Mitchellville

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.

My experience as a sixth grader at this school has been very bad. I am a new student, and on the first day of attending this school, already the kids and teachers gave me a bad impression. The teaching isn't the only part that tells you this school is horrible, just the sight of the teachers gives you a bad feeling.

What a fantastic school. The teachers, principal, and everyone else in the building absolutely give everything they have to these kids. There is a "parent support group" in lieu of a PTA and parents are very involved in the school. I initially hesitated to send my child here but now that seems so silly as my daughter is learning so much and loves the school.

Under Ms. Sothern’s leadership, Lake Arbor Elementary has become a shining example of intentionality, and transparency. The positive shift in school culture is undeniable.The holiday gift giveaway was a heartwarming event that demonstrated the school’s thoughtfulness and organization. Students were able to pick their gifts, have their special moments captured with Santa and the Grinch, and even received batteries to ensure they could use their gifts immediately—a small detail that made a big impact. Teachers and staff like Ms. Smalls and Ms. Ferguson, along with dedicated volunteers, truly made the day magical for the students.What also stands out this year is the State of Schools offering, something I don’t recall happening previously. It’s a valuable opportunity for families to understand the school’s successes and growth areas, reinforcing the transparency that is greatly appreciated. Ms. Sothern’s sincere yet firm approach sets high expectations for staff, students, and families, inspiring everyone to rise to the occasion. The admin team, educators, and volunteers work tirelessly every day, and their efforts deserve recognition. I’m proud of the dynamic direction Lake Arbor is heading and grateful for the opportunity to benefit from the positive shift in the climate and culture.

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.