Ehrmansville

I would like to share my experience as a parent of a former student at Elkridge Elementary School. While the school may have strengths in academic programming, our family's experience raised serious concerns about equity, inclusion, and the overall treatment of students from diverse racial backgrounds.During the one year my daughter attended, we observed patterns that suggested unequal treatment. As a Black family, we felt that our concerns were not taken seriously, and that our child was not given the same level of support or encouragement as some of her peers. It seemed that students from certain backgrounds — particularly white students — were prioritized and better accommodated.We were also troubled by the lack of diversity among the teaching and administrative staff. With a staff demographic that appears to be overwhelmingly white, it was difficult not to feel that cultural understanding and sensitivity were lacking. This became especially apparent in how behavioral or academic concerns involving students of color were handled.Additionally, many staff members live in the surrounding neighborhood, which may contribute to an insular environment. This can sometimes create unconscious bias, whether intentional or not, especially toward families who are new, different, or from underrepresented communities.Due to these challenges, we ultimately decided to move our daughter to a different school where we felt she would be better supported and valued. We hope that Elkridge Elementary — and the broader school system — takes steps to invest in diversity training, inclusive hiring practices, and open dialogue with families of all backgrounds.Every child deserves a fair, respectful, and welcoming educational experience. We sincerely hope that improvements can be made so that future students and families do not face the same challenges.This country has the potential to be truly great — but only if we continue to confront and eliminate racism in all forms, including in our schools. Our children deserve better, and we can all do better.

While the school community is welcoming, the academics fall far below the expectations of the local public school district. Both administrators are former middle school teachers and are ill informed about early childhood and elementary education and cannot provide the level of professional development that the elementary teachers desperately need. Parents have raised concerns over the lack of academic rigor and small group instruction for years only to be told "it's coming." If you hold administration accountable, they will call in one of their superiors and quickly suggest that you find another school. If you value your child's academic experience and want a collaborative partnership with a school for which you pay tuition, I strongly suggest you look elsewhere. St Augustine has a lot of potential, but there are no mechanisms in place to bring the academic rigor beyond mediocre and the administration seems completely clueless as to how to effectuate positive change to improve student outcomes.

We are so grateful for this school! The teachers truly care about the students and do a wonderful job teaching not only academics but also Christian values. My children feel loved, supported, and encouraged in their faith every day. It is a blessing to be part of such a caring school community.

We’ve had a wonderful experience at Hanover Hill Elementary! The teachers are caring, patient, and dedicated to helping every student succeed. The school provides a safe and welcoming environment where kids are excited to learn each day. Communication with parents is excellent, and there’s a great sense of community. Highly recommend this school to any family looking for a strong academic and social foundation for their child.