Hearst vs. Janney

[Anonymous]

We are IB for Hearst, but got notification yesterday that we got lottery spots at Janney (proximity preference) for both of my sons. They will be in Kindergarten and preK4 next year, and are both at a private preschool now. Does anyone with experience at either or both schools have advice? We feel very lucky to have two great options, but are a little torn about what to do. We live in between the schools, and Janney is actually slightly closer. Janney obviously has a great reputation, but we like that Hearst is smaller and more diverse. We have heard mostly good things about Hearst from neighbors, and know less about Janney. We would appreciate any insights! Thanks so much.

[Anonymous]

Janney hands down. Hearst is off the rails. I’m a Hearst parent and put in for the lottery at all neighboring schools. We have had kids starting fires, hitting teachers, cussing out teachers and the principal, etc.

[Anonymous]

I don't think you can go wrong. I'd choose what is easier. If one is walkable, choose that Most people walk to Janney did it stinks to be a driver plus the kids will walk solo when they're older.

[Anonymous]

I know little about Hearst, but we are very happy at Janney. Great teachers, nice outdoor space, garden, greenhouse, good after school care and enrichment program. They even offer summer camp now. Lots of international families (we are one).

[Anonymous]

I'd go with the one that is closer. Walking to school is an invaluable option if you have it.

[Anonymous]

I like the smaller feel of Hearst. I know families at Janney who are looking for other options.

Also - if there is any chance that your child has a learning difference (Adhd, dyslexia) the Janney is known for being horrible. Their head of Special Needs does things her way and no one (not even teachers) will challenge her.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I like the smaller feel of Hearst. I know families at Janney who are looking for other options.

Also - if there is any chance that your child has a learning difference (Adhd, dyslexia) the Janney is known for being horrible. Their head of Special Needs does things her way and no one (not even teachers) will challenge her.

I have a child with an IEP at Janney and our experience has been positive. The student support staff that my child is actually working with is great.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I don't think you can go wrong. I'd choose what is easier. If one is walkable, choose that Most people walk to Janney did it stinks to be a driver plus the kids will walk solo when they're older.

We are lucky enough to be able to walk to both, but Janney is a little closer, and it's more convenient to the Metro on the days I commute. This is helpful, thanks!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I like the smaller feel of Hearst. I know families at Janney who are looking for other options.

Also - if there is any chance that your child has a learning difference (Adhd, dyslexia) the Janney is known for being horrible. Their head of Special Needs does things her way and no one (not even teachers) will challenge her.

I have a child with an IEP at Janney and our experience has been positive. The student support staff that my child is actually working with is great.

The staff is good (OT/Speech etc)- they really try to help the child.
The Student Support Services Coordinator has a reputation.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I like the smaller feel of Hearst. I know families at Janney who are looking for other options.

Also - if there is any chance that your child has a learning difference (Adhd, dyslexia) the Janney is known for being horrible. Their head of Special Needs does things her way and no one (not even teachers) will challenge her.

I have a child with an IEP at Janney and our experience has been positive. The student support staff that my child is actually working with is great.

The staff is good (OT/Speech etc)- they really try to help the child.
The Student Support Services Coordinator has a reputation.

I know she does, but we have found her supportive as well. Not everybody has problems with her, and it hasn't affected my child's experience. I understand others may have different experiences, but I also get the impression that there are some people on this forum who are out to get back at her.

[Anonymous]

Both of those are fine schools. I would pick based on the ease of commute.

[Anonymous]

Sounds like you could try Janney out and if it’s not your vibe, always go back to Hearst. Esp if you got in for PK4 and didn’t at Hearst.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I like the smaller feel of Hearst. I know families at Janney who are looking for other options.

Also - if there is any chance that your child has a learning difference (Adhd, dyslexia) the Janney is known for being horrible. Their head of Special Needs does things her way and no one (not even teachers) will challenge her.

I strongly disagree with the bolded part.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I like the smaller feel of Hearst. I know families at Janney who are looking for other options.

Also - if there is any chance that your child has a learning difference (Adhd, dyslexia) the Janney is known for being horrible. Their head of Special Needs does things her way and no one (not even teachers) will challenge her.

I have a child with an IEP at Janney and our experience has been positive. The student support staff that my child is actually working with is great.

+1 child with an IEP and we’ve had a positive experience as well. We love the walkability, school community, after care/enrichment programs, and the overall organization and administration of the school. And Janney isn’t as big as it used to be at the moment. I think enrollment was around 680 this year down from
780 the prior year. I suspect they will lose more kids this year to covid relocations/moves, etc. I’m guessing that’s how you got a lottery spot for both of your kids.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Sounds like you could try Janney out and if it’s not your vibe, always go back to Hearst. Esp if you got in for PK4 and didn’t at Hearst.

If commute is not an issue then I would do this.