Dufief Elementary School

This school has consistently gotten worst in the past few years. Mrs. Nazzaro the principal really does not care anymore. She just wants to collect her paycheck and do the least amount of work possible. The school has a safety issue as my child had been bullied so much and the school keeps telling me they were accidents. Even the pediatrician is concerned with amount of times we have gone to them due to my child getting hurt at school. There is no discipline for the bullies and my child is constantly told that they are accidents and to apologize to the bullies. My child is now in therapy due to experience at this school.

This school is struggling significantly. Despite the dedication of the teachers, the mandatory immersion program is poorly conceived, as evidenced by the test scores. No adjustments have been made post-pandemic to address the substantial decline in performance, leading to a significant gap in fundamental skills necessary for middle school. Innovative ideas are often rejected under the pretense of “equity,” which the school interprets as treating everyone equally at the lowest common denominator. It is perplexing how a public school can enforce an immersion program on families, and MCPS has been unwilling to offer Change of School Assignments (COSAs) for parents who wish to opt out. Additionally, my children have been assaulted and have repeatedly had their learning disrupted by emotional outbursts from classmates, with minimal intervention from the school to address these issues.

My son enjoys going to Diamond ES since he was in grade K. He is currently in 2nd grade. The teachers are very supportive and genuinely care about the students.

This elementary school provides an excellent learning environment with dedicated, tenured teachers who bring experience and stability to the classroom. The school’s management is generally effective, fostering a positive and well-organized atmosphere. The facilities are well-maintained and in good condition, creating a comfortable space for students to learn and grow. Additionally, the school boasts a diverse student body, promoting inclusivity and cultural awareness. Most importantly, I always felt that my children were safe here, thanks to the school’s strong emphasis on security and student well-being. Overall, a great choice for families seeking a supportive and high-quality educational experience.