HELP: Ross elementary school feedback

[Anonymous]

Unknown:
- is the discipline exemplary? Coming from a school where discipline is a major issue, it is important for us to find a school where discipline is not a major issue.

As a parent at this school for a few years I can say there are no discipline issues that I know of.

- are science and social studies taught well in the classroom?

There is no dedicated science teacher that I know of, I think one is mandatory at the upper grades 4 and 5, but I don't think they have a specialist, but does that really matter? I don't know. Social studies is taught well.

- is teacher attrition low and is the quality of the teachers consistently high across grade levels?

Teacher attrition is very high. And strange given that it is a high socio economic school. I read somewhere that teacher turnover at DCPS high socioeconomic schools is 3 or 4 %, at Ross it is more like 20%.

- how is the principal?

I think if you ask all the teachers that leave they would be able to give some teacher feedback to that, but as a parent I have no issues with her. Except is is a big shame to see great teacher after great teacher leave the school.


- is the school good at challenging advanced learners?

Yes and no. They do their best, it depends on the teacher and specialist resources. The reading is leveled better than the math, but also this is no big deal given it is elementary school. Generally speaking there is no slacking off for anyone.

- does it ever feel too small a peer group?

Yes for some kids it is. If your kids needs to mix it up with new friend options every year then this school is not going to work for them. They form strong friendships though which is very nice. The middle school at FS is also small for a middle school but it will be good for kids to go there in a few years and broaden their social network a bit.

[Anonymous]

Thank you so much for this thoughtful feedback.