What do I do if school doesn’t fit my kid?
That’s the question that so many of the parents and families ask when they’re looking at small independent schools like The Howard Gardner School. There are any number of reasons that their current school might not fit.
- “My son is surviving, but they definitely aren’t thriving”
- “My daughter stopped doing gymnastics, and doesn’t ride horses anymore. She just does schoolwork.”
- “I don’t think the school ever really ‘got’ my kid… they’re just different”
These are quotes pulled from parents looking at HGS this year. Our families are a diverse group from all different backgrounds. Our students are just as varied with all kinds of reasons for being at The Howard Gardner School. The common thread is that school wasn’t working.
When school — as we think of it now — was invented, in the 1800s, it was in answer to the industrial revolution. Desks in rows and columns, classrooms with the same number of students as factories had workers in each shift. Even a curriculum contained by four walls and a textbook, set to a standardized approach for a standardized set of goals.
A few things have changed in the last two hundred years
Public school in the United States was and is a ground-breaking, crucial program with an audacious mandate: Educate every single citizen of the most diverse nation in the history of the world. Public educators are dedicated professionals seeking to do just that — but the mandate is virtually impossible. What works for one student might be antithetical to the needs of another. What makes one kid excited might make another kid anxious. As a result, typical schools seek to do the most that they can for as many students as they can. It’s a laudable and practical approach to a truly difficult circumstance.
But what if your kid doesn’t fit?
The parents, families, and kids who are exploring The Howard Gardner School are obviously considering a new school setting. It’s a wonderful truth that this region has an incredible array of top tier public and private schools. In particular, this area’s set of intentionally small schools is truly impressive. The Washington Small Schools Association and the Virginia Small Schools Association can provide interested families with information and ideas about how to find a school that fits.
In fact, the admissions staff at these small schools will take the time and effort to help each individual student find and access the best possible fit for them. Because each small school can be a different place — with programs, teachers, even campuses that fit different kinds of kids.
At The Howard Gardner School, we work with a very small number of students, in very small classes, designed around experiential programming. For instance, we take thirty-six field trips per year. Our students have multiple overnight travel opportunities each school year. And because of the needs of the teenage brain, we start the school day at 10 a.m. If sitting at a desk for eight hours a day, or slogging through another two hours of homework at night isn’t the right fit for your kid, HGS could help you find a better one.
Our mission here at The Howard Gardner School is to help bright, creative, non-traditional students use their unique strengths to thrive academically, intellectually, and emotionally.
Please check out our website at www.TheHowardGardnerSchool.org, and call or email to learn more about how to find the best fit for your kid.
There is a place where each young person can find their fit and thrive. The process is a bit like being in a dark room — the hard part isn’t turning on the light, it’s finding the switch.
The Howard Gardner School
Serving bright, creative, non-traditional learners in grades 6-12
Alexandria, VA & Sterling, VA
703-822-9300
When it comes to experiencing the true essence of Italian cuisine outside of Italy, The Italian Store stands as a beacon of authenticity.
Nestled in the heart of Arlington, this culinary gem has delighted locals and visitors alike with its wide array of Italian delicacies, gourmet products, and warm ambiance since its inception. More than just a grocery store; it’s a cultural hub where the vibrant spirit of Italy comes alive.
From the moment you enter, you’re greeted by the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread and the sight of shelves adorned with imported goodies straight from Italy. It’s a sensory experience that sets the stage for the culinary adventure that awaits.
At the deli counter, you’ll find a mouthwatering array of sandwiches crafted with care and overflowing with flavor. Whether you’re a fan of the classic Italian sub or prefer the tantalizing flavors of the porchetta panini, each bite is a journey to the streets of Rome or Florence.
But it isn’t just about ready-made delights; it’s a treasure trove for home cooks and food enthusiasts alike. Browse through aisles stocked with the finest Italian pasta, olive oil, sauces, and antipasti, carefully curated to bring the taste of Italy right to your kitchen. Not sure where to start? The friendly staff are always on hand to offer recommendations and share their passion for all things Italian.
Of course, no Italian meal is complete without a glass of wine, and they have you covered there too. Explore a thoughtfully curated selection of Italian wines, handpicked to complement any dish or occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for a bold red, a crisp white, or something sparkling, you’ll find the perfect bottle to elevate your dining experience.
And if you want to deepen your appreciation for Italian cuisine, check out the store’s calendar of events. From wine tastings and cooking demonstrations to guest chef dinners, there’s always something exciting happening at the Italian Store, offering an opportunity to learn, taste, and experience the beauty of Italian culture.
