Buckner Fanning School at Mission Springs

Posted: May 27, 2026

We spent 4 years at BFSMS and although the younger grade teachers were phenomenal the older grades lacked discipline and did not follow a curriculum well. The lack of accountability from administrators and some teachers became disheartening and was one of the main reasons we unenrolled for the following school year.

Posted: May 27, 2026

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Posted: October 29, 2025

Our time at Buckner Fanning School at Mission Springs was deeply disappointing due to the school’s failure to uphold the Christian values it professes. Our child, born in mid-September, was initially allowed an early start. However, near the end of their time there, the administration claimed new adherence to strict school district guidelines, forcing our child to repeat a year. They insisted this policy was universal. Yet, on the first day of the new school year, we discovered younger students had advanced to the next grade, contradicting the school’s claims. This revealed selective enforcement and favoritism, showing decisions were driven by the administration’s interests rather than fairness. Feeling misled by a school that preaches God’s word but acts hypocritically, we urge families to seek a school with genuine integrity that equitably upholds its values.

Posted: October 29, 2025

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Posted: September 5, 2025

We have been part of this incredible school family for the past 7 years, and I can honestly say it has been a blessing for our entire family. All three of our daughters attend, and we couldn’t be more grateful for the experience they’ve had here at BFSMS I can confidently say that choosing this school has been one of the best decisions we’ve made for our family! The teachers are genuinely invested in each child’s growth and well-being. We’ve watched our kids thrive academically and socially, and it’s been a joy to see them excited to go to school each day! The small class sizes have made a big difference, too—our children receive the individual attention they need, and it’s allowed them to build strong relationships with their teachers and classmates.
We couldn’t be happier with our experience at Buckner and we’re grateful to be part of a school community that truly puts children first.

Posted: September 5, 2025

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Posted: July 18, 2025

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Posted: July 18, 2025

Posted: July 18, 2025

Many concerns to share!

1. Administration:
The administration is deeply disappointing and appears more focused on extracting money from families than supporting students. Decisions seem unchecked and often create unnecessary panic. A recent example involved asking families to urgently help raise $1.2 million after poor planning led to a sudden land sale issue. This is not new; similar fundraising pleas happened when the school failed to sustain its middle school. The school feels mismanaged at the highest level, leaving parents to bear the consequences.

2. Security:
Security is inadequate and concerning. One guard is tasked with securing a large, open campus full of entry points. Contractors walk freely, sometimes from the neighboring church, and the badge system is not consistently enforced. If the guard is elsewhere, it would be easy for someone to walk onto campus unnoticed. For a private school, this is unacceptable.

3. Classroom Teachers:
The academic environment is chaotic. Curriculum consistency is lacking and it feels like teachers are left to figure things out alone. Some staff seem disengaged, especially during recess when supervision is minimal. Bullying concerns do not seem to receive serious attention. There is no nurse; when a child is hurt, the front desk offers a bandage and calls parents. For the tuition families pay, this level of care and oversight falls far short.

4. School Facilities:
The physical condition is poor. The cafeteria is one of the dirtiest spaces I have seen at a school, filthy floors and grimy chairs and tables. The same person acts as both custodian and food service worker, which raises cleanliness concerns. Classrooms are similarly neglected. Families pay high tuition yet children eat and learn in poorly maintained spaces.

5. Community / Parents:
While parents can visit during lunch, supervision is lacking. There have been reports from other parents about a parent with concerning behavior being allowed back on campus and interacting with children despite prior reports. The parent community feels fragmented and unwelcoming, offering no real sense of support. Many families seem to stay simply to avoid public school, not because they believe in the school’s quality.

In summary, Buckner Fanning at Mission Springs does not live up to its promises. For a private school, the level of mismanagement, poor safety practices, neglected facilities, and lack of care is disappointing and frustrating. Families deserve better.

Posted: October 26, 2019

Posted: October 26, 2019

Posted: October 26, 2019

Posted: October 26, 2019

Buckner Fanning is a wonderful school! The school environment is very warm, welcome and safe! Both of my boys went to the school and got a great education! The principle, Mrs. Newman is a wonderful leader and the teachers are great!
My younger son couldn't pronounce his “R”s and Mrs. Means, his main teacher at that time assisted us to get him into a speech program and help my boy fix his speech to perfection. We never forget, and are very thankful to how kind and caring a teacher she was!
Mrs. Loomis was main teacher for both of our boys. She discovered the student's weak subject and worked hard to help the student develop and succeed. She was just amazing! She cared not only about students' education but also their manners, interactions, gratitude and most importantly being good people. Students were not scared of her, they were free in her class yet respectful and well behaved. My boys love and miss her!
We remember every great teacher; GT, the computer, the coach, the art, the Spanish, the music, Mrs. Hartshorn who also offers piano classes in the school and the rest of the staff members.

