Chesterbrook Elementary School

Chesterbrook has exceptional teachers, aides, principal and environment. The kids learn so much and it's not overwhelming. I opted my child out of the FLE program and it worked out great. If a school could ever be perfect then Chesterbrook would certainly be!
—Submitted by a parent

We have recently moved to this school from Australia. From the minute I walked in the door I was impressed. The office staff were so helpul and both the Principal and Assistant Principal were amazing. Very professional and approachable and passionate about the children and the school. They met with us to ensure our daughter was put in the right grade level for her abilities and her new teachers have been so caring, helpful and attentive. We have truly hit the jackpot with this wonderful school. The PTA are very strong at this school, with great parent involvement and fund raising.
—Submitted by a parent

This may be the "hidden gem" of all McLean's elementary schools. It's small enough that every child will be able to get the attention he deserves, and it's obvious from the moment you walk in the door that the teachers are happy -- and that they are well-supported by an amazing principal. The level of parent support is also key to Chesterbrook's success. I must respectfully disagree with the parent who wrote about Chesterbrook not being able to deal with an extremely gifted child; I can't speak to that parent's experience, of course, but we have seen that the level of individual attention -- and the influence of some amazing special ed. teachers, who know all about how to deal with kids who are "twice exceptional" -- mean that bright kids at Chesterbrook won't waste their years before "gifted & talented" education kicks in (in 3rd grade). Every class has differentiated teaching and every teacher seems to strive for a nearly individualized approach to education. If you live in this neighborhood, there is no reason to waste your money on private schools. Chesterbrook is everything public education ought to be throughout the country.
—Submitted by a parent

Parent of two children attending Chesterbrook ES. We could not be happier with this school, its teachers and the administration. Coming from a small private school we carefully researched ESs in McLean and Great Falls and focused on 2 schools that met our needs for a school and neighborhood - Churchill and Chesterbrook. We chose Chesterbrook. The principal is friendly and ever-present in the hallways. The teachers are a great mix of energy and experience. The administration is friendly and helpful. The only criticism would be the school's decision (need?) to spend considerable resources on a very small percentage of the student population sometimes to the neglect of the larger population.
—Submitted by a parent

We live in McLean and have an ADHD child who is gifted-extremely bright. The Principal and AP wanted to put him in a Special Education program, not gifted. We tested our son and his IQ is off the charts and Chesterbrook Elementary did not know how to handle our child. It was a nightmare. We were so disappointed, we transfered out.
—Submitted by a parent

We have lived from Maine to Miami and Chesterbrook Elementary is by far the best school we've been to. The teachers are warm and caring and they inspire the kids to strive for excellence. The PTA is very involved, committed and consistant in supporting the school. It feels safe and warm and kind. Chesterbrook is like an extended family (without the weird auntie:)
—Submitted by a parent

A wonderful school with high standards!

Chesterbrook is an amazing school. The teachers and staff are awesome. Parental involvement is very high evidenced by the strong, active PTA. I also love that the children know the rules and there are seldom discipline issues. The best school ever!
—Submitted by a parent

Chesterbrook ES is an excellent school. The teachers are first rate and the administration is innovative. Parent involvement is very high. From special needs students to students in need of enrichment, the Chesterbrook ES faculty and adminstration welcomes and encourages them all. Introducing technology into the classrooms is a hallmark at Chesterbrook ES. I'm very pleased with the education my two children receive at Chesterbrook ES.
—Submitted by a parent

Chesterbrook is a well organized and well run school who's curriculum crosses all levels. Not only is the staff able to meet the challenging needs of GT students, but the program they have put into place for those students with special needs is unparallel to any others in the county. Their special needs program has been used as a role model for other schools in the area. When a school can meet the needs of ALL its students - that is a GREAT school. Chesterbrook is a GREAT SCHOOL!
—Submitted by a parent

The parental involvement at Chesterbrook is phenomenal! Not only is the PTA active, but the number of parents who volunteer in the classrooms to help the teachers with ongoing activities as well as for many special events is more than any I've seen in the other schools that we have been to. We have moved twice, while raising 5 children. I don't want to move again - at least until all of our children benefit from this school! The great teacher-parent relationships only benefits every child.
—Submitted by a parent

A concept that I really like here is that kids who are in the same grade all get the same homework packet--teachers have 'teaching teams' and decide on the curriculum. School is also relatively small and is a very nice and clean facility. The new Vice Principal seems to have a good knack to connect parents and teachers. Lots of special events to add to learning.
—Submitted by a parent

Good atmosphere -- and teaching staff which is involved with students.
—Submitted by a parent