PrivateSchools 11.02.14

8/10/2019 PrivateSchools 11.02.14

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Finding thePerfect FitG iven the scores of private school options available inthe greater Washington area, its little wonder that theprospect of choosing the right institution for your childcan seem daunting. Still, while it is hardly as simple as A-B-C, most

of the areas top experts in the private school arena seem to agree

on strategies for parents suffering from the paradox of choice.


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The decision of where a child goesto school is one of most importantones a parent must make. So, theexperts advise parents to take their

time, research comprehensively, andvisit as many schools as possible.But before hitting the books,

so to speak, the rst thing to dois to study your child. Knowingwhat motivates him, knowing herlearning style, understanding hispersonality type all will help inthe effort to nd the perfect match.Ron Goldblatt, executive directorof the Association of IndependentMaryland & D.C. Schools (AIMS),suggests taking an inventory of yourchild. If they are younger, can they

sit still? Do they need higher levelsof supervision? How condent arethey? What is their temperament? Isbehavior altered through adherenceto rules or by having meaningfulconversation? The second part ofthe analysis is deciding which traitsyou want to nurture in your child. Ifcommunity service is important, lookfor a school that requires volunteerwork. If a child is highly creative,look for a program that teachesoutside the box. If your child has aparticular talent (music, math), lookfor schools that focus on that subjector area. Theres also the matter offamily values and belief systems.For example, if religion is a primaryfactor in your family, you may opt fora school affi liated with your creed.

Consider also the type ofenvironment that is best for yourchild. Some thrive in a structuredenvironment, while others dobetter in a free-form setting. Wouldthe child ourish in a co-ed or asingle gender environment? The

National Association of IndependentSchools represents more than 1,400independent, private and not-for-prot schools in the United States.According to Myra A. McGovern,Interim Vice President for MediaCommunications, Before starting thedecision-making process, think aboutwhat the child needs. For instance, ifyou have a child who requires moreone-on-one attention a smaller


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classroom might be a better t. Onthe other end of the spectrum, if achild is socially-driven, you may wantto nd a school with more activities

and a larger social network.The biggest mistake parents can

make at the beginning, according toeducation professionals, is selectinga school solely on reputation.The Council for American PrivateEducation (CAPE) is a coalition ofnational organizations and state

affi liates representing about 80percent of private school enrollmentnationwide. Joe McTighe, theorganizations executive director,

emphasizes that just because aschool is highly-rated or sends Xpercentage of its students to IvyLeague schools doesnt mean its the

Families tend to look at theschools reputation. But just

because a school is hard to getinto and has a great reputationdoesnt mean its the right fit for your child.

Ann Dolin, an educational consultant andauthor of a Guide to Private Schools


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What Parents Need to AskParents should have a lengthy list of questions of their own. According to the experts consulted for this article,among the topics parents should address during an interview are:

1. What is the school culture?Does the school have a specicapproach to education?

2. Is the curriculum rigorousand/or innovative? How muchhomework is there?

3. How do schools nurture astudents strengths and addressweaknesses?

4. Does the school have aparticular curricular focus? Doesit offer STEM classes, creativearts, foreign languages? At whatages are children exposed to

those programs?5. How does the school feel about

parental participation? What rolesdo parents play at the school?

6. What kind of support, bothacademic and personal, is offeredto students? Does the school offercounseling and tutoring services?

7. What type of extracurricularactivities are available?Are students expected toparticipate?

8. What kind of facilities does theschool have? Do the facilitiesaccommodate the types ofactivities in which your child isinterested?

9. How diverse is the student bodyand faculty?

10. How involved are teachers withstudents beyond the classroom?Do they advise clubs and attend

school events? Are they readilyavailable to parents via email orphone?

11. How do students do onstandardized tests like the SAT?How many get into the collegeof their choice?

12. Is nancial aid available?


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right t for your offspring. Ann Dolin,an educational consultant and authorof a Guide to Private Schools, pointsout that families tend to look at the

schools reputation. But just becausea school is hard to get into and has agreat reputation doesnt mean its theright t for your child.

Surfing for SchoolsSo, how do you nd the right t?

You can learn a great deal from theschools website. Start by looking atthe pictures and reading betweenthe lines. What do images project?Are students shown with their friendswearing colorful garb, or do imagesshow formally-dressed students

interacting one-on-one with teachers?Are the pictures showcasing academicsettings, or are there images featuringextracurricular activities? All of thesevisuals can provide insight into thezeitgeist of a school.

