La Petite Academy of Alexandria, VA

6175 Charles Arrington Dr, Alexandria, VA 22310, USA

Address:	6175 Charles Arrington Dr, Alexandria, VA 22310, USA
Phone:	+1 703-971-2994
Site:	lapetite.com
Rating:	3.6

Location

Photos 12

Reviews 8

Tiffany McCaslin

We had a pretty bad encounter at La Petite. While we were otherwise happy with the facility, our daughter told us one of her teachers hit her. Our daughter had a mark on her where she said the teacher hit her. We took it very seriously - filed a police report, and cooperated with investigations by both Child Protective Services and the Department of Social Services. Initially, we were encouraged by the schools decision to place the teacher on administrative leave during the investigation. However, we were told by the schools Director that "it didnt happen." Also, upon initially reporting the incident to the school, the assistant director told us "nobody hit anybody, lets just calm down." After days of trying to work through the situation (because it was our desire to keep our children in the school as long as the teacher was permanently removed), we ultimately pulled them out due to the response of those in authority at La Petite. Layered on top of my issue with the school, several other parents contacted the Director and her Regional supervisor to also reports concerns about the teacher in question. Through all of this, the school stood by this teacher. We were extremely disappointed (not a strong enough word) at the way things played out. Initially, we didnt want to cast judgement on an entire organization because of what we thought was one bad apple, but when we realized that management was not willing to address such a serious concern, echoed by numerous other parents, we felt that we couldnt call ourselves responsible parents and keep our kids enrolled at the same time. Given the protective nature of this school for their employees (and not the children), I would advise against anyone taking their child here.

Anonymous User

First of all, I have to make it clear, this review has nothing to do with the schools teaching/child-care quality. It is just to reflect the not very pleasant conversation on the phone with their customer service. I tried to schedule an visit to the school, and of course has to answer a few basic questions; which is totally Okay. However, when I mentioned that my daughters last name is different from mine because I keep my maiden name, the guy on the phone said "OH I AM SORRY". Probably this guys point of view does not represent the whole school, but due to this incident and a few other reasons, I am canceling the visit and certainly will not enroll my daughter in this place.

Anonymous User

Both of our children have been here since they were infants. We also checked out a number of facilities in Alexandria and Arlington but it was Mariana as well as word of mouth from other parents that sold us on this La Petite. Our daughter will be starting kindergarten in Sept and our son is almost 3 - both of them have thrived in this center and are definitely school-ready. There is a low turnover of staff which is very unusual for a daycare and we have found them and esp. Mariana to be receptive and responsive to any concerns. Weve made good friends with the families here and it has been an excellent experience for our children.

Anonymous User

We originally had a nanny for our first daughter. But, when our second daughter came along, we needed daycare. We visited a number of locations before finding La Petite Academy. We loved the cleanliness and safety of this location....but most of all, the teachers. They worked so hard to get our daughter acclimated and made the transition for all of us so much easier. And when my youngest daughter started at 4 months old, the teachers helped us adjust to leaving a newborn in daycare for the first time. Weve overall had a very positive experience with both girls.

Anonymous User

After our live-in nanny had to leave for medical reasons, with both of us working, we needed immediate assistance for our child. Socialization of our child was good too. Becoming a good citizen and member of society is evidently a priority of La Petite Academy and other education as well. We are overall very pleased. Teachers and the director keep in contact with parents as needed. Raising ones child is a team effort with La Petite Academy and the parents. My wife and I are very pleased.

Jessica Rapach

I scheduled a tour and wasnt there for more than 6 minutes. I was looking for a part time/flex care option. The Flex Care they claim to have as an option is not realistic.You have to call the day of to see if they have a spot, then you are placed on a waiting list, which is not a reliable option. For the part time option, they make you pay the full week, no matter how many days you bring your child....so you pay full time prices ($430-$465/wk) for 1-2 days. Unimpressed.

Anonymous User

Our son has been attending La Petite Academy for nearly 2 years. He has transitioned very well and really enjoys going to school to see his teachers and friends. The teachers and staff are so wonderful to him, he comes home talking about his day with excitement. We really lucked out when we found La Petite, I know he is safe and happy when we leave him there.

Anonymous User

This school is amazing! I really could not ask for a better place to leave my children while I am at work. They learn so much everyday and they even offer Spanish and Music classes. It is obvious that the teachers love what they do and are truely there for the children.