Henry Elementary School

So often schools south of Route 50 get a less-than-stellar reputation among Arlington folks, but Patrick Henry is simply not one of those. It is far more diverse than many of the elementary schools in the Northwest area of Arlington, yet its test scores are through the roof! It's a community school with excellent teachers, one of the best playgrounds around, and ahas caring, involved principal. We like that Spanish is available as a class for all grades, but the curriculum is not immersion. We also enjoy the well-attended bingo nights and other community-oriented events - such as the Halloween parade for the homeless, Veteran's Day celebrations, and International Night! My children feel safe, cared for, and we believe they are challenged at Patrick Henry ... so what more can you ask for?
--Submitted by a parent

On the whole, a good school, but lack of playground supervision led to some serious bullying incidents. Also disturbing was that the main bully was from a wealthy white family, while the victims were mostly Latino. My son was not a victim, but he went to pre-school with the bully and one of the victims and was pretty upset about the whole thing. The principal described the incidents as "fighting", but it was clear to my son and to other kids (they talked about it alot) that these incidents were not about two kids fighting but about one kid picking on other, smaller (but in the same grade) minority kids.
--Submitted by a parent

Great Principal who is very involved with her school - parents, teachers, students. Teachers are excellent. The school has a library across its parking lot and is surrounded by a good neighborhood.
--Submitted by a parent

Excellent school! My child has disabilities and all the teachers, principles, and staff did everything they could to insure his learning abilities. They really know what they are doing. Thank, God for Patrick Henry Elementary!
--Submitted by a parent

My stepdaughter attended 5th grade. She loved her teachers, especially Ms. Watson. She felt very safe there, made new friends, and got plenty of special attention when needed. Dr. Piehota is an excellent leader, and very approachable. The students had a lot of activities and field trips, including trips to the Washington, Lincoln, and Jefferson monuments in DC. My stepdaughter immigrated from China, and was surprised at how easy American math classes are. Everything was a review, and she always won all the math competitions in her class.
--Submitted by a parent

Patrick Henry Elementary School is a hidden gem inside of Arlington. We are military officers who moved here last year from a small town. We were a little intimidated by the thought of living in the 'big city' with our three young children, but those concerns evaporated the minute we walked into Henry and met the incredible staff and principal, Dr. Piehota. The staff couldn't be better, the student body is enthusiastic and wonderfully diverse from many different countries and the academic programs are all individually tailored to meet your child's needs. Our children love the school and have blossomed there. We just hope the military doesn't move us again as our kids have found a home for years to come.
--Submitted by a parent

We have a kindergarten student entering Henry this year and are thrilled with the attitude of everyone involved in his education. We have been at another county school for preschool and thought we were spoiled there, but PH is totally outperforming our expectations! Frpm the principal to the library staff, everyone is completely committed. Just walk into the front office and see what kind of welcome you get! You do not have to get 'buzzed in', and there is not a high counter to seperate you from the reception area. A really friendly and warm place.
--Submitted by a parent