The O'Neal School

Southern Pines, NC 28387

Phone: (910) 690-6920
Fax: (910) 692-6930

NR

GreatSchools Rating

private • Grades PK,TK,KG,1,2,3,4,5,6 • 546 students

The O'Neal School, a private school located in Southern Pines, NC, serves grades PK-12 in the .

The O'Neal School is a private school located in Southern Pines, NC. 546 students attend The O'Neal School.

Posted: February 9, 2026

Posted: February 9, 2026

The lack of leadership and professionalism is creating a toxic and dangerous environment at this institution. The principal is inept in handling serious issues that put young people at risk. Victims are silenced, their requests for help go unanswered, and they are left feeling unheard and alone while attending this institution. As a parent, I was left questioning the safety and well-being of my child, with no follow-up or path forward on resolving issues we brought forth time and time again. We do not recommend this institution.

Posted: February 9, 2026

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Posted: December 17, 2025

Posted: December 17, 2025

My son has been at O’Neal since Kindergarten and is now in middle school. He has been incredibly happy with his experience and wants to continue on through high school at this point.
The class sizes are small which I find beneficial in terms of the ability for teachers to provide more 1:1 attention.
Although the cost is steep, they offer financial aid which is a big help.
He has no special needs, so I really can’t comment on their ability to provide accommodations.

Posted: December 17, 2025

Posted: December 17, 2025

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Posted: December 15, 2025

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Posted: December 15, 2025

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Posted: December 15, 2025

Posted: December 15, 2025

My kids go to the school and we have had nothing but a positive experience. Previously, my children went to a public school in our area. We noticed that our eldest who is bright was having a hard time socially and was not challenged intellectually. He spent a lot of time on tablets in public school and as as long as he met the minimum mark, that was considered a success. This is not intended to bash the staff, or students of any public school. We just felt that O’Neal focused on challenging students and giving them the confidence to succeed beyond school. We felt like the end goal was for children to succeed in college versus meeting state exam requirements.

For example, children often practice public speaking and proper etiquette in large venues. Additionally, there are not the same distractions for teachers time as the class ratios are small. The teachers and administration are highly motivated, and parent involvement mitigates behavioural issues that could distract the class. I also found that some of the curriculum is unique for school in this area. For example swimming is offered as a class period during gym. This not only teaches life skills, but instills confidence in the students. Outdoors is highly valued in the curriculum. The students spend a significant amount of their week outside learning about their natural surroundings with range Nancy. This opens the door to their curiosity and creativity. You would not believe the amount of questions or facts my children have rattled off pertaining to their natural environment.

Yes, enrolling one’s child at O’Neal requires families to invest financially. As a family, we feel that has been a worthwhile investment and the results are evident in our children’s academic progress, social etiquette, and confidence to succeed beyond the classroom. What is even more important is that we share that value with the other parents who also have made this investment. This creates a positive environment were all the students are there because their parents prioritise their education.

Posted: November 4, 2025

We had multiple students across different school ages at this school for over 3 years.

The honeymoon period was great. We were super involved, kids were happy, and they were being stretched academically in highschool. Something we really wanted for college preparation.

Slowly things changed: admin turnover, some legal woes, behavior concerns and lack of discipline and communication led us to look elsewhere for our education needs. We saw a direction of which the school was going and it did not align.

Posted: November 4, 2025

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Posted: September 15, 2025

We have been a part of the O'Neal School for four years and could not recommend it more. If you are looking for a great private education, that is not faith-based, this is the school for you. We found the small class size allows our students to always find their voice, use their voice, and are always encouraged to do so in the most appropriate way. The curriculum naturally has some rigor to it, so whether or not your child is a highflyer or needs a bit more support, they will be challenged or assisted appropriately. Middle School students have plenty of time outside, which helps tremendously in my opinion on the social front. Moreover, the class trips are absolutely awesome!!! A total private school perk!

Posted: September 15, 2025

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Posted: September 14, 2025

Without a doubt, the staff at The O’Neal School are highly qualified educators with many having Masters level and beyond. However, what is most impressive is the relationship building that takes place between school and home. There are so many experiences for students and families alike that set O’Neal apart from traditional public schools. In addition, the level of instruction is second to none. The fall open house is coming in October. Come see for yourself!

