Peabody School

Posted: August 11, 2026

This school has pushed me to limits i've never had and then required me to surpass them once again. I am surrounded by intelligent people. Our conversations are always sparked by what we just learned in class and the faculty include some of the most genuine and kind people I've met. At Peabody, everyone wants to learn, so even if your very bright, but don't want that challenge, it might not be the right school for you. However, I urge anyone willing to try it out for a year, because sometimes you need a bigger challenge to create or unlock the desire for one. Violence and harassment such as bullying is not tolerated, which makes students, including myself, feel safer. Our language classes swap every semester for the kindergarten through third grade. Once you reach fourth grade, you are to pick between Spanish and French. I feel the french program is more structured in its program, however, either program is great. P.E. (Physical Education) is fun. Our P.E. curriculum is centered on having fun. We play everything from kickball, to whiffle-tennis (if you attend the school you'll learn what it is). And our dodgeballs are NOT actual dodge balls. They're extremely aerodynamic foam balls (I, myself, have no clue how they get to be that aerodynamic. It's foam.). The curriculum for lower school has built in subjects, called Specials. They are Technology, Music, Art, and Drama. Once you get into the middle school program, which starts at fifth grade you get to pick which classes you want to be in. These are called Arts and Enrichments, or A&E's. There are fiber arts classes where you can learn to crochet, do needle point, and knit. There are more classes to choose from as well physically active A&E's such as Mountain Biking. You can take Improv classes for Drama, or take a fashion/sewing class for art, where you learn how to sew using both a needle and a sewing machine, and then display your projects at a mini school fashion show. You can take classes such as Weird History, where you make a slideshow every couple of classes about the history of something weird or random. And you get to pick four per semester and each one has a day you do it on, which ranges Monday through Thursday. The 5th and 6th grade A&E classes are forty-five minutes long each, while the 7th and 8th grade A&E classes are each an hour long. I have been at this school since kindergarten, and highly recommend this school for anyone who feels up for a challenge, even if you're not sure you are.

Posted: August 11, 2026

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Posted: March 9, 2017

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Posted: March 9, 2017

We have 2 kids at Peabody and they have been there for 5 years. The result has been well-adjusted kids with a robust, positive and worldly outlook. This school seems to focus on one goal – educating. They don’t veer off-course into religious dogma and are not dominated by the sports program. Our kids and their friends have healthy relationships with each other and life in general. They are open to people from all walks of life and have developed great social skills even in a small school environment. Make no mistake, Peabody is a high-performance, high-character school and there is student body turnover every year for both behavioral and academic reasons. There is also pretty high educator turnover. I think that teaching at Peabody may burnish a resume’ and that is what some teachers use it for. However, in our 5 years, the consistency of the core products; high quality education and ethical character building, have not diminished. This year the Head of School is new and has been impressive. Parents need to clearly establish their expectations/limitations on the homework load. We have found the administrators and teachers responsive to our needs. At Peabody, you will find your great kid surrounded by other great kids. In a region with lots of quality choices, Peabody remains a no-brainer for our family.

Posted: January 29, 2016

We have been at Peabody for 4 years now and have found it to be an exceptional experience for our child. The teachers are wonderful and are given the support and latitude by the administration to create really engaging learning experiences for the kids. Peabody really embraces individualized education which has resulted in an engaged and energized learner. There is much attention paid to the emotional and social needs of the children, in addition to the academically enriching environment. We couldn't be happier.

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Posted: September 30, 2015

In our house we have a recent Peabody graduate and a new Middle Schooler, who spent three years at the Peabody elementary school, and we could not be happier with their school experience. Both have been challenged academically, have gotten a broad education, and have enjoyed themselves. Peabody teachers are truly phenomenal. For them teaching is a calling, and they are deeply committed to their students. They know them well -- their strengths and weaknesses -- and are working on helping to develop them into fun-loving but more mature individuals. Great foundation in all respects. The administration has been coming a long way: lots of creativity and new ideas are being implemented. They are also able to hire and retain the amazing teachers the school has.
We consider ourselves lucky to have found the school. Incidentally, our older has been superbly prepared for high school, without sacrificing week-ends (though he did work hard during the week at Peabody).
We highly recommend the school. While it may not be for everyone, try it out and see whether your child enjoys the atmosphere.

Posted: September 30, 2015

Outstanding and committed teaching staff. They know their subject matter and are able to convey it and get students excited about the materials.

Posted: September 30, 2015

The homework assignments progress steadily over the years. Mostly no homework on Fridays, which is great. Middle schoolers have longer term projects which teach them to schedule and manage time effectively.

