, 2024

Posted: December 18, 2024

This school has presented nothing but challenges. In 6th grade my son had no SPED teacher the entire year and his IEP was not met. We pulled him from the school at the end of the year because one teacher in particular treated my son as a criminal and would kick him out of class almost daily for the mildest of behavioral issues.

I sent him to a different school for 7th grade, but relocated back to Hamilton's neighborhood before the start of 8th grade. I enrolled my son again with a promise from the school that things had changed. They have not.

This school does not communicate with parents at all. Discipline is handled internally with no communication sent to parents. Bullying is extremely prominent with nothing being done about it. My son doesn't feel safe at school and constantly tells me about threats being made to him and his friends and the school does absolutely nothing about it.

In an age where teenage suicide caused by bullying is extremely prevalent within our society every school should take threats and bullying seriously, but Hamilton looks the other way. My son has had to defend himself and his friends numerous times and has been punished for it.

DO NOT SEND YOUR KIDS HERE. LET THEIR ENROLLMENT PLUMMET AND ALLOW THIS SCHOOL TO BE SHUT DOWN. It's a black eye on DPS.

Posted: November 20, 2024

Not that great. Some of the people in charge don't take bullying seriously, and are bystanders when there's bullying in front of them.

Also, it seems whenever one kid does something, all grades get a punishment. I think this is unfair. Overall not that good.

Posted: November 20, 2024

Posted: November 20, 2024

Posted: November 20, 2024

Posted: November 20, 2024

Posted: November 20, 2024

Posted: November 20, 2024

Posted: November 20, 2024

Posted: September 23, 2024

My daughter recently started school and it has been one of the worst experiences I’ve had. Since day one the school has a system issue with enrollment so the online enrollment never got submitted on their end. Many parents had to go in person the first day of school to do the paper enrollment. The office staff is not helpful at all and they are extremely rude. I wouldn’t recommend this school simply because it seems very unorganized.

Posted: September 23, 2024

Posted: September 23, 2024

Posted: September 23, 2024

Posted: September 23, 2024

Posted: September 23, 2024

Posted: September 23, 2024

Posted: September 23, 2024

Posted: October 23, 2023

I heard rumors from other parents before enrolling my child; about how bad the school has become. For 6th grade; I decided to take a tour and personally meet with the principle. I fell in love with the principle and her vision for the school. Sadly it was all a farce; First day of school; our child had to write their pronouns down on a name card and carry it to every class. That I didn't have an issue with; but when a teacher had each student in class, stand and tell everyone their sexuality is NOT OK. This is a place of education; someone being straight, gay, bi etc. shouldn't be disgusted in class. DONT put students in the spotlight when it comes to this. First week of school we were told students would be let out by the Holm elementary exit and parents pick up there (map given).. well the kids were getting let out on the total opposite side of the school. Called multiple times to get clarification on pick up location; I was given multiple responses and multiple locations. This was brought up to the principle by numerous parents at the first back to school night meeting and principle PROMISED it would be addressed and teachers would be informed of the correct locations for each grade level. NOPE; still a complete mess at pick up. On back to school night; the social studies teacher emphasized she will not be teaching WHITE history. Shocked by this, I asked her to clarify. She said it was American history she wasn't going to teach. WHY NOT SAY AMERICAN HISTORY; NOT WHITE HISTORY. Completely inappropriate. Disgusting! My child is in IEP and needs special learning requirements that is UNDER CONTRACT with the state. Part of the requirements were made; but unbeknownst to me, their IEP teacher had left. For over 1/2 the year there was NO HELP. Now starting 7th grade; we were hoping for a better year, new teachers etc. NOPE; still completely disappointing. Disappointing to the point where we had to change schools. Students are rarely allowed to use the bathroom. HORRIBLE considering this is when girls start their mensural cycle. Shouldn't have to get a doctors note to be allowed to use the bathroom. Denver Public schools really needs to get police back in the building. School fights happen multiple times a week; and the security guard cant and don't do anything. KEEP LOOKING FOR NEW SCHOOL, KEEP YOUR KIDS SAFE.