Posted: September 14, 2025

Posted: September 14, 2025

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Posted: September 13, 2025

I couldn't imagine sending my children anywhere else. It is a safe and inclusive place and truly feels like a community. Both my children have attended since Pre-K 3, and I am consistently impressed with the quality of care as well as education. My middle school-aged son can play a sport every season and knows his teachers will push him, but they are also available for support and guidance. He has a diagnosed learning difference, and not once has the school made him "different." He has received the appropriate accommodations throughout his years of schooling, and I have found that teachers have gone above and beyond to ensure he is feeling and performing successfully. My younger son greets teachers and older students by name and stays for varsity sporting events to help cheer on his summer camp counselor, or aftercare worker, or senior buddy. I wish that I had the same sense of community, especially in my middle school years. Teachers did not honestly know me or make an effort to get to know me. I was a face in a classroom. I wish I had been identified as a leader, an artist, or a gifted writer. Class size prohibited those close-knit interactions and one-on-one education that are found at O'Neal.
The staff are educated and learned. Most hold advanced degrees in their specialized field, and some have doctorates.
Textbooks may be older models (as someone noted in a previous review), though that is intentional. Shiny new curricula have been implemented ( on numerous occasions). Upon review, there are gaps and holes in mastery (or, in some cases, the curriculum is so flawed that it is pulled from circulation altogether). Returning to tried-and-true practices that best suit the needs of learners is the ultimate goal.
I would recommend the O'Neal School to anyone looking for a fantastic education, for teachers that meet the needs of all learners, for a close-knit community, and for the opportunity to TRY a medley of different activities (ranging from plays to sports to leadership)

Posted: September 13, 2025

Posted: September 13, 2025

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Posted: September 13, 2025

Posted: September 12, 2025

I do not recommend The O'Neal school. This school does not recognize 504 plans. Instead, they make you pay for expensive private testing before they’ll even consider any accommodations. And even then, the only real support they offered was extra time on tests. Their so-called “academic plan” looks good on paper but isn’t actually followed.
The middle school has about 50 kids per grade, but most families don’t continue into the high school. That speaks volumes. While small classes are nice in lower school, by middle and high school students need a larger peer group, more opportunities, and more variety. Many teachers don’t even send their own kids to O’Neal, which says a lot about the quality and environment.
The school only wants children who fit into a narrow academic box. If your child learns differently, they are not supported. And if you try to advocate for your child, the school will try to find a way to push you out. They market themselves as “inclusive,” but in reality they want parents to stay quiet.
Teacher turnover is constant. Many aren’t certified, and the good ones rarely last. Discipline isn’t fair either, staff kids or “favorite families” get away with things, while other students are punished harshly for small mistakes.
For the high tuition, the academics are outdated. The school is still using old textbooks while nearby public schools are more current and tech-focused. The O'Neal School cares more about tuition dollars than about students or families.
If you want your child treated as an individual and respected for who they are, I’d strongly recommend looking elsewhere.

Posted: September 12, 2025

Posted: September 12, 2025

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Posted: September 12, 2025

Posted: September 12, 2025

As a current O'Neal Parent, I can say with full confidence that choosing The O'Neal School has been one of the best decisions that our family has ever made. Academic success and community involvement have always been at the forefront of our home, which matches The O'Neal School's mission seamlessly. My children have a close and personalized relationship with their Teachers, Coaches, Theater Director, and Head of Upper School. They simultaneously feel fully supported and appropriately challenged. The O'Neal School is an academic powerhouse, while also providing incredible experiences outside of the classroom. The beautiful creativity of the Theater Director continually inspires them, while the athletic coaches encourage physical and mental growth.

Posted: September 12, 2025

Posted: September 12, 2025

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Posted: August 11, 2025

As a former teacher at this school I would like to tell every parent looking at this school to run. The leadership is 100% in the pockets of the board of trustees. 90% of the teachers at this school do the bare minimum and do not care about the students. This is mainly because the pay is so low. But the pay is low because you don’t have to maintain your state teaching license. Most of the staff can’t stand the parents of the students and openly bad mouth them. If you happen to be a single parent I promise you the staff will judge you and your child for it. This is extremely common in the middle school. If your child is in the middle school and has an IEP I can promise you the principal talks poorly about your child. This is not an institution of learning. This is a business out to make money. And at $20,000 a year they are making a lot of it.

