Immanuel Lutheran School

Students have no room to play, teachers have little to no control over them. Seems as though the school has grown entirely too large for the school's facilities.

The middle school at Immanuel is superb. Our son is in 6th grade and is receiving an excellent education that includes classical literature, Latin and Logic. The math curriculum (Saxon) is also very strong. The faculty and adminstration are exceptional - a very dedicated, intellectual group who are truly passionate about classical education. An amazing school!
—Submitted by a parent

Several years ago, when my wife and I first started the school search for our oldest child, we felt rather overwhelmed by all the choices available. And let's be honest, the pressure of picking the right school for your kid is fairly daunting. But when we found Immanuel Lutheran School, we could tell from the start that the school would be a great fit with its challenging academics and awesome teachers. We've been so impressed by the rigorous curriculum, the continued growth of the school and the way the faculty work together to make sure each student achieves his or her full potential. An excellent school.
—Submitted by a parent

Our child has been at Immanuel for three years, and we could not be more impressed, not only with the high standards of academic excellence, but also the nurturing and supportive community of the school, both the families and the faculty. From the moment we drop our child off in the morning, we know that every child will spend their day surrounded by teachers and faculty who are deeply committed to nurturing them spiritually and academically. Every member of the faculty and administration knows every child by name and is a visible presence around the school throughout the day. Further supporting the academic environment is a wonderfully supportive and caring school community comprised of families who actively support the mission of the school. We are truly blessed to have such a wonderful choice for a Christian, classical education in Alexandria!!
—Submitted by a parent

We have 2 children at Immanuel and we are very pleased with every aspect of the school. The classical curriculum is truly distinctive and our son and daughter are thriving in the challenging academic environment. I'm surprised to read the previous posts - this does not sound like the ILS we know and love! The fellow parents I know are thrilled with this school. The previous statement about the 4 yr old / Jr. Kindergarten class is completely inaccurate. There is no requirement that children need to read or write prior to entering that class. That class is, however, highly sought after, and I doubt anyone who would be applying in June would be able to find an available spot. There is generally a wait list by March. This school is growning in leaps and bounds and the leadership is very strong. ILS is not for everyone, but if you are looking for a (true) Christ-centered education with an amazing curriculum, Immanuel is a wonderful choice.
—Submitted by a parent

I agree with the comment on a lack of school leadership. It's totally non-existent. Try to get feedback about how your child is doing socially and you will hit a brick wall. I would also caution anyone who doesn't see themselves as a strict Lutheran to avoid ILS. Creationism is the order of the day here and they are unapologetic about it.
—Submitted by a parent

Immanuel Lutheran School is the best little school in Alexandria. It has a classical curriculum that is taught well, and the students respond to it enthusiastically.
—Submitted by a parent

Responding to the May 20, 2010 Review: A number of years ago, the school experienced difficulties in enrollment after losing a principal and transitioning to the classical curriculum. This is reflected in higher enrollment in the lower grades. In the 2010-2011 year, we experienced a very high retention rate, and added three new staff members. It would appear the reviewer was not a parent last year, as the PTL and leadership of the school are very active. We are in the process of accreditation with ACCS, which we hope to complete soon. Nevertheless, we have never claimed accreditation with them, only membership in good standing. The majority of our students are not members of Immanuel congregation, although parents satisfaction surveys are very high among non-members. Please come and see for yourself!
—Submitted by a teacher

NOTHING SPECTACULAR, but the Immanuel Lutheran School (ILS), a classical Christian academy, would initially impress any parent. This impression is not a lasting one. Notice that the number of students in class remains in direct proportion to the grade they attend: the lower the grade, the more students it has, the higher the grade, the less. In 2009 three (3) students graduated from ILS! The leadership is nonexistent, the Parent Teacher League does not offer the necessary balance between the school and parents, and no extracurricular activities are made available. Formation-wise, the school adapts the negative philosophy of punishment rather than that of positive reinforcement. This school claims a membership with Association of Classical & Christian Schools, but fails to mention that it is not the ACCS accredited membership (http://www.accsedu.org for details). Overall, this parochial school may be of value to the members of its own congregation at best.
—Submitted by a parent

We love this school!! It is such a blessing to have a school that supports and reinforces our christian faith. We searched long and hard to find the classical educational environment provided by this school. Superb staff and leadership make this school a gem!
—Submitted by a parent

Immanuel Lutheran School is an excellent school, and our family has been very pleased with every aspect of their classical curriculum! The teachers and faculty are exceptional. Expectations are high, and while the accelerated curriculum and expectations may not be for everyone, if you believe in traditional values and have your sights set on raising respectful, responsible, well-mannered and intelligent children, you will find Immanuel to be a wonderful fit.
—Submitted by a parent

We have three children in ILS and have been thrilled with the 'Classical' education they're receiving. Classical Education is the only way to go.
—Submitted by a parent

My twins have really enjoyed this school and have had the joy of sharing a classroom for their 4th year. My son and daughter have made such great progress over their years with Immanuel. I was told that in public school they would have to be separated at kindergarten. I couldn't bring myself to separate them and then put them into a new environment. They have had all the individual attention necessary. They have continued their close friendship while making new friends in school. They have excelled at learning and have have acquired skills that have taught them to work in a challenging program with confidence and poise. They have done a lot of improvement in the school library this year and it is beautiful. The students participated in reading incentive programs and it was so hard to get my kids to put down their books. They read non-stop.
—Submitted by a parent

Being a military family stationed in the DC/VA/MD metro area can be very overwhelming- Housing - commuting - and schools just to list a few. Now in our 4th year we can't imagine what our lives would be like without this school. Our son has flourished beyond our expectations-- No one cares more about the education of these students than Immanuel's teachers. They go above and beyond the call of duty. More importantly to us is the spirutual instruction and guidance -- to us this is priceless~ We are truly blessed to be a part of this school and would highly recommend it to any parent looking for the best in classical education!
—Submitted by a parent

My knew ILS small class sizes would be better from my son than being invisible and overlooked at public school. It is completely the individualized at ILS. He is now in 3rd grade. He feels completely comfortable speaking in front of his class, participating in musicals and talent shows, or asking questions. I attribute this to the love and support he has received from every teacher at Immanuel. The teachers really know their students because of the small class size and combined class rooms. My son has had the same teacher for 2nd and 3rd grade and they start the year knowing their students and how to reach them, their abilities, how to challenge them, and what they are capable of. The teachers start the school year making progress instead of relearning forgotten information and getting to know their new students.
—Submitted by a parent

This is an outstanding little school. The teachers are caring and cretive. My son has attended this school since kindergarten and is now in 4th grade. He loves it! I also have a daughter in first grade who absolutely adores her school. They both come home excitedly talking about thier day and can't wait to go back the next day. Over the winter and spring breaks all they talked about was returning to school. They have learned so much and I feel they have advanced my children well above those children in Public School. If your looking for a small school where the teachers are dedicated to the children and to the school this is the place. Strong parent involvement is evident. Excellant Christian teachings. I can't say enough, we will be transferring to a new location and my children are so sad to leave the school they love so.
—Submitted by a parent