Most private school websites alsoinclude a mission statement. That


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statement should provide a senseof what a school is all about. Whilemission statements can be somewhatlofty, there are keywords that can clue

one into a schools true educationalphilosophy. Is the school described asprogressive or traditional; nurturingor rigorous; child-centered or self-motivating; competitive or creative?

Also look to the website toanswer the basic questions. Whereis the school located? Does it offertransportation? Does the scheduleand calendar sync up to schools yourother children may be attending?What does it cost? Does the schooloffer nancial aid? Is the schoolaccredited? Accreditation can be a

stamp of approval that a school ismeeting its mission and is nanciallysolvent. Of course, websites willalso touch upon the curriculum, thepedagogy, and statistics like class sizeand student-teacher ratio.

If you like what you see, look overthe admissions materials and visitthe school.

Taking a TourThere is no substitute for seeing

for yourself what a school is like.

Thats why visiting the campus isso important. Most schools offeropen houses and tours, especiallyduring the October to January timeperiod. According to Randy Hollister,headmaster at Loudoun CountryDay School, tours allow people whoare savvy to walk in, spend time andleave with a good feel for how things

Check to see if facilitiesare well-maintained. Does theschool have science labs, anauditorium, ample areas forathletics, and a well-stockedlibrary.

Joe McTighe, CAPE Executive Director


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are running. Plus, you can observethe mission statement in action.Hollister continues, How does theschool translate its mission into a

lived experience? During a visit, youneed to drill into what is the dailyexperience?

While on a tour, study theclassrooms. Dolin says its importantto observe class sizes, teachingstyles and classroom interaction. Areteachers mainly lecturing or are theyleading discussions? Are studentsencouraged to participate? Whetherin class or in the hallways, arestudents engaged and upbeat? Howdo they interact with their peers? Arethey orderly?

CAPEs McTighe recommends lookingat the physical plant as well. Checkto see if facilities are well-maintained.Does the school have science labs, anauditorium, ample areas for athletics,and a well-stocked library?

After touring, parents will beable to narrow down the options


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signicantly. The next step is likelyscheduling an interview with theadmissions offi cer. Private schoolsdo not accept everyone, even if a

child has an off-the-charts IQ or themusical talent of Bach. According toMarcia Miller, Director of Admissionsat the Nora School in Silver Spring.We are looking for t on our sideas well. We look for personalitytraits that dene how kids willget along with others. Are theyintellectual? Are they conversant?Are they affable? Are they easy toget along with? What leadershipqualities do they have? What dothey bring to the school? Accordingto McGovern of NAIS, We want

to build a cohesive student bodywhere students complement andstimulate one another. As a result,admissions directors may be tryingto develop a student body withgender balance, ethnic diversity,and diversity of perspectives andeconomic backgrounds.


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Financial Aid andMaking the Grade

The last two questions are crucial.

Even if you think you may nothave the means to afford privateeducation, dont dismiss thepossibilities out of hand. Almostevery private school offers nancialaid or scholarships. In fact, accordingto Dolin, its typical that schoolsprovide at least 25 percent of thestudent body with some type ofaid. Thats why, according to AIMSRon Goldblatt, Parents shouldntassume you cant go just because youdont make enough money. Theres atremendous amount of nancial aidfor families who need help. Privateschools are increasingly open to allrungs of the socioeconomic ladder.We have a gigantic commitment toequity and justice, and nding greatkids wherever they come from.

Loudoun Country Day SchoolsRandy Hollister concurs. We value

Private schools areincreasingly open to all rungs

of the socioeconomic ladder. We have a gigantic commitmentto equity and justice, andfinding great kids whereverthey come from.

Ron Goldblatt, AIMS Executive Director


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breadth of experience at the school,says Hollister. We want racial, ethnic,cultural and economic diversity.Thats part of the reason our nancialassistance budget has doubledduring the past ve years.

Of course, the academic trackrecord of a school is also key,particularly at the high school level.Ask about average SAT or ACTscores and the number of advancedplacement or college level offerings.See if the school has honors classesor an International Baccalaureateprogram. Is there a talented andgifted program? Ask about thecolleges graduates attend.

