Although the two schools are in the same district, Cinnaminson Middle School and Cinnaminson High School are vastly different from one another. Whether it’s classes, rigor and pacing, or general rules and policies, students have strong opinions on both schools. 

It appears the deciding factor for students is the freedom, or lack thereof at CMS. Freshman Giuliana Della Penna agrees, saying that the high school grants more privileges, like the ability to have her phone out and more ways to get involved in the school.

Most freshmen seemed to have the same answer when asked which school they preferred: Cinnaminson High School. While this is based on multiple factors, the presence of phones seemed to be the biggest contributing factor. 

“There’s a lot more freedom to go wherever you want, and you can use your phone,” freshman Brenna McConney said. 

Sophomore Aram Madison didn’t mention phones, instead saying that he preferred the high school because the middle school was very strict, but still enjoyable. 

In reflecting on her time at CMS, McConney said she preferred eighth grade over sixth grade, like many other sources interviewed. This is likely attributable to factors like the trip to Six Flags, the teachers, and the knowledge of a future with new beginnings. 

Another reason for students’ preference for CHS was backpacks; this was a rule made in the 2024-25 school year at Cinnaminson Middle School where students had to store their belongings, including backpacks, in their lockers. Many students commented on their dislike of the phone ban and how lockers played a role. 

“Because I have to go to my locker so much, and I didn’t know how to open my locker, it took too long,” McConney said.

Similarly, having to carry multiple textbooks and binders proved to be problematic.

“…but I didn’t like having to put our phones back, like, it was annoying having to carry around, like two big binders,” Della Penna said. 

The Middle School has many ways to get involved, but the High School’s extracurricular activities are both more involved and offer more options than the middle school’s. 

McConney said the High school seems less strict and she can participate in more things like clubs, which she said makes her feel freer. 

The number of clubs and different interests they span ensures there is a club for everyone at the high school. Most students at Cinnaminson High School are involved in some club or activity, and the idea of the different ways to be included attracts most students to get involved. 

Ultimately, while the students are aware of the level of difficulty of the classes, high school appears to be favored by most of the student population.