Connelly School of the Holy Child in Potomac

Posted: April 30, 2025

If you're considering this school, I encourage you to read all the reviews carefully, as they reflect much of what we experienced. In our view, the environment did not provide the kind of support our teenage daughter needed, particularly in helping her grow into a confident young woman. In January, we raised concerns with the school and informed them that our daughter had applied elsewhere and might transfer if things didnt improve. Based on the schools encouragement to stick it out, we signed the contract for the following school year in good faith, hoping for positive change. Unfortunately, after months of ongoing issues, we made the difficult decision to withdraw her for a healthier and more supportive environment. Due to an unexpected and emotionally difficult family situation, we missed the cancellation deadline by just one business day. We hoped the school would show some understanding and flexibilityespecially given their stated commitment to fostering justice and compassion. However, despite making every effort to remain transparent and cooperativeincluding 18 documented communications between January and Aprilwe were held to the full tuition for the following year. We were also told that transcripts would not be released until payment was made, which, unless paid in full, would have jeopardized our daughters ability to begin at her new school on time. While we understand the need for policies, we were disappointed by the schools inflexible response, which didnt reflect the just and compassionate values they promote. When we offered a compromise to pay half, it was declined. What was particularly disheartening was the administrations suggestion that our daughter could simply return the next yeardespite their awareness that the school environment had not supported her well-being. Comments such as friendships typically dont form until junior year only deepened our concerns about the schools culture. The emotional and financial toll on our family was significant and, at times, felt deeply unfair. But ultimately, helping our daughter transition to a school where she is now thriving has been priceless.

Posted: May 3, 2024

The principal literally disrespected me and my family they were pushy not to mention the place stinks and people smoke the start of the year it was my first time coming into holy cross it was unpleasing.

the teaching method is basically the same as public if you expect to get prestigious academics if the school even knows what that means students never are motivated to learn which I can see why.

Posted: February 24, 2024

This is a very non-inclusive school full of entitled students or those aspiring to their circles. There is a group of popular girls practicing exclusion and covert/overt bullying. If you are different in any way, artistic, quirky, independent, you will be ostracized or near ostracized. The parents are completely complicit in this and have way too much power. The administration is so focused on donations, they dont want to see what is going on. Please go elsewhere unless you are part of the shallow country club crowd. As to the academic rigor, most girls have tutors and college admission consultants, so yes, you will need outside help.

Posted: June 16, 2022

I have 2 daughters at Holy Child. They have different personalities, academic strengths and interests. Holy Child has served the needs and interests of both my daughters because underlying the academics is a focus on character and service. Each girl is empowered as an individual rather than having to fit into a mold or expectation of others. Rather, each student is given opportunities to take risks and to try new things whether it be a sport or art or academic interest. As a parent, it has been a welcoming community where I feel that my voice is heard. The administration is responsive, and I love that my daughters have strong female leaders who are also kind and compassionate role models. Plus, the school is constantly assessing how to improve and is not afraid to own mistakes which was refreshing after the challenges academic institutions faced over the last couple of years.

Posted: April 12, 2022

This school has been transformative for my daughter, who began in 6th grade (during the pandemic), from both an academic and social-emotional standpoint. Her confidence has soared in the past year and a half. Her friendships, personal growth, and sense of ownership and accountability for her schoolwork are at a level I did not expect before high school. For our daughter, this has been a game-changer and we feel blessed to have her in such a joyful, inclusive, and nurturing environment.

Posted: February 10, 2022

I am a parent of an alum and I can say that Holy Child allowed her to understand who she is as a learner and a thinker. The academic and social support offered to students is amazing and teachers are always willing to go the extra mile when students require the assistance. Thank you Holy Child!!

Posted: February 10, 2022

Posted: June 3, 2021

Excellent college prep school. This is a place where students discover what they want to do with their lives. One of my daughters graduated already and another is currently a student. This is the place where young women find their voices and become individuals and advocates for others. Cornelia Connelly would be very proud.

Posted: June 3, 2021

Posted: April 2, 2021

The Holy Child administration is totally focused on fundraising and marketing. There is much less focus on teaching and retaining/recruiting great teachers. The clubs for the most part do not offer any meaningful experience and exist mostly so that the girls can put something on their resumes. The social scene is dominated by the popular girls who are superficial and materialistic. There is very little diversity and independent thinking, originality or creativity are discouraged. Unless a girl can fit in with the popular group, she will be marginalized and made to feel inferior. This school can potentially lower the girls self-esteem, which is regrettable. Expressions of Cornelia Connellys values are repeated over and over by the schools administration, but they are not practiced. Bullying, isolation are not uncommon. In short, look beyond the glossy facade and take your daughter elsewhere.

Posted: April 2, 2021

Posted: May 22, 2020

Leaders turn a blind eye to bullying, vaping and extreme drinking off campus.

Posted: May 22, 2020

Terrible experience. The mean girls environment is terrible. Multiple girls drop out each year due to bullying. The girls drink, vape, and bully. Privileged girls are a nightmare.

