Arlington Traditional

[Anonymous]

My daughter just finished kindergarten at ATS. We love it. We chose it over our really good neighborhood school for two reasons: (1) we are thinking of moving in a few years so an option school would mean more stability for our kids snd allow us to look beyond our neighborhood and b) being immigrants we loved how diverse the school is as opposed to our neighborhood school. We have had a great experience so far. My daughter’s writing skills have improved tremendously and they really do emphasize the basics. She loves her teacher who she thinks is hilarious so there is lots of love and fun in the school as well. Admittedly it’s not for everyone. My husband and I both went to private schools with uniforms so the dress code (which we haven’t experienced yet) isn’t an issue for us. Neither is the more structured learning environment (again a feature of the private schools we went to). There is a lot of homework (around 30 minutes a day) which I find annoying but not annoying enough to pull her out of ATS. Then again it’s probably why my daughter’s writing abilities improved so much. I wonder if I would have seen the same benefit with homework had school been in person (I’m assuming they would do more writing in the classroom with in person learning). One thing that excites me about next year is their emphasis on music and the arts which makes my daughter loves. My second will be in kindergarten at ATS next year so I’m curious as to whether my perspective on the school changes when it is in person.

ATS is not perfect. When compared to our neighborhood school class sizes are better. I also wish they would emphasize outdoor learning more, the way they do in Campbell and to a certain extent our neighborhood school. I wish APS would do a comprehensive evaluation of all its schools and incorporate the successful parts of each school’s curriculum into all of APS schools. Clearly ATS is doing something special when it comes to reading and writing (also the high expectations it has of students seems to make a huge difference).

We are considering leaving ATS for a private school that would offer my daughter a bilingual education in my country of origin’s language. We never bothered to consider the school before since it’s 25 minutes away but we talked to a parent with kids there and she told us that her kids are now able to converse in both languages which would be my dream. Apparently there are still a few spots open so we just applied. If we do end up leaving we will be sad to leave ATS and it’s no way a reflection on what we think of the school. For ppl considering ATS, I would say give it a try. If you absolutely hate it you can always pull your kid out.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:My daughter just finished kindergarten at ATS. We love it. We chose it over our really good neighborhood school for two reasons: (1) we are thinking of moving in a few years so an option school would mean more stability for our kids snd allow us to look beyond our neighborhood and b) being immigrants we loved how diverse the school is as opposed to our neighborhood school. We have had a great experience so far. My daughter’s writing skills have improved tremendously and they really do emphasize the basics. She loves her teacher who she thinks is hilarious so there is lots of love and fun in the school as well. Admittedly it’s not for everyone. My husband and I both went to private schools with uniforms so the dress code (which we haven’t experienced yet) isn’t an issue for us. Neither is the more structured learning environment (again a feature of the private schools we went to). There is a lot of homework (around 30 minutes a day) which I find annoying but not annoying enough to pull her out of ATS. Then again it’s probably why my daughter’s writing abilities improved so much. I wonder if I would have seen the same benefit with homework had school been in person (I’m assuming they would do more writing in the classroom with in person learning). One thing that excites me about next year is their emphasis on music and the arts which makes my daughter loves. My second will be in kindergarten at ATS next year so I’m curious as to whether my perspective on the school changes when it is in person.

ATS is not perfect. When compared to our neighborhood school class sizes are better. I also wish they would emphasize outdoor learning more, the way they do in Campbell and to a certain extent our neighborhood school. I wish APS would do a comprehensive evaluation of all its schools and incorporate the successful parts of each school’s curriculum into all of APS schools. Clearly ATS is doing something special when it comes to reading and writing (also the high expectations it has of students seems to make a huge difference).

We are considering leaving ATS for a private school that would offer my daughter a bilingual education in my country of origin’s language. We never bothered to consider the school before since it’s 25 minutes away but we talked to a parent with kids there and she told us that her kids are now able to converse in both languages which would be my dream. Apparently there are still a few spots open so we just applied. If we do end up leaving we will be sad to leave ATS and it’s no way a reflection on what we think of the school. For ppl considering ATS, I would say give it a try. If you absolutely hate it you can always pull your kid out.

Meant to say: When compared to our neighborhood school class sizes are larger.

[Anonymous]

The only thing I could never square is the people who covet both ATS and then HB Woodlawn. The philosophies of those schools couldn't be more polar opposite.

[Anonymous]

Our daughter graduated from ATS in 2020. We didn't apply for HB (so few slots available that we figured there was no point) but I can see the appeal. ATS is something parents choose because they like the educational model (and the test scores, and usually the diversity), often regardless of whether it fits their kids or not. For us, the structure was a great thing. It appeals to my organized, structured personality and it gave her an excellent foundation for later learning.