Thank you Mrs. Newman for having us in your school and leaving us with great memories! God bless!

The Reynolds Family

Posted: October 26, 2019

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Posted: October 26, 2019

Posted: August 14, 2019

It is fair, although it sometimes feels like busy work instead of an extension of what they are learning in the classroom.

Posted: August 14, 2019

While the teachers in previous years have been outstanding, the school is struggling to retain good teachers. Most have left due to the deterioration of the school leadership.

Posted: August 14, 2019

The teachers have been amazing. They are the heart of the school. It is unfortunate that they all leave.

Posted: August 14, 2019

The school has gone downhill ever since Sharon Newman was hired as head of school. Every year the number of students reenrolling has decreased, and the teacher retention is almost nonexistent. The tension on campus is palpable, which is heartbreaking because there once was a time when you could feel God’s presence the moment you stepped on campus. I believe the teachers love the children with all of the hearts, but it is impossible to do their job under the thumb of the current Head of School, and a School Board that refuses to do anything about it because they were all hand chosen by Mrs. Newman. There is no one for the teachers and parents to go to express valid concerns, and be heard with an unbiased ear.

Posted: August 14, 2019

Posted: August 14, 2019

It all depends. Expectations are clear, but follow through is not consistent.

Posted: August 14, 2019

I have had two children at school, and we have had to leave due to the deterioration of the integrity of the administration. We loved the school and the teachers. But unless the current administration changes, this school is headed downhill fast. Numbers have been falling ever since Sharon Newman became the Head of School. Every year.

Posted: August 23, 2018

All the glowing reviews (mainly by parents of Pre-K and lower elementary students) cannot gloss over the fact that the school is barely hanging on after 20 years. Everything is great when the kids are little. Why else did the school apply for chart school status (and fail)? Geneva Boerne started a year after this school and they conducted their high school graduation in 2011. The current head of school (since 2012) has dissolved the band program in short order and destroyed the athletic program. Your athletics only consist of boys middle school basketball and that is it. Cheerleading does not count. All your other "sports" are not school sponsored and are 3rd party after school. The number of middle school students have dropped since 2012 ( even if you now count 5th grade as middle school). The number of students graduating eighth grade here has been single digits every year of the administration. You are trying to do an "Upper School" and I cannot tell if you are trying to pattern it after FEAST in San Antonio. Having a couple of students in "Upper School" is not going to cut it. There is going to be a point where this school cannot sustain itself. It appears there are only one faculty left from before the previous administration and two faculty members hired during the previous administration. There is a point that the school is going to have to restructure with fewer grade levels (5th on down) or close all together.

Posted: April 25, 2017

BFSMS is the optimal school in Stone Oak. Exceptional academics and teachers, positive environment, faith based and an amazing community of families.

Posted: April 25, 2017

Strongly Agree. Students have weekly packets that they need to complete, but it is level and content appropriate.

Posted: April 25, 2017

Strongly agree. Students must be able to keep up with curriculum, but teachers are more than willing to offer extra help and guidance where needed.

Posted: April 25, 2017

Strongly Agree. BFSMS has an excellent administrative group as well as School Board. The team is dedicated to the students, parents, curriculum and school environment.

Posted: April 25, 2017

Strongly agree. BFSMS focuses on educating the whole child and ensuring that integrity, respect and compassion are part of this curriculum and practice.

Posted: April 25, 2017

Strongly agree. The teachers at BFSMS are incredibly invested in the students. With small class sizes, the teachers are able to focus on the students to ensure the best education possible.

Posted: April 25, 2017

Strongly Agree. Bullying is not tolerated AT ALL. Any issues at BFSMS are dealt with immediately and with the proper level of response.

Posted: May 18, 2016

Stacie Maggot is a true blessing to this school and any student she comes in contact with. She has such an amazing gift and we have been extremely blessed to have been in her class this year!

Posted: May 18, 2016

Posted: May 18, 2016

Posted: May 18, 2016

We have loved Buckner Fanning and our Pre-K 4 teacher Stacie Maggot has been absolutely phenomenal! Her love for teaching our children shines through in everything aspect of her classroom. My son will be so prepared for kindergarten and I will be forever grateful to her!

Posted: May 14, 2016

Posted: May 14, 2016

Posted: May 14, 2016

Posted: May 14, 2016

Kids are the center here, unlike many other schools where internal problems are large enough to lose focus. Teachers and staff are amazing, and the curriculum is balanced. BFMS but a smile on our son's face and with the learnings what else parents would want.

