Lafayette Elementary School in Bethesda, Maryland

“Lafayette Elementary's location has a lot to do with its so called reputation. For one any problems in the school are never handeld they are pushed aside. The principal hates confrontation with anyone so never deals with problems. And although some students are taught a peace class it does not reflect on how some of the students treat each other and adults in the school. The HSA is great parent organization and is basically what holds the school together.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“I just wanted to offer a counter to the 'bad school for smart kids' statement. I have a very bright girl who has found the school challenging and motivating. Thanks to the regular particpation of parents in supporting 'writing workshops' my daughter has blossomed into a profilic young writer. She also excels at math and science, and has developed a passion for history. There are a few duds in the teaching pool, but most of them are dedicated to the school and the kids. The school also makes a real effort to discourage exlusivity - cliques, clubs and so on, and, of course, bullying. The fourth graders also have a 'peace' class that teaches them to negotiate conflict through play-acting. In sum, I feel very fortunate to have children in this school.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“This school was so bad for smart kids. Nothing was challenging.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“Lafayette is a unique learning environment -- ethnically and demographically diverse students, with active parent participation, a no-nonsense but fair principal, and dedicated and caring teachers.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“I have one son who graduated last year and one who is there now and I just love Lafayette. What a great environment for the kids.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“We have two kids at 1st and 5th grades. We came from abroad where both our children attended excellent private schools. When we moved to DC we fell in love with the neighborhood and decided to try the DCPS system in spite of all the negative/conflicting information about it. Lafayette has been very good to our children, specially the younger one. Of course there are some bad teachers or difficulties related to funding some activities. Still, the community works together in a friendly and positive environment and accomplishes a lot each year. We had good support for our kids regarding the acquisition of English as a second language. After only 1 year our kids are totally proficient. Ms. Main is always committed to improve the school and is accessible at any time she is in the school.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“Lafayette has a great positve feeling! Interested Teachers, faculty and staff are helpful, pleasant and communicate well. The Principal, Ms. Main knows her stuff.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“A wonderful overall experience and environment for the kids. The supplemental Arts and Science Fund (LASF) provides a full-time science teacher and music teacher. The teachers are caring and dedicated. The kids are open to different kids and different cultures.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“Our child is in his first year at Lafayette, and the teacher is barely adequate. Other teachers in his grade seem very good, but the problem is that when you get the 'bad' one you get no support from the administration. Ms Main, the principal, does not deal well with parents who have issues with the school - even with ample justification.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“Sorely disappointed with the school and pulled our child out. Quality of teachers is inconsistent. Much of the reputation of the school is a product of hype generated from the parents association which is divorced from the reality of the situation.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“Great school, fun classes, happy students. Simple as that.”
This review was posted by a student.

“The school is amazing. It is much more like a private school in quality of teaching and parental involvement, curriculum enhancememts, and extra-curricular options. In the low grades the ratios are close to those in private schools. The only thing that reminds us this is part of the DCPS system are occasional facilities issues like outdated carpet or the need for a fresh coat of paint in the gym. When DCPS fails, the PTA usually takes care of the problem from its own funds. We feel very lucky to be sending our kids to Lafayette.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“Lafayette by far is one of the best elementary schools in the metropolitan area. The parents are extremely envolved. We have an excellent PTA which pays the salaries of the art and music teachers. Lafayette's scores equal and surpass their counterparts in Montgomery County. The community is strong and diverse, with many of the most well educated families in the area. Many families are pulling their children from local private schools to become part of the Lafayette community. Our teachers are dedicated and proud to be on staff. The principal Ms. Main is one of the best. A jem.”
This review was posted by a parent.