Rolling Hills Catholic School

Posted: February 9, 2020

G-son repeatedly stated a boy and a girl were bullying him. He told the teacher and she was not concerned telling him he was causing the problem.

Posted: February 9, 2020

I felt this school was a total waste of my money and was a most disappointing year for my g-son. My husband was extremely disappointed as well. Having attended catholic school growing up I never would have expected the disappointment I found existed at Rolling Hills.

Posted: February 9, 2020

Assignments were given on a regular basis but not used as a learning tool.

Posted: February 9, 2020

Several incidents occurred in g-son's 1st grade year there. His teacher left at midterm with no advance notice. She was a most ineffective teacher anyway so her replacement began with no knowledge or familiarity with 1st grade students. This was a debacle!

Posted: February 9, 2020

The only positive I took away from the school was the religious training and attending mass which my g-son did receive.

Posted: February 9, 2020

G-son was supposed to have tutoring throughout the year. This did not happen. After Christmas break, the designated tutor had a family emergency which kept her out. I do not know what she was "busy" with before. So I requested a meeting with the principal to discuss the situation. When the meeting took place the vice principal and another teacher attended instead. The meeting was only an attempt to explain what they failed to do previously regarding tutoring for g-son. However, they said they would arrange then for him to start his tutoring. I feel very strongly the lack of leadership, which led to them dropping the ball, cost me about $10,000 and the need for him to be put back in 1st grade when he was enrolled in public school the next year. When he started public school, although Rolling Oaks had promoted him to 2nd grade, his teacher there said he was not ready for 2nd grade.

Posted: February 9, 2020

I explained this previously when describing leadership.

Posted: April 19, 2019

This school does a great job, compared to other private schools, and definitely compared to public schools in dealing with bullying. I saw one mention of a bullying incident from a previous year. Reality is there are two sides of that story, and the other kid was not innocent, thus it wasn't a bully situation, rather conflict between two kids. Also remember that again this is teenagers in middle school. The reality is that if you send your kid to any public school in town you are exposing them to some of the worst things that you could ever expose them to, including bullying of which you may not find about until years later. I have a family member who was abused and ended up with lasting effects in public middle school in San Antonio. They simply cannot effectively govern the kids at the public middle schools due to the size.

Posted: April 19, 2019

AWESOME school and great value. This school got a bad reputation for many years as being exclusive to spanish speaking children only. The school certainly is no longer that way. It's a small school but is growing currently and will likely accelerate in numbers over the next two years due to several initiatives. It's a small school and that offers many advantages. The catholic values and teaching is effective and I can truly say I am very happy about that. You will be part of a small, tight knit community. My child was not always at this school, but has done well here, made many friends. The school has many mixers from festivals, dances, to fun athletic events where the kids play the coaches or the parents play against the kids. Many kids have an opportunity to play sports and complete in extra-curriculars. I recommend shadowing the school to check it out or just jumping in. I think the current principal was good and was a good role model and looked out for the kids, but I am very excited about the new leadership. Most schools have had decreases based on magnet and charter schools, however, this school has done great here and will likely double in size over the next 12 months!

Posted: April 19, 2019

They take academics seriously and are not afraid to give home work. Like any middle school, the amount of homework can be too much at times, but it fluctuates throughout the year. Overall they do a good job.

Posted: April 19, 2019

The kids learn and the teachers work very hard at communicating and teaching a wide array of kids. Currently there is a high teacher to student ratio that gives students plenty of attention.

Posted: April 19, 2019

They are doing a good job. The teachers and staff are good leaders and show good values themselves. Remember, the teacher to student ratio has been good so the teachers are actively involved. I will say this though. I believe the teachers sometimes could do a better job in going with the flow. Certain teachers can be overly strict. That said, imagine being in class rooms full of teenagers all day :) Things won't always go smooth. I have personal experience at multiple public middle schools and other private middle schools and I will say the staff does a good job in all accounts.

Posted: April 19, 2019

Remember, this is middle school and as such they have to deal with teenagers so there are always challenges even in an atmosphere with basically good kids. The current leadership I believe handled most issues that came up fairly effectively. However, there is new leadership coming in (principal) and after talking with this individual I am convinced that the school is moving forward in exciting ways.

Posted: April 19, 2019

I have no comment here. There are no kids that I have seen that seem to have learning challenges.

Posted: November 4, 2018

Bullying is constant, parents complain but are told 'kids will be kids'. Last year in the last quarter, a boy was hit and pushed in the gym and the principal just made the student that bullied him leave. The bullied student left as soon as the year ended.

Posted: November 4, 2018

I will not be back next year. I don't know how this school stays open.

Posted: November 4, 2018

Homework overload. There's not enough free/play time.

