St. Maria Goretti Catholic School

I chose SMG after looking at many other schools in Arlington. SMG had everything my family was looking for: teachers who have been long-term employees, strong parent involvement, up to date education program, and of course, Catholic principles. Other things that I have noticed over our 4 year involvement is that they are consistently working toward updating any old areas, from the playground to the computer lab to the curriculum. I have been very pleased with each of the teachers my child has had. Most recently after the Sandy Hook tragedy, the school handled preparing the students for emergencies in a non-frightening way. I have had opportunities to interact with the principal and vice-principal and I find them to be approachable, forward-thinking and very involved in the daily workings of the school. There are so many things I love about Maria Goretti School, but the part that means the most to me is seeing my child's happy face as he jets out of the car every morning.
—Submitted by a parent

As a public school teacher for 20 years, I have been on a lot of campuses. I know what to look for. Walking my Pre-K daughter into SMG on her school days brings me calm and reassurance that I made the right decision to send her (and soon her little brother) to SMG. I see happy teachers and happy children. What I don't see is wild and crazy kids during the school day, like in public school. The only concern I have is with the after-school care. The kids seem to be a little more nuts and the ladies hired for the job may not be skilled in managing a larger group of kids. Besides that, it's an awesome school! Thanks for making my little daughter love school!
—Submitted by a parent

St. Maria Goretti Catholic School is a school that has a very traditional feel and a very welcoming atmosphere. The reason we chose this school in the very beginning when we were thinking about where we wanted to send our children to school was because of it's strong academics and affiliation with the parish. I couldn't be more pleased with the education our children have received at SMG. It's a great school with caring teachers and staff. The academics are rigorous and prepare the children to be lifelong learners. When my child went on to college she said she was glad they were so rigorous because she felt they had really prepared her and gave her good study habits. The teachers are always willing to help your child and go above and beyond. My children have received an outstanding education at an affordable tuition that although was not met without sacrifice was doable. Great principal !!!
—Submitted by a parent

Not a good school at all. No administration. No rules and no consistency. Academically, they are WAY behind other Catholic schools. My son attended this school for four long years and because of his experience there, he hates school. The teachers are mean, uncaring and unprofessional. Waste of money and time.
—Submitted by a teacher

We have been at SMG for 6 years now and we could not be happier. The staff is wonderfull and caring and my kids are so happy there. They have wonderful specials programs and activities for the children to be involved in. Best school around! Way to go SMG!
—Submitted by a parent

Great education with morality and faith to God
—Submitted by a parent

So far this school has been great for my son. He truly enjoys going to school every day.
—Submitted by a parent

This is a truly amazing school. I have learned so much and have so many wonderful memories. I will be so sad when I leave. I love my teachers and classmates and I hate it when people say this school is bad. It is the best school out there!
—Submitted by a student

We switched from public to private and it has been the best switch we have ever made. My daughter came from a good public school and the parents were great. The problem was that the public school enviroment does not address the bulling and clicks that go on on the play ground and in the classrooms there are just to many kids to watch. The guidence classes offered and the expectations from the teachers at SMG creates a safe and warm envirment. This allows the students to concentrate on their education and not on which new IPod or on name brand clothing they have to have. SMG teaches their students the tools to always be prepared,organized and thoughtful of others. I am so thankful that SMG believes that along with the excellent education they offer they also teach there studens to be better people.
—Submitted by a parent

My child has went to SMG for 5 years. It is amazing to me the quality and individual attention my child receives. I would recommend it to any parent searching for high-quality education and strong Catholic values.
—Submitted by a parent

We have been at SMG for 9 years now. I can not imagine my children going to any other school. I myself attended, as well as my father and sisters. Many of our students are children of SMG alumni. The teachers are great-loving and caring. The entire staff is there to help educate our children academically and in their Catholic faith. The students are also taught about social justice and do a lot for their school community and parish. The tuition is one of the best around and it is worth every penny we pay to send them there.
—Submitted by a parent

This is one of the worst schools I have ever encountered and when you switch and go to a new school, it becomes so obvious all of the things that are wrong with this school. The teachers yell too much, they don't seem to like kids. They don't challenge the kids, the principal never enforces a single rule - there doesn't seem to be too many rules - always exceptions made to the rules. They are way behind in technology. The website is dated and each class does not have a site like most schools in this century. They are just terrible. The library is tiny. The computer lab is tiny. I would tell any parent who is looking at schools to look at other schools and compare. We wasted four years there and my son hated it there. The least compassionate place and teachers. Horrible.
—Submitted by a parent

Not happy at all with this school. A lot of yelling by teachers especially in the lower grades. Principal is wish washy - never makes an administrative decision. Poor communication, small libray/computer lab. Overall, not please with the quality of the teachers or the school. My child hated it.
—Submitted by a parent

Fantastic staff and an excellent learning environment. Educating the whole child is their #1 priority.
—Submitted by a parent

Perfect small Catholic School with a large group of dedicated parents and a top notch church community.
—Submitted by a parent

Great classic Catholic school experience with dedicated teachers and wonderful support from the parish.
—Submitted by a parent

We have been part of this wonderful school for 10 years now! My first daughter started attending in Pre-K and now in 8th grade this is her last year. We enjoy the staff, family involvement and spirit of success. Each teacher works to help our students reach their full potential. My second daughter is now in 6th grade and it is sad to know we only have two more years in this amazing school
—Submitted by a parent