Posted: August 11, 2025

Posted: August 11, 2025

Posted: August 11, 2025

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Posted: August 11, 2025

Posted: August 10, 2025

In the last two years this school has gone from bad to worse. The last two heads of the school have destroyed this school. They pushed all of the good teachers out. But lets talk about what you get for your $20,000 a year. Middle school is using out date text books still. That's right text books. Also they require a computer that you have to buy. That their IT person wants to take control of. The hight school is still using text books THAT YOU NEED TO BUY. Just like when you go to college. There is no computer lab in the school. No stem lab in the school. They say lunch is provided, well that is after they raised tuition to cover the cost of lunches. But more importantly. The teachers DO NOT have to be licensed in North Carolina to teach because it is not a requirement at private schools, so the vast majority do not keep their training or licensing current. The ones that do end up leaving because they are not paid enough. And don't get me started on the mold in the buildings. Your kids will be coming home sick A LOT! So for $20,000 a year you get a out of date education, by teachers that are not up to date on teaching practices or lessons, teaching out of books that you have to pay for. The school is nothing more than a money making institution for the people that own it. They DO NOT care about your children education.

Posted: August 10, 2025

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Posted: December 8, 2024

Like many North Carolina schools they suffer from teacher turnover yearly. Teachers put forth a great effort to teach students, but I don't feel they get the support they need. I feel tuition is a little on the higher end, and with more than one student this is a little prohibitive. I am really on the fence with my recommendation.

Posted: December 8, 2024

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Posted: November 13, 2024

Our son has been at O'Neal since Pre-K and has just entered High Schoo, from the teachers to the staff and coaches we have been happy and impressed. Choosing your child's educational path is paramount as it sets them on a trajectory. I highly recommend O'Neal, the class sizes are small, the attention your child receives and the correspondence you receive as a parent is wonderful. My son has been thrilled with all the Club activities offered in the Middle and Upper School, Model UN, Mock Trial, Science Olympiad, and the Pickle Ball Club to name a few. Interacting with everyone from our son's teachers to the headmaster has been seamless. O'Neal really cares about their students and it truly is a positive, safe and welcoming environment for all. Cannot recommend it enough!

Posted: November 13, 2024

Posted: November 13, 2024

Posted: November 13, 2024

Posted: November 13, 2024

Posted: November 13, 2024

Posted: November 13, 2024

Posted: November 13, 2024

Posted: November 13, 2024

Our family truly loves the O’Neal School, where we have been part of the community for several years. During this time, we've had the opportunity to connect with the teachers across the lower, middle, and upper schools, and our experiences have been exceptional! The educators we've encountered have provided outstanding support, and the academic programs have been wonderful for our children, challenging them while keeping them actively engaged and nurturing their passion for learning.
Moreover, the overall sense of community at the school is remarkable; it is strong and welcoming, encouraging everyone—from parents to teachers and families—to get involved. As we begin the college placement process for my son this year, I feel assured that we made the right decision in choosing this school. I have full confidence in both the teachers and the college placement process they offer. We cannot express enough how positive our experiences have been; from the arts to academic programs, my kids have been inspired to participate, grow, and achieve great things at the O’Neal School.

Posted: November 13, 2024

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Posted: October 30, 2024

We have been at the school for 10 years and could not be happier.

Posted: October 30, 2024

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Posted: January 19, 2024

This is the kind of school that caters to the kids who fit the perfect mold of what they want the school to be: disciplined, smart, and from wealthy families. If you child has any sort of behavioral issues, is behind in any subject, or is not the perfect student... this isn't the school for you. As far as the educators, there is extremely little professional development. People always hate on public schools in Moore County, but at least educators in these schools are required to do a multitude of ongoing education and professional development to keep teachers in the loop of best theories and practices. O'Neal has very little of that. I felt like I went back in time when I taught there. The facilities are amazing - large classrooms, nice gyms, a pool, etc. But do not confuse the school's physical appearance for the quality of educators and education your student will receive. Furthermore, the O'Neal school has a higher teacher turnover rate than it should, and there is a reason for that. So many wonderful educators have left O'Neal on their own accord for greener pastures.

As far as bullying, I was personally a victim of bullying myself, as an educator, from the administration itself. How can they protect students if they can treat their own educators in such a manner?

If this is the kind of school you want to support, so your child and your family can have that "status" then go for it, but hope your child fits the perfect mold so he or she is not treated unfairly, neglected in their learning, or even ostracized.

Posted: January 19, 2024

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Posted: January 18, 2024

We have been part of the O’Neal family since pre-K and could not be happier with our experience! Great safe learning environment.

