Holmes Middle School

Great ES, all school staff is really professional and welcoming!

As a parent of two students at Parklawn Elementary School, I would like to kindly request more attention to the management of school buses and student safety during transportation. I live in Skyline Towers Apartments (5601 Seminary Rd, Falls Church, VA 22041), and I have noticed that when students enter and exit the buses- particularly # PL04, there is often a lack of discipline, overcrowding, and sometimes even five students sitting in one seat. On several occasions, students sometimes stand inside the bus, which raises serious safety concerns.As a concerned parent, I sincerely hope this issue can be prioritized, not only to ensure proper use of the buses but also to protect the safety and comfort of all students.That being said, I would also like to express my gratitude to Parklawn Elementary’s wonderful management and staff. From the smooth registration process with Ms. Doris, to Ms. Khalida’s timely communication with my wife, and the dedication of the great teachers, we truly appreciate the support and care shown to our children.

There was a mouse problem, like a SEVERE MOUSE PROBLEM. The kids had to literally be bribed to behave with fake money.

My children have attended MSNV and I couldn't recommend it more. Small class sizes, incredibly attentive well-trained teachers, amazing experiences in and outside school grounds. Students are kind and thoughtful, and MSNV pays attention to helping kids become well-rounded and considerate, as well as academically successful. My kids love going to school and have made amazing friends. They absorb information without realizing it and, as a result, love exploring and learning new things. The teachers' passion and excitement for learning and exploring are contagious. We have made lifelong friends in many of the parents we have met through our children.

All I can say is...DO IT! This school is incredible. The teachers are fantastic! They are so good with each of the kids, and really understand how to relate to each child on an individual basis. Their approach is not a "one size fits all," but rather, they take the time and care to figure out what each child needs and how they can best support them. Springfield academy is one in a million, and I recommend it to any parent looking for a school that teaches children values, love of learning, and wants a staff that is caring and dedicated to their child(ren)s wellbeing!

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.