Washington Mill Elementary School

Posted: March 22, 2024

The Principals and Leading Staff are incredibly respectful, sensitive, responsive and focused. Be their example the entire school has established a culture of learning and respect.

This school has a unique diversity of income, ethnicity, languages which the school embraces and uses as a strength. The parents and families who can contribute or volunteer often do, and it benefits everyone.

The building is in excellent condition on a quiet Mt Vernon street. In 2021-22 the school was completely renovated and expanded thanks to a bond which Fairfax county voters supported.

Posted: March 22, 2024

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Posted: September 8, 2023

The school administration “Principal” does not take bullying seriously. Had too many empty apologies and excuses. My child suffered physical and verbal bullying from other students. They never reported any of the incidents. We called over and over about daily bullying and saw no action. One of their school counselors is very harmful and made my child cry. Never genuinely apologized or cared. Parents need to know their children are not safe at this school. We moved solely because of the bullying at this school. The only good part is a few great teachers and that the school is remodeled.

Posted: September 8, 2023

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Posted: December 11, 2022

We moved to the area with a baby. By school age we had two children. We had faith that we bought a home in a area with a good, maybe even a great school. We were wrong.

Admin - we tried three times to register. Two times the registrar forgot. Principals are kind but we heard too many sorries and did not see support.

Teachers - range in quality and consistency. One determined our child should be in advanced placement, another let our child totally flail. All teachers are trying to balance providing education and survival to classes predominantly in lower socioeconomic bracket that receive free meals and bring very hard life struggles to school. One friend of my older child’s talked of getting hurt often and having bruises from home. I said something to school but was told all I could do.

Education - we ended up having to teach our children to read, write, and do math. Our one child who aligned to advanced placement went from out performing to under performing in one year on standardized testing. If you have a child that needs any sort of learning support that could range from attention and behavior to sensitivity that can come with diverse thinking or giftedness, this is not a school for them.

Safety - there is a combination of teachers and principals wanting to help, saying sorry, and turning an eye. This is a rough place. Kids do get hit and bullied. Both of my children knew the school recess was a time they were not as safe and that teachers were not there to help and rectify situations. The last year we were there, 2021-2022, my children were hit, punched, pushed to ground, threatened, and eldest was watched as went to the bathroom and even touched without consent by another child. This is what made us leave.

We wanted to love this school. We bought in a lovely area. If you buy here, make sure you factor in private school costs. We did not heed warnings in other low reviews. We found out the hard way lots of neighbors did private school.

Posted: December 11, 2022

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Posted: May 31, 2022

Washington Mill is a wonderful school with a very involved administration and dedicated teachers and staff. The school community benefits from a diverse student body, and we appreciate the school’s focus on character development in students. We’re looking forward to when construction is complete and we have an updated, modern school building.

Posted: May 31, 2022

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Posted: May 5, 2022

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Posted: May 5, 2022

Posted: May 5, 2022

Principals are very involved. There are plenty of staff and, lots of parent, volunteer, and assistant support. The school is wonderfully diverse and administration fosters equality. The School is safe.

Posted: January 18, 2021

Washington Mill has an excellent administration and teachers. The school is in a great neighborhood. My two children excelled at the school. One of my children struggled with reading. The individual attention he received was outstanding. He now reads at or above grade level.

Posted: January 18, 2021

Posted: January 18, 2021

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Posted: January 18, 2021

This school was amazing for both my kids who went here for 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th grade. The teachers gave a ton of individual attention and the advanced academics program is excellent.

Posted: January 18, 2021

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Posted: November 18, 2020

The teachers and staff have always been extremely responsive and accommodating. They are looking out for students and providing a high level of encouragement and support.

Posted: November 18, 2020

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Posted: June 12, 2020

My experience is 10 out of 10. I have one child that just graduated and another going to 4th grade. I highly recommend this school.