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply looking to add a little Italian flair to your day, a visit to the Italian Store is sure to delight. Come for the food, stay for the warmth, and leave with a heart full of Italian charm.
Connect with neighborhood expert Francesca Keith to learn more about Arlington and other surrounding areas!
Francesca Keith | 703-628-6753 | [email protected] | www.francescakeithrealtor.com | www.McEnearney.com
For 40 years, McEnearney Associates has been a premiere residential, commercial and property management firm with 11 offices located in the Washington metro region. With service excellence, hyper-local expertise, powerful data insights, innovative technology and cutting-edge marketing, McEnearney Associates have helped their clients make informed decisions on their most valuable real estate investments. There is an important difference at McEnearney: It’s not about us, it’s about you. To learn more, visit us at www.McEnearney.com.
This column is written by the team at Arrowine & Cheese (4508 Cherry Hill Road). Sign up for the email newsletter and receive exclusive discounts and offers. Order from Arrowine’s expanding online store for curbside pickup or in-store shopping. Have a question? Email thenose@
Spring cleaning can wait. Instead, why not attend a Sunday Supertasting of Spanish and French wines at Arrowine?
Join us this Sunday, March 17, from 1-4 p.m. at Arrowine (4508 Cherry Hill Road in Arlington).
Take advantage of this special Supertasting! At this Arrowine Sunday Supertasting event, you can taste top wines from Spain selected and presented by our friend Aurelio Cabestrero, who founded Grapes of Spain and was named a Wine Advocate Wine Personality of the Year. There will also be a table with Damien Lehoux, founder of Elite Wines Imports, pouring exciting French wine selections.
It will be a tasting to remember — don’t miss it!
Additional Details:
When: This Sunday, March 17th from 1-4 p.m. at Arrowine & Cheese
Cost: There is no charge for this exciting tasting event!
Discounts: Tasting discounts are “on”! Every wine you taste will be ON SALE during the event, at least 10% off the regular price. We’ll have wine available for purchase, and if you want more than we have available, discounts will apply to tasting wines you order during the event, too!
Reservations: This event will be popular. So that we can provide the best possible service, we ask that you RESPOND and let us know if you plan to attend. Please include the following information:
- Name
- E-mail or phone contact information
- Number of people in your group
- When you expect to arrive: (a) 1-2 p.m., (b) 2-3 p.m., or (c) 3-4 p.m.
This will allow us to plan appropriately and steer late reservations to less crowded times.
We look forward to seeing you!
Just Listed highlights Arlington properties that just came on the market. This biweekly feature is written and sponsored by Coral Gundlach Homes.
Hello Arlington!
Coral Gundlach here with Coral Gundlach Homes at Compass in Arlington. I’ve been an Arlington homeowner since 2001 and a Realtor since 2004. I love this real estate market, even though it has its challenges.
It appears spring-like weather is finally catching up with the “spring” real estate market, which has been going since January. The market continues to be very fast paced and tilted towards the sellers’ advantage in almost all categories, but there are always exceptions.
As of today (Friday, March 15) there are currently 231* Active and Coming Soon Listings in Arlington, including all property types. Following is a breakdown of the Active by category:
- 90 are detached homes
- 21 of those homes are townhouses/duplex/semi-attached
- With 99 condos/coops — this includes townhouse style condos
A slight increase in inventory! 20 detached homes went under contract in the past 7 days, 11 of those went under contract in less than one week. 28 detached homes were either listed or re-listed. So we are still selling off just about all detached inventory, statistically every week, with a slight gain in inventory.
Thirteen new townhomes were newly listed/re-listed in the past week and 8 went pending in the past week, also slightly ahead. Those range from $615,000 for a 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom duplex with 1313 square feet in Fort Barnard Heights to a 5 bedroom, 3.5 bath 4,525 square foot Ballston townhouse built in 2018 for $1,950,000.
Thirty were newly listed/re-listed this week and 30 went pending. Prices range from $119,000 for a 442 square foot studio co-op in River Place North. Fees are $335 a month and include all utilities. Highest priced condo is a 3 bedroom. 3.5 bath 3,100 square foot home in Turnberry Tower for $3,500,000 with fees of $2,632/month.
Detached prices range from $655,000 for a 2 bedroom, 1 bath 1080 square foot colonial in Columbia Forest to a 6 bedroom, 6 bathroom 5119 square foot colonial in Country Club Hills for $4,900,000.
