Turn of River Middle School

General Information

Reviews

Turn of River Middle School, Connecticut, K12 receives varied community feedback that reflects a range of student and parent experiences. Some parents emphasize that the school provides a generally safe environment with responsive staff who communicate effectively about student needs and concerns. These reviewers note the school’s maintenance of facilities and outdoor areas, as well as a supportive atmosphere among teachers who are available to help students succeed. Other community members, particularly recent students, express significant frustrations with academic rigor, behavioral issues, and school climate, describing inconsistencies in how bullying and disciplinary concerns are addressed. Whereas some students highlight engaged teaching and opportunities for extra help, others report that academic instruction can feel limited in depth and that classroom engagement strategies vary widely among teachers. There are also comments appreciating the diversity of the student body and the positive relationships that some educators build with learners. This range of perspectives underscores that community sentiment about the school’s effectiveness and culture is mixed, with strengths in staff engagement and school spirit counterbalanced by calls for enhanced academic enrichment and more consistent behavioral supports. Such diversity of feedback is common in public middle schools with broad catchment areas and varied family expectations. Niche

Contact Information

Phone Number: (203) 977‑4284 Tor Online
Main Address: 117 Vine Road, Stamford, Connecticut 06905, United States Tor Online
General Fax: (203) 977‑5037 Tor Online
Principal: Dr. Mark Bonasera Tor Online
Assistant Principals: Rafael Escobar, Elvonni Capozziello, Dr. Rachel Bria (Special Education) Tor Online

School Facts

Rankings

Turn of River Middle School, Connecticut, K12 Academics

Faculties / Departments

English Language Arts
Mathematics
Science
Social Studies
World Language / Bilingual Programs
Fine and Performing Arts
Physical Education and Health
Special Education Services
Guidance and Counseling
Technology and STEM Support

Turn of River Middle School, Connecticut, K12 Courses Offered and Programs / Majors

English/Literacy Curriculum including reading and writing workshops
Mathematics ranging from foundational numeracy through pre‑algebra
Integrated Science courses with exploration of physical and life sciences
Social Studies focusing on history, civics, and geography
Bilingual/English Language Learner support programs
Arts Education including band, chorus, and visual arts
Physical Education and health instruction
Technology and computer skills
After‑school clubs such as yearbook, Spanish club, and student leadership

Online Learning

Turn of River Middle School uses digital platforms to complement traditional classroom instruction, enabling students to access assignments, educational resources, and progress tracking tools. Teachers may integrate online learning for homework support, differentiated practice, and collaborative projects, which can be particularly helpful during school closures or individual absences. Students use technology to build digital literacy skills and to engage with multimedia content aligned with curricular goals. Online portals also support family engagement by providing access to grades and attendance information. While in‑person instruction remains central, digital resources serve as supplemental tools to reinforce learning and prepare students for technology‑enhanced academic environments.

Degrees and Certifications

As a middle school, Turn of River Middle School does not issue postsecondary degrees or professional certifications. Students graduate from each grade upon successful completion of curriculum requirements and demonstration of progress in core subject areas. Grade advancement from sixth to seventh and seventh to eighth reflects mastery of essential learning standards appropriate for early adolescent learners.

Summer School

Summer programming at Turn of River Middle School is coordinated through Stamford Public Schools and focuses on reinforcing key academic skills, particularly in literacy and mathematics. These sessions provide structured opportunities for students who may benefit from additional instruction, as well as enrichment options designed to sustain academic engagement during the break. Participation supports continuous learning and helps mitigate summer learning loss for students across grades.

Average Test Scores

Retention and Graduation Rates

Traditional graduation rates do not apply at the middle school level. Instead, success is gauged by students’ progression through grade levels, with most students advancing from sixth to seventh and from seventh to eighth grade. Promotion reflects academic performance, attendance, and behavior standards that align with district expectations and preparation for high school.

Turn of River Middle School, Connecticut, K12 Admissions

GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range

Admission to Turn of River Middle School is based on residency within the Stamford Public Schools district attendance boundary and is not contingent on GPA or standardized college entrance exam scores such as the SAT or ACT. Enrollment criteria focus on appropriate age and grade placement for incoming students rather than academic performance thresholds. Placement in specific support or enrichment programs may consider student performance, but general entry is open to all eligible residents within the designated zone.

Acceptance Rate

Application Requirements

To enroll at Turn of River Middle School, families must provide proof of residency within the Stamford Public Schools attendance area, submit valid birth certificate and identity documentation, present up‑to‑date immunization and health records required by Connecticut state law, and, if applicable, share previous school records for accurate grade placement. Administrative staff guide families through the registration process to ensure compliance with district policy and to facilitate appropriate access to academic programs and support services.

Enrollment Overview

Turn of River Middle School serves approximately 624 students in grades 6 through 8. The school maintains a favorable student‑to‑teacher ratio that supports individualized attention and collaboration among faculty and learners. Enrollment trends reflect the diverse population of the Stamford community and support a spectrum of educational and social experiences tailored to middle grade development.