Posted: June 12, 2020

I have 2 kids going there. They have had homework everyday. If no assignment was given they were instructed to still read and play math game on computer.

Posted: June 12, 2020

I have only had 2 teachers that I felt didn’t reach my child to get her to perform as well as I know she could. However one of the two got better 3 and forth quarter. My daughter actually was sad to leave their class.

Posted: June 12, 2020

One of my daughters had an situation with another kid being racist towards her. I sent a email to the principal after school hours on a Friday. He replied right away and Monday he, the assistant principal and counselors addressed the situation with not only that kid and their parents but eventually the whole class. I was very happy with how that situation was handled.

Posted: June 12, 2020

The principal and assistant principals are really awesome. They have always been welcoming, kind and ready and willing to help if there had been any problems for all not just the kids but parents as well. They had great communication with the family’s about things going on in the school as well.

Posted: June 12, 2020

I know about the programs they have available. I know some of the kids involved. I worked at a after school program and I saw the connection the school program made with home, school and the kid.l to provide the best support.

Posted: June 12, 2020

Yes. The school directly and I think effectively handles bullying.

Posted: April 26, 2020

Very good school but parents are more involved Than teachers that will make partners busy which they need to improve

Posted: April 26, 2020

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Posted: August 13, 2018

Posted: August 13, 2018

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Posted: August 13, 2018

Excelente,no he tenido ninguna queja,al contrario el personal es súper ,siempre están dispuestos a ayudar

Posted: November 8, 2017

My husband and I are moving from this area and are sad to leave WMES. The school principals are actively involved with students, teachers, and parents. My husband and I are no PTA parents but they do well to lean our names and who our kid is. It is much appreciated and encourages a since of community. The principal works hard to address the matter of low-income, behavioral issue, Hispanic students and their parents by offering a Spanish speaking educator in the class, all mailers are in English & Spanish, and Spanish Immersion classes are offered. Personally, I feel it's too much accommodating to Hispanics, as a result English-speaking students that could benefit from a 2nd teacher to become better. In stead, the goal of mediocrity across the board is goal. But that's a social issue that needs to be addressed on a state and national level.

Posted: November 8, 2017

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Posted: July 5, 2017

Posted: July 5, 2017

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Posted: July 5, 2017

Posted: July 5, 2017

Posted: July 5, 2017

Posted: July 5, 2017

WMES has an amazing administrator and staff who work tirelessly to educate ALL students.....and not just with test scores. Students are challenged to think outside the box and reach their true potential. Small class sizes at K-2 (capped at 23) provide more opportunities to students. The programs are phenomenal. WMES offers Two-Way Immersion and Advanced Academics Local Level IV and allows you to do both at the same time. In my opinion, as a former teacher, the test scores which generate the "ratings" of a school are woefully inadequate and will never fully depict the authenticity of a school's true environment. Our staff does an amazing job of differentiating instruction for all students and if you are involved in your child and school, they will succeed.

Posted: June 21, 2017

Posted: June 21, 2017

Posted: June 21, 2017

Posted: June 21, 2017

Posted: June 21, 2017

Posted: June 21, 2017

WMES has provided a safe, secure, and loving environment for my son. I know he is receiving a high quality education and I truly believe that the entire staff at WMES believes that every child can succeed.

Posted: June 21, 2017

Posted: June 10, 2016

I could write pages of why I love WMES so much. Sure test scores are important for funding and this school does work hard on helping the kids that need a extra help and challenging the ones that don't. This school offers kids and their families so much more than just test scores. There is a sense of family at this school. The teachers and staff firm when needed treat the children there with open arms ready to always go the extra mile. The PTA is awesome and do so much to make this school feel like home. I see so many acts of kindness and general humanity that seems somewhat lacking in the adult world every time I'm at the school. I see teachers and staff that truly love their job and the differences they're making in these growing minds. I see parents and kids working together and playing together at school events. I see those that have sharing with those that don't. I see unity. I see family. I'm thankful to be part of the WMES family.

