Twain Middle School

We had to leave. The leadership was so poor from K-5, so I only hope things are better under the new principal. My child was bullied (physically and verbally) all years (except during Covid) with no effective response. Learning became a bore based on what leadership pushes the teachers to teach. The teachers were amazing but their hands are tied on how much they can do. There were no extracurriculars at all and my child was bored. Any activities that were provided, not consistently, are not fun anyway if you are bullied and don’t feel connected.

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.

At this school my child thrived! He was previously going to a private catholic school which he hated. After 3 years of that, I decided to put him in Bush Hill and he loved it. He is now going to middle school and he is very advanced and engaged thanks to his elementary school.Bush Hill is a great school!

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!

I felt like I was racially profiled there. Especially by the front office.