Posted: October 23, 2023

Posted: October 23, 2023

Posted: October 23, 2023

Posted: October 23, 2023

Posted: October 23, 2023

Posted: October 23, 2023

Posted: October 23, 2023

Posted: January 6, 2023

DO NOT!!!! Send your kids to this school it is horrible, lack of discipline, and lack of responsibility

Posted: January 6, 2023

Posted: January 6, 2023

Posted: January 6, 2023

Posted: January 6, 2023

Posted: January 6, 2023

Posted: January 6, 2023

Posted: January 6, 2023

Posted: January 5, 2023

Horrible school! Can’t believe it’s allowed to operate in Colorado. Unsafe and absolutely no teaching or learning occurring at this school. It’s basically a prison with prison guards. If you have any other options do not send your child to this school.

Posted: January 5, 2023

Posted: August 25, 2022

this is this a good school and they make sure the is safe they jugde anonny one and they are nice people

Posted: August 25, 2022

Posted: August 25, 2022

Posted: August 25, 2022

Posted: August 25, 2022

Posted: August 25, 2022

Posted: August 25, 2022

Posted: August 25, 2022

Posted: March 16, 2022

Overall we have good experiences at Hamilton in the last three years. There are ample programs available to students who want to participate such as several sports, theatre, band, STEM and honors classes. There are also school trips when health policies allow. Dealing with Covid put a halt to many of the programs last year but this year, and the previous year, my son has had a ton of fun playing floor hockey, baseball and attending the fall back-to- school fest and school dances. He has told me there are kids who "Don't seem to have a very good situation at home". He says they sometimes fight, throw trash on the floor or break things. I think my son is learning a lot about what people face and they handle it. He has matured a lot socially and emotionally at Hamilton, learning when to engage with others and when to walk away or ignore them. As far a academics he was in honors English that had a wonderful teacher and he had an incredible math teacher. Because it is an IB school he has to take foreign language for electives and he's hated that. He'd rather take gym each semester. They have advisory teachers they meet in a class with each day. They have called us at the start of each semester to check in. He loves his advisory teacher this year. It's like homeroom where they can catch up on homework, socialize and do some Social Emotional Learning (SEL) programs. The school has a state of the art brand new STEM lab but my kid isn't too into STEM. Overall, if your child mostly gets along with others and likes to participate in extra activities they can have a good middle school experience here. There's lots of ways for parents to be involved on PTSA or by volunteering at the school. I highly recommend getting involved so you get a sense of how the school is being run and so that you can help make the school what you and your students want it to be.

Posted: March 16, 2022

Posted: March 16, 2022

Posted: March 16, 2022

Posted: March 16, 2022

Posted: March 16, 2022

Posted: March 16, 2022

Posted: March 16, 2022

Posted: September 22, 2020

Teachers give my child meaningful amounts of homework. Just the right amount.

Posted: September 22, 2020

The teachers at Hamilton are amazing. They are passionate, challenging, creative, and fun. The Principal Dr. Sawyer has built an awesome team for my 6th grader.

Posted: September 22, 2020

Hamilton became an IB school and now teaches the values of the IB Program.

Posted: September 22, 2020

Our Principal Dr Sawyer and the Assistant Principals are so passionate and committed to the school. They are always communicating with parents. They are truly knowledgeable about middle school students. They go above and beyond! Dr Sawyer has turned Hamilton into a middle school we can be proud of as a neighborhood. He fights for our kids.

Posted: September 22, 2020

My child has an IEP and the Hamilton team goes above and beyond to make sure my child’s IEP is implemented. They also celebrate my child’s learning differences!

Posted: September 22, 2020

The Deans of Hamilton are passionate about ending bullying. My child has an advisory every day. Lessons are taught to end bullying.

Posted: September 22, 2020

I believe Hamilton is the best middle school in Denver. Why? Because we are a true neighborhood school that values academics with diversity. Our principal Dr. Sawyer is passionate about our students and our school. The teachers are so awesome and love our students. Hamilton is the kind of school I wish all students could experience!

Posted: July 11, 2020

I'm gonna be honest here. The school's great, it's big enough for everybody and it's easy to get used to. The people, however, are horrible. Not all of them, just 5/8 of them. Certain girls who are known to be popular have dated almost half of the boys in their grade, they wear clothes that are inappropriate for school, they talk behind people's backs, and they do not care about their grades at all and therefore they all end up in the same class. That's talking about a couple of girls, not all of them of course. Then, there's the male version of those girls. They wear saggy pants and practically walk around the school in their underwear. They get into fights so easily that there's at least 1 fight every week. They hang out in the bathrooms and curse a lot. They also harass girls sometimes. They don't care about their grades either. This DOES NOT apply to all of the students of course, but you're bound to find at least 5 people that match those descriptions. But of course, there are nice people that actually care about their educations and ones that are respectful to everybody.