Scores and statistics, whilerevealing, dont provide the fullpicture, though. McTighe saysits also important to ask howthe school develops the wholechild aesthetically, athletically,and, of course, academically.plus

perhaps, culturally, spiritually andmorally as well.Remember that kids are likely to

be quite concerned with the socialaspects of the school community. AsDolin, emphasizes, they are going towant to be in a place where they feelthey t in. Many schools offer shadowdays for applicants, when prospectivestudents can follow around theirpeers to get a glimpse into a schools


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tenor. It will also give them a sense ofa typical day in the life of a school.

Decision TimeYouve done your research. Youve

taken the tour. Youve lled outapplications. After all of the physicaland mental legwork, its time to getdown to brass tacks. Before makingthe ultimate decision, Goldblattwould advise parents to have ameaningful conversation with theirchildren about the choices. Dontgo into that conversation with aninexible mindset. As Dolin pointsout, parents have to sit down andlisten and not just pass judgment. Infact, let your child voice his opinionsbefore stating yours. If kids offera good reason why a school isattractive to them, pay attention.Miller of the Nora School adds, Dontmake your kids go somewhere theydont want to go to they may beless likely to be engaged. Remember,a student needs to be happy in orderto thrive. With all of the choices outthere, theres no reason why a parentcant nd the perfect t.


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P otomac Crescent Waldorf Schoolin Arlington prides itself on itsLittle House on the Prairie look andlow-tech approach, while Flint HillSchool in Oakton puts iPads in thehands of grade-schoolers.

Silver Springs Siena School

connes the homework chaosto campus and out of the home,with daily study halls and longerFriday sessions. At St. Timothys inStevenson, students call the campushome during the school term. Theboarding school focuses on girlssocial and personal development aswell as the stringent academics of anInternational Baccalaureate program.

No matter your preference Montessori or Global Studies or yourfaith Catholic, Jewish, Episcopal orothers there are a range of high-quality private schools in the area.

Siena Director of Admissions BekahAtkinson says that variety is one of thegreat things about living in Metro D.C.

There are a lot of quality schoolshere, and every school is different.But thats where we live. We have somany options, and people are free to

D.C. areaprovidesquality schooloptions forstudents


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choose, Atkinson said.Nationally, the percentage of

students enrolled in private school hasdipped slightly in recent years, from

12 percent in 1995-96 to 10 percentin 2011-12, according to the NationalCenter for Education Statistics. At thesame time, enrollment in public charterschools has grown dramatically,according to the centers numbers.

Private and independent schoolsremain a force in metro D.C., though.In some neighborhoods, such asGeorgetown and Spring Valley, morethan half the students are educatedother than in public schools, accordingto data from the Urban Institute.

Atkinson says the area is known forthe quality of its private schools. Shellhear from parents who are determinedto move to the region so their childrencan benet from the offerings.

Their reasons vary, but many privateschool administrators these days arehearing that many parents want achange because of dissatisfactionwith test and performance pressurein public schools. Both Atkinsonand Potomac Crescent EnrollmentDirector Jenna Martin specicallymentioned parents concerned aboutkids coming home from school and

crying out of frustration.Well see people who come here forpreschool and never expect to stay, butthey do to avoid the pitfalls of publicschool, Martin said.

One big pitfall: The notion thatall children learn at the same pace.Reading in kindergarten does notmean a child will be a better readerin fourth grade, Martin said.

At Potomac Crescent, kindergarten

There are a lot of qualityschools here, and every schoolis different. But thats where welive. We have so many options,and people are free to choose.

Bekah Atkinson, Director ofAdmissions at Siena School


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is like parents remember from

a generation ago. There are noacademics, no drills and no oneunks, Martin said. They dontdecode. They are free to go out onthe playground and count the sticksand rocks if they want, she said.

Even the older grades have adistinctly old school feel, withwooden desks and chalkboards yes, actual chalkboards inthe classrooms, Martin said. Ourclassrooms almost look like LittleHouse on the Prairie.

There are no electronics in theschool, which enrolls students frompre-kindergarten through fth grade.There is plenty of time for that inmiddle school, Martin said.

Flint Hill, where students canattend from preschool through 12thgrade, takes a different tack, one thatfocuses on thoughtful integration ofcomputers and digital citizenship. Thekey, Dean of Faculty Emily Sandersonsaid, is creation, not consumption.

