Queen of Apostles Catholic

Pros: Could not compare QofA School with others because we haven't had a chance to try a different school yet. My son has been at QofA since Kinder with no complain so far. He's enjoying learning and play with his classmate. Also, he likes all the activities, events that school has provided. Teachers and office's staffs are very nice. We really admire the school's PTO. They are willing to work so hard to provide all the best benefit for school and children. Cons: However, I would recommend the school need to provide more advances about academic. Overall, school is great school for attend.
—Submitted by a parent

My child is in 2nd grade this year which is much better than last year (1st grade) when I was shocked to learn that the teacher had been giving the children the answers during tests, not counting the tests when they did badly and trying to give the parents a false impression of the true standard of the child's academic level. Not good for the child in the future. It is what it is -- no need to falsify the academic standard of the child. Such reports do not enhance the academic stardard of the children. Hopefully, it's not happening again this year.
—Submitted by a parent

With two kids in the school, our experience has been a great one! The school has an advanced math program in middle school and is working to improve the Science program with the introduction of robotics for ALL grades and the ongoing implementation of new technology for teachers and students - a testament to the parents who participated heavily in fundraisers to provide these for the school. It is unrealistic to expect, given the low tuition costs, that volunteer hours and donations would not be required to enhance the quality of education and the student surroundings. They Gym is one of the nicest in the Diocese and the Library, Science and Computer labs are well equiped and up to date. Music and band program is awesome. The teachers are kind to the children, very open and welcome parental involvement, and the majority of parents are invested heavily in the school and their education and welfare. Every day (hail or shine), the Principal and some teachers are in car line welcoming the students to school and the staff have an "open door" policy - a clear testament to their committment. The on site staff and nurse are caring and nurturing to the children and their well being.
—Submitted by a parent

Queen of Apostles could be a great school, but the principal is ineffective. He never deals with problems head on - despite the parents trying to offer solutions and recommendations. Whether it is bullying, curriculum issues, etc his only action is to ask you into his office for a "talk" where he tries to convince you that your perception is wrong, and then nothing changes. He is in denial about the schools obvious problems that are brought to his attention. His solution to bullies is to bring the bully and the victim together for a "talk", and then he takes no action (which has prompted many parents to pull their kids from middle school, some in mid-year). He doesn't answer email (and goes days without reading it), and when asked important details of upcoming events he is is often is unaware. The parents are actively involved, and have good ideas. The majority of the teachers are dedicated (middle school teachers need improvement), but with a new principal that addresses concerns and brings strong leadership the school could be fantastic!
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter started attending this school since kinder and she is now in 2nd grade. My daughter loves the school and her teachers. As a parent, I am so pleased that my daughter gets to learn religion, moral values, as well as other challenges. The teachers are great, the Principal is wonderful, and the PTO members are always very strong to address students/teachers/parents concern. The school have many activities for the students such as sports, talent shows, christmas shows, grandparents day, international day, field trips, and more. The school have a great extended day program that help the students to do their homeworks and assign different activities. There is a strong friendship bondage in the whole school. Their lunch program is great and they have an option to bring lunch from home. Compared to other private schools this school's tuition is very reasonable.
—Submitted by a parent

My child has attended this school for three years. Although the tuition is low and the class size is small, there is no gifted and talented program, and spanish is the only foreign language offered. The robotics program is brand new and is only available to older students. The lunch program is expensive ($4.50 p/day) and on a monthly basis. There are many functions yet, many of the same parents and their "cliques" attend or run these events. After paying tuition you're always asked to chip in or donate cash or items for all functions. The pick-up line is ridiculous and many parents skip it by waiting in the church parking lot, walk up and zoom off. Very frustrating. If it weren't for the many friends my daughter has made over her years at Queen of Apostles, I would've tried another school. I believe the school has good intentions, yet is still missing vital pieces to be a successful and inviting community.
—Submitted by a parent

I feel the need to respond to the negative review on here as some of it is inaccurate. I've never believed placement tests should be given in any school because every child deserves a chance to excel. Yes, some play happens in the parking lot- it also happens in the new gym and on the playground as well. The county denied the school's desire to enhance the school with a green space so that is still being worked on. The teachers teach to the child- no extra resources are actually needed- things are leveled within the classroom. It isn't the first time a parent has claimed "boredom" when their child misbehaves- there are multiple factors leading to poor behavior- boredom is seldom one of them. The administration gets stronger by the minute and truly involved parents see this- anti-bullying, robotics, field trips, health and nutrition programs have been added since he began. The principal knows every parent and child's name and spends a great amount of time roaming the halls and checking the classrooms. A healthy hot lunch is offered-with real fruit and vegetables! There are numerous options to get involved and from the front desk to the classroom- it feels like family.
—Submitted by a parent

My child transferred to Q of A as a first grader. With no placement tests given, he fell through the cracks and become bored. The only positive aspect of the school is the small class-size. Some negatives, the school is so small recess is held in the parking lot, there are no resources for advanced children, and all religious sacraments are in conjunction with the parish CCD classes so no real need to stay for the religious aspect of a Catholic school. The school lacks strong leadership and the academic and behavior standards are low as well. There are other private schools nearby that will offer your student a safe, friendly environment to learn.
—Submitted by a parent

My son is attending Queen of Apostles since Kinder. They have excellant and dedicated team of teachers and challenging academinc programs. My son is truly enjoying his school. I would recommend this school to all the parents.
—Submitted by a parent

What a great school! My child (Kinder) loves her surroundings and loves her teacher, too. She genuinely likes her classmates and works well with them. As a parent, I am proud of all the academic accomplishments my child has made throughout the year as this speaks to the dedication of the teachers/staff members. I love the fact that the school is nestled in a safe neighborhood off the beaten track and is small, unlike the public schools in this area that are far too large and overcrowded. Another great attribute of Q of A is the diversity of the student body. No mass majority here as the school boasts a great mix of kids from all different parts of the world. Another quality of the school is the involvement from the parents. All parents are required to volunteer their time as this allows them meet other parents, develop insight to the workings of the school as well as helping the school raise money for various projects and necessities. I look forward to the years to come.
—Submitted by a parent

We had a child who transferred to Q of A for the 2008-2009 school year. You couldn't ask for a more dedicated group of professionals, from the Principal to every teacher. What they lack in resources as compared to some of the more well off parish schools, they make up for 10 fold in their commitment to each child, each family. The halls are filled with smiling children and adults who know them each by name and in the classrooms they are inspired to learn. Awesome school!
—Submitted by a parent

This school (this year), has lost atleast 5 students mid-year to various schools. The school is not keeping it's 'touch.'

We moved the area in summer of 2003. My son started 4th grade at Queen of the Apostles. We love it. The parents are great, my child is safe and learning everyday. I love the organization and discipline provided by Catholic Schools. This is my son's fourth school (I was in the military), and he has asked to stay at this school until 8th grade. I am going to do everything in my power to make sure that happens.
—Submitted by Christine Schweickert, a parent