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Barnesville School lives up to its mission of joy, support, and excellence! Our child started in 6th grade when we were seeking a school with Values that matched ours. We also were seeking a safe environment that balanced both social-emotional learning with a strong academic program that would prepare our child for high school. In addition to our child's happiness, we've been ecstatic with the new friends we developed as parents within this community. There is so much to share about this magical and special place. You have to come to see it for yourself. :)

About five years ago, our granddaughter was attending her second preschool. It was time to look at other schools. One day we were talking to a neighbor about our problem. He said "I know the perfect school, two of my children attended it from preschool to graduation at the 8th grade level, they and we loved it!" So we tried it. Our granddaughter has been going to the Barnesville School for five years. She loves it as does we and her mom and dad.

I cannot say enough wonderful things about this school and the amazing education students are getting there. The school is all about acceptance and kindness. All of the teachers are not only very qualified-- they have the most heartwarming love for each of their students. None of this is at the expense of appropriate challenge and rigor. My daughter has learned so much more at Barnesville than I know she would have learned anywhere else.

My daughter has thrived at Barnesville in ways I don't think she would have in larger classroom settings. Wonderful teachers have helped her recognize and develop her individual talents while also encouraging her to step outside of her comfort zone into leadership roles. She is developing critical thinking and social skills that will serve her well for years to come -- in and outside of school.

We were drawn to the Barnesville School really through the intial 'gut feeling' as soon as you walk onto campus.... the School's Joy, Support and Excellence for each child is different and our son has experienced exactly that for the last 4 years. Our experience is that our son thrives from the programmatic investments made by combining areas that are his passion as well as something new....arts & humanities, math & science, nature & technology. The teachers encourage the kids daily to take risks...get out of their comfort zone, try something new in a protected environment, challenge yourself.

We found our dream school, and Barnesville is it. The academic standards are high (we especially love the way reading comprehension and math are taught); the teachers are outstanding and go out of their way to understand how each child learns best; the classes are small; the administration is flexible and responsive. The setting is extremely nice --beautiful outdoor space behind the school and the kids often get to have PE outside or even go sledding during winter recess. The kids there are extremely happy and nice to one another; the teachers know what is going on between the kids and make sure everyone is treated well. Wonderful opportunities in the arts as well, including semi-annual shows involving the whole school. Many parents volunteer and the whole place has a family feel to it, as though your child is looked after by many people you know and trust, both teachers and parents. We''re new there this year and we have the enthusiasm of those parents who, coming from another school, really appreciate everything that Barnesville offers.

We have two children at Barnesville. We never thought we''d choose an independent school over Montgomery County public schools but it has been one of the best decisions we''ve ever made. Our children love school - they really do love learning! They are taught by highly qualified teachers who are passionate about what they do and it shows. We love the cross-curricular work like art classes that focus on the students social studies unit and the spanish language classes that begin in lower school. Great place!

The faculty and staff know each student and support and encourage the strengths that students bring to the school. The Barnesville School provides a strong sense of community and acceptance to its students while challenging them to excel and be their best.

Barnesville has high academic standards without the high pressure. My older children have gone on to selective high schools and public magnet programs very well prepared. They know themselves, know how to learn, and are confident in their own abilities. I can lay this all at the feet of the fabulous teachers they have had at Barnesville. My youngest is thriving there currently. He has small classes, with teachers who take the time to know each child in their class. Also, as a parent, I love the fact that the school has several acres that allow both room to play, and to learn about nature.