Brookfield Elementary School

I’ve been really disappointed with this school. Many of the teachers don't seem to genuinely care about the students, and they don’t communicate well with parents. Concerns are often ignored or brushed aside, which leaves families feeling unsupported. Schools should keep parents informed and care about each child’s growth, but that hasn’t been my experience here.

Our military family has had an outstanding experience at GBW. Principal Blount is a dedicated professional, whose true passion is to see students excel both, academically and emotionally. He is approachable and dedicated to creating a safe and welcoming environment where all students have the opportunity to succeed. The AAP teachers our daughters had for the three years we were there, were exceptionally kind, motivating, yet patient with our girls. They communicated well with families and encouraged a love of learning for their students. Mrs. Strohl and Mr. Smith have made a lasting and positive impact in our children’s lives. The front office staff, nurse and custodians truly care for the safety and well-being for all the students under their charge. The PTA is incredibly active and plays an important role in building a strong sense of community. We will miss you all. Thank you!

This school is really great and would recommend it. The teachers are very supportive and fun, I had a lot of fun in my years and hope people join and experience it too.

Poplar Tree is a wonderful school! It’s motto “We All Belong Here” rings true as it’s a place that celebrates its diverse population by making everyone feel that they are a part of the team. Both my son and daughter have had fabulous experiences during their elementary career. It’s no surprise teachers rarely leave…and some that do leave often come back! Anyone would be lucky to have their child learn at Poplar Tree!

Former parent. We lasted one year. I do not recommend the school.The spiritual climate of St. Veronica is ill. A question or clarification on school policy with the office is labeled non-compliance and met with a threat of retaliation against children. Teachers are fearful to challenge anything the office says even when the office isn't aligned with diocesan-approved policy. Just walking into the school a parent is met with hostility; the greeting from the staff isn't, "How can I help you?" but rather, "Why are you here?" Office staff will lie about interactions with parents; what could be more unchristian than that. Principal and pastor take no action to stop this.If you are looking for a healthy spiritual climate, recognition of children as human beings worthy of respect, parents welcomed in the classroom, and respectful, consistent communication, you will be disappointed. My kids lost their developing faith in this school. The hostile micromanagement of children is antithetical to the Catholic view of the child as a whole person. While instilling fear and shame can appear to work on the surface, they do not cultivate authentic moral virtue. That the Church's primary message is one of JOY is lost in the teaching of the faith at this school.Overall - the school relies heavily on technology (for ease of grading, which is just lazy), does not communicate well with parents, does not have an open forum for feedback, follows FCPS for weather closures (even when its own lot has been clear for many days) by choice (diocese does not require this), does not welcome volunteers, has minimal outdoor time (15 min/day), and has poor academics. Don't be deceived by the big, green campus; the kids aren't allowed to play in the green space during recess. They are often restricted to the blacktop instead, aren't allowed to climb trees, run fast, pick up sticks, or be normal kids. Staff these enforce rules by yelling at the kids constantly.My children did not make much academic progress; one began the year ahead of grade level and lost ground, finishing far below. My 6th grader was assigned one book the entire year. Extremely flat curriculum; minimal out-of-classroom experiences. We are on the edge of DC with hundreds of opportunities to bring education to life, and the school office only allows 2 trips per year. Parents' ideas to bring experiences to classrooms are typically not allowed by the school office. Rote memorization is the preferred learning method.