Application Process

Provide proof of residency within Stamford Public Schools district
Submit birth certificate and identity verification
Present current immunization and health records
Provide prior academic records if transferring from another school

Application Deadlines and Important Dates

Essay Prompt

An admissions essay is not required for enrollment at Turn of River Middle School. Placement is determined by residency within the district and completion of standard enrollment documentation.

Turn of River Middle School, Connecticut, K12 Scholarships

As a public middle school funded through state and local education revenues, Turn of River Middle School does not administer scholarships. Students may pursue awards and recognition through district programs, community organizations, or future high school scholarship opportunities based on academic and extracurricular achievements.

Turn of River Middle School, Connecticut, K12 Tuition Fees and Costs

Student Profile and Demographics

Student Demographics

Turn of River Middle School’s student population is diverse, with a majority representation of Hispanic students alongside White, Black, Asian, and multiracial peers. This diversity enriches the school community by bringing together students from varied cultural backgrounds, languages, and life experiences. A lower student‑to‑teacher ratio supports more personalized instruction and enables educators to understand and respond to individual learning needs. The demographic profile reflects Stamford’s broader community, fostering an environment where students learn from one another’s perspectives and develop cross‑cultural communication skills.

Low‑Income Students and Students with Disabilities

A significant portion of the student body qualifies for free or reduced‑price lunch programs, indicating a notable share of economically disadvantaged families within the school community. Turn of River Middle School provides targeted supports for low‑income students and those with disabilities, including individualized education plans (IEPs), specialized services, and academic interventions designed to promote equitable access to instruction. These supports are integrated across classrooms to help all students participate in learning, develop confidence, and build foundational skills necessary for success in higher grade levels.

Student Body Overview

University Diversity

Diversity at Turn of River Middle School plays a central role in shaping an inclusive educational experience that prepares students for an increasingly interconnected world. With a majority of Hispanic students and representation from multiple racial and ethnic groups, the school’s demographic mix supports daily interactions that deepen students’ understanding of different cultures and perspectives. Teachers harness this diversity to create learning activities that reflect multiple viewpoints, encouraging students to think critically about social issues and appreciate how varied experiences influence interpretation and problem‑solving. Collaborative group work, interdisciplinary projects, and culturally responsive instruction help students build empathy and communication skills as they learn to navigate differences with respect. This inclusive setting also supports social‑emotional learning by promoting reflection on one’s own identity and the identities of others, preparing students to thrive in diverse academic and professional environments. As learners engage with peers whose traditions, languages, and histories differ from their own, they develop resilience, adaptability, and a broader worldview—competencies that contribute to personal growth and future success both inside and outside the classroom.

Average Earnings

Average earnings data are not directly applicable to a middle school; however, the academic foundation provided by Turn of River Middle School contributes to long‑term educational attainment, which is correlated with future career opportunities and earning potential. Students who build strong literacy, numeracy, critical thinking, and interpersonal skills during middle school are better positioned to succeed academically in high school and beyond. These foundational competencies support access to rigorous coursework, college preparatory pathways, and vocational training options that can influence lifetime earning trajectories.

Graduation Rate

Traditional graduation rates do not apply at the middle school level. Student success at Turn of River Middle School is reflected in grade‑level progression and readiness for high school, which is measured by the accumulation of academic skills, social‑emotional development, and the ability to transition confidently to higher grade levels.

Turn of River Middle School, Connecticut, K12 Faculty and Staff

Teachers and Staff

Turn of River Middle School employs certified educators, support staff, and administrative professionals who work collaboratively to support student achievement. Faculty members hold expertise in their subject areas and participate in ongoing professional development to enhance instructional strategies and address the diverse learning needs of middle school students. Counseling staff provide academic guidance and social‑emotional support as students navigate early adolescent challenges.

Faculty Profiles

Teachers at Turn of River Middle School bring a range of experience in middle grade education, differentiated instruction, and culturally responsive practices. Many educators hold advanced degrees in education fields or endorsements in specialized areas such as special education and literacy, enabling them to tailor instruction and support for diverse learners.

Turn of River Middle School, Connecticut, K12 Campus and Student Life

Campus Life and Housing

Campus life at Turn of River Middle School includes academic routines, extracurricular opportunities, and social events that foster a sense of community and engagement. Students participate in clubs, after‑school activities, and leadership groups that enrich their school experiences and provide avenues for exploration beyond core academics. Residential housing is not offered, as the school operates as a public day institution serving local families.

Transportation

Transportation services include district‑operated school buses serving students within the designated attendance zone, ensuring reliable access to school programs and activities. Family‑provided commuting options also support attendance and participation in school life.

Job Openings and Career Opportunities

Career opportunities at Turn of River Middle School include teaching positions, administrative roles, counseling services, and support staff appointments within the Stamford Public Schools district. Openings are typically posted through the district’s human resources system and encompass roles dedicated to instruction, student services, and school operations for committed education professionals.