Posted: January 18, 2024

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Posted: January 16, 2024

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Posted: January 16, 2024

Posted: January 16, 2024

We have had a wonderful experience at The O’Neal School! This is our second year and we have three children attending. We couldn’t be more thrilled with the education and the extra curricular options. The community was welcoming from the start and we look forward to many more years as a Falcon family!

Posted: January 16, 2024

Posted: December 6, 2023

Our family has a unique situation and we have received the utmost respect from the school in regards to that situation. My son has excelled over the past two years in his educational growth and I look forward to my daughter starting to attend next year.

Posted: December 6, 2023

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Posted: December 1, 2023

My family is very happy at the O’Neal School! We have a 2nd, 4th, and 6th grader and have found so much to love for each one of them!

Firstly the campus is beautiful, with so many trees, wonderful playgrounds and outdoor spaces, not just for elementary students but middle and upper school as well. There is ample time built into all of my children’s’ day to get outdoors and run around.

We have been very impressed with all of the co-curriculars: Outdoor Science is a stand out, and so unique to the school; the art program for all of my kids has been phenomenal and well-designed; all of my kids LOVE their language programs, and PE and music have been wonderful as well! As an educator, I love that there is space for multiple co-curriculars per day.

My son’s middle school experience has exceeded expectations with multiple ways for him to get involved: after school sports, Battle of the Books, and even off-season strength & conditioning. He also really enjoyed the class trip at the beginning of the year! There is so much to be involved in, the only difficulty is narrowing it down!

I have found the teachers, across the board, to be stand outs. They are excellent communicators, passionate about their subjects, and wonderfully engaging in a way that goes beyond the dreaded worksheets. I love how different disciplines work together to make the subjects come alive across multiple subject areas. I love the project-based learning I see with all of my kiddos.

Additionally, I have been impressed with the school’s engagement with families, and feeling welcomed in a new community. Admissions was wonderful to work with, and went above and beyond for our family to help get us situated.

We are very pleased with our experience at The O’Neal School!

Posted: December 1, 2023

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Posted: February 27, 2023

Teachers are amazing and a very safe place!

Posted: February 27, 2023

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Posted: November 4, 2022

The O'Neal school has been a great learning environment for both of my children. This is our 4th year at O'Neal and there is no area school that weathered the pandemic and kept the kids on track like O'Neal. My oldest is now looking at colleges and she is not in a learning deficit, thanks in large part to O'Neal keeping the trains on the track during such a difficult time.
The school offers rigorous academics and a fun and competitive athletics program. The theater and music divisions are currently "growing up", as the arts at O'Neal has new parent support and interest. No school is perfect, but I highly recommend O'Neal.

Posted: November 4, 2022

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Posted: June 30, 2020

A good amount of homework is given, but the school philosophy and teachers are very supportive and responsive when extra help is needed, and understanding when sports or extracurricular activities sometimes don't allow for enough time. The focus is on learning the subject and having an appropriate amount of time to complete homework is their priority while still excepting high standards of responsibility.

Posted: June 30, 2020

Teachers go out of their way and are very generous with their time to make sure each student is treated as an individual, are dedicated to working with each students different learning styles, and give every opportunity for each student to understand and succeed.

Posted: June 30, 2020

Through the school honor code students are held responsible and respect others. The students at O'Neal display compassion, support and loyalty. Honesty is the norm. School lockers are left open, doors left unlocked, a rarity in most schools, yet it works at O'Neal. Students are respectful of their environment, peers and teachers.

Posted: June 30, 2020

Leadership at O'Neal is highly visible and alway concerned with honesty, integrity , student support, and nurturing strong values by example.

Posted: June 30, 2020

Absolutely. Teachers go above and beyond to help each child feel supported and take a personal involvement in each student's success. Students are encouraged at all time to reach out for help and the message is clear the teachers are always accessible to work with the student as well as the parent.

Posted: June 30, 2020

Posted: June 30, 2020

We are very happy with our experience at O'Neal. It's an impressive environment that fosters academic excellence, team environment, athletic opportunities, after-school clubs and activities. The college preparation that is individualized for each student is exceptional. Our child is being well prepared for future academic experience. Each child is involved in a community that is healthy, safe, engaged , supportive, and challenging.

