Westridge Elementary School

I too am disappointed by the remarks by some of the parents here. My first experience was with the Assistant PRincipal, Mr. Kahn, who is just fantastic! He took a personal interest in my 7 year old, and now he has a buddy for life - and the whole staff is that way, including the Principal, who takes no guff from the BMW/Mercedes set that likes to think they run the school - maybe that is wher ethe comments come from. The teachers are great and so is the community if you can get past the many snobby parents - the teachers are EXCELLENT, and it was clear that much though and time was put into their hiring. Now I know why - the only other school I might consider is Springwoods, but this one is within walking distance ina a pleasant neighborhood!
--Submitted by a parent

So far I'm disappointed. The communication with this school is the worst I've ever had with any of the three elementary schools our family has atteneded. The reputation was excellent but the reality is falling short of all of my expectations.
--Submitted by a parent

It makes me sad to see the negative reviews from other parents; I don't agree with them. I have felt VERY encouraged to participate and volunteer ever since my daughter began school. My daughter's teacher, Mrs. Forvour, is absolutely amazing; my little girl loves going to school! I am so impressed by the efforts made by the PTA to raise money for the school and get everyone involved. I once had a question for the administration and the assistant principal, Mr. Kahn (who is new this year), returned my phone call immediately and was very kind. This is a great school so far! Great job Westridge!
--Submitted by a parent

Great teacher, horrible administration. If you want to feel unwelcome from the minute you walk in the front door, this is the school for you. If any school ever needed a shake up this is it. Think that the teachers do the best they can under the oppressive grip of this principal. Don't be fooled by the awards. Glad that I never have to step foot in that place again and hopefully now they my kids are out of that Stepford environment, they can grow and thrive and fulfill their potential.
--Submitted by a parent

We moved to our new home because we wanted our kids to attend Westridge. However, the school performance has been a disappointment. The test scores have been going down the past few years. Teachers seem more concern about children behavior (such as not touching a friend while standing in line) than academic improvement. School works that my kindergarten brings home are the same thing he did in Pre-K. I expect a lot more from school that claimed to win so many awards each year. So far, Westridge is just an average school at best.
--Submitted by a parent

As a professional educator in many schools and as a parent, I appreciate the warm caring environment in THIS school. The unreasonable expectations are far surpassed by this excellent staff. By all measures from- teachers to admin they keep the students learning at high levels. Thankfully they follow safety procedures so you need your id, and you are welcome in classrooms; they enjoy your help.Mrs. H has been here 8 yrs and knows the community and works tirelessly well with everyone.
--Submitted by a parent

amazing support from friendly admin team & teachers
--Submitted by a parent

Westridge used to be the best school in the Lake Ridge area but the current administration leaves a lot to be desired. There are many great teachers there but many have left because they don't like working for the current administration. I have heard now that Springwoods, Antietam and Penn Elem are more kid friendly and much more welcoming to parent involvement. As a whole the PWCS district leadership needs to work on those concepts as well and don't get me started on the fuzzy math program they are pushing into all the elem schools!
--Submitted by a parent

Thank you Mrs. Hayden and the wonderful staff at Westridge Elementary. I cannot say enough great things about this school. The entire staff is dedicated to making sure each child has the best expereince possible. The focus is on making our children safe and responsible for their own learning. The school has received many honors and awards and has some of the highest test scores in the state. Well done Mrs. Hayden and the dedicated staff of Westridge. Go Knights!
--Submitted by a parent

There are many excellent teachers at Westridge although the administration leaves a lot to be desired. This has been the most unwelcoming school and administration that I have ever come across.
--Submitted by a parent