Posted: November 4, 2018

As long as they agree with administration, they are left alone.

Posted: November 4, 2018

The school has a good faith based environment but doesn't have enough interaction of same aged students to support character building.

Posted: November 4, 2018

No leadership. The school business manager, only has a high school education and runs everything at the school because the Principal is often not there and has no experience as a teacher except for high school religion. The education requirement for helper and substitute teachers is low. Very often subs are used. There is no band and this used to be a flourishing school with a large music program. There are no more organic lunches offered. The attendance is way down. there are 100 students at this preK - 8th grade school which isn't good for their social skills

Posted: November 4, 2018

The teachers do not support differences, they can only worry about keeping test score high because their enrollment numbers are very low

Posted: June 27, 2018

The principal does not like to have to fill out paperwork and many times does not tell the counselor there is a problem.

Posted: June 27, 2018

Please be aware that this school has dropped in enrollment drastically because of so many issues such as academics, high teacher turnover, and bullying. There are so many other schools in the area both public and private that can meet your child’s needs.

Posted: June 27, 2018

The homework does not always correlate with what the students are doing in the classroom.

Posted: June 27, 2018

The teachers did not seem to understand “developmentally appropriate”. They seemed to think worksheets vs. hands on activities was the way to go.

Posted: June 27, 2018

It should do a better job of this because they are developing bullies



It should do a better job of this because they are developing students who do not respect others.

Posted: June 27, 2018

The principal can come across as charming at first and makes many promises but do not be fooled.

Posted: June 27, 2018

No, teachers do not even know differentiated teaching strategies.

Posted: June 20, 2018

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Posted: June 20, 2018

Loving and caring environment. Excellent academic level.

Posted: June 20, 2018

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Posted: June 20, 2018

My three boys have had the most caring wonderful teachers at RHCS. They have taught them the love of reading and learning and being kind to their friends and respectful to everyone they encounter. Always with a positive reinforcement.
God bless them!

Posted: June 20, 2018

Kids are encouraged to be aware of the needs of others and help them in any possible way

Posted: June 20, 2018

Kids are encourage to be themselves and to accept everyone as they are. Being different is how we learn from others.

Posted: June 20, 2018

Posted: June 20, 2018

Awesome, I think academics are very important but what matters most to me is that my boys grow out to be caring kind compassionate boys who really make a difference in this world by fulfilling Gods will for them in their life, and though they are taught this at home I love the fact all this is reinforced in RHCS

Posted: June 20, 2018

Posted: June 20, 2018

The staff and families make our small school extraordinary!!!

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Posted: June 20, 2018

Rolling Hills has an establish policy on bullying that I have seen work very effectively!

Posted: June 20, 2018

I have had three of my children graduate from this wonderful school. Everyone of them went on to perform at the top if their class in high school and in college. This school equips all students with the necessary knowledge, skills, abilities and confidence that enables them to OUTSHINE their peers in high school. It is a beautiful school with an enriching environment!

Posted: June 20, 2018

Every one of this school's Graduates out-perform their peers in the 9th grades at their follow-on high schools (both public and private). Homework is perfect amount and properly prepares Students for their next grade.

Posted: June 20, 2018

All Teachers have their STUDENTS as their Number One priority. Four of my children have attended and have OUT-PERFORMED their peers in high school and beyond. This place is a hidden gem!

Posted: June 20, 2018

Rolling Hills develops Young Leaders who are not only Academic and Sport Leaders, but MORAL and FAITH-FILLED Leaders who are making a difference in their Schools and in our World!

Posted: June 20, 2018

The Principal, Mr. Jonathon Kiesler is a proven leader who lives his Faith in everything he does. He not only 'talks the talk' but he more importantly 'walks the walk!'

Posted: June 20, 2018

Rolling Hills treats all Students as Gifts from God!

Posted: June 20, 2018

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Posted: June 20, 2018

The teachers are here for the children and have instilled a love of learning and faith in my daughter- she is excited to attend school every day!

Posted: June 20, 2018

Posted: June 20, 2018

Our new principle is the gold standard! I have never seen a more involved administration in my entire catholic school upbringing. He is out in carline every day greeting the students, knows each one by name, participates in all school functions, is constantly looking for additional opportunities to enhance the students experience at RH, and his faith shows in everything he does!

Posted: June 20, 2018

Posted: June 20, 2018

I love this school! My daughter has been so happy here- she has made so many friends, we love the community and the faculty go above and beyond to ensure that every child is well developed and loved.

Posted: June 20, 2018

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The amazing staff and families make this small school feel like home for my children. The teachers care about developing our children into productive, grounded members of society. The teachers and the administration take feedback and suggestions seriously.

Posted: June 20, 2018

They evaluate each kid at the begging, middle and end of the school year with this purpose.