Posted: July 11, 2020

Not all the classes we're in give us homework, which is good, but when they do give us homework it's overwhelming sometimes.

Posted: July 11, 2020

Very few teachers are nice. People become teachers to help children, not yell at them and blame them for everything.

Posted: July 11, 2020

The students that are respectful and responsible are the only ones who care about their education and being loyal. Everybody else doesn't care about grades and they all just care about idiotic things like dating, harassing, fighting, writing inappropriate things on the walls, and doing who knows what in the bathrooms.

Posted: July 11, 2020

The only "leaders" here are social leaders, and they basically rule the school with their popularity.

Posted: July 11, 2020

The teachers and staff help the kids, while everybody else just bullies them. We had a student in our class who couldn't speak English very well and who didn't have a good time paying attention and listening to directions. Pretty much everybody isolated him and some even talked behind his back. In front of the nicer kids, the mean kids act like they feel sorry for him and that they sympathize with him when in reality they're the ones making him feel insecure.

Posted: July 11, 2020

The teachers could not care less if kids get bullied. However, they only care about things like wearing hoodies and caps INDOORS, but one teacher told a kid to take his hoodie off when we were outside, and it was SNOWING!!! They said indoors, not outdoors. Also, the teachers don't care if a child is bullied unless somebody tells them. They can see it happening, but they excuse it by saying they had no idea when they did.

Posted: February 1, 2020

As I’ve said before, this school does not take bullying seriously. No matter who one reports to, the victim of bullying ends up in a worse situation.

Posted: February 1, 2020

I would rate this lower than 1 star if I could. One of the worse middle schools in the district.

Posted: February 1, 2020

Posted: February 1, 2020

My child is a victim of bullying and the teachers and staff downplay it and refuse to eradicate the issue.

Posted: February 1, 2020

They could try harder in disciplining students who bully others. They definitely don’t take bullying serious here if there’s fights between students almost every week.

Posted: February 1, 2020

This school has gone downhill. There are more and more issues and the “leadership” is certainly lacking.

Posted: February 1, 2020

Posted: January 13, 2020

This school is in need of some serious changes.

Posted: January 13, 2020

My child has completed homework in a timely manner, however this is not reflected in my child's grade because one teacher in particular, will not take the time to review assignments, resulting in poor grades.

Posted: January 13, 2020

Now that all the work is done on tablets, there is hardly any interaction, and an obsession of screentime is all our children know.

Posted: January 13, 2020

Posted: January 13, 2020

Posted: January 13, 2020

The school nurse has been taking it on herself to diagnose children as "disabled" with no medical or psychological history, sending them home on a whim. Pure laziness and lack of responsibility. I find it very alienating and offensive, depriving children of education due to an unfounded bias.

Posted: January 13, 2020

Posted: August 20, 2019

My daughter says she has never been bullied and hasn't seen others being bullied but she is aware that kids get detention for bullying.

Posted: August 20, 2019

Sometimes way too hard, sometimes way too easy. Inconsistent from day to day.

Posted: August 20, 2019

They try to do that and mostly succeed but there are some students who don't respond to these efforts.

Posted: August 20, 2019

As a parent I feel the Principal and other key leaders are doing a great job with communication home, trying to build positive school culture, encourage community, etc. My student feels sometimes they go "overboard" on school culture; kind of cheesy.

Posted: August 20, 2019

We have not had much experience in this area so can't speak to it.

Posted: August 20, 2019

Overall, pretty good, says my daughter after one full year at Hamilton. As a parent, I would rate our experience pretty positive overall after one year. Considering that middle school can be rough in general, I'm grateful we had a smooth and positive year.

Posted: May 30, 2019

Literally from the first day of school for my daughter she was bullied and constantly threatened about being jumped just from smiling at one of the kids. I would not send your child to this school unless you want your child bullied and nothing to be done about it. I took her out of this school within two weeks!! Super sad.