Posted: November 5, 2019

Initially, we did not know how we would pay for our two children to attend O'Neal. It did not take long before we recognized that we could not afford to NOT attend O'Neal. O'Neal has been an investment, not a cost. My son graduated last year. He received an appointment to one of the US Service Academies where they pride themselves on character and leadership. Recently I asked him how he was doing. He said, "Dad, I'm doing great! This is just like being at O'Neal."

Posted: November 5, 2019

Some teachers give a completion grade for their homework assignments and then review the work as a class. Some teachers give a grade based on the student's performance on the assignment. This forces students at O'Neal to be flexible and adaptable - which will certainly help them navigate challenges later in life.

Posted: November 5, 2019

If the goal of teaching is to instruct students to the extent that they demonstrate knowledge of a subject and, more importantly, the ability to apply the lessons they've learned, then the teachers at O'Neal are absolutely effective.

Posted: November 5, 2019

Character is not just a word on a poster at O'Neal. Character is woven into the fabric of O'Neal.

Posted: November 5, 2019

Effective indicates merely meeting the standard. In regards to leadership, O'Neal is extraordinary. There is a leadership academy with an associated mentorship program for students. There is also a student developed and student run Future Leaders Club at O'Neal. It is exceptional.

Posted: November 5, 2019

With class sizes as small as they are, O'Neal teachers are afforded one on one attention that caters to any learning difference presented in the classroom. Additionally, O'Neal teachers make themselves available before or after class to assist students. That is just what O'Neal teachers expect of themselves as part of the community. That is unheard of, elsewhere.

Posted: November 5, 2019

Posted: March 8, 2018

Posted: March 8, 2018

Posted: March 8, 2018

Posted: March 8, 2018

Posted: March 8, 2018

I’m really happy with my experience at O’Neal. I find that teachers and administrators really care for the students and their success. They are accessible and they pay attention not only to the academic performance, but to the overall well-being of their students. Teachers are available to help students if they need extra help with the material.
The student body is not as homogeneous as many in the community think, and not all students are from high income families, thanks to tuition assistance.
The courses are rigorous, homework and studying strategies are emphasized, and cheating is not tolerated.

Posted: March 8, 2018

Posted: March 8, 2018

Posted: March 1, 2018

I have had contact with the students, faculty and administrators for four years and would recommend this school highly to all who may be considering it, This includes the lower school, middle school, and upper school. The students at every level are polite, respectful, and mature for their age.

Posted: March 1, 2018

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Posted: December 12, 2017

Posted: December 12, 2017

I love all my kids’ teachers in the Lower School this year.

Posted: December 12, 2017

I don’t rely heavily on this school to instill these values in my children— I don’t see these qualities in most children that attend this school. I rely on myself as their parent to instill these qualities in my children.

Posted: December 12, 2017

The Head of the Lower School seems have no idea what she is doing. She has no discipline policy and seems to have different rules for different families and definitely has her favorites.

Posted: December 12, 2017

Posted: December 12, 2017

For some children they do. For others that may not be in the Head of the Lower School’s ‘favorites’ category it is a different story.

Posted: December 12, 2017

It’s been fine. Still better than what the public schools can offer in the area. The cost is a bit much for what you really get at this school, but the kids are happy so for now I’m not looking into changing. However, if things keep going downhill in the Lower School due to poor leadership, I will be considering other options for my children sooner than later.

Posted: September 13, 2017

Posted: September 13, 2017

The Head of School is very visible on campus and seems to be accessible to both students and parents. It's apparent that he takes great pride in the school and works every day to make sure the school is executing its mandate to be the best possible environment for its students and the best the county has to offer.

Posted: September 13, 2017

Posted: September 13, 2017

The teachers are highly committed and LOVE what they do. Many of the teachers also coach athletics and/or run the extra-curricular programs and clubs.

Posted: September 13, 2017

Posted: September 13, 2017

VERY POSITIVE! My daughter has been at O'Neal for 10 years, having started in Pre-K. The school is a friendly community supporting both students and parents. The small class size leads to lots of interactive class participation and high expectations - no child is going to fall behind or between the cracks. The curriculum is rigorous and the after school clubs (both fun and academic) are plentiful. There are wonderful leadership programs that focus on the student-athlete. The school also offers a vibrant arts program. Unlike the other schools in the area, learning a foreign language is a requirement and classes in the arts are part of the curriculum from Pre-K through 12th Grade. No programs have been cut at this school! Financial Aid is generous. The campus is beautiful and void of trailer (temporary that have become permanent) classrooms - take a visit and be sure to meet the Head of School! The school is impressive.

