Dwyer Ethel Middle School

I have one son grown and college bound who spent his middle school years at Dwyer and Twins in their last year of middle school at Dwyer. One is in general population and one has special needs so I am familiar with the past and present principals. Both Mr Smith and Mr Platt were/​are involved and knowledgeable about the kids in their care. It’s refreshing. I always feels like my needs and requests are acknowledged and addressed. Mr Platt is so kind and caring, you couldn’t ask for more. Mrs Skouson is the person you reach in the office and she is personable and knowledgeable and just kind. No matter the situation she sees it through with a smile in her voice.
Having a child with special needs gives me a clear view of the inner workings of the school and it is exemplary! I see the time and care put into planning for the needs of the kids. The curriculum is veered toward each child’s needs. I have kids with very different needs and I see the staff try to accommodate both as individuals.
I am grateful to have had my kids in this school. If you happen to be in the schools district, take the time to really appreciate how lucky you are, because I have heard horror story’s from families in other districts and am SO GRATEFUL I have no horror stories of my own.
I’d be remiss if I did not mention Ms Sarah Hovenden, one of the Special Ed teachers. Her involvement, flexibility and patience with her kids shows in her ability to keep a calm pleasant environment for the neediest children. She is a Godsend!

I really like this school.
We came from Hi, and my kids love Dwyer.
Yes its a laid back atmosphere, but who wants to be uptight.
Hawaii middle schools are a nightmare with overcrowding and the education is seriously lacking.
My kids would come home everyday and complain.
I have yet to get a complaint from them about this school, and the families are quality.

Throughout my 3 years at Dwyer, all I have to say is, that it is standard and nothing special. Occasionally you get a good teacher, who is pretty cool. The school is a good size, but is a California Public school which means it’s probably underfunded. Also the school ran out of paper last year for a while. How do you run out of paper at a school?! Non the less you will get a good education, if there is paper.