Posted: May 30, 2019

My daughter was literally bullied from day one, something we haven’t ever delt with. Constantly afraid to even go to the restroom by herself. Nothing was done about it and I took her out of this school within two weeks. The girls are mean and nasty. You should see the dirty dancing videos of them in music class. Disgusting and the parents should be putting their kids in check about the effects of bullying.

Posted: May 15, 2019

Posted: May 15, 2019

The deans are impactful, but again the culture is poor.

Posted: May 15, 2019

I don’t know how low a school needs to drop before a leader is replaced. The collapse of this once successful middle school is a hidden tragedy within dps.

Posted: May 15, 2019

Teachers don’t assign much homework because the majority of students don’t do it.

Posted: May 15, 2019

Some strong teachers, some are too new to be effective but it’s not really their fault. The school simply can’t retain its best teachers.

Posted: May 15, 2019

The overall respect level between students and teachers is poor.

Posted: June 21, 2018

My daughter talked about how the principal would always talk to kids about not bullying. She said he was very passionate about this.

Posted: June 21, 2018

This school is really a great middle school. The teachers and the principle really care about our kids. They are passionate and super hard working. I would call at 7pm and the principal would take my call. They do so many things for our kids and push them to be there best. Middle school is a hard time but they work hard at Hamilton to make it the best and to make sure all kids get what they need.

Posted: June 21, 2018

Posted: June 21, 2018

The teachers all worked so hard and demonstrated care for my daughter.

Posted: June 21, 2018

Constant recognition of student programs. Huge awards assemblies and parties recognizing kids who do the right thing. The talent show at the end of the year was all my daughter could talk about.

Posted: June 21, 2018

The principal Dr Sawyer is so passionate and cares so much for the students. He would always call me back even late at night to make sure my issue was addressed. He also has brought a lot into the school, like new programs that allow all kids to become there best. In the past, students were cut out of the good programs, but now all are included. He is the best I’ve seen in a school!

Posted: June 21, 2018

My daughter has a learning disability and got so much support that she could succeed in Honors!

Posted: April 29, 2018

They hardly have homework and no parent involvement.

Posted: April 29, 2018

Too busy treating it like a prison not school. So sad to see it tank after years and years of our family attending.

Posted: April 29, 2018

Bad seeds roam school drugs are all around.

Posted: April 29, 2018

My son has dyslexia and we begged and begged for help only to get none

Posted: April 29, 2018

Teachers and staff bully kids and treat it like a prison not a school

Posted: April 29, 2018

My oldest son had a great experience with IPM and now it’s gone and school is horrible.

Posted: June 3, 2017

Posted: June 3, 2017

Posted: June 3, 2017

Posted: June 3, 2017

Posted: June 3, 2017

Posted: June 3, 2017

Posted: June 3, 2017

My student recently finished her years at Hamilton. It is rare that you find a school that has the courage to do what's right for kids. The current administration has ended the separate programs from that told my daughter she was not a "magnet" student at all, when I know middle school kids change quickly in their grades and skills. I had terrible experiences with some the teachers that looked at my daughter as a label and less skilled, until the new principal came and said ENOUGH. Mr Sawyer and his team took a stand for what's right, and now the parents of the "magnet students" are out to get him. I am very involved in community rights advocacy and saw the injustices that were real at this school for kids with disabilities and who are poor. I totally agree with the direction the school is headed. Don't believe the hype from certain voices. This school is doing right by kids now!

Posted: June 3, 2017

Posted: June 3, 2017

Posted: June 3, 2017

Posted: June 3, 2017

Posted: June 3, 2017

Posted: June 3, 2017

Now that my final child as walked out the doors at Hamilton, I can voice an opinion.

When my first two children were attending the school, I could not have been more happy with Hamilton. My children enjoyed school due to the bond they created with peers and teachers. However, the new principal, Dr. Sawyer, has single handedly destroyed this once great middle school. One not only needs to look at the rapidly declining test scores, (the year before he took over, Hamilton was celebrated for their student growth, now they can't even reach levels above "approaching"), spend time in the dysfunctional hallways, or have children within the school to find evidence of this catastrophe. Simply look at the amount of teachers abandoning this sinking ship. Outstanding educators such as Cappola, Kershaw, Wilhelm, Macmahon, Kyker, Bailey, VanTreese, Urbach, Jonas, and Crosswhite all have left Hamilton. It does not take a genius to figure out why the best teachers in a school all leave within a two year window... My children consistently report on the negative tone set by the school leaders and misbehaving students. The school is anything but positive, upbeat, celebratory, or studious. It is dark, admonishing, and poorly functioning.

