Cold Spring Elementary School

Many parents like myself have moved into this community just for this school. Surprised at an overall '4-star' rating, but looking over the list perhaps it was the one 2-star review complaining about the school facilities. Would admit that yes this school was built in the early 70's and it does show it's age, but it is the quality of the staff, the parent involvement, and the great students that make this school a standout. Whoever said a 40% 'from out of the area' needs to be corrected - it is more like 25-30%, and this is for a Gifted and Talented program. According to the state test scores, Cold Spring has topped all elementary schools in the entire state for many years now. Of course the GT program does skew that number, but it is very impressive nonetheless. Would recommend strongly to any parent considering this area. Homes are more highly valued here compared to nearby neighborhoods, and I believe the quality of the school plays a factor in this.
--Submitted by a parent

Best school I have seen so far (having 5 kids I have seen MANY schools). And it's best school becasue it has BEST (by far) principal. The principal DOES love kids (compare to many principals who likes to be high ranked ADMINISTRATOR). The principal participates in daily school life (read below about DAILY meeting kids outside in carpool lane rain or shine). The principal DOES not sit around in his office - he works there - and he shares what he does with kids: every kid has a chance to be a "assistance principal" for a day - go through entire school day with principal (including lunch out!). The stuff is excelent. From time-to-time the school gets a teacher who has issues, but such teacher does not last more than a year. (I don't know how the principal makes such teachers to go, but he does it well). Get to this school! *if you can afford housing in the area :)
--Submitted by a parent

Absolutely excellent school. I have 3 kids in elementary school at Cold Spring. It's an experience you would be willing to pay for. The facilities are old. The classrooms are open (who ever thought that was a good idea?!) but you simply cannot beat the exellence of the teaching staff. There are a few that are just OK but the large majority are phenomenal teachers that have been teaching for decades are still enthusiastic and LOVE teaching, LOVE being at CS, are entirely engaged and incredibly good at what they do. It's enough to make a parent incredibly thankful. No gym stinks (but wea gettin one). Yes, we paid for the small playground. Large K class stinks but still I would never trade.
--Submitted by a parent

It's small and everyone knows each other--very 'neighborhoody'
--Submitted by a parent

Cold Spring is a school with a warm and friendly atmosphere, wonderful teachers, and a high rate of parent involvement.
--Submitted by a parent

Cold Spring Elementary School is the best school! It is by MD assessments and how wonderful staff is. How about principal helping kids out from cars in car pool during sun, rain and snow! We came from private school - I never saw director outside, in car pool line!
--Submitted by a parent

Cold Spring Elementary is the greatest school on earth. The Principal and Staff create a supportive and family oriented enviornment which leads to the highest quality education for our children. They truly care about the success and well being of each individual student. We are fortunate to be members of this school community.
--Submitted by a parent

They have a fabulous gifted program.
--Submitted by a parent

The principal, Mr. Barnett and the teachers really care about the students. Additionally, the friendly atmosphere and the parent participation makes a school experience for the children well rounded.
--Submitted by a parent

Moved into our house just for the school and we are not disappointed. We've had phenomenal teachers so far and the school provides a warm and nurturing environment. We haven't used the childcare so I can't comment on that. All in all, we are extremely happy.
--Submitted by a parent