Posted: June 20, 2018

They have a full time counselor that immediately reaches out to you in case there is a problem and you can always reach her or your teacher and talk to them in case of bullying.

Posted: June 20, 2018

Starting Kindergarten I think, they have homework every day. That helps us moms know what they worked on at school and we can let the teacher know if something was not clearly understood.

Posted: June 20, 2018

There are great teachers at this school. They care for the kids and are great role models to them.

Posted: June 20, 2018

The Catholic religion teaches all these virtues and teachers and administration are always encouraging them to be kind to others.

Posted: June 20, 2018

Our principal is a wonderful leader and kids adore him. He knows their names and is always around them, very reachable by parents as well.

Posted: June 20, 2018

We love Rolling Hills. My kids couldn’t be happier in this school. They have developed great life long friendships. Our community is very unique, we work hard and together to get things done and are always encouraging new families to join on fun activities to help provide a better school every day.

Posted: June 20, 2018

Character formation and leadership skills are paramount

Posted: June 20, 2018

Communcations are excellent and each child is personally cared for as an individual.

Posted: June 20, 2018

This is a case by case issue

Posted: June 20, 2018

There is zero tolerance for Bullying. However, as a private school, parents are not told about specific situations or consequences. Students are simply removed if an investigation is found to have relevance of bullying.

Posted: June 20, 2018

Rolling Hills has been the smartest decision for our family. We are actively involved in participation of family events and prayer. We appreciate the extra efforts of all educators and staff. From the organic lunches to one on one individualized time spent with students in all areas when necessary, is relevant in our decision to be part of this community. Character formation in all areas including sports is exceptional. Highly recommend!

Posted: June 20, 2018

Just the right amount to be effective but not overwhelming

Posted: June 20, 2018

Best teachers in middle school in the entire city!

Posted: June 20, 2018

Rolling Hills is an excellent overall school. It has a strong curriculum with teachers and administrators who truly care about your child. The PTC parent teacher council is wonderful as well as the school council.

Posted: June 20, 2018

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Posted: June 20, 2018

RHCS has an amazing monthly virtue program. They have strict guidelines for every child to follow

Posted: June 20, 2018

The administration is wonderful. They have an open door policy and they know every child enrolled in the school. It’s a wonderful feeling knowing your child is loved and valued.

Posted: June 20, 2018

We have a very diverse community at RHCS. Everyone is welcomed

Posted: June 20, 2018

Posted: June 20, 2018

They are caring teachers, who help our kids to be the best in what they do. My kid had some trouble and the teacher was there for him all year, he ended school with the best grades

Posted: June 20, 2018

Totally agree they show the kids the best person they can be, by showing respect for others and for the teachers

Posted: June 20, 2018

They work with values to take the best out of our kids

Posted: June 20, 2018

Yes they work with all the kids at their level of learning without makin anyone feel bad if they are behind

Posted: June 20, 2018

Yes if there is trouble with bulling they call the kids and the parents to talk to the counselor to fix the problem

Posted: June 20, 2018

I love it it’s a great school with caring people and a great curriculum. The principal it’s really involved with the kids. They make them feel they can achieve anything if they try their best.

Posted: June 20, 2018

Our experience at the school over the last three years (2015-2018) has been Exceptional! Our children are thriving at this school and we couldn’t be happier.

Posted: June 20, 2018

Kids have homework but the approach is a little different based on the teacher.

Posted: June 20, 2018

Each of the teachers we’ve experienced has focused on the individual student needs when necessary - an advantage of having small class sizes.

Posted: June 20, 2018

My kids went to a summer camp and were shocked that kids did things that weren’t nice and never said I’m sorry. They’ve learned kindness and respect this school because that is what they see every day.

Posted: June 20, 2018

The Principal is amazing- he’s outside greeting the kids in the morning, reading to them at the library or in the classroom, participating in the Talent Show with the students. He leads by example and exemplifies kindness and acceptance.

Posted: June 20, 2018

absolutely - again, advantage of not only small class size but small school in general

Posted: June 20, 2018

The school is very sensitive to bullying issues and addresses them as soon as they are made aware or notice something going on.

Posted: March 29, 2018

My child had to attend a class with the counselor and all they did was color

Posted: March 29, 2018

Unless you have money then they'll listen to you.

