Evaluating Catholic schools K-8 in MoCo

[Anonymous]

Can anyone give references on Woods Academy, in Bethesda? many thanks

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Another evaulation criteria is class size. Many classes are approaching 30 kids per class in some schools.

In our Catholic school we have 26-30 students in some classes with a teacher and an aide (who is generally a second teacher doing lessons as well, not just a "babysitter") which is a better ratio than the 22-24:1 in public school.

The larger class size can also be a benefit when you have a group of kids who move together through the grades. More variety and friends to be with without sacrificing the stability that comes with staying together.

[Anonymous]

How about St. Barts in Bethesda? Any feedback from any current parents?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:The school performs very well on all tests however it isn't known for its academics. I believe the new principal is quietly making changes to support a more academically focused environment. The Kindergarten had some changes this year and next year some more (the start date is more or less coinciding with the other kids start dates for example vs a delayed start for interviews). The field is suffering thru the DC permit process. I know they formed a new committee to tackle this head on. Also they will be installing an artificial surface right away so this is good news as any soccer parent knows.

At BS, what changes do they plan to make in the kindergarten, other than the start date? Also, do the teachers work to engage the kids, or is it more of a lecture type of teaching?

[Anonymous]

Regarding BS, I would call the principal at the school to answer your first question. I had a K'er this past year and it went very well but i don't know other changes planned. It was more academic than my other child's experience.

On your second question, Definitely NOT lecture mode. The style is learning thru play.