I am grateful to have had a school in my children's lives that prepared them so well for highschool. However, my final child gave me personal incite into Hamilton's future. As an informed parent, let me advise any possible future parents with a choice for their children. Find a different school to attend until the current admin is replaced.

Posted: June 3, 2017

Posted: May 6, 2017

I am a parent who has had multiple children come through. For the first time in years, the new principal Mr Sawyer and his staff have finally ended the division in the school separating the kids based on false beliefs. Now the school will all be an international school, a real program of academics for all kids. No more division. The school has also started a new Computer programming class my kids have loved and National History Day is for all kids now, when it used to only be for a select few. Keep going Hamilton! You're doing right by kids. Proud to know a school is doing this.

Posted: May 6, 2017

Posted: May 6, 2017

Posted: May 6, 2017

Posted: May 6, 2017

Posted: May 6, 2017

Posted: May 6, 2017

Posted: April 6, 2017

Ever since Dr. Sawyer took over, the school has gone down hill. The dress code to shut shame the girls so the boys don't get distracted is ridiculous and not followed across the board anyway. Dr. Sawyer is a big believer in punishing everyone for the actions of a few so if your child is well behaved, expect them to lose privileges because he is too afraid to handle the situation with a particular group. My youngest will not attend here is Sawyer is still there but judging from the conversations I've had with many parents, he probably won't be.

Posted: August 5, 2016

Posted: August 5, 2016

Posted: August 5, 2016

Posted: August 5, 2016

Excellent preparation for the next level! The staff and community are great and really involved.

Posted: May 7, 2016

Hamilton is doing an excellent job. The academics are outstanding. The teachers are the best in the city. They have kept up their reputation for academic distinction. Recently, they had nearly 15 of the 30 top spellers in the State, top test scores in the city, and Top honors in student art performances. The new principal came in and hit the ground running to keep the school moving forward. The school is moving to be an Official IB school, which will be a great future for our kids. They have also improved focus and order in the school. My son tells me they have new positive rewards and improved rules for behavior so that kids can focus. Communication with parents has also gotten better this year. I also appreciate the friendly office staff.

Posted: May 7, 2016

Posted: April 10, 2016

Posted: April 10, 2016

Posted: April 10, 2016

I am a parent of a sixth grader. The principal, Mr. Sawyer, is positive and cares about our students learning. He does a call out every week for parents that helps us stay informed. The teachers are excellent and the deans keep order and safety. I am very pleased!

Posted: March 25, 2016

We always work hard to improve our school.When our old principal (Mr. Dawkins) was here, he would always reward and praise us for our hard work. Our teachers and our assistant principal who has always been there for us since we started in 6th grade praise and reward us for our hard work. Our teachers are amazing. They make learning fun which makes us want to be there.I wish the new administration would inspire and encourage us especially when it comes to CMAS and PARCC. We need more encouragement then just do our personal best it takes a lot more than just wishing us luck. When Mr. Dawkins was here,he would inspire us to help us to do well on the big tests. That's why we got great scores then. Hopefully we get great scores again.

Posted: March 24, 2016

Posted: March 24, 2016

Posted: March 24, 2016

Posted: February 16, 2016

Hamilton's teachers are phenomenal. There's really nothing more to say. Each one has a unique teaching style that's both informative and entertaining.

Posted: February 16, 2016

The homework is generally light depending on your teachers. However, there is just the right amount of homework to ensure learning and studying while allowing students to enjoy after school activities.

