close  |
 |
 |
|
School Overview |
Parent Reviews |
School Environment |
Compare Schools |
Page 1 of 14
I had two kids there for several years (middle school) and really have a mixed review. For our one that is the 'good student', meaning she is motivated and has generally good work habits, it worked out well. There were some very talented teachers, but one or two that really should be let go (didn't learn a thing, and we weren't alone in those experiences). For our child that is a smart (IQ134), but underachiever, there was almost no or very little support or motivation. For the money, you expect and should get teachers who know how to bring out the best in kids who are reluctant learners. If your kid has social issues, this school is very accepting.
As with everything there is good and bad to be found at every school. I have had a child at Nysmith for the past 8 years and I am well acquainted with the good and the bad. I will start with the good. Teachers are very accessible and most (not all) are helpful. The curriculum is above grade level in al aspects from even the Fairfax County GT program. Now for the bad. The new administration (Ken Nysmith) is not exactly sympathetic and does pay attention to complaints and negatively reacts to constructive comments. He should not be running this school. The tuition is high, but no higher than other private schools in the area who do not have the academics or programs offered to the children here. Teachers leave to get higher benefits offered by the public school system.
I started going to Nysmith in Pre-K where I was in the Busy Bees. Over the ten years that I went there I fell in love with the school because of our close community, our talented and guiding teachers, and the great education that the kids there will receive if they are truly passionate about learning and being the best that they can be. When I first started high school I was really nervous but Nysmith has provided me with a strong foundation that will help me succeed in life. The teachers really help students learn through new experiences. Not only do they provide depth and passion when they teach but you can tell that they really care for their students. They take the time to go into depth about lessons so the students get the best out of their learning experiences. Even though it is pricey it's worth every penny.
Nysmith is a school with overcharged tuition and unqualified administration now. We had wonderful feeling before 2005 When Carroll Nysmith run the school. After many nice and perfect teacher left school, the new director in pre-school is not suitable to work for this school and derail the original principles. Middle school director was not taking responsibility. New hired teachers are not experienced and stable. You may not get what you paid as for kids to get good education. We found our children doing very good in Fairfax county GT program. GT has lot more better student body comparing to Nysmith and responsible teachers. Current school is running as a for profit company by low admission standard and low test standard such as drop IQ tests and IOWA test for 2nd grade.
Page 1 of 14
Parent ratings and reviews do not represent the views of GreatSchools.org nor does GreatSchools.org check their accuracy or verify the reviewers' identities. Use your discretion when evaluating these reviews.