Flint Hill fourth-graders, forexample, have studied history


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by creating a movie trailer. Theyresearch the topic, developstoryboards, create narration thenpull the package together in iMovies,she said. Theyre doing all theresearch and then some, she said.They just dont realize it.

The schools Global Day of Play

uses a similar method. Throughthis project, the schools lower-grade students designed and builta playground, using cardboard andduct tape. An actual, functioningplayground, not a scale model,Sanderson said. High school studentshave built a working roller coaster.

Theyre learning physics. Notcomplex formulas, but how to do it.What does force and pressure meanto solids? They make calculations andmeasurements, she said.

The result is authentic learning.A playground is a relevant projectto that age group. They walk awaywith a feeling that they createdsomething, that they accomplishedsomething, she said.


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With monthly eld trips for itsgrades 4 through 12 students,Siena also creates opportunities forexperiential learning. The school

has a college prep program forstudents with mild to moderatelanguage-based learning challenges,such as dyslexia.

These students can succeed inpublic schools, but with two dozen ormore students in a single classroom,the numbers are against them. Sienaclassrooms have 10 students. TheEnglish teacher can go around to eachstudent and make sure theyre gettingit, Atkinson said.

The students are super brightbut learn and perform in different

ways. Methods such as multisensoryteaching and presentations insteadof paper tests help bring their talentsto the surface, Atkinson said.

Our kids are the what if? kids ofthe world, she said. They want toknow how something happens, whysomething happens. Sometimes itlooks like theyre not paying attention,but they are. Theyve just alreadyleaped 10 steps ahead of you.

Atkinson estimates that thereare 30 or more schools in the areathat serve students with a variety ofspecial needs. Parents can see the fullrange of offerings at the ExceptionalSchools Fair on Nov. 16 from 11 a.m.to 1 p.m. at the Katzen Arts Center onthe American University Campus.

Stop driving the Beltway, people,Atkinson said. Were all going to behere in one location.


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50 a b o u t NAIS member

schools withinabout 30miles of D.C.

22.7%of students in the above

schools receivedneed-based nancial aid

$ 28,975The median day school

tuition (all grades)among NAIS member

schools

$ 48,825The median boarding school

tuition (all grades) amongNAIS member schools

30.8%of all enrolled

students werestudents of color

and 3 percentwere international

students

Private Schools

FACTS

Source: 2013 Facts at A Glance, Association of Independent Schools ofGreater Washington. For more information on the data listed above,visit The National Association of Independent Schools at nais.org.


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5StrategiesforGetting InIn a town that is lled with high

achievers, what makes a privateschool applicant stand out?

You dont need to haveconnections to get in, and we dontwant everyone to be the same. We

want people to be themselves,said Margaret Hartigan, directorof admissions and nancial aid atBeauvoir School in Northwest D.C.

You also wouldnt want every schoolto be the same. As admission offi cersoften tell parents, the key is to nd theright t between child and school.

Even then, admission can be highlycompetitive. What can you do tohelp enhance your childs chances ofgetting into a school? We consultedThe School Counseling Group, basedin Washington, D.C., to come up withve key strategies:

When parents have clearly donetheir homework about our schooland know what we are offering andwhy that applies to them, then weare able to have real conversationsabout what that means to them andto us, said Mimi Mulligan, directorof admission at Norwood School in

1. Do the research.


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Bethesda, Md. Knowing that a familyhas invested time to learn about theschool prior to visiting indicates alevel of interest in the school.

In addition to reading a schoolsinformation and talking with parentswho have children there, you mightwant to attend an event such asan open house for prospectiveapplicants, a theater performance, ora sporting event.

Whatever you do, look closelyat the schools mission statement,suggests Hartigan. Ask yourself,Does this resonate with me? Its solovely for the school, the child, andthe family when everyone is prettymuch on the same page.

In what areas does your childseem to need more challenge? Whatactivities seem to be too diffi cult?How much academic rigor would

be suitable? How much structureor freedom would suit your child?The more deeply you understandyour childs needs, the better youcan identify appropriate schools andexplain why a particular school wouldbe a good match.