Posted: June 19, 2015

As a military family, it is challenging to research schools from far away. The low score on this website is a far cry from the high rating that this school deserves. The administration, staff and parents are so involved at WMES and the children love being part of the family. As the last day of school approaches I'm not surprised to actually hear so many kids say they are sad that school is ending! Even my own! We love this school and are grateful for all of the people, programs, and opportunities that are helping my own children to thrive.

Posted: June 19, 2015

Posted: June 19, 2015

Posted: June 19, 2015

Teachers are very involved with each student, there is a level of trust across all classrooms and with administration

Posted: June 16, 2015

What a fantastic school! Last night, we enjoyed a band, string orchestra and chorus concert with a crowd of families and parents. We heard songs in English and Spanish. Two teachers were seated alongside the kids playing the clarinet and violin. The audience was singing with the music. Students on the stage were truly having a fun time. Our principal reminded parents of other positive school programs to look forward to by wearing a Science Lab tshirt in anticipation of our new science resource center next fall. A great night!

Posted: June 16, 2015

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Posted: April 19, 2015

We love Washington Mill Elementary School! I had many concerns about Washington Mill based upon the school's scores and Title 1 status. However, my concerns were quickly alleviated once we became familiar with the school, administration, teachers, PTA and school families. *The administration and teachers work hard to foster a positive and caring environment for the children. *The class sizes are smaller in comparison to many surrounding schools. *The teachers are truly engaged in the school community and its families. *The PTA is enthusiastic about connecting with the diversity of parents in order to provide fun afterschool programs and school wide events. *Washington Mill is developing a strong Advanced Academic program and Spanish/ English Immersion Program within the school. *The cultural, racial, religious and socio-econimic diversity of the school offers students a great deal of educational enrichment which can not be evaluated by testing. If considering Washington Mill, I encourage you to schedule a visit/ tour. It is a small school with a big heart!

Posted: January 23, 2015

I've been with FCPS for 15 years and never have I been in a school where the staff was so dedicated. They eat lunch with students, bring in food for hungry students, provides jackets and school supplies, eye-glasses, make home visits. Staff raised $5,000 for a student who passed in 2012. My two children attend and I love the diversity--so many languages. It's a culturally rich school. But the real test for any parent is: How do they treat you when you walk into the office? Do people greet you with a smile, are they helpful? When you peek down the halls or see teachers coming in out, do they look happy? Are teachers smiling? Is there laughter? You want to send your kids where they will be seen as people, not statistics. Yes, many kids will pull down SOL scores--they're in survival mode, coming to school get warm, a hot meal, relax in the predictability of routine, surrounded by caring people--but if you're a parent reading this it is most likely your child will easily pass them. Have you seen the SOLs? They are not difficult. school with high scores only means there are good socioeconomics involved, not good teachers.

Posted: July 10, 2014

I have been extremely happy with Washington Mill, especially since they added full-day level four advanced classes for grades 3-6. (2013-2014). Both of my sons were in the advanced classes (one in 3rd grade, one in 6th grade), and I felt they were challenged at the appropriate level. Their teachers were very communicative, and the new principal is dedicated to meeting the needs of students at ALL levels of achievement, not just those who might struggle with SOL's. Also, once children are identified as level four advanced academics, they have the choice to go to either Sandburg JH or Whitman JH and West Potomac HS or Mt. Vernon HS.

Posted: May 5, 2014

My child has attended this school for the past two years. We have had a wonderful experience. The front office is friendly and organized and will go the extra mile to help you with your child. The principal (former vice principal) is in his first year and the morale/sense of community is fabulous. He's upbeat, professional and very approachable. The teachers seem to work very well in teams and have a great handle on teaching/managing the students. They use positive discipline techniques that work and truly love teaching these kids. I volunteer in the classroom and see this first hand. Of course, being a Fairfax County school, the curriculum is amazing and these teachers are right up-to-date with the latest teaching strategies and research. My child has developed a love for learning at this school. The PTA is small, but mighty. in addition to the behind-the-scenes work. they have awesome parties with DJ's and free dinner twice a year. The kids, parents and teachers boogie down together on the playground. The PTA is dedicated to making the school united. To me, Washington Mill is a safe, diverse little neighborhood school, the kind you want your child to attend.