Posted: February 16, 2016

Posted: February 16, 2016

If it was an option, I'd give this school a 4.5. I am an 8th grader at Hamilton and thoroughly enjoy the school. I moved to Hamilton in 7th grade from another DPS school. I was immediately accepted into Hamilton's community. All of the students welcomed me and I made several new friends. From there, I became an active member in the theatre community. The drama teacher, Ms. Nyhus, was amazing and we managed to produce many marvelous shows for the school community. I also continued my love for softball. Hamilton is truly spectacular because it allows you to explore so many activities/clubs/ passions! As of today, I am in student government, the musical, writer's club, and I was a softball player. It's an amazing community. Yet, recently, the school did receive some new faculty including a new principal and other student deans. The deans are strict and unwelcoming usually. If other students act out, they treat you like you're the troublemaker. In their eyes, you're the same as a failing, cussing fellow student. Not to mention, they bestow no trust in the student community. They also rudely enforce an unfair dress code where leggings and ripped jeans are outlawed. (The student body protested the dress code and leggings are now permitted.) However, I still think this school is quite fantastic despite the new deans. The core/elective teachers are hardworking, fun, and they always listen. I feel at home in Hamilton with my student peers, friends, and my teachers. I don't think I'd choose to be anywhere else for middle school.

Posted: November 18, 2014

I am concerned about the number of fights I am told about each day by my daughter. The number of bullying issue from the upper classman. we need the school to instill respect for peers and underclassmen

Posted: September 10, 2014

I think the academics at this school are on target, or getting there, but I am concerned about the strictures put on girls with regard to their unspoken duty to dress "appropriately." In the real world, we call this "slut shaming." Boys can wear shorts above the knee, but not girls. Boys can wear t shirts with some "spicy" sayings, but girls get busted if they wear tanks with less than three finger wide shoulder straps. WHOSE FINGERS? That is problematic, in and of itself. Keep your fingers off my child's shoulders, thank you! If HMS handed us a dress code in the parent handbook, that is what they need to stick with. There is now the news that the dress code is changing so that girls can't wear skinny jeans or leggings. Frankly, if boys are so distracted by this (seen all over the city, not peculiar to Hamilton), then they are the ones who need some shaming. This dress policy change, made after school shopping occurred in many households, is just plain Draconian. I'm sure some administrators and faculty would love it if kids showed up in Amish attire, but that is not going to happen. Feeling pretty fed up.

Posted: June 17, 2014

This school has made many great changes. The security is amazing now. I am a 7th grader, going into 8th and last year as a 6th grader was terrible. The PEAK kids (known as TAP back then) were out of control (so were some of the IPM kids but it was the teachers who influenced the behavior in the TAP program). Students were throwing pencils at the ceiling and running out of classrooms. It was anarchy. But when principle Dawkins showed up, he was like our savior. He hired new teachers and deans and assistant principles. Together they enforced a strict new set of rules. The new Avid program has been amazing as well. The teacher is perfect for the position. Avid is about going to college. They tour near by college campuses and learn how to be more responsible is the career world. This is truly a school of excellence. It is an honor to go to this school. If you are a parent with a child about to start middle school, then let them start at Hamilton, a school of greatness.

Posted: April 24, 2014

Talk about a turnaround! New principal, new vice principals, new deans, and the kids are back in the saddle! Test scores going up, school spirit high. Teachers have a great attitude. I love that my kid is learning, and I love that he loves going to school.

Posted: April 24, 2014

Hamilton Middle School likes to brag that it is a AAA school - which stands for Academics, Arts, and Athletics. As a parent of two Hamilton students, I can say that academics is very much the emphasis at this school. In both the PEAK program and the IPM program, my kids were academically challenged, and supported when they had trouble with the material. I love the "Million-Word-Reader" program. In the arts, they have an incredible stage and auditorium for performances, considering they are a middle school, and the orchestra is worth seeing. In athletics, my kids found teams and team spirit. They worked hard and made friends, and brought home some championships. Overall, my husband and I are very pleased with our kids' middle school experience at Hamilton.

Posted: February 13, 2014

I have had 2 of my daughters go to this school, and the social and academic atmosphere at this school is great! My children have lots of nice and smart friends and if my child needs help, they get full time one on one attention. I love this school!

Posted: January 31, 2014

My school is phenomenal with our new Principal Dawkins. I am an eighth grader in the IPM Program with a 4.0 GPA and have been through all the ups and downs of Hamilton, but with our new staff everyone can feel safe and learn in this new environment. The 8th grade class here is actually the best in DPS! Orchestra, band, singing, acting and all the other after school departments are truly amazing and I couldn't be more proud. The security, while strict, is great now because these kids need to be put back in their place and the PEAK teachers actually try on the kids unlike the last ones that openly told their student that they were stupid and could never live up to the IPM students. I swear while I can't speak for PEAK there is no bullying at all here, there are cliques of course but each clique basically accepts the other and leaves eachother alone like a little biosphere haha. I strongly recommend enrolling your children to this great school, and I guarantee that the '6' rating will soon be raised to an '8' or even a '9'! This school has great potential, just you wait. Go Huskies!