Seek honest feedback from trustedprofessionals who work closely withyour child, suggests Peter Sturtevant,director of The School Counseling

2. Understand your child.


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301.365.1100 www.TheHarborSchool.org 7701 Bradl ey Blvd. Bethesda, M D 20817

OPEN HOUSENovember 12December 4

January 14

To advertise in the nextPrivate Schools issue, please contact

Diane DuBois at 202.224.5224 orSherri Greeves at 202.334.5226

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Group, based in Washington, D.C.Schools really appreciate thisinformation, and it can also helpyou in getting to know your child,he noted. The feedback could comefrom a teacher, tutor, coach, school

counselor, employer, camp director,therapist, church youth group leader,or scout leader, for example.

Identifying areas for potentialgrowth in a child can help, ratherthan hinder, a childs admissionprospects. Every school recognizesthat nobodys perfect. Its usefulto provide some balance and not

just gloat over your child, saidSturtevant. There are ways to share

concerns that arent damning. Forexample, a parent may worry thata child puts too much pressure onherself or himself, or that the childseems too shy.

I enjoy a conversation when aparent shares stories with us asopposed to giving us an answer theythink we want to hear, said Mulligan.There is no right or wrong answer.Its personal.

Sharing anecdotes can help revealyour childs personality, show howhe or she approaches problems, and

3. Share stories.


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highlight where your child is mostsuccessful and why.

Parents are often so quick topoint out a childs accomplishments,

but I think schools are looking for adeeper understanding of the child,said Lindsay White, an educationalconsultant with The SchoolCounseling Group.

Schools appreciate honestyand openness. Im often taken byparents stories, their compassionabout their child and their hopes anddreams, said Hartigan. Admissiondirectors really do enjoy gettingto know the families. Its exciting,fascinating, and humbling.

Admission offi cers like to hear abouta child, but they also appreciate familymembers who listen and show a desireto learn more about the school.

I want parents to feel comfortableasking questions, said Hartigan. Ilove answering, and I learn a lot aboutwhat is important to parents.

Many families have questionsabout nancial aid, and schools wantparents to feel comfortable asking.While schools cant always meet100 percent of every applicants fulldemonstrated need, independentschools in the Washington, D.C. areatypically make admission decisionswithout regard to nancial need. Youshould feel comfortable a schoolsadmission policy is need-blind.

When visiting, ask how parents getinvolved in the school community.Schools realize that parent have

different schedules, needs, andinterests. Whether you can volunteeron campus, manage a fundraiser, or

just spend time with your child athome, it is helpful to identify waysthat you can be supportive.

While schools dont want parentsto micromanage, they value parentswho are respectfully and eagerlyengaged in their childs education,says Sturtevant.

4. Listen and learn.

5. Show support.


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Directory DISTRICT OF COLUMBIAAidan Montessori SchoolAges 18 months6th gradeAidan is a nurturing independent schoolthat offers an authentic Montessorieducation, where children develop a lifetimelove and motivation for learning.aidanschool.orgTel: 2023872700

Beauvoir, the NationalCathedral Elementary SchoolPreKGrade 3Founded in 1933, as a primary schooldedicated to educating a diverse studentbody in a caring and creative environment.beauvoirschool.orgTel: 2025376493

British School of WashingtonAt British School of Washington, yourfamily will be part of a diverse internationalcommunity representing more than sixtycountries. Your child will learn from teacherswith international experience and expertise.With International Baccalaureate scoresconsistently above the world average,our students are accepted into leadinguniversities around the world.britishschoolofwashington.orgTel: 202-829-3700

Edmund Burke SchoolGrades 6 12Challenging academics, worldclass arts,championship sports, and a commitment toleadership and service in an inclusive anddiverse coed college prep school.burkeschool.orgTel: 202362888Fax: 2023621914

Lowell SchoolPrePrimaryMiddle SchoolA diverse and inclusive community oflifelong learners; an active, challenging andintegrated curriculum; an education thatpromotes personal voice, choice and action.lowellschool.orgTel: 2025772000

Sheridan SchoolGrades K8Progressive, student centered, nurturingand challenging, concept based curriculumviewed through a multicultural lens.sheridanschool.orgTel: 2023627900

St. Anselms Abbey SchoolGrades 612St. Anselms Abbey School helps brightboys become exceptional men. Serving255 students, the school offers a balancedand challenging academic program,personal attention for every student, myriadleadership opportunities, and a spiritualfoundation rooted in the 1,500yearoldBenedictine tradition.saintanselms.orgTel: 2022692379

Washington InternationalSchoolPreK (Age 4)Grade 12Culminating in the InternationalBaccalaureate Diploma Program, WIS ismultilingual and multicultural in both beliefand practice and educates students to beresponsible and effective world citizens.wis.eduTel: 2022431815