But she's old enough now and has a good foundation and good study skills, so I could see her doing well at the less-structured HBW.

[Anonymous]

My son has done K and 1st grade at ATS. I would just add that the genuine eco/racial diversity is a plus for us, and that the homework in these early grades has not been burdensome. In K he had to write a few sentences each night (with help before he learned to write), and this past year it was just reading each night. For me the value of homework was for me to be directly involved in his progress. I also like the accountability aspect--I tell myself I would have him read every night anyway, but recording the 50 books this summer does keep us on track! I agree the one downside is that all classes are completely full all the time (kids are pulled off the wait list if/when anyone leaves).

[Anonymous]

Just dropping in to say my reluctant rising 3rd grader picked up a book, on her own, so she could record her pages...yes, it's a chapter book! I"m so happy.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:My daughter just finished kindergarten at ATS. We love it. . . . My daughter’s writing skills have improved tremendously

This seems like a typical ATS parent.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:The most absurd are the parents who swear by the structure of ATS, then send their kids to HB.

How is this absurd? An elementary schooler’s needs are different than a middle schooler’s needs. After 5 years of structure some kids mature to the point they can handle a school like HB. Many students don’t apply to HB though.

Don't bother. There is either one persistent poster or a handful who pop up on these threads like clockwork to complain about ATS kids who then go on to H-B. They either can't understand or choose not to understand that kids have different needs at different ages. Or that kids who learn structured study skills early on at a place like ATS might crave the freedom of H-B and do well there because they can self-regulate. In any event, it's not worth trying to defend it to them. They're just upset that the choice schools exist, it seems.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:The most absurd are the parents who swear by the structure of ATS, then send their kids to HB.

How is this absurd? An elementary schooler’s needs are different than a middle schooler’s needs. After 5 years of structure some kids mature to the point they can handle a school like HB. Many students don’t apply to HB though.

Don't bother. There is either one persistent poster or a handful who pop up on these threads like clockwork to complain about ATS kids who then go on to H-B. They either can't understand or choose not to understand that kids have different needs at different ages. Or that kids who learn structured study skills early on at a place like ATS might crave the freedom of H-B and do well there because they can self-regulate. In any event, it's not worth trying to defend it to them. They're just upset that the choice schools exist, it seems.

have you considered that perhaps some people find difficulty with the same people getting into two highly-desired and small lotteries, taking places away from others who didn't get into the program their kid may need MORE than the apparently mature and academically-skilled ATS graduates? Maybe folks should be limited to one option program through their APS career to help ensure more students have the opportunity to benefit from one.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:The most absurd are the parents who swear by the structure of ATS, then send their kids to HB.

How is this absurd? An elementary schooler’s needs are different than a middle schooler’s needs. After 5 years of structure some kids mature to the point they can handle a school like HB. Many students don’t apply to HB though.

Don't bother. There is either one persistent poster or a handful who pop up on these threads like clockwork to complain about ATS kids who then go on to H-B. They either can't understand or choose not to understand that kids have different needs at different ages. Or that kids who learn structured study skills early on at a place like ATS might crave the freedom of H-B and do well there because they can self-regulate. In any event, it's not worth trying to defend it to them. They're just upset that the choice schools exist, it seems.

have you considered that perhaps some people find difficulty with the same people getting into two highly-desired and small lotteries, taking places away from others who didn't get into the program their kid may need MORE than the apparently mature and academically-skilled ATS graduates? Maybe folks should be limited to one option program through their APS career to help ensure more students have the opportunity to benefit from one.

Yes, I have considered that, but that's an entirely different complaint. If you would like to argue with the county that families should be restricted to one choice school per child, go ahead and do so, but that's a different argument than saying that it's absurd that some families may be drawn to both ATS and H-B at different times in their child's life.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:The most absurd are the parents who swear by the structure of ATS, then send their kids to HB.

How is this absurd? An elementary schooler’s needs are different than a middle schooler’s needs. After 5 years of structure some kids mature to the point they can handle a school like HB. Many students don’t apply to HB though.

Don't bother. There is either one persistent poster or a handful who pop up on these threads like clockwork to complain about ATS kids who then go on to H-B. They either can't understand or choose not to understand that kids have different needs at different ages. Or that kids who learn structured study skills early on at a place like ATS might crave the freedom of H-B and do well there because they can self-regulate. In any event, it's not worth trying to defend it to them. They're just upset that the choice schools exist, it seems.

have you considered that perhaps some people find difficulty with the same people getting into two highly-desired and small lotteries, taking places away from others who didn't get into the program their kid may need MORE than the apparently mature and academically-skilled ATS graduates? Maybe folks should be limited to one option program through their APS career to help ensure more students have the opportunity to benefit from one.