Posted: May 5, 2016

Posted: May 5, 2016

Posted: May 5, 2016

The school definitely addresses issues immediately if there is ever any problems. It is very rare to see problems between students at the school.

Posted: May 5, 2016

I truly love how the staff at Buckner Fanning have gone over and beyond to work with my kids, especially my daughters acrobatic schedule. Both my kids have been there since the beginning and have loved the school and have never once said they don't want to go to school. That says a lot for me as the parent! They have grown so much in academics and have had great school field trips every year! They will graduate from this school with pride!

Posted: May 4, 2016

Posted: May 4, 2016

Posted: May 4, 2016

Posted: May 4, 2016

Our children get individual attention when needed and a great education all while praising God.

Posted: January 12, 2016

I love that the class sizes are significantly smaller than those in public school and that the children receive a Christian education in addition to core curriculum. Small class sizes benefit the children tremendously because the teachers are able to spend more time meeting each child's specific needs. Unlike public school, children do not require as much time in core academic areas (because of those low numbers!), so the children are able to broaden their horizons by spending more time in specials. Local public school children are slighted by attending less than an hour per day of a very limited selection of Specials such as PE, Music, and Computers. Here, the children are exposed to at least two a day of PE, Art, Music, Drama, Gardening, Spanish, and Computers. This array of Special classes, combined with the core and Christian academics, creates an extremely balanced educational experience!
The teachers at the school are highly qualified, certified teachers, many of whom are retirees from local public schools. The head of the school has an unbelievably positive reputation amongst educators and parents alike. You cannot get a better Head of School!

Posted: January 11, 2016

Very dedicated Principal Ms Newman with a great group of highly qualified and committed teachers in a small class setting. Strong Christian values based school

Posted: January 7, 2016

Posted: January 7, 2016

Posted: January 7, 2016

Posted: January 7, 2016

I am a parent of a student in Middle School. The curriculum is rigorous and challenging; but the teachers make each day fun, exciting, and engaging. I am in constant awe of the innovative teaching strategies that are used, and my son has certainly blossomed both academically and socially.
The class sizes are small, which allow for more individualized attention. My son transferred from a public school, and was welcomed with open arms by both the teachers and students. The curriculum is advanced, but he easily acclimated to the new expectations due to the creative teaching strategies implemented by each of his teachers.
The Christian education he is receiving is amazing, and I am thrilled to see how God is working in his life every day. I cannot praise this school enough! 5 +++ stars!!

Posted: January 6, 2016

The teachers are outstanding. They love children, they love to teach, and they love to learn.

Posted: January 6, 2016

Homework is based on the age of the students. The homework is appropriate, meaningful, and an extension of the curriculum.

Posted: January 6, 2016

The school has a strong focus on living a life based on biblical virtues. There is a focus on one virtue per month. The virtues are taught through scripture, and literature.

Posted: January 2, 2016

My child has been going to this school since PK4. The academic rigor is comparable with schools that charge double the price of tuition, and there is no doubt, when I speak to my friends who have children in the same age range, that my child is 1-2 years ahead of the public school curriculum. The added bonus is that they are getting a solid Christian foundation. I recommend this school to families who are actively seeking academic rigor, teachers that care and a spiritual foundation that will last a lifetime.

Posted: January 2, 2016

Posted: January 2, 2016

Posted: January 2, 2016

Posted: December 16, 2015

Posted: October 16, 2015

I don't feel that the teachers teach what the curriculum for each grade requires. And to make matters worse, they give out grades too easily, which again, handicaps the child.

Posted: October 16, 2015

I don't feel this school teaches the kids to do much of anything accept follow directions.

Posted: October 16, 2015

This school has a very high turnover rate in teachers. Many of the teachers have limited skills and training to teach at their grade level. The curriculum is average. Grades are easy to obtain so don't think your A at BFCS (now called Mission Springs) will be an A at another private school like TMI, St George, Keystone, or St Luke's. The children are coddled. They are babied and have no skills for resolving problems on their own. The parents at this school are practically at war with one another because the parent's are allowed to resolve all the problems for their children. There are parents who sit every day and eat lunch with their children in order to micro manage every word and every action. If you are trying to raise a competent leader who understands autonomy with a solid set of skills for managing their own problems, then you will not benefit from this school. If you are one of those parents who needs to babysit your child's every move and you want total control, then this will be the perfect school. I rated the school as terrible because I personally felt my kids were crippled by some of their teaching styles. Your experience might be completely different. I thank God every night that we were led in a different direction. My children have blossomed into amazing leaders since we have left this school. They were little leaders shackled by this school.

