St. Andrews Episcopal School

Our children are having a fabulous experience at St. Andrew s. The curriculum is thoughtful and rigorous, but delivered in a manner that is nuturing, stimulating, and frequently fun. The teachers known the kids very well, and are remarkably creative in how they inspire the students to find the internal motivation to be successful both in and outside of the classroom. By design, St. Andrew s appeals to students with a wider range of academic abilities than some private schools, and this contributes to the school s compassionate and down-to- earth quality which tends to attract a large number of really nice kids. Of course, no school is a right fit for every child, but the school sets reasonable expectations for children with different ability levels (through course selection in middle and upper schools) and the children respond frequently by exceeding expectations. The administration has been very approachable and responsive to suggestions as to how to make this wonderful school better. We loved St. Andrew s when our oldest started there years ago, but love it even more today as it continually improves itself.
—Submitted by a parent

The schools says all the right things in mission and philosophy but does not live up to their words. Truly want each kid to fit what they want and how they teach rather than being nurturing and attention to the uniqueness of each child. A lot better choices out their.
—Submitted by a parent

I used to attend this school. Now that I look back, academically, it was not very challenging, but they at least attempted to make it so. Athletically, they are far from superior. St.A's plays in the MAC for boys, and ISL for girls, but play many out of conference schools, such as Bullis or Sidwell. To be honest, if you want to go to a great sports school and be average, that may be a better choice. I play lacrosse, and in years past, our best players have left for schools such as St. Johns, St. Stephens and St. Agnes, and Landon. However, we aren't that bad. St. Andrew's lacrosse has recently acquired a former Landon assistant Coach, and I will be looking forward to their season. Lastly, ANY and ALL jokes or references that are offensive in the slightest will be reported, I really cannot stress the fact that you CANNOT make any such jokes at St. Andrew's, an example i can think of, is we used to call a classmate Sweetness due to his uncanny similarities to Walter Peyton. Please be careful regarding this. Socially, however, its a great school. I have made friends there that I wont ever forget.

average school , They do not have so great administration policies when issues arise. Lot of turnover

Nice that class sizes are small, but very one dimensional in how they teach and willingness to go outside of the one way they like to do things

Teaching and nurturing the whole child is not just an empty catch phrase at St. Andrew's. Teachers turn academic subjects from dreaded tasks to favorite classes, are available mornings, afternoons, during the school day and even occasional evenings via email, and several have become trusted advisors and friends to my child. The administration, teachers and staff know your child's name (and most parents', depending on how much you are around campus) and interact with your child in ways that make him or her feel appreciated and cared for. Homework is rational - not overwhelming or busy-work, but classes are challenging if the courseload is chosen well. There are many opportunities for extracurricular activities, and not just for the stars. Everyone can find a place no matter their previous experience or skill level, which is refreshing in a time when middle schoolers are expected to "specialize" in a sport/ instrument/activity or risk not making a team or band. Bottom line is my child gets to decide among several top choice colleges to attend in the Fall AND got to have a great all-around high school experience. Well prepared for college and not burned out.
—Submitted by a parent

I love my school! Truly a great place for inclusiveness and critical thinking. Great academics, sports, and arts!

St. Andrew's is quietly leading a revolution in education by inspiring children to recognize their greatest potential -- academically, socially, and in pursuit of their extracurricular interests -- without requiring that they surrender their childhood or their happiness. Our two very different children are thriving in the middle and upper schools at St. Andrew s. The school's emphasis on service to others and its wide range of students from different backgrounds, talents and abilities gives the school an inclusive and "down to earth" quality. Teachers, students, parents and administrators know, respect and support one another. This school produces confident, happy, well-rounded young adults who are not only ready to excel in college, but to explore the joys of all life offers and to give back in service to others. It is little wonder that graduates of this relatively young school already include a leading philanthropist and entrepreneur, the valedictorian of an Ivy League college, a comedian with her own television show, an Olympic gold medal winner and, most importantly, classes full of other great kids. St. Andrew's is a very special place.
—Submitted by a parent

Best teachers, coaches, and most inclusive community you can find at any of the DC area private schools.

