Barnhart School

When selecting a school for my child, I was looking for a school that will make my child feel confident, challenge his ability and curiosity, and make him feel safe and secure. Since our introduction with Barnhart, everyone has always made us feel welcome. I always felt that everyone made it a point to get to know us on a personal level, and to support us. The teachers really tune into a child's intrinsic learning style and personality. From the moment I toured the school last year, Barnhart just felt like the right fit. It felt comfortable; it felt like the people there cared. And the one question I kept asking myself as I visited schools, the one question that has always mattered to me was "how is this school going to make my child a better person. I love the classroom size, I love the diversity, I love how the teachers and staff genuinely care and I love how everyone knows my child's name. Barnhart has shown a level of caring and compassion that has made me feel very happy with choosing this school and for molding him into becoming a better person. In a very short period, my child has learned about different cultures, different backgrounds, different ways of handling problems, and I personally feel it is making him think and learn more than if he were anywhere else. So many times, Barnhart has exceeded my expectations of what I'm looking for in a school, because it cares about the students and families that go there. I've been impressed with all the programs that are offered, the extra level of care and attention that is provided, that I often wish that I went to this school as a child. I see the students that go here, and they are all happy, they all get along, it's not a chore to come here. From what I've seen so far, Barnhart encourages learning in a fun way. It goes beyond simple memorization, but makes you question why things are the way they are. v I personally couldn't tell you a better fit for my child. We are all happy and grateful that my child is at Barnhart. Our child is leaning on building upon the strong foundation that Barnhart has imprinted into him. I am confident Barnhart has provided him with the tools to becoming a free thinking, kindhearted child that will have the characteristics instilled in him for success in the future.

I have 2 children currently attending Barnhart School and 2 more who will attend just as soon as they are able. I wouldn't send my children anywhere else. The school has gone through some major changes in the past few years, including a new head of school, and the scores I've seen on some of these sites don't accurately reflect what's happening there now. The teachers are incredible! They are warm, responsive, and extremely good at what they do. I believe they really know my children and how to make learning fun for them. My children absolutely love going to school. As a parent, that alone makes me very happy! But I have to say I am impressed with how much my children have learned in their time at Barnhart as well. I believe strongly that my kids should be kids, and not spend hours upon hours doing homework, especially after a full day at school. I am not a pusher, so my children's academic growth is entirely due to the quality of instruction they have received. And that growth has amazed me! But even more important, they are growing as little humans. My children are becoming people who stand up for themselves and others, who are confident, kind, and accepting, and who genuinely care about the world around them. This emphasis on character development is built into the daily program at Barnhart, and nothing is more important to me than that. Last thing - I highly value the diversity of the school community, which is not something you see often in private schools in this area. I appreciate that my kids are in class with a diverse group of students and that there is even a Diversity Committee whose job it is to provide meaningful, rich experiences for them throughout the year. Seriously, what other school is offering all of this?

Our son was in a downward spiral in public school and we were desperate to find something that would work for him. When we discovered Barnhart and moved him there, it was one of the best decisions we ever made! In his words, his teachers are "so warm, inspiring, incredible, amazing and kind". He went from a boy that hated school to a boy who is thriving, both academically and social-emotionally. Barnhart`s phenomenal teachers, experiential learning, nurturing environment and small class size provided the exact environment that boosted his confidence. The academic program is strong and very well rounded. They provide Spanish, Art, and Music classes, and they also include core values and physical education in the curriculum. We knew Barnhart was the right choice, and when we met with Tonya Beilstein, the Head of School, it solidified that assurance. It was obvious from the start that she deeply cares about every Barnhart student. She is an inspiring leader, with warmth and compassion, and the incredible staff is equipped with the knowledge, experience and training to ensure every child thrives.

I want to take the time out to say Barnhart is a wonderful place to send your children. Living in a city like Arcadia, where the schools are great, but there`s not much diversity at all, Barnhart was a welcome find in our lives. We are multi racial family, and I started my daughter who is now in seventh grade, when she was in kindergarten. Not only is the student body very diverse, but the staff and teachers are as well. love how Barnhart focuses on the whole child as well as academics. I found that other schools in our area whether it be private, or public, the main focus is putting children in a box and just knowing the facts Of math and science. But.`Barnhart engages my children in ways that make them use their mind, as well as their creative side. My daughter is involved in sports, student council, and has also been on the world scholar debate team. My son, who is now in third grade is also very happy there. I am a very involved parent, which Barnhart encourages. I love the fact that they involve the parentson every level. The administration team is extremely helpful and engaged with the entire community. There is not one day but I don`t see her head Of school, Tonya Beilstein out greeting the parents at drop off in the morning and pick up in the afternoon. She always has a kind word and a smile on her face and a warm hug if you need it. Academics are structured to where children can be stretched, but not stressed out. In my research, I found that all too common with many schools in our area. Middle school is definitely challenging, but in a way that my daughter is not overwhelmed. I know when she`s ready to graduate next year, that she`ll be well prepared and get into any high school that she chooses.I have always and will continue to refer my friends and family to Barnhart, because I trust them with the most precious gifts in my life, which is my children. I will always be indebted to Barnhart for helping to lay a strong foundation for my children academically and socially. Anytime I see a Barnhart alum, they are always so polite, and confident. I never have a problem having a conversation with students even the youngest at our school. That makes me proud to to be a member of such a wonderful environment.

We. Love. Barnhart. Last year, we apprehensively left another, more expensive, independent school in the area (we had been there for 6 years) hoping to find a better fit for our family. We honestly can't believe our luck in finding Barnhart! Both of my kids are thriving there. In comparison to the school we came from, the quality of the academics and teaching staff are about the same (both good), but the leadership, the way the school supports students' individual learning needs, and the sense of community are a significant improvement! In general, Barnhart is a kinder, more supportive learning environment. The Head of School is warm and approachable and seems to care genuinely and deeply for the school and students. The class sizes are smaller than the school we came from, which has been great for both of my kids. And bullying doesn't seem to be a problem (we were starting to notice both bullying and exclusion at our previous school). My fourth-grader really did not want to switch schools, but he settled right in on day one without a problem and, after only a few months at Barnhart, said he wishes he had gone there since kindergarten. We highly recommend Barnhart.

Barnhart is a great school with a wonderful and caring community. I love how integrated the learning is, and that critical thinking and creativity are incorporated very day. Writer's Workshop is amazing - as a first grader my son has already written and illustrated many amazing stories. Music, PE, art, and Spanish round out his education.

I have a 2nd and 4th grader. I have watched my kids grow and thrive in this school. Barnhart kids have the privilege of truly being part of a small caring environment where everyone knows their names and cares about their well being and their academic growth.

Barnhart has been a wonderful school for both of our girls. The teachers are passionate about their subjects and prepare the children well for high school.