The Siena School

1300 Forest Glen Road

Silver Spring, MD 20901

10 Reviews

School District
Grade

4-12
Type

private

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Reviews

Submitted by parent on June 13, 2022

We have seen incredible improvement in our son's reading, writing and overall confidence at school in the two years he has been at Siena. His strengths have also been supported with advanced math and science programs. It's been wonderful to see the growth and appreciate the teachers' understanding of each students' needs. Parents aren't as involved in the school as with some programs, but that may be a function of the older students (grades 4 to 12). But the community is still supportive and lovely.
Submitted by parent on June 11, 2021

Great school for kids with dyslexia with wonderful teachers. Entire operation really geared toward young kids 4th- middle school. Few electives, courses and extracurriculars available at high school level (compared to other private schools) lots of kids in 9th grade. No cafeteria or lunch served on site. Would definitely recommend through 8th grade.
Submitted by parent on February 04, 2021

Hi my name is Lisa and I am in my second year as a Siena parent. Since starting at Siena, we have seen a tremendous change in my son over the past year and a half. While he was reluctant at first, he now sees his learning as not a chore, he is open to using all of the tools and strategies, he self-advocates, and he has really found his way. Just the other day the teacher was working with another student on long division and she asked if my child wanted to listen in on the extra support, he agreed and attended this extra session, where he listened and asked questions! He is now willing to participate, very comfortable and knows when he should ask questions. He also is willing to stick with something longer until he gets it and doesn't give up as easily as he did before. We are really proud of the education he is receiving and all the progress he has made. It is clear that the staff truly care about him and his success. This success story is not unique to my child. This is the type of story you hear time and time again from the students and parents who attend Siena.
Submitted by parent on January 18, 2021

I truly cannot imagine what our lives would have looked like without Siena. Our extremely bright, extremely dyslexic kid would likely have been "pulled out" for "special help" as if they need to be fixed. We would have spent hundreds (thousands?) of dollars on tutors, sucking up all our free time and effectively punishing our child for learning differently. Instead, at Siena, our child was celebrated and supported and every aspect of their education was tailored to their interests and strengths. That's right, STRENGTHS. Learning disabilities are learning differences, not simply flaws, or deficits. There are so many different ways of accessing and processing and retaining and using information; Siena helped my child unlock their special ways of learning -- their unique brilliance. My kid will be going to a great college next year, knowing how they learn, and knowing how to advocate for themselves. Most importantly, they will go to college knowing that they do NOT need to be "fixed"-- they are NOT stupid or slow, they are a very smart person with a learning disability, Some things are still weirdly hard for them but there are workarounds and they don't have to detract from the joy of learning. Of the characteristics below, Homework, Bullying, and Teachers, are worth a special note. As a parent of three kids who attended both public and private schools in the area, I can say with confidence that homework is COMPLETLY different at Siena. No one is ever punished for not understanding something. There is always a time limit-- the school understands that working harder and longer is often NOT the solution to a learning problem. Homework is also NOT the parent's problem-- if your child struggles with the homework the school works WITH you not against you to make the learning experience work. I wish there were a way to count the hours of parent/child homework complaining,/crying/yelling that Siena has eliminated. At Siena, there is something even more powerful than an absence of bullying. Especially the first year of being at Siena- but sometimes for many years- this school is a place of HEALING. All the kids arrived at Siena after mediocre, bad, or really bad experiences at other schools. There is empathy, kindness, that is part of the school culture. The teachers are amazing, but perhaps the most powerful fact is the longevity of the staff. This is a special place and the teachers know it. Thank you, Siena.
Submitted by parent on January 18, 2021

My daughter is thriving at Siena. There is a commitment to a specialized curriculum and individualized instruction, but also to community. They do a lovely job making kids feel a sense of belonging in addition to supporting them and challenging them academically. Technology is woven seamlessly into instruction so that kids are learning to meet their own needs and learn more independently. Teachers consistently go the extra mile to make sure kids understand, follow through, and become independent learners. There is also a deep commitment to the arts, which gives my daughter lots of time in the area in which she excels, giving her energy for the parts of school that are more challenging.
Submitted by parent on December 14, 2020

Siena is completely focused on helping kids with dyslexia. It has made a huge difference for our son. They have handled distance learning really well too though we’re ready to be back in the building. The trachers are incredibly kind and supportive. They help our son stay organized and focused. The kids are creative and encouraged to explore their interests.
Submitted by parent on September 16, 2020

Excellent. Made a world of difference in my daughter's learning.
Submitted by parent on May 31, 2019

Our son is incredibly excited about the future the Siena School helped him attain. We couldn't be happier for him.Thank You Siena!
Submitted by parent on January 26, 2016

My son hated his old school. So much so that it was a struggle to even get him to school in the morning. In contrast, he simply loves Siena ! In terms of academics, the school has permitted him to do above grade level work in math - something that was unthinkable at his old school. He is also making significant progress in reading and language arts -subject areas that he used to absolutely hate at his old school. I am puzzled by the comment posted below. All of the teachers I have met at the school are highly dedicated and skilled in teaching.
Submitted by parent on July 05, 2013

The academics could be stronger. Teachers vary in quality. Parents are not welcome in the classroom. The art program is great.