Also be aware that tuition does not cover all cost so like many other private schools, donations are expected and necessary. This is no problem but I never saw any improvements in the school. The teachers are sub standard, Lunch meals are average, and the quality of education is average. The kids won't get text books until 5th grade. Homework goes home in a copied packet that is due at the end of the week. This is exactly what public school does. You don't need to pay the tuition for this kind of education. The after school activities and sports are very limited because they don't put their money back into the school. Coaches are substandard (or volunteers from parents). Many coaches, teachers, and staff leave the school because the school has allowed the parents total control. And that is a formula for disaster. But if you like that sort of thing, then you will love this school.

Posted: May 17, 2015

Great grade school level, middle school needs improvement. No true objective evaluation of instructors. Grades not returned timely manner. Weak math program 2 out 5 kids needing outside private tutoring. They mean well but no comparison to NEISD where my other kids have gone. Small class sizes did not make a difference.

Posted: April 23, 2014

BFCS is the school foryou if you want small classes, excellent curruculum that is constantly reviewed and tweaked, and outstanding caring teachers, as well as a Head of school that is one of the most experienced the school has ever had. I was a staff member there until I retired and continue to send a family member to be educated there. I choose to do that for the reasons I just listed but mostly because of the Bible based curriculum. Religion is not hammered into them like many schools. It is modeled on a daily basis by the adults in charge. There is no perfect school. But BFCS is perfect for me and i would encourage you to visit and see for yourself.

Posted: April 20, 2014

Excellent school. A parent should place their child(ren) here if they are looking for a well-balanced education, that includes character development in a caring environment. BFCS has a great principal, who is VERY experienced (was the principal at Hardy Oak Elem for many years), and she is very caring She is a great role model for students. The teachers are the best, too. My son was sick one day and I got a text, checking on him, from his teacher. This never happened in public school. This school has been a TRUE blessing for my family!

Posted: April 14, 2014

Great things are happening at Buckner Fanning Christian School! I am honored to work among dedicated Christians who put the needs of kids academically, emotionally and spiritually FIRST. The leadership has high expectations academically and works tirelessly with a servant's heart. Teachers, administrators, support staff and parents work endless hours to make BFCS a school that every student and family can be proud of. Without the testing emphasis of public education, teachers at Buckner can concentrate on true learning and knowledge, not test taking skills. Many exciting things have happened on this campus this year to include book clubs, science fair, field trips for middle school and elementary students, a Texas Celebration Night, music programs, and more! As a retired teacher from a large school district, I can honestly say that I am proud to work on such a hardworking, kid focused campus with wonderful coworkers and administration.

Posted: April 14, 2014

I love BFCS for my two children. Previously my children were enrolled in a local public school and another local private school. Those schools could not provide the academic rigor that my children needed. BFCS is dedicated to teaching children in a way that is meaningful and engaging with a foundation on Christ. No other school can compare with BFCS's academics and Biblical influence.

Posted: April 14, 2014

Buckner Fanning Christian School is a great school that provides an exemplary education with a strong Christian foundation. The school is committed to small class sizes which allows more one to one time for the students. The current leadership is far superior to past years and has made great strides in advancing the programs. The campus is a unique beautiful hill country setting. There is very much a community feel to the campus - it's really an extended family. If you are looking for a school for your child/ren, I would highly recommend BFCS.

Posted: April 14, 2014

Buckner Fanning Christian School is an excellent school. The small class size and Christian education set it apart from the public and private schools in the area. The teachers have great relationships with the students and we are able to differentiate our instruction based on the needs of the children. Change can be difficult but it is required in all organizations. I am proud of the work we do at BFCS and I know it is a great place for children to learn and teachers to work.

Posted: April 14, 2014

I am a parent of a first grader here at BFCS. We were in the public school system for part of kinder and then moved here. The smaller class size and the teachers have been awesome. Not only is my child getting more one on one attention in the classroom, the students are also getting more variety and creativity. They get PE every day, gardening, music, Spanish, computers, and art every week, Christian Ed everyday. My child has grown so much academically, socially, and spiritually here. My husband and I could not be happier. The teachers here want to be here and truly love their jobs and are excited to be here. We will be bringing our youngest here next year for preschool!! I would definitely recommend this school to everyone. I love it here! And the parents and other students are great as well. I love how involved all the parents are in their children's' education.

