Washington Episcopal School (WES)

[doktorbubo]

I would welcome any feedback you have on Washington Episcopal School (WES).
I read some of the earlier comments on the board, which were quite mixed. I'd love to hear from people who have some current experience with the school.

Many thanks in advance!

[Anonymous]

I have two children currently at WES, 2nd grade and Kindergarten, do you have specific questions? Our family loves the school. Our third child will be attending Nursery in the fall.

[Anonymous]

What kind of afterschool enrichment classes are available for Pre-K and K?

[doktorbubo]

WES

[Anonymous]

We're a family that left WES. Like all schools, it's a great fit for some kids and not others. Academically, it's good. But I had a younger child who is very sensitive and was unhappy there. The administrators were not very helpful so we left.

[Anonymous]

The academics are so so. Several teachers who should be retired. Lots of complaints and nothing done--unless the new head is finally taking care of some old problems. Look at some other schools to get a comparison.

[Anonymous]

New poster here. Your son sounds like mine, OP. He's also introverted and eager to learn and please. I wondered if less structure might actually benefit him, even though I know he likes routine and clear expectations.

We went with WES and both our kids are thriving. We found the kindergarten teachers to be really caring and kind. The class size is small, so they know each child very well. They will be as invested in your child's success as you are. The school puts a lot of resources into helping each child move at their own pace while motivating him/her to reach. Differentiated instruction really helps, as does having a great peer group. The new Head is bringing more technology into the classrooms and that seems to be sparking some innovation.

I find the last poster's assertion that the academics are "so so" to be way off. This is one of the most challenging curriculums in any elementary school in the area. You need only take a look at the outplacement to confirm that the top high schools think so, also. In transition and kindergarten, I remember it mostly being play-based learning so I don't think you'd find it too rigid or regimented.

It's a traditional education, so yes, they expect good behavior in the classroom. It's similar to the approach that NPS, Beauvoir, St Pats, Concord HIll takes, as opposed to GDS, Sidwell, Lowell, etc. It's balanced by loads of time outside, in the gym, in "movement" class.

Can't say enough good things about this wonderful program. Hope you find the best school for your child.

[Anonymous]

WES is a terrific school that is only going to get better. We very seriously considered it for our daughter, but went elsewhere for personal reasons unrelated to the school.

[Anonymous]

The metro area is full of kids and families who left WES. Ask around.

[Anonymous]

The new Head is coming from St. Alban's. I have a lot of respect for him and so sad that he is leaving his current position.

[Anonymous]

No, PP, the new head of GRACE Episcopal is coming from St. ALBANS and will start later this year. WES has a new head of school who started last fall and he moved from another city.

[Anonymous]

Thanks so much! OP here. I appreciate everyone's replies. It seems that as one of the earlier poster's put it, it's great for some kids and not for the others.
I guess I just have to figure out what's the best fit for my child. It's not easy.. ugghh..
I think our ideal school would be nurturing, structured and academically-challenging all at the same time )

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:No, PP, the new head of GRACE Episcopal is coming from St. ALBANS and will start later this year. WES has a new head of school who started last fall and he moved from another city.

you are right - sorry for confusing the discussion.