Posted: September 30, 2015

The school models these values and pays attention to students following them as well.
Of course, not everyone is perfect but they are certainly striving to do their best. The adviser program in middle school is one example as are the Big Sister and Brothers' programs.

Posted: September 2, 2014

Peabody School is one of the best around. Both of my children have had such positive experiences, and the school has nurturing and kind teachers who care about the whole child. Administration is supportive and involved. The turnover that has happened is needed and the school is stronger because of it. Peabody is in high demand because it is doing things right. We couldn't be happier.

Posted: August 28, 2014

#1 choice in the region: The Best: Does not require a particular religion in order to be part of the community. As result you get the brightest kids, happiest families, most productive teachers and the broadest range of educational experiences. By watching the others, a child understands their place in the world. Peabody families are winners including business owners, professionals, artists, teachers, coaches and so on. Some are wealthy, many are not. Wealth is not the measure of success results are and the kid s pick up on that. The Good: The kids are not bored. The administrators move fast when facing a problem. Inappropriate behavior is immediately counseled and monitored. The school expects intelligence in the kids and does not praise it. Praise is reserved for effort and it shows. The Bad: Old guard teachers and supporters set the agenda. Some teacher turnover is the result. New teachers take time to buy in to the program. Space is limited and there is a lack of big school amenities. The new gym will help but not enough. The Worst: The geographic range is wide due to the nature of admissions. Communal experience suffers when your child s buddy lives 10 miles away.

Posted: August 27, 2014

Being 1 year removed from the school, i have to think our 4 years at Peabody were not a great investment. The school is academically very rigorous, and I think my kid lost some youth grinding out homework. Teacher turn over is pretty high, but there is an entrenched old guard that stays in place. The leadership is non existent with a principle that reactionary and lacks vision. Field trips cancelled due to poor planning, student teacher conferences that never happen, constant fund raising, teachers hired with metal illness to be discovered later and let go, or worse. Very sad and a far step from the original vision of the school. We are much happier in a private school that looks at the beauty of the whole child.

Posted: March 30, 2014

Peabody is an exceptional school for kids who love to learn and teachers who love to teach. Our family has been with the school for 6 years now and Peabody continues to knock our socks off on a routine basis. Where else would you find a first grade teacher who uses Oreos to teach the phases of the moon, or will happily jump up onto a table to make a lesson fun and memorable? Where else would you find a head of school who will give up her Saturday night for a middle school girls sleepover to build sisterhood and respect at a time when tweens in other schools are perfecting their mean girl skills? Where else would you find an all-school talent show where a kid can get up and sing a solo without fear of being laughed at AND to thunderous applause from his peers (no matter how good the actual singing). And where else will you find kids who are as uniquely curious, kind, original and, unabashedly, themselves? If Peabody has any shortcoming, it is only that it has to end after eighth grade.

Posted: March 17, 2014

Obviously all these positive reviews are fake, probably written by a school administrator -notice the dates? Several of them are posted on the same date, others a few days apart, with no logical intervals. Unless a bunch of parents collectively decided one day to hit the reviews, the school is desperately trying to address what everyone knows is a horrible reputation -especially in regards to the administrators.

Posted: January 17, 2014

I love Peabody. I do not know why the school has been getting such bad reviews, because I have been here for 7 years, since Kindergarten. The school has much improved and growed in the past few years. We got a new, nicer receptionist, we have new teachers that love to teach (and learn from us, the students) and we have a lot that will be done next year. The school is building a new middle school and gym, and more space for playing sports. They are also offering lots of extracurricular activities after school. I have some problems with social skills, so the school noticed that and now I have a meeting with a teacher every Tuesday at lunch, that is very informative and helpful. The teachers have a lot of excitement for learning, and offer help when ever you need it. I love Peabody in every way. -Submitted by a current student

Posted: December 7, 2013

This is one of the worst schools I've ever been too. I was bullied constantly and made fun of for no reason at all. Their bullying to me has made me and 5 other kids leave the school. I know this because I was a student! Its your choice if you choose to send your kids, but I recommend a second thought for sure.

Posted: December 4, 2013

Peabody is an awesome place that encourages its students to think independently, be kind, contribute to their class & community and overall just be better, more inquisitive kids. we had high expectations and it has far exceeded those.

Posted: August 4, 2013

This school and its wonderful staff have provided a warm and nurturing experience for two of our children over many years. The classes are small and the children become as siblings, developing bonds that will last a lifetime. Classes encourage enthusiasm for learning and accomplishment, and allow the children to progress at their own - generally accelerated - pace. Homework is minimal (but allows the student to explore further what s/he learned in class) which allows for family time and age-appropriate adventures and work. This school became our family's community, a diverse group of friends equally enthusiastic about learning and conscious living. Not the best match for all children (no school is), but worth visiting and seeing for yourself if it might be a good match for your child. It was the best match for ours.