Posted: April 14, 2014

Devotion to God, to students, and to colleagues, that s what distinguishes the BFCS staff. As a veteran teacher and member of the church sharing space with the school, I ve enjoyed watching BFCS grow and transform. Although it s been excellent for years, I couldn t help but notice the positive changes that have occurred since the new HOS took charge. The increase in academic rigor allows students to feel challenged but not overwhelmed. While public schools must focus almost exclusively on subjects covered by state-mandated testing, BFCS works to enhance student learning in foreign languages, the arts, and religious education. The school also draws from our wealth of community resources, bringing in special programs and presenters, as well as taking students out of the classroom for hands-on learning excursions. The most notable improvement has been an increase in professional excellence. Teachers regularly analyze and elevate their own practice. Staff members work together to assess curricular materials and develop educational plans that ensure student success. This dedication to the art of teaching sets BFCS apart from other schools, and their students happily reap the benefits.

Posted: December 3, 2013

BFCS is an exceptional value that is largely unknown in the community. BFCS provides a Christ centered world class academic experience in a small classroom setting. Both of our children attend BFCS and perform at least one grade level above buddies from their prior school. Our neighborhood elementary school has an Exemplary rating, but we still choose BFCS. Even more important than academic excellence, BCFS creates a sense of belonging where children gain the self-confidence and character they will need in adolescence, through teenage years and into young adulthood. Currently, capacity exceeds demand at BFCS. However, simply concentrating marketing efforts within a five mile radius of the school will dramatically increase awareness and demand. I strongly encourage any parent with PK through 8th grade age children to do everything they possibly can to enroll them.

Posted: October 8, 2012

Buckner Fanning Christian School has exceeded our expectations. We started new this year after looking at most of the private schools in San Antonio. Our middle schooler loves the school, the new friends and the teachers. The sports program is top notch, with a great coaches on top of wonderful academics. Our third grader transitioned so well into this school. He is loving it, and very excited to attend Buckner. From the elementary school to the middle school, we can not say enough good things about Buckner Fanning Christian School. Go Bobcats!

Posted: June 21, 2011

I have two kids attending BFCS now and we have loved this school since day one. The teachers truly care about each and every student. They take the time to ensure that no child is left behind and achieves his or her true potential. The communication between parent and teacher is fantastic. We are constantly updated on our kids progress and what's in store for them as the year progresses. It seems like we sit in orientation each year listening to the goals and objectives each teacher lays out for our kids and we get nervous about whether or not our kids are ready. Each school year ends with our kids achieving their goals and in most cases surpassing them. This is directly a result of the teachers not only teaching but truly caring about each and every student. Not only do the kids all receive a foundation of education that is second to none, they do so in a Christian environment. Faith and worship are two of the pillars of that foundation. After completing the 10 year wait, BFCS is finally accredited! However, this has always been an amazing school. We are so blessed to have found BFCS and look forward to continuing our kids' education here. Thank you.

Posted: May 2, 2011

My children have been going to BFCS for the past 4 years since Pre K. We could not be happier. Every year, the teachers have been outstanding. They have learned so much beyond the everyday academics. They continue to thread the Christian message and values throughout the entire day of school, not just in chapel. The small class size allows the teachers to focus on every individual need of each student. I appreciate the fact that the administration does not hesitate to expel or not invite kids back for the next school year if they misbehave. We are so thankful to have found Buckner Fanning! Also, BFCS just received accreditation. They were not able to even apply for it until they were 10 years old. After that anniversary, they applied and passed with flying colors!!

Posted: April 13, 2011

My son attends PK at BFCS and just adores it! We have been so pleased with the teachers, administration and social/academic programs. The campus is gorgeous and peaceful and my son has really blossomed. Great job BFCS!

Posted: November 17, 2010

I am also sorry to hear that your kid was,"bullied". This is our second year at BFCS and my daughter loves it!. Her teacher calls me on a regular basis and they care! The principal is always available and they have a zero tolerance for bullying. The Core Knowledge program is excellent and I love to hear my daughter come home and tell me things she has learned about history, science and social studies. My youngest will be there next year!

Posted: April 1, 2010

Let's start with the positive---the campus is beautiful, the class size is small, and there is the Core Knowledge system where everything learned follows a sequence. But one of the problems we encounter here is the social bullying my child experiences at elementary level. The students here may seem well behaved, but they lack the capacity to care and interact with people with different backgrounds, and the same goes on with the PTC. Our kid came from another private school in town and was tested way beyond his grade level in reading, math and other areas, and yet other kids in the class were mean to him. BFCS is a school that stresses conformity over Christian values and diversity, and the way the school is run, it is going to remain that way. This is not a good match if your child is gifted or you want more academic challenge.