Heathwood Hall Episcopal School

A.C. Moore is a downtown gem. Wonderful and caring teachers, involved parents, and a real neighborhood, walk-to-school feel. Both of our children excelled here and have gone on to success in middle school and high school. The small class sizes make it possible for children to truly shine and receive one-on-one attention; additionally, a vibrant after-school program and diverse student body are both "pluses" in today's world. Our children were challenged in the advanced academic program at AC Moore. The media center and student art "galleries" lining the hallways are not to be missed! For those moving to the AC Moore zone (Shandon, Wales Garden, Hollywood/RoseHill, and University Hill), I would encourage you to check out A.C. Moore. The school has many parents who are happy to answer questions and provide more information about what makes AC Moore so special!

The school as a whole is wonderful. We’ve had the pleasure of our children being taught by some wonderful teachers. The administration is helpful, supportive, and delightful to interact with. Unfortunately, though the community seems to not appericate or respect the gem of a educational institution they have in the neighborhood. Residents litter school grounds with used condoms, broken glass liquor bottles, beer cans, cigarette boxes & butts. Despite being a Richland One school l, South Kilbourne does not seem to get the same budget, attention, or privilege that other desirable Richland District One Schools such as Rosewood Elementary, A.C. Moore Elementary, and Brennan Elementary receive. It’s apparent that there is neglect on the district’s part and it would appear it’s so, due to South Kilbourne having a predominantly/disproportionately black and low income student body compared to the other school within the same zip code (some less than 2 miles away) that are predominately white and have student from higher income households. South Kilbourne lacks some resources/services that other schools with the district have access to. Lack of police presence to control traffic/enforce school speed zone at the beginning and end of a school day is a concern as many students walk home unescorted by an adult & there’s a lack of sidewalks for pedestrians to ensure safety. Attending to the school grounds to keep hazardous materials away from students (ie used condoms, broken glass, etc). Chain link fencing surrounding parts of the school are damaged and pose a safety hazard as animals can get in, children could slip through, and/or the damaged chain link could injure students if the fell into it. South Kilbourne’s playground equipment looks dated & is minimal- there’s a basketball without hoops, but Rosewood Elementary got a new playground & has iron fencing & better maintained grounds. My children really struggle with being outsiders with being the only white/Asian kids-it’s hard to fit in and they are made to feel different and it gets overwhelming for them at time (ie children obsessively touching their hair). There’s bullying that takes place with some children that are modeling the same violence and aggression their parents teach at home.

Our son is in the primary program at MSC, and we have been thrilled with the experience so far. The campus is a tiny slice of paradise for the kids, and the teachers have been wonderful. They are caring and supportive and cater to each child's individual needs while following the Montessori curriculum. We feel very lucky to have a place is such a wonderful community, and that our son wakes up excited for school each morning.