Germantown Elementary School

I’m a parent of a kids in the Annapolis lower school. The school administration is a mess! The principal should be replaced. The student standardized test scores dropped significantly because of the elementary school principal making the curriculum less challenging especially in math over the years and not retaining many qualified longstanding teachers. Many of the new teachers hired do not have college degrees or formal teaching experience. Also, parents are constantly solicited for funds to provide expensive gifts (e.g., designer bags, vacations, large checks) for personal use to lower school leadership with the implication that their child will receive preferential treatment. Parents are tired of it and all talk about it.

Two of my children entered St. Mary's in middle school. Both were warmly welcomed by the faculty and administration and found friends rather quickly. My older child was two grade levels behind in math post-pandemic and St. Mary's taught her four grade levels of math in two years. She was able to achieve an A in Algebra I her first year of high school without any extra tutoring. The school has some offerings for children with learning differences, but they are not comprehensive. It's advisable to consult the administration to see if their offerings fit your child's needs.

The middle school math program is seriously lacking. They need to hire a qualified teacher for math. They also need newer materials. The book that is being used is at least 15 years old. Teacher also not willing to help any children and stay after for help. When most of the students are doing poorly that means that there is an issue with the teaching. Wake up and do something about it. Put the fundraising money where it is needed..don't cut transportation for field trips. Do more for the kids..especially the middle school kids. All sorts of programs for the young ones..Learn to Ride A Bike,etc.but nothing for middle school.

I started at the school using the daycamp to transition my son from daycare to regular school. The school has been amazing in helping me provide my son an amazing education. He loves his teachers and I have seen a great improvement in his manners, intelligence and personality. They allow him to be himself which is very important. They are stern which helps provide me that extra boost.He is my first and only child and the teachers have helped me with various methods to improve behavior at home as well. Its a small no frills school but I love it. I have worked with many people who have recommended this school because either their children, grandchildren or other family members have attended and loved it.