Arlington Science Focus School

This is a great school with a lot of hands on learning. The teachers are good, and the leadership is fantastic -- providing instructional and social supports for the school.
—Submitted by a parent

If you enjoyed the "cliquey" feel of high school, then you will love it here. If you live for "fitting in" at any cost then you will have ample opportunities to rush one of the parent cliques that snubs their noses at the rest of the parents who are not one of "them". It's really hard to get past this social handicap at this school so when you analyze the academics ASFS is just an ok school. The staff is a hit or miss. Some teachers are caring and objective graders and others are the complete opposite in that if you bring them gifts on a regular interval your child will benefit from your deeds. One interesting trend is the noticeable amount of teachers who are introverted, timid, effeminate and not very warm people. This is likely due to the overwhelming aggressive and punitive style of the principal who hires more passive types of teachers she can easily control. Remember, you were warned....
—Submitted by a parent

The principal, Ms Begley, is a humane and genuinely caring teacher. She sets high standards for our children, and fully expects that they will meet them. In addition to being a fine leader for the school, she is very caring and understanding. As an example, i got lost in DC, and was frantically trying to get to school to pick up my son from extended day by 6pm. I called the school from my car, and Ms Begley answered the phone. She calmed me down and told me she would stay with my son until i could get to school, and not to worry. Luckily, I was able to reach a friend who picked him up, but her assurance meant so much to me.
—Submitted by a parent

We also choose to live in this section of the DC area to be in their school's boundaries, and we have not been disappointed. The educators and administrators are caring and go out of their way to tailor their teaching, instruction and program to the student.
—Submitted by a parent

We moved to be in this school's boundaries. If you have a child who likes math and science, this is the place for your family. It's a high achieving environment with caring educators and administrators. I would not come here, however, if you have a child who doesn't like to be pushed academically. It can be demanding.
—Submitted by a parent

My two children are ASFS students. We, and others in the community, have been more and more upset about this school's "teach to the (standardized) test," one-size-fits-all approach in the classroom. Yes, this approach may get a school a "10" rating (based on test scores) on "greatschools," but it will positively demoralize many in classroom. Students cannot be treated as "commodities" to bring funding into the school and inflate the egos of the administration, etc. I am a PTA member, and I've been as involved at ASFS as much as possible, but the administration has not listened to me, and others, when we've expressed concerns or offered suggestions. If you want a school that will treat your children as truly important people with their own educational needs, this school is NOT for you.
—Submitted by a parent

By any measure, ASFS is a first rate 21st century school that strikes a wonderful balance between heart, excitement for learning, technology, and self discipline. The dedication and professionalism of the entire staff is evident every day.
—Submitted by a parent

Global competitiveness is crucial to the current and future success of our country. ASFS is exciting kids early about science, technology, math and engineering. The teachers and principal are dedicatedand amazing mentors. I'm so proud of all they do. The school has a NASA shuttle simulator and the kids assume many roles, from mission control to astronaut. Way cool!
—Submitted by a parent

ASFS has caring teachers and an innovative curriculum.

Exellent teachers ......Super in helpping the kid's in understanding subjects.....Great acctivities....
—Submitted by a parent

The best school in VA. Great stuff and excellent curriculum. Tatiana Kolina
—Submitted by a parent

Some teachers there yell at the students. Some teachers lack of patience, lack of kindness, lack of love at kids and lack of responsibility. terrible experience there!
—Submitted by a parent

If you are willing to put up with a principal who doesn't listen to a thing you say, and with teachers who yell at your kids, then this is the perfect school for you.
—Submitted by a parent

My wife and I just spent the last 3 months intensely researching schools throughout DC, MD, and VA. We decided to move to the ASF school district and could not be happier with our decision. We feel there really is no comparison in terms of the curriculum, teacher and principal quality, and nurturing environment, and that is quite a statement to make in North Arlington, which is home to so many terrific schools. We feel very fortunate that our daughter is now registered there and our son will be in two years. I honestly cannot believe that there is a public school of this quality.
—Submitted by a parent

My son has attended for two years (Kindergarten and First Grade) - amazing principal, amazing teachers, amazing staff - they love the school and the kids, and it shows. (Amazing families and parents, too!)
—Submitted by a parent

Arlington Science Focus is a terrific community of teachers, parents and administrators. The principal is hands-on in her approach to the management of the school and delivery of the curriculum. I am confident that all teachers are working together toward high student achievement. My son has had caring, focused teachers for K, 1st and 2nd grade. They have helped him grow as a reader, providing differentiated learning experiences to meet the needs of all the students.
—Submitted by a parent

My son has grown by leaps and bounds. This is the best schools my wife or I have ever had our children enrolled in. From day one the schools teachers encouraged thinking and discovery. A fantastic school!
—Submitted by Tim Jones, a parent