Posted: January 16, 2014

My son, now an 8th grader in the PEAK (formerly TAP) program at Hamilton has some significant learning issues. He has pronounced attentional deficits as well as a disability of working memory plus some language processing issues. He has a high intellectual capacity, which helps him compensate for his disabilities, and so is able to struggle along. He is not a behavior problem. Still, he is a complicated student, and, given his shy nature, he would be easy to overlook in a full classroom. My hat is off to the teachers of Hamilton. Since 6th grade, they have taken the time necessary to work with him and to meet with me and his father to see that his academic needs are met. These teachers are truly dedicated, and I want to thank them. (Especially the 6th grade team who helped him transition to middle school so well.) You all are my heros.

Posted: January 5, 2014

I went through the Hamilton IPM program for all three years and I thoroughly enjoyed my experience. I have made many friends and gotten a 4.0 GPA. I couldn't speak for PEAK (TAP) students but I think that the academics are very good. Also, since the old principal, (Ms. Gutierrez) has been replaced by Mr. Dawkins, Hamilton is improving every day. Although I have disliked a few teachers, overall the teachers were engaged and supportive, if I had a problem they would help me out. Hamilton has properly prepared me for high school.

Posted: December 10, 2013

Hamilton middle school is providing my 7th grader with the foundational knowledge to succeed in high school, but more importantly, my daughter is happy. She continuously comes home enthused with stories about the teachers, assignments, or activities from the day that inform me of the quality instruction taking place inside of Hamilton Middle School.

Posted: December 9, 2013

We have been involved with the school for 5 years and my children have always felt safe to go to school and in general like going to school every day. New administration has been working hard to improve the school's internal environment - successful so far. The IPM Program has also proved to be a good fit.

Posted: December 8, 2013

When I read the positive posts regarding this school I have to wonder if there is another Hamilton Middle School somewhere that is a great school. My daughter has attended Hamilton for 6th grade IPM and is currently in 7th grade IPM, I am working to choice her out of there. The reports that DPS publish every year grading each school tell the whole story. When it comes to Hamilton parent satisfaction gets an F every year. The teachers refuse to engage with students that are having trouble, which is really the primary purpose for a teacher. There are behavior issues at the school that often require the Denver Police Department to be involved. You can't ever talk to anyone in the administration because they're always too busy. I really can't think of a positive comment regarding this school. If you are looking for a middle school for your child I would encourage that you look elsewhere. I was warned by several parents a year and a half ago and I ignored them, I wish I hadn't.

Posted: December 8, 2013

My daughter went here for 6th & 7th grade ipm. Besides never getting email replies from her teachers, we also never received follow up when trying to set up meetings to discuss her grades. We pulled her out of Hamilton for 8th grade & now she is excelling at her current middle school. Overall, the teachers and staff do not care about your student at Hamilton & I really wish I would have removed her from that school much sooner.

Posted: October 29, 2013

I'm very happy with all the new positive changes taking place at Hamilton. The new principle is doing a great job and Hamilton's teachers are wonderful. Hamilton offers the IPM program, athletics and has an amazing arts program that includes band, theatre and dance.

Posted: October 13, 2013

This school is rebuilding and on it's way to the top. With a unified student body, teaching teams across multiple programs, and a superb Administration, everyone is happy and learning. Hamilton Middle School is a school with excellence in Academics, Arts, and Athletics. Students are constantly challenged to learn new things. With 21st century technology in classrooms, an outstanding electives program, and encouragement to play a sport, all students have the opportunity to grow and become well rounded individuals. You will not find a better music program anywhere in Denver, with both the orchestra and band receiving superior ratings from CHSAA in the last school year. Students in vocal music and instrument music represent the school in the DPS Citywide music programs every year. Hamilton Middle School Students continue to take awards on a National level. New logo, new website, and new programs, everyone is encouraged to get involved as we build a stronger Hamilton. Our family could not think of a better place to learn. I know our students will be prepared for the world ahead of them.

