Patrick Henry Elementary School

My 1st grade son loves Polk. He enjoys going to school each day and has made great progress this year on reading and math. Has a great, diverse group of friends. So far we've been really happy with the school.

This is a failed experiment in woke nonsense. They care more about attendance and gender identity questions than anything else. Neither of my kids teachers were certified in Virginia. They are going elsewhere this year. This is a great school if you don’t speak any English and have no intention to learn it.

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.

The staff and administrators at Clermont play an essential role in fostering a strong and vibrant community. Their dedication and hard work make this school truly exceptional, consistently creating an environment where both students and staff can thrive. Their commitment to excellence and collaboration ensures that Clermont remains a place of growth, support, and opportunity for everyone involved. We are truly blessed to have such a great school in Alexandria!

All three of my kids have loved Burgundy. I currently have two enrolled and one that graduated last year and is in High School now. From the moment you step onto the campus, you can feel the warmth, intention, and authenticity that make this school stand out. The teachers are not only highly skilled but genuinely invested in each child’s growth—academically, socially, and emotionally. They take time to understand every student as an individual, creating an environment where kids feel seen, supported, and encouraged to explore their interests. This carries with them as they attend high school and college.The school’s hands-on, experiential learning approach is a game changer. Students don’t just memorize facts—they engage with the world around them, think critically, and develop a real love of learning. The campus itself is beautiful and thoughtfully maintained, offering plenty of outdoor space that’s actually integrated into the curriculum.Communication with families is excellent, and the sense of community is one of the strongest I’ve experienced. Parents, teachers, and staff truly work together, and it shows in the confidence and joy you see in the students.If you’re looking for a school that combines strong academics, compassionate educators, and a nurturing environment, Burgundy Country Day School deserves to be at the top of your list. Highly recommend!