Posted: February 12, 2013

We relocated to the area this year and our two kids love the school. A great place for smart kids to learn, with challenging work but not being overly competitive with each other. The students seem to be supportive of each other. The athletics have an emphasis on everyone playing and kids having fun. if you see everyone's being dropped off in the morning you can see that they are all happy to be there. Not the fanciest facilities in the area, but the teachers are top notch.

Posted: January 6, 2013

We love this school. Our two children feel like Peabody School is a second home. The education is top-notch, and the community is warm, caring and sincere. I am continually amazed by how a school for intellectually advanced children can feel not at all competitive, can embrace learners of all styles, and validates each child for their unique talents. The music and arts programs are exceptional. The administration handles every issue with grace and tact, and is always available when parents (or kids) want to talk. As a parent, I find that I can trust the teachers, administration and leadership completely, and feel the quality of the school is a gift to my children and to myself, where I don't feel the constant need to advocate for my child or watch over anyone's shoulder. I give Peabody School my highest recommendation.

Posted: September 19, 2012

Peabody School offers an educational environment that is nurturing and academically challenging. Students are engaged and excited to come to school each day. The faculty members support and encourage one another. Peabody School is an incredibly happy place to be!

Posted: January 29, 2012

We are thrilled that we have found such a wonderful school for our daughter. She loves to come to school each day and is challenged in ways that have helped her to grow academically and socially. The staff are so dedicated to each child and they strive to create a supportive culture. We feel so blessed to have this school in our community.

Posted: January 22, 2012

Peabody has been a wonderful school for our two very different kids. Under the leadership of a new headmaster for the past 3 years, the school has become a top-notch place. It was a good school before. Now it is excellent. My kids thrive with the differentiated teaching (the school REALLY does it). My husband and I are very pleased, and our kids love going to a school where they are challenged, inspired and happy.

Posted: April 20, 2011

I've had 2 students at Peabody for 7 years now, and it has been a truly wonderful experience. And in that time, I've seen the school constantly improve--particularly of late, with an administration that looks out for what's best for the students, and which listens and responds to parental concerns. Our kids have found it to be a challenging yet nurturing environment, and they have been blessed with superb teachers who really work hard to understand their students' individual characters and needs.

Posted: April 19, 2011

I have 2 children at Peabody, so I've been part of the community for over 8 years. Peabody excels at finding the exact right level of challenge for each child. Finding a level of difficulty that challenges a gifted child without overwhelming them can be tricky, and I see Peabody allowing children to flourish academically, socially, and emotionally. The curriculum is advanced (as evidenced by the academic level students enter in high school, which is often college level), but more than that, it is rich. Peabody teaches children to think critically. I'm often astonished at the connections and reasoning Peabody children employ. Whenever I chaperone field trips, I hear the same from the guides and docents. These kids are learning in such a way that learning is a joyous thing. They are happy, curious, and honored for exactly who they are. Head of School is impressive-- she clearly sees critiques as opportunities for growth. My children's teachers have been excellent. Committed, caring, and dynamic. I find the whole community to be supportive and lively. I feel lucky my children are here.

Posted: April 18, 2011

My wife and I had a son who was bored at his child care and when Peabody began their pre-K program we were thrilled with the results. That was several years ago and my son is now finishing up first grade and continues to be excited and enjoys school. The Peabody teachers allow my son to excel at the pace he wants without feeling different as all students are given that opportunity to go at their own pace. Having Peabody in our community is one of the top reasons I am glad to live here. We have enrolled our second son at Peabody this year and his progress has been astounding. The teachers and leadership at Peabody are extremely responsive to my requests and highly accessible. I can feel their commitment to my child's education through their willingness to listen and how they respond. If you get a chance to have your child be a Peabody Panther you will be glad you did.

Posted: April 18, 2011

We have two kids at Peabody and have been there 7 years now. We feel the school is truly exceptional. The academics are, obviously, very strong and the school philosophy of differentiation is tremendously well done. It really benefits the kids. The best thing, in our opinion, is that the classroom environment really fosters not only curiosity, but also a sense that everyone's opinion is important. Kids grow up understanding how to share their opinions respectfully, and to engage ideas and concepts. It's not about "rote learning" but really about engaging the material and, best of all, THINKING. Our kids wake up happy to go to school every day and, because all the kids at Peabody are bright, they are free to be known as something other than "the smart kid". The Head of School is absolutely top notch and very responsive to questions or concerns, as are the teachers. Like any school, Peabody can have bad luck hiring a teacher who seems great but turns out not to be. When such situations have arisen in the past, they have handled this as well as possible under difficult circumstances. Overall, Peabody is a terrific place for kids to grow and learn--we can't recommend it highly enough.