Posted: March 11, 2017

I am a parent of 2 children. My son graduated O'Neal 2 years ago and my daughter is in high school. I read a lot of reviews from "community members". They are reporting gossip, nothing more. One said only 10% of students get accepted into UNC Chapel Hill. I can tell you from my experience in the last few years, very few students even applied to Chapel Hill. In my sons graduating class only one student applied to UNC Chapel Hill and was accepted. The students from O'Neal attend universities all over the country and don't limit themselves to NC schools. You can go to the website and see a list of the many universities that O'Neal students attend. They have a 100% college acceptance rate. One person complained teachers don't check homework. I have only experienced one teacher that didn't check homework. It was a calculus class and the teacher told the students that not doing homework would reflect on their test greade because the only way to get good at calculus is to work a lot of problems. Most classes actually get a homework grade. The grade is for completing homework and on the accuracy of homework. Another comment was that students aren't disciplined for cheating. That is ridiculous. O'Neal holds students accountable, just like every school. O'Neal is a GREAT school for most students. I do know of a few students that left O'Neal for public schools. Their reasons are varied. Some students do better in larger schools, some students aren't ready for the rigor of the courses and some just didn't find it the right fit for them. Don't judge O'Neal by listening to bitter people. If you are interested, call for a tour and decide for yourself. O'Neal doesn't cater to it's own kind, referring to the wealthy in our community. We are a middle income family that lives in an older home and we drive used cars. Tuition assistance is available and is the only way my children could attend. We still have to pay some tuition and don't mind sacrificing. The pay off for my children has been worth every dime.

Posted: March 11, 2017

Posted: March 11, 2017

Posted: March 11, 2017

Posted: February 23, 2017

This school caters to their own kind. High income students, which I don't understand how, if it is a median household area.

Posted: August 30, 2016

The students practice what they have learned in class, and learn to manage time and work step-bu-step for big projects

Posted: August 24, 2016

Posted: August 24, 2016

Posted: August 24, 2016

Posted: August 24, 2016

Having 2 children at O'Neal allows me to offer my children the greatest gift possible. The overall education and enrichment classes and extra curricular opportunities are very special. Our children will very well prepared for life after high school because of O'Neal

Posted: August 9, 2016

Posted: August 9, 2016

Posted: August 9, 2016

Posted: August 9, 2016

My son will begin his sixth year at The O'Neal School this year. The class sizes are small (only 11 in his class last year). Teachers are able to teach the individual student rather than pressure students into passing a standardized test. The school is a great fit for my creative son who has major test anxiety. Overall, the school has a wonderful community feel. Families take pride in the school and so many parents go above and beyond to volunteer their time to help out in whatever capacity they are able. The children are respectful and they are taught manners beginning in Pre-K 3. I consistently see them opening doors for one another and speaking respectfully to adults. My son has thrived at O'Neal and we plan to keep him there for as long as possible.

Posted: April 18, 2016

Posted: April 18, 2016

Posted: April 18, 2016

Posted: April 18, 2016

Posted: April 18, 2016

Homework level seems appropriate. The teachers seem to keep up with what is going on in other classes so everything isn't due on the same day.

Posted: April 18, 2016

There is a strong sense of community there. The students believe in the Honor Code.

Posted: April 18, 2016

I have two graduates from the O'Neal School. They both have great writing skills and were very ready for college. I credit the faculty. They know the students so well and make sure that they get what they need to succeed.

Posted: March 30, 2016

The O"Neal School absolutely develops honesty and integrity in students. There are no locks on lockers and rooms are left open the majority of the time and there is NO THEFT. This is a very different experience than some of my friends have reported at other schools. The Honor Code is strictly reviewed and enforced at all times.

Posted: March 30, 2016

With three children at O'Neal, I can say that I truly believe the education and experiences they are receiving are superior to anything else in the area. We live in Lee County and the easy commute is well worth the drive. I enjoy the fact that there is no teaching to the dreaded End of Grade test, as many public teachers are forced to do. I cannot say enough about the Middle School and the excellent studying and note taking habits that are being instilled in the students there.