Yes, I have considered that, but that's an entirely different complaint. If you would like to argue with the county that families should be restricted to one choice school per child, go ahead and do so, but that's a different argument than saying that it's absurd that some families may be drawn to both ATS and H-B at different times in their child's life.

Not really, because the perception is that these families are just seeking the most elite programs for their children regardless of the pedagogy and appropriateness for their child's learning style or needs. It's not necessarily an entirely separate train of thought. And the notion that ATS is necessary for their less mature child and makes them all in need of a more independent, less-structured environment just in time for 6th grade insinuates that ATS is just some magic pill that makes all these kids mature and responsible and that they would not have experienced the same path if they had attended their neighborhood school. And even if they are ready for the HB environment, there are a lot of kids who NEED the HB environment. If the ATS kids are all so mature and responsible when they finish, then it's less likely they NEED HB.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:The most absurd are the parents who swear by the structure of ATS, then send their kids to HB.

How is this absurd? An elementary schooler’s needs are different than a middle schooler’s needs. After 5 years of structure some kids mature to the point they can handle a school like HB. Many students don’t apply to HB though.

Don't bother. There is either one persistent poster or a handful who pop up on these threads like clockwork to complain about ATS kids who then go on to H-B. They either can't understand or choose not to understand that kids have different needs at different ages. Or that kids who learn structured study skills early on at a place like ATS might crave the freedom of H-B and do well there because they can self-regulate. In any event, it's not worth trying to defend it to them. They're just upset that the choice schools exist, it seems.

have you considered that perhaps some people find difficulty with the same people getting into two highly-desired and small lotteries, taking places away from others who didn't get into the program their kid may need MORE than the apparently mature and academically-skilled ATS graduates? Maybe folks should be limited to one option program through their APS career to help ensure more students have the opportunity to benefit from one.

Yes, I have considered that, but that's an entirely different complaint. If you would like to argue with the county that families should be restricted to one choice school per child, go ahead and do so, but that's a different argument than saying that it's absurd that some families may be drawn to both ATS and H-B at different times in their child's life.

Not really, because the perception is that these families are just seeking the most elite programs for their children regardless of the pedagogy and appropriateness for their child's learning style or needs. It's not necessarily an entirely separate train of thought. And the notion that ATS is necessary for their less mature child and makes them all in need of a more independent, less-structured environment just in time for 6th grade insinuates that ATS is just some magic pill that makes all these kids mature and responsible and that they would not have experienced the same path if they had attended their neighborhood school. And even if they are ready for the HB environment, there are a lot of kids who NEED the HB environment. If the ATS kids are all so mature and responsible when they finish, then it's less likely they NEED HB.

I understand your point, but to paint all the families who seek both schools with the same brush just isn’t accurate. People seek out ATS and/or H-B for many different reasons. You are fixated on the idea that they are just seeking “elite” programs without taking into consideration any other possibilities and calling it out as “absurd” that they might be drawn to different things at different times as the kids mature. It’s not absurd. For one thing, when families apply to ATS their children are 5 years old and have only experienced preschool. You can’t know for sure what learning style your child has so you consider a curriculum and school atmosphere that sounds good, has a diverse population, and good results. If you’re fortunate enough to get in you give it a try. Should families subsequently pull their children from a school they know and like just because they would probably be just fine at their neighborhood school? Or, your child likes ATS but starts to chafing at the rules and structure by the time they reach 5th grade or their personality develops and it becomes clear they would like or thrive in at atmosphere with more freedom. Should they not apply to H-B just because you think it looks absurd? (I never suggested that ATS is some magic pill to fix kids so they can got to H-B by the way; I just pointed out that if they learn some study discipline there that it’s not crazy for parents to think they could handle or appreciate the greater freedom elsewhere.)

You can’t possibly know the circumstances that lead families to make that choice, yet you promote the “perception” that may not be accurate at all. I think you are not happy with the county policies, but are projecting that onto the families that operate within it.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:The most absurd are the parents who swear by the structure of ATS, then send their kids to HB.

How is this absurd? An elementary schooler’s needs are different than a middle schooler’s needs. After 5 years of structure some kids mature to the point they can handle a school like HB. Many students don’t apply to HB though.

+1 Also, how is it so hard for people to understand that some kids thrive in a montessori like environment, some do best with lots of structure, some do best in a typical classroom.... Not every kid is the same.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:The most absurd are the parents who swear by the structure of ATS, then send their kids to HB.

