Margaret S McWhirter Elementary School

Good school but lots of drugs, and a big division in wave and neighborhood, lots and lots of drugs

My child has both dyslexia and autism, and this school neglected her Educational needs and emotional support to the point that she suffered for three years and failed but they kept passing her without any help. The neglect happened directly in the classroom, the teacher told her and other students that they were not aloud to use the bathroom and the assistant principal failed to take any action this resulted in my child and other children to pee themselves in this classroom several times a week. The teachers also disipline your children and call you and tell you AFTER the fact. Things kept getting worse. I ultimately had to file a complaint with the education system outside the school, and I made the decision to withdraw both of my children from this school.

One of the worst experiences we have ever had. SpEd is completely incompetent. Child's IEP is regularly NOT followed. Teachers are dismissive, rude, and unresponsive to communication. Principal Horner is kind to your face but ineffective. Jennifer Vargas, the Special Education Team Lead, is completely useless. Horrible at her job and does not advocate for your kids or ensure they are getting their needs met. If you can move and go anywhere else you should. This school needs a complete admin and staff overhaul.

Our child was bullied by their teacher at this school. We did not know such a thing could happen in a Christian school, but at this one it does. This teacher not only bullied our child, she allowed their classmates to participate, and often tried to pull in fellow teachers to excuse her behavior. Thank God there are honest teachers out there who wouldn't corroborate her lies. This is, essentially, how we found out. When we went to the ECEC Director, Callie Edwards, and the Principal (or Headmaster, as he prefers to be titled), Chris Yates, we were met with a coldness we had never experienced before. We promptly removed our child from that school. If you are a parent who wants your child to feel loved and cared for, then DO NOT send them to WCA. We have met some really good teachers, but it only takes a few to spoil the bunch, especially where something as serious as teacher-bullying occurs. Only send your child here if you plan on working here, because then your child will become a "favorite" and are treated well. If you do not work here, and your child attends here, be careful, and trust your gut. If something doesn't feel right, then it probably isn't. Check on your child as often as you can so you can see how they are really treated after drop-off, when the charade is over. If you have not already enrolled your child here, then run for the hills. Find a school where they will be treated as you'd expect in a Christian school. This is NOT that school. Good luck and God bless.

I have two children who have attended Bay Area Montessori House for going on three years now, and I could not be more grateful for this school. One of my children spent two years in public school and was so miserable, just trying to get through basic homework created endless arguments and frustrations that wore our whole family down. When we found BAMH, everything changed.My other child started here from the beginning, and both of them are flourishing. Their strengths are celebrated, and at the same time, they are given the time and support to grow in the areas where they need it. The learning environment is calm, joyful, and respectful, and the sense of community is truly wonderful.The head of school is amazing, she is a true AMI-certified Montessori guide, which makes all the difference. As a side note, Dr. Montessori never trademarked the word “Montessori,” so any school can use it in their name whether or not they follow authentic Montessori practices. If you are looking for the real Montessori experience, make sure you choose a school like BAMH that is AMI-certified.This school has been such a gift to our family, and I can’t recommend it enough.

This school is phenomenal. The small family-like environment lends itself to meaningful learning. Teachers and staff genuinely care for student well being. The school has adopted a wonderful initiative working towards diversity and inclusion. The small class ratios and teacher flexibility are almost unheard of in any school setting, making it great for students who have various learning difficulties. One of my kids is neurodiverse and I cannot imagine going anywhere else. I'm proud to say my children attend St. Thomas.