Bren Mar Park Elementary School

My son attended SWT for three years, Kindergarten through 2nd grade. The school is very divided by the haves and have-nots. The needs of the kids who have less means are prioritized, which makes sense. Many are immigrants and refugees, which create a rich cultural community. However, the school is stretched to its limit - teachers are maxed out and it’s obvious. Many students don’t know English and special needs students are in the classrooms. It’s too easy for students of means to get lost, my son was one. I was relieved to relocate out of state and into a public school district that was in much less distress. If we hadn’t moved, we’d have moved to private school. My son was miserable and has faired much better in a school that has capacity for him. Lastly, the word “bullying” is used so flippantly at SWT. Kids have no problem solving skills and don’t learn to work things out. The volume of tattling is insane.

I can't say enough good things about this school! From the moment you walk in, you feel the warmth and care that fills the entire atmosphere. The teachers are exceptional—always going above and beyond to ensure every student is supported and thriving. They truly look out for the children, making sure they feel seen and heard.The office staff and clinic are not only bilingual but also incredibly welcoming. It’s such a relief to know that both parents and students can communicate easily, no matter their language. The administration is young, energetic, and highly knowledgeable. You can see that they genuinely care about the well-being of both their students and staff, always making sure everyone feels like a valued part of the school community.What really sets this school apart, though, is the tight-knit community. The families here are very involved, and it shows. It’s a place where everyone supports each other, from the teachers to the parents, to the students themselves. It’s clear that the school’s success isn’t just about education, but about creating a welcoming environment where every child can thrive.If you're looking for a school that cares deeply about its students, staff, and community, this is the one!

We truly love this school. The teachers are incredibly caring, attentive, and supportive. You can truly feel how much they care about the children and their growth. The environment is warm and welcoming, making both kids and parents feel comfortable and supported. Sadly, we had to move from the area, but we are very grateful we were part of this wonderful community.

I appreciate the warmth, inclusiveness, and support that the teachers, staff, and fellow students offered our family. St. Mark's is one of a kind and a hidden gem!! We are so grateful to have found this school for our daughter, and wish she could start there sooner. They truly live up to the Montessori educational principles. My daughter grows in her love for learning, independence, and confidence in expressing herself.

If I can save a family from the discrimination and hypocrisy of this school, then writing this review is well worth it. The current principal presents as a kind person in public meetings, when the Pastor is around, and I suppose for parents of younger children. Her entire character changes, once you make it clear that accountability should go both ways. The principal is easily offended, retaliatory, and prejudiced-at least 3 parents have shared similar experiences. She is unwilling to account for various family experiences, and communication styles.During my time at the school, my children experienced various forms of discrimination regarding discipline policies, grading, and access! The middle school program is very poorly managed. The academics, elective courses, and overall teacher effectiveness are seriously lacking. I have only experienced 1 solid core teacher (who really should be the lead), and MAYBE 2 solid elective teachers. The students are not treated with respect or trust. Some wealthy families have their student's poor behavior excused, while other families are consistently mistreated. When brought to the attention of the principal, she sits quiet in meetings and allows the middle school "lead teacher" to lead any outcomes down a destructive and non truthful path. The Principal and many other staff members have difficulty holding this middle school lead accountable.Inasmuch as parents want to be involved as partner's in their children's learning, this school only allows that if you are agreeable with everything they currently do. They have handpicked the parents that receive patience, kindness, and grace. They have also handpicked the parents who will receive resistance, retaliation, and prejudice. None of which represent the Christian character they claim to lead in. If you are a parent who asks questions, and expects accountability and respect to go both ways-this is NOT the school for you. I think the only reason they have the enrollment they do, is because they keep their tuition lower than the Christian K-12 School that is one block away from them. They are basically undercutting a nearby school. You can see both schools from the road and many families need the tuition costs to remain affordable. Unfortunately, what you are getting in return is a hypocritical school, who claims to love Jesus and lead with love, but when challenged, are the furthest away from demonstrating that when it matters most.