MARYLAND

Barrie SchoolAge 2Grade 12Founded in 1932, Barrie School is acoeducational independent school justnorth of Glenmont Station in S ilver Spring.The 45acre campus supports a Montessorilower school and a handson, projectbasedmiddle and upper school.barrie.orgTel: 3015762800

Charles E. Smith JewishDay SchoolGrades K12An independent day school with emphasison academic success in an environmentthat nurtures a strong Jewish identity.At CESJDS, connections are a part ofthe complete educational experience.Connections to Judaism, community,history and ideas help our students connectto success.cesjds.orgTel: 3016924870

Chelsea SchoolGrades 512Chelsea School is an MSDE & OSSEapproved nonpublic school servingstudents with specic languagebasedlearning differences and ADD/ADHD in arigorous, college preparatory environmentwith completer pathways in advancedtechnology, a 4:1 teacherstudent ratio, anda multisensory approach to learning.chelseaschool.eduTel: 2404672100 X. 303

Concord Hill SchoolAge 3Grade 3Early childhood; small classes with twoteachers; emphasizing academic, social anddevelopmental growth; call to schedule aparent visit.concordhill.orgTel: 3016542626

Connelly School of theHoly ChildGrades 612Experience the Exhilaration of ExcellenceACatholic, independent college preparatoryschool for young women, featuring a courseof study grounded in a challenging, creative,and experiential curriculum. Academicexcellence, personal spiritual growth, andactive social responsibility are valued andexpected; individual attention is our hallmark.holychild.orgTel: 3013650955

Elizabeth Seton High SchoolGrades 9-12, young womenElizabeth Seton High School educates youngwomen by engaging them in a challenging,college preparatory curriculum, the teachingsof the Catholic Church, and service to others.We foster an inclusive, diverse, and safecommunity that encourages academic,athletic, artistic and spiritual growth.setonhs.orgTel: 301-864-4532Fax: 301-864-8946

German School Washington D.C.Coeducational, age 2Grade 12The best of U.S. and German academiceducation in a truly international environment.Students graduate with High School Diplomaand German International Abitur. Knowledgeof German not required for admission to preKand Kindergarten. Bus service to D.C., MD, VA.Extended care until 5:00pm. Open House Nov.7, 10 a.m.3 [email protected]: 301.767.3815

Grace Episcopal Day SchoolAge 3Grade 5

Founded in 1960, Grace is a coeducational,Episcopal School in Kensington, MD, thatprovides every student the opportunity foracademic excellence in a caring, nurturing,moral environment that embraces diversityand promotes creativity, selfcondence, andservice to others.www.geds.orgTel: 3019495860


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Green Acres School

North BethesdaAge 3Grade 8Green Acres challenges and inspires studentsto live and learn with intellect, curiosity,determination, joy, and compassion.Progressive. Coed. Transportation available.Halfday PreK option.greenacres.org

The Harbor SchoolPreschool through Second GradeDeveloping the mind and the creative spirit.Our belief that all children are brilliant anddelightfully unique compels us to nd,nurture and sustain the passion that allowseach child to shine. Accredited by AIMS andfocused exclusively on early childhood.theharborschool.orgTel: [email protected]

HoltonArms SchoolGrades 312Since 1901, HoltonArms has preparedyoung women to lead lives of positiveinuence in an everchanging world,embrace intellectual curiosity, emboldencreative thinking, and develop tenacity ofpurpose in all that they do. Holton studentsembody the school motto: I will nd a wayor make one.holtonarms.eduTel: 3013655300

Norwood SchoolGrades K8Norwood uses the proven power of aK8 education in a diverse, inclusive, andconnected community to inspire joy inlearning and engage the whole child ina challenging and dynamic academicprogram. Norwoods motto is: How you leadyour life matters.norwoodschool.orgTel.: 3018412130Fax: 3018414636

McLean School of MarylandGrades K12McLean is a college preparatory schoolserving students with different LEARNINGSTYLES and different LEARNING NEEDS.We make learning accessible and we identify,support and provide strategies for each childthrough a STUDENT LEARNING PROFILE.McLean offers a TRADITIONAL CURRICULUM;what sets us apart is HOW our teachersdeliver that curriculum in the classroom.mcleanschool.orgTel: 2403950698Fax: 3012991639