Posted: July 19, 2018

New, unskilled educators are hired and quickly leave. There is very little expectation of rigor. Be prepared to also pay for tutoring to accelerate leaening.

Posted: July 19, 2018

If your goal is to raise a strong-minded, confident young woman, this is not the school for you. Bullying wrapped in a facade of forced compliance is rampant. Many girls cry at night because they come home feeling not smart enough, not pretty enough, not good enough, not rich enough. The school brushes this devastating truth aside all while pretending to embrace Jesus and his teachings. It is unfair, unkind, and unhealthy to these beautiful young ladies. I am a parent and educator. Please, either advocate for extreme change or send your full-of-potential, MORE than enough daughter elsewhere.

Posted: September 6, 2017

I loved my seven years at Holy Child. I encourage any parents or students to "shadow" to find out more about this lovely school.

Posted: July 24, 2016

The Connelly School of the Holy Child, where to start? I was very nervous to begin as a Freshman. I had never been to a new school and had no idea what to expect. As an upperclassman I can confidently say that coming to HC was the BEST decision I have ever made. HC provided me with the opportunity to grow as a person and to step out of my comfort zone. The faculty at Holy Child push you to do your best and they have high expectations from their students. Holy Child provides a rigorous education but they also instill in students that learning is fun! All of the teachers care about their students success and they are always there to support us in our journey through high school. I have had nothing but great experiences with my classmates. I know that the friendships I have made will continue to grow and become stronger for the rest of my life. And I am confident that my grade will stay in touch even after we graduate as we will always keep Holy Child alive in our hearts. Holy Child is a fantastic environment and I cannot stress enough how positive my experience has been. Holy Child has instilled confidence in me that I would have never found had I ended up anywhere else. I could not be more lucky to be a part of such a great place! If you are even considering Holy Child I urge you to come and shadow!

Sincerely a very happy student!

Posted: August 15, 2015

The name Holy Child is the biggest misnomer of all time. It is a rich girls school in Potomac, Md. If you don't write big donation checks, be prepared to be pushed to the side. We chose it for the Catholic foundation, but I assure you that is not a priority. In short, HC was a colossal disappointment. The tuition of 30k per year, does not include the cost of therapy your daughter will need after she is chewed up and spit out by the school

Posted: April 26, 2015

As I get ready for my daughter's graduation from college, I am yet again filled with gratitude for the preparation she received at Holy Child. Not only has she has succeeded in a grueling science track in college, soon to be certified in a profession, preparing for graduate school for a medical career, but she has been on the dean's list for the past four semesters and has presented at a regional and now a national professional conference. She is ready to take on the world, and that started here--with strong teachers that cared about her success. And the new administration has even bigger plans.

Posted: April 13, 2015

Received an OUTSTANDING education at SHC that has been the cornerstone in my life for 45 years!

Posted: March 30, 2015

My daughter started in 7th grade, transferring from a parochial school. She loved it from day one! The smaller classes with about a 14-1 ratio were perfect! It allowed for interaction from all of the girls and the style of teaching there includes a lot of student participation in the classroom. My daughter graduated totally prepared for college life, academically and socially. She went to a top university in NC and did extremely well. She also participated in club sports in college after playing on a number of sports teams at Holy Child.

Posted: March 26, 2015

Many of the posts here are a bit dated, wanted to share a very positive experience with HC. The new head of the school is phenomenal and the entire campus community is responding to innovative thinking and incredible support to the young women who attend. The faculty/staff interaction is incredible and they are willing to spend extra time with students as needed and see each student with their unique qualities and work hard to ensure opportunities for them and support them to challenge themselves and each other. Support and Challenge is the key to any education or growth process and those areas are definitely met at Connolly School of the Holy Child.

Posted: December 28, 2013

Save your money. I have been attending Holy Child for three years. I say the root of the problems comes from the facility and staff. I am not the only person in m grade who thinks this. I often times find my class getting caught up in this discussion in counseling class(a mandatory class). Don't get me wrong, some teachers there love us, but not many. I am particularly speaking for the middle school. My biggest problem is the headmistress. She is supposed to be the one who lives out out the Holy Child mission everyday to be a role model for us. But It seems like i never see it in her. The headmistress rarely has a happy disposition with not only students, but parents as well. If you do the smallest thing wrong, you are screamed at. We have had many problems with the teachers there and when ever my parents try to talk with them, the teachers just give them a nasty remark. Socially, holy child is not there. I see two groups in my grade. The one group who already has boyfriends and goes to party every weekend(keep in mind we are only in 8th grade). The other group are the girls who are nicer but overshadowed by the 'popular' group. DON'T GO TO HOLY CHILD. You will be sorry.

