| We're deciding between WES and Norwood for K. What are the main differences (strengths/weaknesses) of these two schools in the early years? |
| Location, location, location. |
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Both are excellent schools. I think there are other older threads on this, but I agree with PP about location. We considered both and went with WES (yes, it's closer to our home), largely for their outstanding science and art programs. DC is excited every morning to go to school.
Good luck! |
| Norwood especially if you have a boy. Many boys leave after2nd or 3rd grade. The class size through 8th is very small. Facilities at Norwood are better. Music and art are equal. Norwood has a very well refaced music program. Exmissions are good from both. |
| Sorry refaced should be regarded auto correct! |
| I agree with the PP. if you have a boy, Norwood all the way. WES can be stifling for some boys. |
| WES has had retention problems of late. Go with Norwood. Way better facility and loads more opportunties for auxiliary programs and extrcurriculars as you moved towards Middle School. Lots of land to run around and explore at Norwood. |
| WES has had retention problems of late. Go with Norwood. Way better facility and loads more opportunties for auxiliary programs and extrcurriculars as you moved towards Middle School. Lots of land to run around and explore at Norwood. |
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WES parent here. I can only say positive things about WES. I do not agree with the negative comments as my DS is having a great time there.
I have no information about Norwood and I am sure it is a great school like WES. Please bear in mind that one would need good data to compare retention rates of different schools and before making such negative/strong claims. At the end where you live will matter for school choice. Also, if you have not already done so, ask the admissions office to attend some of the class rooms in both schools and then decide. Good luck! |
| Regarding WES--If you have not already done so, ask the Admissions Office for class turnover ratios. That will be informative and will give you some factual information regarding WES' retention. |
And by all means, ask the class turnover ratio question to Norwood admissions office, possibly broken down by gender. Additionally, statistics on where the graduating class end up, again broken down by gender would also be useful from all schools. Regardless of where you apply these are useful questions... |
| Any Virginia students at either? How is the commute? |
| Don't know much about WES but our son is very happy at Norwood. We moved him form another private school three years ago and he is thriving tremendously. The music program is very nice as well. |
| Many Virginia families I am friends with at Norwood are pleased with their choice and it's worth the commute. |
| Norwood has stronger HS placements. |