The Nora SchoolGrades 912, coedSmall classes make a big difference,especially in high school. The Nora School isa deliberately small, independent collegepreparatory high school that works to bringout the best in students with a varietyof learning styles. Celebrating our 50thanniversary. Think Differently.noraschool.orgTel: 3014956672Fax: 3014957829

OnenessFamily SchoolFounded in 1988, OnenessFamily Schoolis an independent international Montessorischool for children age 2 to 8th grade.onenessfamily.orgTel: 3016527751

Sandy Spring Friends SchoolGrades PreK12Coed, college preparatory, outstandingacademics, arts, athletics; Quaker values; 140acre wooded campus. Optional boarding 912.Summer camps. International/ESL programs.ssfs.orgTel: 3017747455Fax: 3019241115

The Siena SchoolGrades 412Coed college preparatory school servingbright students with languagebased

learning differences and average to aboveintelligence.thesienaschool.orgTel: 3012443600Fax: 3012443601

St. Timothys SchoolGrades 912Leading collegepreparatory boarding &day secondary school for girls offering theIB Diploma. New, stateoftheart academicfacility and Dining Commons; exceptionalopportunities in academics, athletics, and thearts; all iPad environment.stt.orgEmail: [email protected]

Stone Ridge School of theSacred HeartPreKGrade 12A Catholic, independent, collegepreparatory school for girls, Grades 112,with a coeducational Preschool, PreKindergarten, Kindergarten, and EarlyChildhood Program, located in Bethesda,MD. Empowering leaders to serve with faith,intellect, and condence. Member of theNetwork of Sacred Heart Schools.stoneridgeschool.org

Washington Episcopal SchoolNursery (Age 3)Grade 8Coeducational day; strong academicsbalanced with arts, sports, foreign language(from preK), technology, and a spirit ofcommunity. Foreign study trips included intuition; excellent graduate outplacementfor students who are kind, condent andprepared.wes.orgTel: 3016527878

Washington Waldorf SchoolThe Washington Waldorf School blends artswith stellar academics in a developmentallyappropriate curriculum unique in the D.C.area. Our distinctive approach developsstudents fully, so that they are preparedto engage the world creatively and withdetermination. Our students enjoy school,and our alumni thrive at great colleges andvaried careers all over the world. PreK12.washingtonwaldorf.orgTel: 3012296107

VIRGINIA

Alexandria Country Day SchoolGrades K8ACDS is a K8, coed, nonsectarianindependent school located in the Del Raysection of Alexandria, Va. In small classesof 13 on average our students are taught

to be independent learners, effectivecommunicators, balanced and communityminded. Learn more by scheduling a visittoday!acdsnet.orgTel: 7035484804

Aquinas Montessori &Old Town Montessori SchoolsAges 312Association Montessori Internationaleaccredited program since 1965. Montessoriphilosophy and methods provide joyin learning, opportunity for choice andacademic and personal growth.aquinasmontessorischool.comTel: 7037808484Fax: 703360 2875Old Town 7036847323

Brooksfield SchoolPreschoolGrade 4A Montessori program dedicated to the artsand outdoors, with extended day availablefrom 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.brookseldschool.orgTel: 7033565437Fax: 7033566620Email: [email protected]


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Burgundy FarmCountry Day SchoolGrades JK8Inclusive, nurturing environment engages thewhole child. Innovative, handson approachcultivates independent thinking, academicexcellence, respect and responsibility.burgundyfarm.orgTel: 7039603431

The CongressionalSchools of VirginiaInfantGrade 8Coed day school on 40 wooded acres.Our innovative and accelerated curriculumprepares children for the opportunities theywill face as global citizens.congressionalschools.org7035339711

Flint Hill SchoolTransitional Kindergarten12th gradeAn Apple Distinguished School, Flint Hilloffers a challenging college preparatorycurriculum that includes a 1:1 technologyprogram; 24 AP offerings; language coursesin Mandarin, Spanish, French, Latin andGreek; and extensive exposure to art,drama, music, dance and athletics.inthill.orgTel: 7035842310

Grace Episcopal School(Alexandria)Preschool Grade 5For more than half a century, weve fosteredan enthusiasm for learning through ourprogram of academic excellence in a

nurturing environment. Students receiveindividual attention in small classes, and areinspired to learn and develop intellectually,physically, and spiritually.graceschoolalex.orgTel: 7035495067