Posted: August 22, 2013

washington mills love this school !!!! my dougther is going to this school for three years and I'm so happy .

Posted: July 16, 2013

Note: all negative reviews of this school have been pulled. Interesting. The focus at WMES is SOLs and nothing but SOLs. As a result, I have to make certian my child knows how to read, write and do math. Even basics such as cursive have been abandoned. Previous principal has retired, unfortunately not after due process of law, and new principal has his work cut out for him. Amazing what the change has wrought - everyone at school is happy now. Now we can rebuild.

Posted: July 11, 2013

First of all I'm a divorced parent who had a great 3rd grade and 2nd grade teacher. In the same breath all schools have their issues and the best way you can make sure your child recieves the best education is to pair them with a teacher that can best deal with your child's personality! If you know your child and teacher are not getting along request a new teacher until you find the right one. Parents communicate with your teachers via email,phone or visiting the school. Parents and teachers have to agree when it comes to dealing with your child just like when parenting. YOU the ADULT have to let your educator know that you are supportive of them and keep a GOOD attitutude. ALL schools have good and bad teachers! Also sometimes you the parent will have to put the extra time in with your child to help them succeed. Thanks Mrs. H.

Posted: June 15, 2012

There has been a complete lack of communication between myself and my childs teacher. He is special needs. We need daily contact. She flat out refused to do thiis. So each day, I don't know if my non-verbal child is eating, what kind of day he had....wouldit hav been so hard to use the communication form from his old school? They're in the same school district, and should use the same methods. My son was also not kept very hygenic while at school. He came home with mulch in his diaper one day. He was on his way to being completely potty trainec with the help of his old school, but these folks refused to take him potty while at school. His old school did...right up the road. How is he to learn when half his day is spent in a place where they refuse to just go stand him before a commode? They were supposed to change him anyway...but now looking at the rash he can't seem to get rid of.... NOT HAPPY

Posted: August 24, 2011

This was an awesome school there's no where else I would have wanted to for elementary school!

Posted: August 16, 2011

I heard many complaints about how the needs of normal or above-average children are neglected at WMES in favor of the needs of more learning-challenged children. My experience was slightly different. My child's first-grade teacher at WMES made sure that the learning needs of the children at a slightly advanced level were addressed. For example, she provided advanced reading assignments to the children who could read better. She assigned research papers to children who could tacke that task and who could write at the appropriate level. I was astounded by the volume of writing my daughter's class has produced at first grade. Also, this same teacher set up a first-grade garden where the first graders learned about the science of plants.It was one of the the highlights of my daughter's year.I am keeping my child at WMES as both she and I am immensely pleased by her first grade experience. I am hoping that this first-grade teacher is the norm rather than the exception in this school.

Posted: August 14, 2011

My son has been going to WMES since 2008. He has been diagnosed as ADHD and has always had a few minor learning delays. These factors have in no way impeded his learning. There was rough patch in terms of the first year but every year since the second year has been an absolute blessing. He has had teachers from 2nd and 3rd grade that have allowed him to not only be who he is but have used those traits to help him achieve his fullest potential. I commend the parents that are always out front volunteering and providing support throughout the school year. Although the principle tends to micromanage a bit, her dedication and obvious love for her students shines through. My son loves the schools as well as his teachers. That in and of itself is one of the factors that aides in my decision for him to remain at WMES. I could not be more pleased and will continue to do my part in each school year that my son attends. Yeah to my son's upcoming 4th Grade Year! Go Washington Mill Elementary School!