Posted: September 29, 2013

What a difference a new principal makes in a few short months. Mr. Dawkins and his staff have worked tirelessly to turn this school around and it is showing. He cares about the education of ALL STUDENTS in the building whether they chose IPM or the PEAK program. It is very refreshing to see staff and students smiling and excited about coming to school everyday. My 8th grader says it feels like a totally different school that when he started in 6th grade. I volunteer in the school and it's nice to see the transition that is going on. Hamilton is well on its way to being the best middle school in Colorado. I would highly recommend you take a look at the academic, athletics, and art programs the school has to offer. There is a wonderful drama dept., vocal music program, band and orchestra program, visual art, and computer programs. It is a great option located in Southeast Denver. Be sure to come check out the new Hamilton before making a choice for middle school. You'll be glad you did!! Thank you DPS for making a much need change at our wonderful neighborhood school.

Posted: September 13, 2013

Wow! What renaissance since last year. Everybody is smiling! It's hard to believe it's the same school. Many new enthusiastic teachers. An all new administration, including a kid, parent and teacher friendly principal who puts kids first and is dedicated to making Hamilton the best school in the state. New technology including smart boards in nearly every room. A dynamic elective program the includes art, band, orchestra, vocal music, dance and two computer courses. Two academic choices IPM and PEAK designed to accommodate every kid. Their school rating for last is a reflection of the old administration and some teachers who were shown the door. My son is proud to be a Husky again!

Posted: September 9, 2013

We are in our third year at Hamilton, and my two kids continue to have a wonderfully dynamic educational experience at this DPS school. The team teaching approach incorporated at the school ensures that kids don't slip through the cracks. My kids are challenged academically while being given the freedom to use their imagination and creativity in the process. We feel good about our decision to send our kids to Hamilton, and there is no question that they will be ready for whichever high school they choose. Additionally, the administrative staff at the school is fabulous!

Posted: September 6, 2013

I am a student in the new PEAK program at Hamilton and this is definitely a whole new school! We have new awesome, caring teachers, everyone is working hard and happy in every classroom, and we have so many great things to we can do - all my friends are so excited to be in PEAK because of AVID, boys' book club, and because of our awesome teachers (in 8th grade especially) this year! AVID is getting us on track for college and is going to show us what to do to be successful, plus it's fun and a good place to feel like you have a family who will have your back. The best change is Mr. Dawkins - he really cares about us and is getting rid of the old ways. He knows that all kids are smart and deserve a great school. I really like going to school this year and I feel like I'm learning a lot.

Posted: August 31, 2013

I spent my three middle school years in the IPM program at this school, and I loved it. That academics are great, the teachers really care, and I learned so much. I'm now in the IB program at George Washington and I love it. However, the segregation between IPM and PEAK is awful. However, last year, the old, prison-guard principal was finally fired, and Mr. Dawkins, the new principal, is wonderful. I believe that the school can only get better from here on out. -Julianna

Posted: May 29, 2013

This school is absolutely horrible. I went here for 6th and 7th grade. I had to move because of the bullying and segregation problems. The principal and teachers stand by and act as if their is nothing wrong with students mentally hurting other students. The 2 years I spent at hamilton were the worst! Not only is the social life at hamilton terrible, but so are the academics. I went from being a straight A student to flunking most of my classes. The teachers barely try. The students are insane. The teachers mainly talk to you for 30 minutes and hand you a test expecting you to ace it. I would definitely not recommend this school to any parents.

Posted: February 24, 2013

Huge improvements with the new principal. Good teachers and kids in both TAP and IPM. My daughter is in 7th grade. The parents of kids who went to Hamilton said they were so well prepared when they got to high school. (Most went into the IB program)

Posted: February 7, 2013

Think twice about sending your child to this school! I have an average child, and it's Horrible! Some teachers are ok,,but several need to move on. Hamilton need fresh new teachers to make learning positive.

Posted: December 4, 2012

This school is awesome!!!! this school teaches you a lot and the teachers are very nice and caring. I have been in this school for 4 months and i think its an excellent middle school. This doesn't mean that i haven't had problems at this school though, i have been in some problems with some of the kids, but the security of the school will fix it in no time. I also think that it is a very organized school. The IPM kids are in the middle of the building and the tap kids are in the bottom so the kids can be separated which is a good thing because the TAP kids don't really like the IPM kids for some reason. The principal of the school is really responsible and will take care of the problems.(: