Research St. Peter's Interparish School private Schools in Alexandria, Virginia

“I am very displeased with St. Peter's. It seems that the children's education does not come first at this school.”

“St. Peters is a small, neighborhood elementary school that seems to attract an unusual number of parents with lofty expectations (as some of these comments suggest). The academics and teachers are fine, and in some cases surprisingly excellent, but the school's culture is what makes it unique. Many students walk to St. Peters; their friends all live within blocks; they go to school with the same kids for years, forming sibling-like relationships (the same goes for the parents). No, it doesn't have a cafeteria or much in the way of sports or clubs. But it's a lot cheaper than other private schools that do, and the strong sense of community more than compensates. A great choice if you live on Capitol Hill and don't expect private tutoring for your little genius.”

“I moved from to Mississippi, but I lived in D.C. first. The sports programs are weak, the teachers aren't as compassionate as they should be, and the principal isn't the best leader. I though loved the school and its events. Its okay!”

“My child just completed his first year at St. Peter's. I have to admit, I expected a more rigorous education and for him to get more out of his first year. Since we love the community and the parental involvement, we are hoping this was just a bad first educational experience and are giving it one more shot. If things don't improve, we will most likely seek other alternatives.”

“I have two children who attend St. Peter's, and I must say that I am not pleased. The principal has poor leadership skills, which is not at all helpful to our children (the future leaders of tomorrow). Many of the teachers follow suite in this area. The principal and Vice Principal are rude and disrespectful. They often do not address the students or the parents whenever they come in contact with them or even in passing by. This is not a good Christian value to teach our children. There are a few good teachers, who are not valued like they should be. Christian values are not taken serious, therefore not effectively being taught to the children. Academics are not challenging enough. Discipline is a problem. Parent involvement is outstanding.”

“St. Peter's is an outstanding school. Our thee childrenlove to go to school. The teachers are good role models while being attentive and engaging. The parent community is supportive and involved in constantly improving the school. Recent technical advances like up-to-date computers and white boards keep the education competitive. This year, St. Peter's implemented an environmental science program to study the Anacostia River. Students from Pre-K through 8th grade participated in field trips and science projects about the River. The After Care Enrichment program is one of the best in Washington, DC. All types of dance, sports, theatre, art, and science programs are included for after school students. Even parents teach enrichment programs as volunteers. Two top trial lawyer parents taught rhetoric and debate to 5-8 graders. Another parent teaches Latin. We have only positive things to say about St. Peter's, an oasis of great elementary education.”

“The academics for middle school are ok, and the middle school teachers are not open to change. Example, when a child takes a math test, the first grade the child receives should be the final grade. The middle school math teacher allows them to fix the problems they got wrong and give them a 1/2 point for each (this does not help). Tuition is going up by alomst $3,000 for the school year 2007-2008 and it is not worth it. Sports are non existent. I am pulling my son out of the school as the tuition price does not meet the academics being taught.”

“This was our first year at St. Peter's. My daughter absolutely loves the school and is eager to start the first grade. She's comfortable and loves to read books by Dr. Suess and 'An I Can Read' books. She now will attempt to read the newspaper. She's comfortable with addition and subtraction. The teachers were great and made school (in my daughter's words) FUN! She can't wait to see her friends and constantly talked about sharing and caring for others and how to respect others. I can honestly say our first year has been great at St. Peter's. -- Kyndall's mom”

“My husband and I are somewhat displeased with this school. In the early grades, when most kids are learning reading fundamentals and basic math concepts, our child is instead being taught social principles. While there is some value to that, we would have been happy to know that more (or any) emphasis was placed on ABC's, sounds of letters, etc. Our child is in the beginning stages of reading and is adding but none of this is being reinforced at school. I also was not extremely pleased with the administration. We will not be returning in the fall.”

“Our daughter has attended the school for 6 years, and will not return next year. The school is poorly administrated, with the principal having little incentive to work with the parents when issues arise with teachers or the academic program. Additionally, the academics are not challenging, and many of the teachers who have been at the school for a long time are apathetic and resistant to change. The newer teachers, however, are energetic, use a variety of teaching techniques, and encourage individual growth.”

“Last year(03-04), the academics for the middle school were horrible. But now most of the jr. high teachers have been replaced, and I am challenged and working very hard. It is good preparation for high school. But the teachers are too strict on uniforms, I am constantly getting warned for ridiculous things like the wrong socks. And physical education needs to be improved.”

“Our son is getting an excellent education here...He is challenged in Mathematics (Saxon) and Language Arts. Good extracurricular program but sports program is weak..Be prepared to open the books and burn some lamp oil here!!! Tuition is about $5K per year.”