Hillstead

As a Black family with two children currently attending Fort Garrison Elementary, I wanted to share our experience, which has been very different from some of the negative reviews posted here.Choosing the right school is one of the most important investments we make in our children’s future. We had the option to send our children to private school, even though it would have come at a financial cost. Instead, we decided to give Fort Garrison a chance. We are glad we did and have not been disappointed.Our children are showing steady growth academically, socially, and emotionally. The teachers—especially the more experienced ones—are truly on point. We have seen genuine care, structure, and professionalism in the classroom. While I do think the broader Maryland/Baltimore County curriculum can sometimes feel limiting for gifted students who want to push further, that is a systemic issue and not a reflection of the school itself. Within the framework they are given, the staff does a strong job.We did experience a bullying situation with one of our children. After trying to resolve it directly with the other family without success, we went through the appropriate school channels. The principal responded quickly, and the issue was addressed promptly and effectively. I was impressed by how seriously it was taken and how fast it was resolved.I understand that the school has a relatively small Black demographic, reflecting the surrounding neighborhood. However, in our personal experience, our children have been treated fairly and supported appropriately. When we have raised concerns, we have felt heard. Race is a complex issue in this country, but from our vantage point, we have not experienced hostility or unequal treatment.No school is perfect, but Fort Garrison Elementary has been a positive environment for our family. The school appears to be thriving, and we are grateful for the educators and staff who work hard every day for our children. My only regret is not being able to volunteer and support the school community as much as I would like.

Our daughter’s currently attend SPSG’s Upper School and have been enrolled since the 5th and 6th grade. From the first days when they made the choice to attend SPSG, they both been drawn to the warmth that exist between students and faculty and the sisterhood between the girls. We’ve marveled at the progression they’ve made as students and as people. They are secure in who they are, they laugh and enjoy their classmates and the relationships that have been developed with faculty are enviable. They truly trust the adults in that building - confiding in them through sobs when they didn’t make a sports team, and advocating for change when there’s an “injustice” like too many tests in one week. While the academics are rigorous, and they absolutely are, our girls seem to tackle each challenge with confidence. If I had it to do all over again, I’d easily choose SPSG. It’s a top choice for so many families and we’ve found such great family friendships in the St Paul’s community that we’re positive will extend beyond our girls' time at SPSG. We also love the shared spaces between the schools and the opportunities to interact with the boys at the boys school and with the youngest kids on campus (at the pre and lower school). It's truly and unique and special place.