Posted: February 21, 2016

Posted: May 24, 2015

Posted: April 29, 2015

I had written positive comments about Coach Harper and Mr. Cooper's wonderful Physical Education (PE) and swim program and it was removed from the website. The kids at O'Neal have PE every other day. This is far more than the public school offers. Coach Harper has developed a wonderful PE curriculum that builds upon sport skills - readying them for individual and team sports, fitness, and is age appropriate for the grade she's teaching. She is big on sportsmanship, following the rules, respect, listening and following direction, and fair play. She inspires the students to do or give their best in all they do. She is a fantastic asset to The O'Neal School. She is very positive with the kids and it shows, the kids love having her in PE. Mr. Cooper also runs a great swim program, my kids love swimming in PE - we're the only PE swim program in the county and probably one of few in the state. He's concerned with water safety and stresses it in class. Coach Harper played college volleyball and Mr. Cooper swam in college. They each have respectable records and accomplishments in their sports. They are both huge attributes to the O'Neal community.

Posted: October 24, 2014

We are very happy that our child chose O'Neal for her middle school experience. O'Neal provides an academically enriched environment where students feel safe to take risks and challenge themselves as they learn. The teachers are caring and attentive, and the small class size provides the opportunity to support each individual student. Our experience has been that the teachers strive to build character and provide opportunities for discussion that support a teenager's ability to make good choices. During my first visit to O'Neal I was impressed that the students made eye contact with an adult and had smiles on their faces. I quickly realized that positive feelings echo through the school. The new head of the middle school is a teacher who welcomes his students each morning. He personally knows the children and works with the faculty to meet the needs of the student body. He is engaged and aware of what is happening in the classrooms and halls of the school. He encourages the teachers to integrate the presentation of materials which makes learning fun for the students. It is an honor to be part of the O'Neal family.

Posted: September 8, 2014

This is the first year our children are attending The O'Neal School (one child in elementary and one in middle school). We are extremely happy so far with the administration, the teachers and the curriculum. Our children are very happy in their new school environment and with their classes and assignments. We cannot wait to see what the rest of the year holds! Great job O'Neal!

Posted: May 19, 2014

My daughter has attended the O'Neal school since kindergarten. As she approaches High School in the fall she is already confident that she will attend the college of her choice. She is so very well prepared academically and socially to complete her education, all thanks to The O'Neal School learning environment.

Posted: May 1, 2014

I was very interested in enrolling my children at The O'Neal School this upcoming school year. I made an appointment and traveled from Alabama for this meeting. I waited 55 minutes for the admissions counselor before I left as I had another appointment at Pope John Paul II. I am pleased to say my children will be attending PJP next year.

Posted: February 15, 2014

As first-year O'Neal parents of a middle schooler, we have been very pleased with our experience thus far. Having had our daughter at other local schools in the area, the academic experience at O'Neal has been superior, with faculty providing challenging material in a supportive environment. The only reason issue we have had was there were a few unexpected mid-year faculty/staff transitions, however, the headmaster stepped in and handled them in a manner that created minimal impact for students and day-to-day school functioning. Additionally, as a middle-class military family, we were concerned about the potential of the school tending to be too "elitist", however, the faculty, staff, and administration have treated not only us, but all members of the community with dignity, and in a very welcoming manner. Our child has also experienced a positive social transition.

Posted: November 9, 2013

We are lower school parents and are very impressed by the quality of O'Neal. Having been to other similar sized private schools out of state I will not hesitate to say that O'Neal is at least as good if not better. We feel it was definitely the best choice for this area. In particular I am satisfied by the Lower School leadership and the overall sense of discipline that we see. Our teacher is very responsive and really knows our child.

Posted: November 7, 2013

It reads that some people have had a bad experience at The O'Neal School. Maybe it wasn't the right fit for them. Not every school is a good fit for everyone. The O'Neal School has high expectations of students and parents. It teaches my child a strong sense of value and independence. I am very happy with my experience at the school. No, not everyone gets their way with the principals. Sometimes people say no to you. It is a good lesson for my child to learn that you do not get everything you want in life. I hope everyone who attends O'Neal has as good an experience as my family has now.

Posted: August 26, 2013

There was a mass exodus from the school this past year. As has been said from other reviews, the leadership is terrible and is starting to show by the number of students and teachers leaving.

Posted: June 29, 2013

Unless you want to pay a lot of money just for a safe environment, the public schools in the area are better. The principal is terrible - zero social skills, zero character, and zero care for alumni. The teachers are good and do the best they can with this true lack of leadership!