How is this absurd? An elementary schooler’s needs are different than a middle schooler’s needs. After 5 years of structure some kids mature to the point they can handle a school like HB. Many students don’t apply to HB though.

+1 Also, how is it so hard for people to understand that some kids thrive in a montessori like environment, some do best with lots of structure, some do best in a typical classroom.... Not every kid is the same.

What's absurd is thinking that you know exactly what your 5 year old will be like and need by the time MS rolls around.
My 5 yo who got in to ATS was a very different kid with different needs by the time they applied to HB. I think your argument should really be what another PP said - you don't like that one kid got into two choice programs when some only get into one or none.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:The most absurd are the parents who swear by the structure of ATS, then send their kids to HB.

How is this absurd? An elementary schooler’s needs are different than a middle schooler’s needs. After 5 years of structure some kids mature to the point they can handle a school like HB. Many students don’t apply to HB though.

Don't bother. There is either one persistent poster or a handful who pop up on these threads like clockwork to complain about ATS kids who then go on to H-B. They either can't understand or choose not to understand that kids have different needs at different ages. Or that kids who learn structured study skills early on at a place like ATS might crave the freedom of H-B and do well there because they can self-regulate. In any event, it's not worth trying to defend it to them. They're just upset that the choice schools exist, it seems.

have you considered that perhaps some people find difficulty with the same people getting into two highly-desired and small lotteries, taking places away from others who didn't get into the program their kid may need MORE than the apparently mature and academically-skilled ATS graduates? Maybe folks should be limited to one option program through their APS career to help ensure more students have the opportunity to benefit from one.

Yes, I have considered that, but that's an entirely different complaint. If you would like to argue with the county that families should be restricted to one choice school per child, go ahead and do so, but that's a different argument than saying that it's absurd that some families may be drawn to both ATS and H-B at different times in their child's life.

Not really, because the perception is that these families are just seeking the most elite programs for their children regardless of the pedagogy and appropriateness for their child's learning style or needs. It's not necessarily an entirely separate train of thought. And the notion that ATS is necessary for their less mature child and makes them all in need of a more independent, less-structured environment just in time for 6th grade insinuates that ATS is just some magic pill that makes all these kids mature and responsible and that they would not have experienced the same path if they had attended their neighborhood school. And even if they are ready for the HB environment, there are a lot of kids who NEED the HB environment. If the ATS kids are all so mature and responsible when they finish, then it's less likely they NEED HB.

I understand your point, but to paint all the families who seek both schools with the same brush just isn’t accurate. People seek out ATS and/or H-B for many different reasons. You are fixated on the idea that they are just seeking “elite” programs without taking into consideration any other possibilities and calling it out as “absurd” that they might be drawn to different things at different times as the kids mature. It’s not absurd. For one thing, when families apply to ATS their children are 5 years old and have only experienced preschool. You can’t know for sure what learning style your child has so you consider a curriculum and school atmosphere that sounds good, has a diverse population, and good results. If you’re fortunate enough to get in you give it a try. Should families subsequently pull their children from a school they know and like just because they would probably be just fine at their neighborhood school? Or, your child likes ATS but starts to chafing at the rules and structure by the time they reach 5th grade or their personality develops and it becomes clear they would like or thrive in at atmosphere with more freedom. Should they not apply to H-B just because you think it looks absurd? (I never suggested that ATS is some magic pill to fix kids so they can got to H-B by the way; I just pointed out that if they learn some study discipline there that it’s not crazy for parents to think they could handle or appreciate the greater freedom elsewhere.)

You can’t possibly know the circumstances that lead families to make that choice, yet you promote the “perception” that may not be accurate at all. I think you are not happy with the county policies, but are projecting that onto the families that operate within it.

I said "perception" that families are seeking elite programs. And, btw, I'm not the one who made the "absurd" assertion. I do agree that, on the surface, it seems illogical and incongruous; but not entirely far-fetched. Still, I just don't think the maturity gain is such that students develop to the point that an HB atmosphere is a "better" fit than any typical middle school - where all kids are given opportunity for more freedoms and responsibilities and self-governance. "...they could handle or appreciate the greater freedom...." Doesn't mean they "need" it. And I personally believe HB should give priority to students who demonstrate a need for the program/environment. In the past, it seemed a lot of ATS students made it into HB. Hopefully now that admissions has changed so option schools are given seats rather than option school students being in the lottery from their assigned neighborhood school, more kids who didn't attend ATS but for whom HB really is a better fit than their assigned MS will have the opportunity to attend HB.