Thomas W. Pyle Middle School

Since Dr. Zaks joined as principal in 2022, the school has been amazing for my child, who has special education needs. The teachers are great, as is the entire administration. There is plenty of family involvement and a very active PTA. The school provides a nurturing and supportive environment where students feel valued and encouraged to succeed.

My sister has been attending the Woods Academy for nearly a full school year, and unfortunately, our experience has been deeply disappointing. As a child born during the COVID-19 pandemic, she struggles with anxiety in unfamiliar environments and around strangers. This has significantly affected her well-being at school—she refuses to eat snacks or lunch while there.Despite numerous emails to the administration explaining her situation, the only responses we've received are variations of "it's school policy" or vague promises like "we will do our best to support her." Yet no meaningful support has been provided. She continues to sit alone during the day, often isolated in a corner with only occasional interaction from peers. This is not acceptable.A school should be a place where children feel safe, supported, and cared for—especially those who are struggling. Simply telling families to manage everything at home is not enough when the child spends so much of their time in school. The Woods Academy has failed to show the compassion and flexibility that should be expected of any institution responsible for a young child’s development.Not saying that this school isn't for everyone, but it's certainly unequipped and unprepared to aid kids that need some extra attention or help. Please be careful, and make your own, thoroughly thought through decision.

Our son attended public school through 6th grade, starting at Bradley Hills Elementary and then Pyle Middle School (virtually), so we may have a slightly different perspective. Both public schools are well regarded; however, during Covid we decided to explore options for 7th grade and discovered St. Jane de Chantal, which is more financially viable than other options and offers a smaller, more familial environment. Initially, we worried about our son adapting to a new school that starts in pre-K, but we were grateful for the warm welcome from the students and community.Of note, Pyle, Montgomery County's largest middle school, offers a wider range of programs, including extracurricular activities and IEPs. However, we felt St. Jane’s intimate setting allowed for more personalized attention from teachers. They also have a relatively robust selection of activities and sports; our son enjoyed the ski club, playing baseball, and CYO basketball (two championships).We were very impressed by the school's support as the students transitioned to high school. The teachers work hard creating a personalized packet for each student to help with high school admissions. Further, Principal Hamilton is a vocal and direct advocate for the students (a fact we learned later from two different high school admissions reps).Our son loved his time at St. Jane and we appreciated its supportive community and the balance it strikes in offering a comprehensive education while maintaining a shield against external chaos of a large public school. Our only real regret is that we didn't send him sooner.