Arlington Science Focus

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

Fantastic school that values student discovery, proving that you can have a student-centered program, diversity, and fantastic test scores, too. It's the most diverse of the highest performing schools in Arlington, no doubt due to amazing curriculum and top notch teachers, supports, and leadership.
--Submitted by a parent

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