Posted: March 15, 2013

O'Neal offers small class sizes and caring teachers.Emphasis is placed on learning not testing. The teachers know your child and will help them to succeed.

Posted: February 4, 2013

Learning how to learn is what I feel Middle School is all about. Teaching our kids to how to readjust their study style for different subjects, handle failure (or just not getting the grade they though they deserved), learning how to ask questions to make sure they are clear on assignments or understand concepts, and giving themselves time to process a new or challenging topic. These are all skills that extend way beyond the classroom and what I feel O'Neal's teachers pass on to their students on a regular basis. I think that says a lot about the school because it is teaching the kids to dig a little deeper into themselves for answers. In essence, to become a bit more responsible for their learning than perhaps they have been before. That, in turn, builds self confidence in their own ability and character. Something all kids today can use a little more of.

Posted: February 3, 2013

All of our children attend The O'Neal School and we've been very pleased with the education they're receiving. We appreciate that staff has been able to juggle schedules to ensure our children are being educated based on their abilities rather than making them follow a model for all students. Our kids are very happy and are appropriately challenged.

Posted: January 30, 2013

We as parents have the great fortune to be able to provide our daughters the ability to go to the O Neal School. Beginning with the administration office, the consistence and relative ease offered gives unmatched results and a comfortable environment for both parents and students. The principles that we have met through our daughters in both the high school and middle school exhibit the characteristics of adept role models and affective leaders. Ready to take of all challenges, the O Neal School has provided a wonderful institute of learning for students. As many things, improvement is also a requirement as well. The Parents Association undoubtedly makes a great effort to engage families. However, at times the option of change will go unwanted in favor of more rigid ideals. As a parent, striving for change and growth is an understood quest for optimal results are of high priority, but through the PA it seems as though attempts at change and enhancement have gone lax. They as an association must focus more on the children they are ultimately attempting to benefit, rather than creating an organized social club for parents (part 1)

Posted: April 7, 2011

When I first moved to the area I looked into the O'Neal school as a place to enroll my kids. They were not helpful at all, and when I asked about the tuition rates, they acted as if they were no longer interested in talking with me. Like the old saying "If you have to ask, you can't afford it".

Reviews provided by GreatSchools

# Name Type City State Overall Rating Distance
1 Blue Farm Neighborhood/Subdivision Whispering Pines NC 1.7 mi
2 Arrowhead Neighborhood/Subdivision Whispering Pines NC 2.4 mi
3 Whispering Winds Neighborhood/Subdivision Whispering Pines NC 2.8 mi
4 Princess Gate Neighborhood/Subdivision Whispering Pines NC 3.6 mi
5 Queens Cove Neighborhood/Subdivision Whispering Pines NC 3.7 mi
6 Pinehurst Neighborhood/Subdivision Pinehurst NC 4 mi
7 Vass Southern Pines Neighborhood/Subdivision Vass NC 7.7 mi
8 Woodlake Neighborhood/Subdivision Vass NC 11.6 mi
9 Carolina Seasons Neighborhood/Subdivision Cameron NC 16.9 mi
10 Deercoft Community and Golf Club Neighborhood/Subdivision Wagram NC 18.4 mi
11 Forest Ridge Neighborhood/Subdivision Cameron NC 21.4 mi
12 Sunset Ridge Neighborhood/Subdivision Sanford NC 22 mi
13 The Summit Neighborhood/Subdivision Sanford NC 22 mi
14 Scotts Mill at Treyburn Neighborhood/Subdivision Fayetteville NC 22.2 mi
15 Cliffdale West Neighborhood/Subdivision Fayetteville NC 22.6 mi
16 Trappers Run Neighborhood/Subdivision Raeford NC 23.9 mi
17 Deerfield Neighborhood/Subdivision Spring Lake NC 24.2 mi
# Name City State Overall Rating Distance
1 Whispering Pines Whispering Pines NC 3.1 mi
2 Southern Pines Southern Pines NC 3.5 mi
3 Pinehurst Pinehurst NC 4 mi
4 Vass Vass NC 7.6 mi
5 Carthage Carthage NC 8.5 mi
6 West End West End NC 8.8 mi
7 Spring Lake Spring Lake NC 24.6 mi
8 Spring Lake by Ft Bragg Base Spring Lake NC 25.1 mi
Base Distance
Camp Mackall 13.8 mi.
Fort Bragg 15.9 mi.
Pope Field 23.6 mi.
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