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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]We were in a similar position for DS in middle school and did not find any DC privates that worked logistically for transportation. We ended up sending him to SSSAS and he has loved it. There is a pretty good bus system, which is crucial for us due to work schedules. It's not Sidwell but completely fine academically and not a pressure cooker. The only big drawback is that most of his friends are in Alexandria so we spend much of our weekends driving there and back. [/quote]

Both YHS and W&L are very comparable (and likely much better) academically than SSSAS.   For math and science specifically, you are losing a lot with SSSAS over YHS or W&L; the AP offerings alone are not comparable. SSSAS had very few fast tracked math kids, like none.  The facilities at both public schools are also, amazingly, much nicer than at SSSAS.  I was a little shocked when I went there how dated it was.  I do know kids who went there but it was usually a need—they weren’t “succeeding” at the north Arlington elementary or needed individual attention for some reason or another.  It’s definitely a useful place to get out of ACPS, don’t get me wrong, but it doesn’t draw a ton from Arlington for these reasons.   Not to say you shouldn’t look at it, but kids who transfer back in find APS more challenging which is a little scary. [/quote]

This is the exact opposite of our experience with public vs private.  If you have not experienced both you cannot pass judgement on which is academically more sound.  We have a child at SSSAS and children in APS.  It's 100% different.   Here are a few quotes from private school child "I've learned more in 3 months than I did in 2 years at my last school (APS MS)."  "People are actually happy here.  The teachers aren't in a rush to leave."  "The teacher actually came over just to see how I was doing.  I didn't even ask for help."  
The tests are more difficult because it's not rote memory, they have to apply concepts.  There's accountability for turning assignments in on time. The teachers provide meaningful feedback because they have the time to do so.  And for the record, my child soared through APS with ease and had no difficulty with the coursework, has no IEP, etc.  We just felt she needed more.  And now she's getting it.    Did I move to Arlington for the exceptional schools?  Absolutely.  Do I want to pay for exceptional education at this age?  No. I am though, because guess what? Arlington is not exceptional.  It seems clear that if you are doing well enough you will get zero attention at APS.  They don't have the time to put resources in to your middle to above average kid.  They have to focus on those with the most need and that's ok.  That's the system, but teachers are overworked and under appreciated so there's no time left for the rest.  Can you get a good education in APS?  Of course, but it won't ever compare to a private college prep school.[/quote]

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