We have 2 children at St Andrews: a son in high school at the Postoak campus and a daughter in preschool at the Potomac Village campus, and both are thriving. The leadership & teaching at both campuses is exceptional -- visionary, loving, disciplined and balanced. The staff really know each child in a very personal way -- and bend over backwards to inspire them to learn, grow in social skills, participate meaningfully, serve others, and enjoy their school experience. The merger between the upper & lower schools only happened 2 years ago and there is still a long way to go in creating a one school vision and culture. The new lower school head is dynamic & moving in the right direction. The sports are not in the same league as some other prep schools but that is a positive - all can participate at different levels of competition.
—Submitted by a parent

Love St. Andrew's!! It is warm, nurturing and has the strongest teaching staff I have seen. My child had a poor experience in public school and is just thriving at St. Andrew's - her confidence is soaring...a testament to the respectful and sensitive way children are treated.
—Submitted by a parent

Overall I am unimpressed with this school. After attending an hour long meeting stressing diversity, I was disapointed to find out that my child had many classes completely devoid of minorities. Although the academics are great; the teachers are helpful and my child learns a lot, it is unclear to me what St. Andrews really offers other than that. The sports teams are wanting, the cafeteria doubles as a stage, and the student body is full of cliques. I feel that it is overpriced and overrated.
—Submitted by a parent

I have had 2 children at SAES, one son, one daughter. Their college preparation has been excellent and conducted in a kind, nurturing manner. The faculty come from top schools themselves, the extra curricular opportunities are wide ranging, the parent community is warm and caring, the kids are nice to each other, and the college counseling program has done a wonderful job with our two kids. The students who seem to be the happiest are those that get actively involved in the community.
—Submitted by a parent

I am absolutely miserable. The teachers are generally fine, nice and easy on you (it's not hard to get away with things), some are either really boring or just never actually get to the lesson. We don't go out like ever, and just find it very constraining. Almost every student I've met here goes because their parents make them. I think adults don't have a very clear conception of this school, which isn't much of an improvement from my old public school. I am doing very well, I have all A's, but I think that's more of me actually bothering with school and not having anything to do. I don't have many friend there, most aren't nice and friendly. And all the kids seem to be into drugs, sex, and/or alcohol. All the A's in the world mean nothing as long as I'm this miserable.
—Submitted by a student

My children have attended several of the private schools in Suburban Maryland: The Newport School, The Norwood School, and Green Acres School for their elementary grades. For High School, Saint Andrew's combines the best of what we experienced in the early years. Its teachers are excellent. The school philosophy provides structure, without limiting individuality and creativity.
—Submitted by a parent

This school is absolutely fantastic. When looking for a school for my daughter, I immediately noticed the huge difference in SAES and other schools with regard to making us feel welcome. Having a person actually answer the phone, not being routed through a huge maze of voice or emails, was very reassuring. The admissions staff, teachers and current students were all friendly, knowlegable and kind and gave a great impression of the school. Now that my daughter attends, that impression was very accurate. This is the perfect fit for my daughter to receive a top notch education, an ability to experience quality extra curricular activities, and thoroughly enjoy her high school experience. Another big plus is St Andrew's has a very good music and art program.
—Submitted by a parent

As a student of St. Andrews, I know what a great school it is. It offers very challenging courses and the teachers are very friendly and willing to help. It also offers great extracurricular activities.
—Submitted by a student

St. Andrew's Episcopal School provides more than academic rigor. Teachers provide a supportive environment with a challenging curriculum and are involved with students as their coach or mentor in extracurricular activities. A diverse student body is encouraged to work at their passion through strong academic, artistic and athletic programs. The Episcopal identity of the school creates the foundation of the community values, while accepting people of all religious backgrounds. Parents are involved with student activities in school and the cooperation between school and parent to help develop the child's character is evident. The overall feel of the school is a strong sense of community in a supportive atmosphere that encourages students strive for excellence in academics, athletics, the arts and their individual faith.
—Submitted by a teacher