Contact Coral Gundlach Homes today at (703) 200-3631 or email [email protected] to talk more about buying or selling Arlington real estate.
This week’s Just Listed features:
1706 North Taylor Street, Arlington VA, 22207 — $1,200,000
We will feature one that is neither highest or lowest this week. 1706 North Taylor Street is a bright and light Bungalow/Cape Cod Style home in Waverly Hills. It is a 4 bedroom, 2 bath 1,631 square foot home on a 7,436 square foot lot, priced in the middle range of Arlington homes at 1,200,000. It is listed by Marga Pirozzoli and Justine Pope of Compass. It is open Saturday and Sunday from 1-3 p.m.
*We exclude The Jefferson in the overall list. It is a 55 plus only community and comes with extraordinarily high monthly fees which offset the low prices. The prices and days on market do not reflect the overall general market.
Want to see more Just Listed properties? Interested in an Open House this weekend? We’re happy to show them to you privately! Click here or contact Coral Gundlach Homes.
Please note: While Coral Gundlach Homes provides this information for the community, they may not be the listing agents of these homes. Equal Housing Opportunity.
This sponsored column is by Law Office of James Montana PLLC. All questions about it should be directed to James Montana, Esq., Doran Shemin, Esq., Janice Chen, Esq., and Austen Soare, Esq., practicing attorneys at The Law Office of James Montana PLLC, an immigration-focused law firm located in Falls Church, Virginia. The legal information given here is general in nature. If you want legal advice, contact us for an appointment.
Our little law office is hiring for two positions: Attorney and Legal Intern (Fall Semester). The details and tips on how to apply are below, in Q&A style.
Q: Hiring, eh? How much cash on the barrel?
A: Depends on the position. The Attorney position comes with a starting salary of $70,000, with a small bonus at the end of the year. The Legal Intern position is paid hourly, and the amount depends on your background. (Certain local law schools won’t give you class credit if we pay you. We prefer to pay you, but we can forgo paying you if that’s what you need.)
Q: What? I thought that lawyers dove into piles of gold coins all day, like Scrooge McDuck!
A: It depends. On Wall Street, we are reliably informed that big law firm partners can make more than $15,000,000 per year — more than the bankers who pay them! Immigration lawyers are much more modestly compensated.
Q: Why should I work for you? The salary is competitive with local nonprofits, and many local for-profits pay more.
A: I’m glad you asked. Here are the reasons to work here, one paragraph at a time.
Generous Benefits
We offer extremely generous benefits — better than every local nonprofit, including paid parental leave, 70% of health insurance vision/dental covered from your first day on, FSA, retirement plan with a generous match — you name it, we offer it!
Easy Commute
Commuting into D.C. is for masochists. Working here isn’t. Our beautiful old office, built in 1870, is in the heart of Falls Church. We have plenty of free parking and a verdant, wooded landscape around our building.
Helping People in Need
Our clients come from all walks of life. Some come from vulnerable circumstances. You’ll work with them, and you’ll make a huge difference for them.
Collegial Environment
We pride ourselves on not running a high-volume operation. You won’t be forced to take cases. Instead, you’ll evaluate cases on your own, and build your own docket within the firm based on your own capacity and interests. We offer both independence and mentorship for new lawyers.
Q: Do you offer Work from Home?
A: No. Why? Because, as noted, we work with many people who come from vulnerable circumstances. These clients are best served by meeting with you in person. We are unwilling to compromise on this point, because, shorn of the verbiage, WFH means telling poor people to go pound sand.
Q: You don’t sound fun.
A: But in reality, I’m actually very fun, relaxed, and easy-going.
Q: How do I apply?
A: Email James at [email protected]. Send a CV and a cover letter.
Q: What are the requirements for each position?
A: For Attorney, we require a bar license and a JD. We’re happy to hire new lawyers. Spanish fluency is a big plus. Immigration experience is, of course, a plus too.
A(2): For Legal Intern, we require that you be enrolled at a local law school. That’s it! We’re here to help with your education and pay you a decent wage.
Questions about the jobs? Ask in the comments. We’ll respond, just like
You’re invited to shop at the 32nd Annual Tossed & Found Rummage Sale brought to you by the Junior League of Washington!
The sale is on March 16 and 17, from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m.
The sale features:
- Gently used name-brand items
- Children’s clothes and toys
- Men’s and women’s clothing
- Luggage
- Household items
- Furniture and much more
And all at bargain prices!