The Langley SchoolPreschoolGrade 8The Langley School is an independent coedday school educating nearly 500 students.Langley offers a wellrounded program ofrigorous academics, ne arts, athletics, andservice learning with a 7:1 student/teacherratio. Bus service and extended day programsare available.langleyschool.orgTel: 7033561920Fax: 7037909712

Loudoun Country Day SchoolPreKGrade 8PreK 8th grade award winning schoolfeaturing low studentteacher ratio. Curriculumincludes art, technology, languages, athletics,vocal & string instruments. BYOT (Bring YourOwn Technology) program in middle school.Emphasis on critical and creative thinking.Outstanding eld trips.LCDS.org

Metzger Academy Metzger Academy is a fully licensedChinese and Spanish immersion languagepreschool and home daycare. Our classesand activities are for children from 2months to 5 years. With lots of love andpositive encouragement, the children gainexposure to art, culture and science as wellas develop good manners, social interactionand politeness. We are located in Vienna,VA 22181. Look us up at metzgeracademy.com or call us at 703-2812378!

Potomac Crescent Waldorf SchoolPotomac Crescent Waldorf School seeks toeducate the whole child: head, heart, andhands. The child is at the center of all wedo. The faculty work to allow the Waldorfapproach to provide each child with afutureoriented education, where lastingcapacities and skills serve the student for life.potomaccrescentschool.orgTel: 7034861309

The Potomac SchoolKindergartenGrade 12An independent, coed college preparatoryday school, founded in 1904. 3 miles fromD.C.. Guided by the foundational principlesof academic excellence and personalcharacter, Potomac prepares students to leadexemplary lives. Extensive bus transportationsystem; beautiful 90acre campus; smallclasses; richly varied curriculum.potomacschool.orgTel: 7037496313

Madeira SchoolGrades 912, boarding and day. Madeiras376acre campus is located 15 minutesfrom Washington, D.C. in McLean, Virginia.Offering a rigorous academic programand the unprecedented opportunity for

juniors to intern on Capitol Hill as part of theawardwinning CoCurriculum program.Madeiras mission is Launching womenwho change the world. madeira.orgTel: 7035568273

Merritt AcademyInfantsGrade 6We believe that there is more to aneducation than knowing the right answer;its about knowing whats right. EveryMerritt student (Infant6th grade) receivesan engaging academic experience withemphasis on character development.Elementary students develop leadershipand critical thinking skills in small classesled by innovative and experienced teachers.MerrittAcademy.orgTel: 7032738000

Randolph Macon Academy Grades 612, PGOur mission is to develop studentsof academic achievement, integrity,leadership, and responsible citizenship,prepared for success in life. We offer 5dayboarding for grades 68, and and 7dayboarding for grades 612. Our graduatingclasses have a 100% college acceptancerate and average $6.7 million in collegescholarships each year.rma.eduTel: 8002721172

St. Stephens &St. Agnes SchoolGrades JK12Independent, coed, collegepreparatoryEpiscopal school located on threebeautiful campuses in Alexandria. Ourstudents receive challenging academicswithin a supportive community and areconsistently admitted to toptier colleges.Our students pursue goodness as wellas knowledge, while developing 21stcentury skills and global perspectives.Morningcare, afterschool programs, andtransportation offered.sssas.orgTel: 7032122705

Our Savior Lutheran SchoolPreKGrade 8Providing Christian education in the heartof Arlington for over 60 years. Rigorousacademics, Saxon math, small classes.Diverse student body, affordable tuition,extended daycare optional. Close to

Pentagon.osva.orgTel: 7038924846email: offi [email protected]

EDUCATIONALCONSULTANTS

The School Counseling GroupDay Schools, Boarding Schools, College,Therapeutic Programs. The SchoolCounseling Group utilizes a collaborativeand compassionate approach to guideand support families through the processof nding the best educational andtherapeutic placements for children,adolescents, and young [email protected]: 2023333530

This special advertising section was producedby The Washington Post Custom ContentDepartment and did not involve The WashingtonPost news or editorial staff. These articles werewritten by Nancy Henderson, Laura Powelland other freelance writers hired by the TheWashington Post Custom Content Department.For more information, contact Diane DuBois at202-334-5224 or Sherri Greeves at 202-334-5226.

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PrivateSchools 11.02.14