Posted: April 18, 2011

This has been our first year at Peabody and we could not be more pleased - our son is in 3rd grade there and our daughter in first, and both of them have thrived in this supportive and enriching environment. Our previous school's curriculum was weaker than we had suspected, but the Peabody teachers have brought both kids up to speed in no time flat, and we have been amazed at their accomplishments this year, not just in the core academic subjects, but in music and the arts as well. The head of school has been a dream to work with - very accessible, accommodating, and is widely respected by students, staff, and parents alike.

Posted: April 17, 2011

We have been a Peabody family for the past four years and couldn't be happier. We looked carefully at a number of public and independent schools before choosing Peabody. Although my boys have very different temperaments and academic profiles, Peabody has been a great fit for both. The teachers stand out because they truly adore these children, they provide challenging, individualized curriculum, and they nurture children's curiosity. The Head of School stands out because she's approachable and action-oriented, and as a former teacher, she "gets" the kids. And the children stand out for their love of learning and kindness towards each other. We are so fortunate to have this school in our community.

Posted: April 11, 2011

There is no other school like Peabody in the area. My children are at a place in which they have true "voice" and they are excited to come to school everyday. The teaching staff is of the highest caliber, and as a parent I feel heard and appreciated.

Posted: January 25, 2011

We have had our children at Peabody for a number of years. We are beyond pleased with the school. Our children are happy and enthusiastically learning. We have seen the head of school professionally handle the occasional challenges the school has faced, and her concern with providing the best environment for the kids is evident. We couldn't be happier than we are at Peabody.

Posted: January 25, 2011

Both of my boys went from first to eight grade at Peabody, and it was absolutely the best decision that we made for them. ALL of the teachers that both of our boys had were great. I have been totally satisfied with the quality of teaching, the curriculum, and the current leadership at the school. My older son is now at Charlottesville High School and is thriving in his honors and AP classes. Attending Peabody made him totally prepared for high school both academically and socially. He was co-captain of the JV football team last year and is involved in other sports. My younger son will go to CHS next year too, and Peabody provided him with fabulous skills in music that hopefully will serve him well in CHS's top notch music program. Both of my sons have very different talents and needs and Peabody School was able to respond to and serve both of them equally well. I highly recommend the school.

Posted: January 25, 2011

I am a parent of 2 children who attend Peabody; we could not be happier and have felt that the community is close-knit and loving with the older children being fantastic role models. The teachers absolutely "get it" that more homework doesn't equal smarter children, and have found a good balance of creativity and teaching. We feel incredibly lucky to have a school like this in our community.

Posted: January 25, 2011

Our son is in his third year at Peabody and our daughter, her first. First and foremost, every kiddo has his or her own needs, and the school recognizes that and provides a distinct and differentiated education for each child. Our daughter has found a warm and nurturing environment that allows her to be a strong presence in the classroom. There is a strong focus on seeing that every child develop personally and intellectually. The academics are what brought us to Peabody, and they have exceed our expectations.

Posted: January 20, 2011

My son attended for one year, and I have never had a worse experience. First of all the classrooms are extremely unbalanced, for instance one class has NO girls, not one. And it turns out that selecting kids just based on intelligence is an awkward and untenable social experiment. They have no set curriculum, it is the luck of the draw with the teachers, which they churn through at lightning speed. When I put my child back in public school he was then BEHIND, after a year at a school for gifted kids. They fired my son's teacher halfway through the year, and have not yet replaced him, they have a sub teaching, and it is January. If you want to spend all your time at fundraisers, and you want your kid to be bullied by smart kids, look no further. This school is all about the parents, all about them thinking they have smart kids. Save your money, these classes are NOT better than public school AT ALL. There is no gym, no cafeteria, no order, total chaos, I give this school a hearty F.

Posted: July 5, 2010

My two children have been at Peabody for the past 3 years, and we have had a wonderful experience there. Even though, the past two years have been bumpy for the administration and there have been changes in teachers, we have still have an great experience. I have been happily impressed with new administator and I think the changes there will be positive and Peabody will flourish under her leadership. We have had some amazing teachers and some that are solid, but not extraordinary, as is the case with any school. Even with the gliches, I believe the combination of academics, nuturing environment, parental participation and really bright kids, makes Peabody a special place. If you are looking for an alternative to the rote learning at some of the public schools, you should consider Peabody.

Posted: March 8, 2010

Peabody School has made a world of difference in my child's life. My child is challenged and nurtured and looks forward to coming to school. The administration and teachers are top notch and we are so grateful a school like this exists.

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