You might even find items that still have their original price tags on them! The sale is located at 2100-B Crystal Dr, Arlington, VA 22202. For more information, visit jlw.org/tossedandfound.
This column is sponsored by BizLaunch, a division of Arlington Economic Development.
In response to the ongoing challenge of accessing capital for entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds, BizLaunch took proactive steps this year to address the issue head-on by introducing the BizLaunch Bootcamp and Pitch Event.
In late January, 38 entrepreneurs convened at the Long Bridge Aquatics Center for a two-day intensive entrepreneurship training program.
During the bootcamp, participants learned the art of crafting a compelling pitch presentation and gained valuable insights into business planning, marketing strategy, digital tools and much more. Now, on Friday, March 15, they are poised to put these newly acquired skills into practice at the BizLaunch Pitch Event.
All 38 entrepreneurs who took part in January’s BizLaunch Bootcamp were eligible to participate in Friday’s pitch event. Of these 38 businesses, 13 took advantage of this opportunity, having their pitches approved by a BizLaunch mentor. Now, these businesses will pitch their businesses/ideas for a chance to be awarded over $5,000 in free capital and/or one of two technology packages generously provided by Nub8.
Whether you are a seasoned entrepreneur, a small business resource provider or a creative thinker with a passion for entrepreneurship, we extend an invitation to join us this Friday, March 15, at 10 a.m. to show your support for the 13 entrepreneurs who have diligently honed their pitches.
For further details about BizLaunch, including how to sign up for our newsletter, please visit www.bizlaunch.org.
Each week, “Just Reduced” spotlights properties in Arlington County whose price have been cut over the previous week. The market summary is crafted by Arlington Realty, Inc. Maximize your real estate investment with the team by visiting www.arlingtonrealtyinc.com or calling 703-836-6000 today!
Please note: While Arlington Realty, Inc. provides this information for the community, it may not be the listing company of these homes.
As of March 11, there are 103 detached homes, 20 townhouses and 110 condos for sale throughout Arlington County. In total, 16 homes experienced a price reduction in the past week, including:
- 2811 21st Road S., 22204 – NOW: $1,635,000 (Reduced $15,000 on 3/6)
- 1 N. Madison Street, 22203 – NOW: $1,375,000 (Reduced $75,000 on 3/6)
- 1013 N. Kensington Street, 22205 – NOW: $1,090,000 (Reduced $10,000 on 3/7)
- 1021 N. Garfield Street #1032, 22201 – NOW: $970,000 (Reduced $20,000 on 3/6)
- 207 S. Courthouse Road, 22204 – NOW: $689,999 (Reduced $9,000 on 3/9)
- 1211 S. Eads Street #206, 22202 – NOW: $608,000 (Reduced $10,000 on 3/10)
- 851 N. Glebe Road #416, 22203 – NOW: $399,999 (Reduced $15,000 on 3/7)
Please note that this is solely a selection of Just Reduced properties available in Arlington County. For a complete list of properties within your target budget and specifications, contact Arlington Realty, Inc.
This regularly scheduled sponsored Q&A column is written by Eli Tucker, Arlington-based Realtor and Arlington resident. Please submit your questions to him via email for response in future columns. Video summaries of some articles can be found on YouTube on the Eli Residential channel. Enjoy!
On Tuesday, April 9, I’ll be hosting another Ask Eli Home Buyer Workshop with my business partner Jean Ropp and local Loan Officer, Jake Ryon, with First Home Mortgage. Food and drinks will be provided!
The workshop is a free and will cover:
- How to use data and strategy to maximize your home purchase
- How to use market trends to your advantage
- The latest on interest rates and mortgage programs/products
- Common mistakes to avoid and some tips for success
Who is it for?
- Any buyer type from first-time buyer to experienced buyers
- Ready to purchase now or planning 18-24 months out
- Home buyers in Northern Virginia, D.C., or the Maryland Suburbs
- You or anybody you know who would benefit
Where and When?
- Tuesday, April 9 from 6-7:30 p.m.
- Arlington Central Library (1015 N Quincy St), Bluemont Room
Registration is now open and space is limited.
Click the graphic below to RSVP. Bring your appetite and your home buying questions! I’d love to see you there. Feel free to email me at [email protected] with any questions about the event.
If you’d like to discuss design trends, buying, selling, investing, or renting, don’t hesitate to reach out to me at [email protected].
If you’d like a question answered in my weekly column or to discuss buying, selling, renting, or investing, please send an email to [email protected]. To read any of my older posts, visit the blog section of my website at EliResidential.com. Call me directly at (703) 539-2529.
