Research Chestnut Hill Academy South Campus Private Schools in Seattle, Washington

“The administration changed 2 years ago and the school has gone very much down hill as a result. The administration is a rubber stamp to the for-profit fortune 500 or 1000 company that owns the school (Bright Horizons). BH is very knowledgeable in the field of daycare centers, but not in elementary and middle schools. The communication between the administration and parents is poor, and many parents are very dissatisfied with the current situation but feel stuck until they apply for 5th or 6th grade. The dwindling enrollment in the upper grades (beginning in 4th grade) is of great concern, yet the school doesn't seem to focus on student nor teacher retention. Right now, there are only a handful of students signed up for the middle school grades. Parents took a survey recently and the results showed the the value of the education vs. the price paid is in the toilet...”

“CHA is an awesome school. It has very stong academics with excellent teachers. The new building is fantastic with extensive facilities. This is a school that both works hard and plays hard - children are really motivated to produce their best work and it definitely educates the whole child. The ski program is fantastic and there are lots of interesting and relevant field trips. The children learn by experiences. The leadership effectively communicates with parents and information on your child's progress is frequent and detailed. Questions to the techers or administration are answered immediately or shortly thereafter - teachers are always available and happy to talk with you, and they clearly really care about how each child is progressing. Lots of extra curricular activites, involved parents - this is a very strong school and my 2nd grader is very happy at CHA.”

“My child attended public kindergarten and is now at CHA for first grade. Math and reading skills have improved dramatically. Very happy with the teachers and administration. New school has more facilities for sports/P.E. CHA is on the right track to be an elite school.”

“Outstanding school, trying to grow into a middle school as well. The teachers are the strong point, and are great communicators. The administration is sometimes at odds with Bright Horizons, owner of the school, who's primary goal seems to be profit. Parents are actively involved and the school has a community feel. The next several years will tell whether CHA can maintain the quality of education through this growth period.”

“My daughter has thrived at CHA. The teachers there are committed and caring, while raising academic standards beyond my wildest dreams. The parent organization is involved and committed to the school. I agree with the growing pains comment, and 2006-7 will be a test of leadership, but we have utmost confidence in the teachers. Enrolling our daughter there was a great decision. Space constraints keep the PE and music programs smaller than I would like, but academics and overall community make up for those shortfalls. CHA is a remarkable school.”

“Good kindergarten through 5th grade program. Balance of academics and fun.”

“Solid academics with excellent, supportive teachers. Not much of a parent community and limited facility. Bus the kids to off site p.e. location once a week. Communication between administration and parents challenging at times -- they sometimes say one thing and do another. The shortfalls mentioned are balanced by the great teachers and solid curriculum. Specialists in art, music, spanish, library and technology. Overall, a good school with many growing pains.”

“it is a good scool , nice atmosphere from inside good extra curriculum activities but veryvery expensive”

“Chestnut Hill Academy provides a very secure and positive place for children to learn. The students there learn at a comfortable, yet stimulating pace.”