Anonymous wrote:I agree GBW is way crowded.

Between Navy and Waples mill... which one would you prefer and why?

Both are excellent schools with similar communities and cultures. I think there are some areas that feed into WM that have more expensive homes than anywhere that feeds to Navy. But, for the most part, they are very comparable. WM has easier access to 66, the metro, and Tysons, if that is a concern.

Navy has a brand new center this year. So far it is third grade only. Some parents worry that the center will create overcrowding and result in the need for trailers. Navy does not currently have trailers. WM does have trailers, but only for specials. No regular classes are in the trailers. WM also has a great preschool for SN children.

Bottom line-- I don't think you can go wrong with either school.

Floris is great, not a center, but since its level 4 almost all the kids stay put and are happy about not changing schools. And the PTA is good too.

I agree GBW is way crowded.

Between Navy and Waples mill... which one would you prefer and why?

Crossfield is undercrowded. You'd think they could just adjust the boundaries between the two schools so both could have LLIV.

Anonymous wrote:Can someone tell me which elementary schools of the ones discussed above are NOT centers? We are looking to buy in the area, but do not want a center school. TIA.

I think Waples Mill fits the bill for you. I love everything about it except the fact that they ship out 40 kids per year to AAP, and yet the principal won't even consider a local level IV, let alone a center. But otherwise, it's a great school with a phenomenal PTA. Warm, community feel to it, too.

Can someone tell me which elementary schools of the ones discussed above are NOT centers? We are looking to buy in the area, but do not want a center school. TIA.

GBW is overcrowded and certain club meetings are chaotic - feels a bit like a carnival.