Posted: September 14, 2012

Middle school is a great place if your child is able to navigate the incredibly difficult waters of the socially competitive and full of privledge environment. The teachers are wonderful, the curriculum creative, engaging and well integrated.High School is dismal, large number of first year teachers on staff. Poor leadership, lip service, little Catholic culture. Staff is young and inexperienced and bullied by the veterans. Families are targeted for special treatment based on how much they can donate. Such wasted potential. The music, drama, jazz ensemble extra curriculars are based on popularity not talent..the students are part of the privledge culture and community Service is about getting it done not about doing good. Students are targeted. HC is a happy place for the few who match the perfect popular mean girls style. Note also the declining enrollment numbers and compare to the other all girls' schools. HC is a waste of your money, save it for college. AP's are by selection and not be "allowed" tomostly ken most particularly not if the child has any learning differences. Learning center supports are a joke and not supported by teaching staff.

Posted: August 30, 2011

To say that Holy Child is a joyful place of learning is an understatement. I have 2 daughters currently attending and I could not be more pleased. The teachers ,staff and students have created an exuberant environment where the girls are challenged and encouraged to be the best they can be intellectually,artistically,athletically, and spirtually. My older daughter said that is a school where no matter what your personality is, you are accepted as an individual. You can be who you are without being judged. Academically speaking, this school is challenging but also wonderful at taking tought subjects and making them approachable.They are teaching the girls to be organized so they can balance their busy schedules with sports and arts.They really want the girls to succeed and so far ,so good! If you have any doubts, the list of college acceptances should change that.

Posted: June 18, 2011

I attended Holy Child for my freshman and sophomore year and I consider to be two years of my life wasted and flushed down the drain. The girls are so similar that there is no room for diversity. Groups tend to flock together and if an outsider tries to become friends with a certain group, she is not accepted. I know this first-hand. Because it's so small, everyone has their BFFS in every class and are not forced to talk to people they're not best friends with. This leads the girls to be very exclusive when talking to someone who they are not good friends wiht. Public school has manyyyy more opporutnities and the people are so much friendlier. I had absolutely no problem making friends at public school and I had an extremely positive experience. My only regret is wasting two years of my life before I changed to public. Don't wiste your money! Oh, and they have one field, a stage IN THE GYM and and extremely limited extra-curriculars. If you are interested in theatre or musicals or anything extra-curricular that you don't want to be an absolute joke, Holy Child is not the place for you. Get out before you get in!

#	Name	Type	City	State	Distance
1	Old Farm	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Rockville	MD	4.5 mi
2	White Flint	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Rockville	MD	5 mi
3	The Willoughby	Condominium/Townhouse	Chevy Chase	MD	5.8 mi
4	Fox Farm	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Great Falls	VA	8.2 mi
5	Falls Church City	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Falls Church	VA	8.2 mi
6	Shreevewood	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Falls Church	VA	8.4 mi
7	Leeway Overlee - N Arlington	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Arlington	VA	8.5 mi
8	Lakelands	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Gaithersburg	MD	8.5 mi
9	Forest Knolls	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Silver Spring	MD	9.4 mi
10	Barkley	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Fairfax	VA	9.5 mi
11	Takoma Park	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Takoma Park	MD	9.6 mi
12	Stonehurst	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Fairfax	VA	10.1 mi
13	DuMont Oaks	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Silver Spring	MD	10.4 mi
14	Broyhill Crest	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Annandale	VA	10.4 mi
15	Hillandale	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Silver Spring	MD	11.2 mi

#	Name	City	State	Distance
1	Arlington	Arlington	VA	7.1 mi
2	Falls Church	Falls Church	VA	7.7 mi
3	Vienna	Vienna	VA	8 mi
4	West Falls Church	Falls Church	VA	8.2 mi
5	Silver Spring	Silver Spring	MD	8.6 mi
6	Kentlands	Gaithersburg	MD	8.9 mi
7	Georgetown	Washington	DC	9.5 mi
8	White Oak	Silver Spring	MD	11.2 mi
9	Washington DC	Washington D.C.	DC	11.4 mi
10	Annandale	Annandale	VA	11.6 mi

Base	Distance
Walter Reed Medical Center	5 mi.
Defense Health Headquarters Falls Church	9.2 mi.
Fort Myer	10 mi.
Henderson Hall	10.9 mi.
Pentagon	11.3 mi.
Mark Center Alexandria	12.3 mi.
Fort McNair	12.8 mi.
Coast Guard Headquarters DC	13.2 mi.
Marine Barracks Washington	13.3 mi.
Washington Navy Yard	13.3 mi.
Bolling AFB Joint Base Anacostia	14.3 mi.
NRO Chantilly	16.3 mi.
Fort Belvoir	20.1 mi.
Andrews AFB	20.9 mi.
Fort Meade NSA	25 mi.
Indian Head Naval Base	28.4 mi.
Fort Detrick	33 mi.
Quantico Marine Base	35 mi.
Coast Guard Curtis Bay	35.8 mi.
US Naval Academy	37.6 mi.
Annapolis Naval Station	38.5 mi.
Dahlgren NSWC	46.1 mi.

Connelly School of the Holy Child

Potomac, MD 20854

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Connelly School of the Holy Child

Potomac, MD 20854

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