Bethesda Elementary - Looking for feedback

[Anonymous]

Bump!

I'm not the OP, but DD will start K at BE in fall 2015. I see that the school expansion is scheduled to be completed Summer 2015. My gut says, "yeah right". Anyone else have thoughts?

[Anonymous]

It sounds like the plans for expansion are on track. My son was excited because his class got to meet with the architect to discuss aspects of the plans including a cool, green/living roof. Hopefully it will all go smoothly and won't be too distracting. The school, like all schools isn't perfect, BUT the administration is excellent and I am confident they will work hard to ensure that the expansion project isn't too disruptive to the normal functioning of the school and the students.

Our biggest complaint is regarding class sizes, especially since it is an inclusion school. 27-28 kids per class is just too much for a single teacher to handle, but to have such large classes with such a wide range of student needs can sometimes be overwhelming and we worry that our kids get lost in that mix. It would be nice if parent volunteers were used on a more regular basis in the classroom to assist with reading groups, writing workshops, etc. That was a big part of our experience at previous schools and with the large class sizes I would think they would embrace that idea, but that doesn't seem to be the case (or perhaps it is just the preference of the teachers my kids have this year).

Here are the things we do like: We like the fact that the school has such an interesting mix of nationalities (there are kids from all over the world!), is welcoming to military families, and has great cultural programming. The PTA is a vibrant organization and clearly works hard to provide some great opportunities for students both during school and after-school (the optional after school activities are fabulous). The principal and vice principal are both excellent...very professional, warm, and responsive. The school does a nice job of organizing events outside of school for families...Skate night, back-to school picnic, and the school also does an excellent job of communicating with families (via e-mail, phone, newsletter, and Friday folders).