Posted: March 29, 2018

My child had been bullied for years and through all administration, no one did anything about it

Posted: March 29, 2018

They need a principal that will do what's best for the school and not the pocket book. You need a business manager that has their degree in business mgmt and not just because their child goes to school there. You need teachers that will teach and not just tell at students for asking questions

Posted: March 29, 2018

The teacher gives it to them and you get it back a week or two later. How are you supposed to correct the situation when they've moved on to something else they don't understand

Posted: March 29, 2018

I emailed the teacher almost weekly trying to ask why they were on this subject and I'd never get a good answer and when it went to the AP they said to give them until January to fix it . Sure let's just sit here for another month frustrated I'm paying money for waiting

Posted: May 13, 2015

We have just registered for the 2015-2016 school year and have secured our spot. In visiting Rolling hills I have been extremely pleased with the staff as well as the principal whom is heavily involved with there students and cares. The curriculium being fought is outstanding from what I could tell on my many visits. I'm proud and glad to be a part of the Rolling Hills family. We look forward to many more years to come as my child is in the lower school.

Posted: March 25, 2015

This is a Catholic elementary school with a really strong Catholic formation program, a challenging curriculum, an award-winning athletics program and many enrichment classes including art, music, Spanish, and P.E. It also is on the same campus as Antonian Middle School, which along with Antonian College Preparatory High School provides a seamless Catholic education for children from PreK-3 through 12th grade. There are lots of exciting and long term improvements being made to this school and I am very happy to see this important growth at our school. We have a stable administration, long-term teachers and a growing student population.

Posted: December 1, 2012

Children have attended 5+ years. Disagree with post regarding special educational opportunties. They have ESL and that is it. No programs for gifted or academically advanced kids but that is on par with most Catholic schools. Large population of Mexican nationals causes some problems mainly because there isn't much integration between local students and them. It makes it difficult for local kids to make friends as Mexican students stick together. School seriously lags other schools in technology (no website, no RenWeb for parents), no nurse, no counselor, and few to no clubs besides sports. Hopefully this will change as school grows. Current principal has done a lot for school. Not everyone likes him but we haven't had any issues mentioned with him. He has addressed concerns we had promptly and satisfactorily. We will be leaving school after current year due to some issues mentioned above. Good teachers, good academics, but for the price we pay we can find another school academically as strong with more to offer.

Posted: June 7, 2012

That is okay we changed the stakes in 2010-2011/ 2011-2012 and we roused the snoty brat mexicans( >50% of mexicans).

Posted: June 4, 2012

My children attended RHA for 6 years, they loved it 5 out of the 6 years. The last year things went down-hill. The teachers are great, and so are the academics. The problem is the behavior of some of the children, the princepal, and the resources they have to work with.

Posted: December 17, 2011

I went to this school and Hated it I was bullied because i wasnt mexican! what kind if school is that just because your not mexican the kids dont accept you! Trust me that was the worst year of my life DO NOT SEND YOUR CHILD HERE THIS SCHOOL MADE MY LIFE HORRIBLE ALL THEY WANT IS MONE

Posted: June 2, 2011

I like the school over all. The Teachers do a great job educating the students. However, the new principal lacks fundamental skills to lead. He consistently demeans the staff and belittles the parents concerns. He lacks the tack and understanding to care for the school but more impotantly the children. He has used inappropriate language when addressing the students. I wish I could keep my children at this school but see a danger leaving them in the care of the new principal. I do not understand some parents support of this man. The compalints recently stated have never been about the school but about the new principal. Many major contributos have taken the incidents of this year personally rather than what it is, poor leadership and possible endangerment of our children. While I give the school an above average rating under this new principal I would rate the future as well below average. He has run off many great students and faculty in one year.

Posted: May 24, 2011

We are in our 9th year at Rolling Hills Academy and have nothing but good things to say about the guidance, leadership and education that my children receive from this institution. All schools have issues periodically and RHA is no different however the challenges that we see are minor compared to our public and private counterparts and are addressed quickly. The current principal takes the initiative that others before him have lacked to get things done. Special educational courses for our children, specific language classes for our international students, a partnership with a local soccer organization to build quality sports fields and facilities that have otherwise stalled under prior leadership. Being a parent that is involved in every aspect of our school from sports to chairing fall festivals and galas I endorse the progress that this administration has made and look forward to seeing how much more we improve in the years to come.

Posted: May 24, 2011

I have even noticed the improvements listed in the prior post even though I don't have children at the school. I think it's great! Kudos to the new administration. It is about time. I have been involved with this school very closely for over 11 years. More has been done this year than since the purchase of the middle school property and the renovation of the old warehouse into the gym (that was awhile ago).

Posted: May 23, 2011

I disagree with the prior post. The parents who are big contributors to the school run it. What improvements are you talking about, I havent seen any? The principal since day one has had an issue on how he handles and approaches certain situations. He is unfriendly, rude and tacky. He has really given a great school a bad reputation and SHAME on you for supporting such person.

Posted: March 25, 2011

New principle started in Fall 2010. School was great however due to this part of the new administration it is now lacking leadership. Change would be needed for school to be recommended at all.