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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]I think this is an important thread re Potomac, and likely some other "top" schools in the area.  Potomac seems to apply more rigor in some if not all areas, not for the sake of learning or helping the students, but to simply achieve the reputation of a rigorous school.  That in turn is likely an attempt to compete with the schools in D.C. proper and also to show parents why Potomac should be chosen (and paid for) versus the high school just down the road.  We have been at Potomac a few years and our misgivings have increased each year.  Our student does OK, but likely would be happier and less stressed elsewhere, and with better grades.  it is unfortunately late in the game to make a switch.

If that is not clear enough, I am basically one step away from saying this school is somewhat of a sham.  The kids are nice, as are most families, there is a nice sense of camaraderie among the students.  The campus and buildings are nice.  The teachers for the most part make themselves available and seem knowledgeable.  But underneath it seems like there is a goal to make it rigorous for rigor's sake, not to help the students.  When the best answer that administrators can provide is "we do this so college will be easier", that is not a reason to pile it on.

And I agree with the poster re 9th grade bio.  The teachers are not very good and the curriculum for the course is oppressive.  Both in advanced and regular.  The regular bio teacher(s) seem to think they should teach at advanced pace instead of forming a good foundation in bio and heaven forbid instill an enjoyment of the subject.

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Sounds a very common problem in Potomac.  Can more Potomac US parents provide their insights here?   Thanks!![/quote]

Parent of 2 US students and I agree 100% with PP. They make it very hard only for the sake of making it hard. "Love of learning?" Please. My kids hate school. To the PP who says just to leave. How easy do you think it is for a kid to leave their HS getting established their? I know some do it, by my DC's like their friends and activities and really, after all the incredibly hard work, do not want to quit. And that's what leaving would feel like. But I promise you, if I had to do it over again, I would never send my kids to Potomac. One of things that has blown me away is the inconsistency in subjects between teachers. Get the wrong chemistry teacher and you are basically screwed. I doubt they would share class grades, but anecdotally, it has been shared with me that some teachers have stronger grades class-wise than others. How can they be fair?[/quote]

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