Kolbes Corner

My kids have attended Kingsford for 2 years and overall we have been pleased with the experience. Coming from years at private school we weren't sure what to expect. We quickly realized that in all subjects the curriculum was ahead of or on par with what was being taught at the private school and the class work is appropriately challenging. My main criticism of the school is that its bullying policy is not enforced and it seems as though some of the more troublesome students aren't appropriately dealt with which creates a disruption for entire classrooms. That said, we have been pleased with and impressed by the hands on approach of the school's leadership, particularly the principal and vice principal. Some of the teachers are exceptional and take seriously the need to adapt to different learning styles.

I am very happy with the education and care provided by this school. The teachers are very supportive, kind, and dedicated to helping each child grow both academically and personally. My child has improved a lot in studies as well as confidence.The school maintains good discipline and a safe environment, which gives us peace of mind as parents. The communication between teachers and parents is also very good, and they always keep us informed about our child’s progress.Along with academics, the school also focuses on extracurricular activities, which helps in overall development. I truly appreciate the efforts of the teachers and management.I would highly recommend this school to other parents.

We were looking for a new school for my youngest daughter after she wasn't doing well at her previous school (lack of support, disorganized staff, and outdated curriculum, to say the least). Washington New Church School was THE best decision we could have made! The school is small, but that doesn't disadvantage the children at all! The teachers know everyone by name, and all the kids are very close. My daughter learned many skills that she would not have experienced at her old school, and she came out a stellar student ready to take on high school. The school is diverse both in staff and students, and there are plenty of opportunities in the classroom to learn about different cultures! The school also hosts many community events and fundraisers that we love to attend and show support for! Our daughter loved her time here and still talks about it to this day as if she never left. All this to say, if you were thinking of bringing your children here- DO IT! You won't regret it.

Do not send your children to this school!!!! This school does not meet the academic rigor that students need to be successful in high school and beyond. It has been my experience, that minimal teaching is being done, and the students are spending more time on their laptops instead of being taught by the teacher. Furthermore, the work that is given is not academically challenging for middle schoolers. I have a 5th grader who attends another private school in the area, and the academic rigor that she has in the 5th grade is more challenging than the work my 8th grader is coming home with. Additionally, he is struggling to do the 5th grade level work that my daughter is doing. Additionally, their administration of the school is extremely poor. I received a call to pick my child up from school, with no explanation, other than he needs to be picked up. Upon arrival there was no one in administration who could tell me why my student was asked to be picked up, and the reason I received is everyone was busy and could not speak to me and I would have to wait until the teacher put it into the portal. Completely unacceptable for anyone who is an administrator in school to not be available to speak to a parent regarding their student being told he could not be at school that day. This school lacks effective leadership in their administrative staff and I highly recommend that you save your money and invest in a school that will educate and make your student more academically well rounded and competitive for the the 21st century. Furthermore, they need new leadership to reform their administrative staff to be more effective in engaging with parents and students.

Riverdale academics are above the public school's in PG County. My child informed me multiple times of transfers who come in from public schools behind the curve in what they are currently learning. Unfortunately, the school is older and we have experienced several maintenance issues which closes the school. It is also a religious school so they do not participate in many social activities including prom's. Most recently the high school principal left and was replaced with the history teacher, when she left her entire family who all held positions in the school left with her. To me it was a very obvious "hook-up" and now the freshman who are now sophomore's had to deal with such a significant change. Same for the Football program, i believe all resources are placed into their baseball program. Riverdale is a good school but it really seems like they are stuck in the 70s. They also lack transportation and you have to pay for before or after care services. For almost $14k a year you would think you would get more than just a good curriculum. I would still recommend this school cause education is what matters most but for parents considering this school be mindful that's all that the school will offer as well.