Smaller NoVA privates for middle/high school

[Anonymous]

DS is at a small private for elementary but will need to switch to another for MS and HS. What are folks' thoughts on all the smaller NoVA privates. We are not interested in Potomac, Flint Hill, or SSSA or in any religious schools. Also, not really interested in K-8s as our DS would have to switch again for HS. I am thinking of the following schools (but maybe I am missing some) - New School of Northern Virginia, GW Community School, Sycamore School, Howard Gardner School. DS is interested in art, music, theater. DS is a decent student, stronger in math / science, but not far advanced beyond grade level. Went to local public for k-1 and was very unhappy (loud, disruptions, bullying) much happier in small private and has asked to stay in small environment. Appreciate any advice! We live in an area convenient to both Arlington and Fairfax.

[Anonymous]

You may want to look at Field and Burke- both sound like they'd fit the bill other than the fact that they are in DC. Burke is across from a metro stop and Field has shuttle busses. If you aren't ready for DC to do that commute yet, you could look at Congressional for middle school and then transfer to Burke or Field for high school.

[Anonymous]

I was also going to recommend Field and Burke. I certainly would not recommend the Sycamore school. It’s even tinier than Field/Burke! There are 63 students in the entire school – I would be concerned about theater opportunities for your student…

I do know some people that have gone there as a last resort when there only other optionwas homeschooling.

[Anonymous]

I think it’s important to identify the reasons you’re looking for the schools that you’ve identified. To the PP, Field and Burke do, indeed, sound like they fit the bill. But, they are mainstream schools with a wider capacity to support kids that may (or may not) need a bit of extra attention.

Sycamore and New School are loved by families that attend them, but they are very different. Both are specifically in existence to support kids might not do well in a more traditional environment (either socially, with learning differences, whatever).

Help us understand what exactly you’re seeking in terms of school profile and what your kid might need or benefit from.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:You may want to look at Field and Burke- both sound like they'd fit the bill other than the fact that they are in DC. Burke is across from a metro stop and Field has shuttle busses. If you aren't ready for DC to do that commute yet, you could look at Congressional for middle school and then transfer to Burke or Field for high school.

Stay away from Field, it has loads of issues and not a lot of ethics.

[Anonymous]

Really tiny schools can be claustrophobic. If you have any issues you are screed and I mean kids being with classmates. If there's social differences, chemistry issues, bullying, etc. our experience is a larger medium sized school is best. Your kids need a wider net to find their tribe. Smaller social circles is super tough and in the real world, life simply does not work that way.

[Anonymous]

GW Community School has incredibly kind students and a surprisingly good mix for the size.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:You may want to look at Field and Burke- both sound like they'd fit the bill other than the fact that they are in DC. Burke is across from a metro stop and Field has shuttle busses. If you aren't ready for DC to do that commute yet, you could look at Congressional for middle school and then transfer to Burke or Field for high school.

Stay away from Field, it has loads of issues and not a lot of ethics.

There seems to be a sour grapes poster who is always saying the same thing about Field. Our family has kids at Field and have had a great experience for all of our kids. Families who think a school is going to fix all their kids issues are super naïve and have unrealistic expectations. Field is a safe and supportive space for kids…. Those with with learning differences, And other differences that have made them uncomfortable in the public school environment.

[Anonymous]

OP Here - thanks so much for responses. DS is a curious kid, smart but not motivated to excel in traditional academic setting, but likes learning, hands-on learning, being outside etc. Enjoys things like nature center programs, theater camp, writing comic books. He was evaluated for ADHD, but did not meet criteria, but we may revisit at some point as his executive functioning is not great. He's on the shy-er side, doesn't like chaotic, noisy environments - shuts down. We are looking for a school that can support his interests, challenge him academically, but is not competitive. DH and I aren't super focused on college placement. one reason the NoVa school appeal to us is the price, some are $25k less than bigger privates. We likely can't afford those without financial aid.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:OP Here - thanks so much for responses. DS is a curious kid, smart but not motivated to excel in traditional academic setting, but likes learning, hands-on learning, being outside etc. Enjoys things like nature center programs, theater camp, writing comic books. He was evaluated for ADHD, but did not meet criteria, but we may revisit at some point as his executive functioning is not great. He's on the shy-er side, doesn't like chaotic, noisy environments - shuts down. We are looking for a school that can support his interests, challenge him academically, but is not competitive. DH and I aren't super focused on college placement. one reason the NoVa school appeal to us is the price, some are $25k less than bigger privates. We likely can't afford those without financial aid.

Sycamore is perfect for kids who get overwhelmed elsewhere precisely because it is so small and focuses on executive functioning support among other priorities. There is a theater club that does a small show every fall and spring and a music class with a few students for those who want to do that at school.

The biggest plus is the mastery-based curriculum and project-based assessments along with frequent field trips; all of that sounds like it would engage your DC in a constructive environment.

You should certainly talk to the HOS or Admissions director and find out more. t's a great school for the specific population it caters to. There are weekly tours you can join.