Video summaries of some articles can be found on YouTube on the Eli Residential channel.
Eli Tucker is a licensed Realtor in Virginia, Washington DC, and Maryland with RLAH Real Estate, 4040 N Fairfax Dr #10CA
This is a sponsored column by attorneys John Berry and Kimberly Berry of Berry & Berry, PLLC, an employment and labor law firm located in Northern Virginia that specializes in federal employee, security clearance, retirement and private sector employee matters.
By Kimberly H. Berry, Esq.
We represent federal employees in OPM disability retirement matters. Disability retirement for federal employees is one of the most common forms of retirement cases that we handle before federal agencies, the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) and the Office of Personnel Management (OPM).
Federal employees filing for OPM disability retirement are covered by either the Federal Employees Retirement System or the Civil Service Retirement System. When considering OPM disability retirement there are a number of questions that a federal employee should consider as they contemplate whether to file for federal disability retirement. These considerations can include the following:
- How serious are the federal employee’s medical issues (and are they linked to the federal employee’s position description duties)?
When making a disability retirement decision, a federal employee should keep in mind that OPM evaluates an individual’s continued ability to work with their medical condition in the context of the duties described in their position description (PD). If the medical disability is not deemed serious enough, or not fully supported by medical documentation or other evidence, and is not sufficiently linked to their inability to “usefully and efficiently” carry out their PD duties, then OPM may deny the disability retirement application.
- How long is the medical disability realistically expected to last?
OPM requires that a medical disability be expected to last at least one year in duration. When considering whether to file for OPM disability retirement, it is important for a federal employee to evaluate the expected duration of their medical disability. Disabilities with known shorter duration could be problematic in the application process.
- Can the federal employee survive on a reduced annuity?
If a federal employee is considering filing for OPM disability retirement, it is important to understand that this type of retirement usually provides an individual with a lower monthly retirement annuity in comparison to full retirement. As a result, we recommend that federal employees obtain a benefits estimate from their human resources representative and consult with a financial advisor about the impact of a potentially reduced annuity prior to filing for disability retirement. It is important to evaluate one’s ability to support themselves on a reduced annuity before filing for OPM disability retirement.
- Can changes to a federal employee’s position be made to allow the employee to continue to work?
It can be the case that a federal agency will work with a federal employee to provide them with a reasonable accommodation (i.e. change in hours, duties, telework or other possible accommodations) which can make a federal employee’s current position and medical condition workable. This may alleviate the need to file for OPM disability retirement. As a part of the OPM disability retirement process, a federal agency is required to certify that it is unable to accommodate a federal employee’s disabling medical condition in their present position. The federal agency must also certify that it has considered them “for any vacant position in the same agency, at the same grade or pay level, and within the same commuting area, for which [you] qualified for reassignment.” Usually, this does not present a major hurdle to obtaining OPM disability retirement.
- Does the federal employee’s medical professionals support the disability retirement application?
Medical support can be an important factor when filing for disability retirement. In most cases, physicians will be open with their patients about whether it is a good idea to keep working in their current federal employment position. Typically, most physicians are supportive of such applications.
There are at least two good reasons for a federal employee to discuss their possible filing for OPM disability retirement with their treating medical providers in advance. First, a federal employee’s health should be of primary importance and consideration when determining whether continuing in a particular position hinders or impedes their medical recovery. Second, physicians and their medical opinions are necessary and, in fact, crucial in the OPM disability retirement application process.
OPM will require a physician’s statement about a federal employee’s medical condition, and the physician’s statement can often make or break the outcome of an OPM disability retirement application. Sometimes, a federal employee can seek an outside medical expert opinion to support their application for disability retirement, but it is very important to also include a longtime treating physician or other medical professional where possible.
When considering whether or not to file for OPM disability retirement, it is important to obtain the advice and representation of legal counsel. The OPM link for disability retirement is located here. You can contact our law firm through www.berrylegal.com or by telephone at 703-668-0070 to schedule a consultation to discuss your individual disability retirement matter.
Arlington Public Schools (APS) will host an Educator’s Job Fair on Saturday, March 16 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at their Syphax Education Center (2110 Washington Blvd. Arlington , VA 22204).
Interested teachers from all subject areas are invited for on-the-spot interviews.
APS will also be conducting custodian, food service, substitute teacher, bus driver, and extended day team member interviews on this day. Walk ins are welcome but interested attendants should also RSVP to the event.
Interviewers should bring with them a complete resume, college transcripts and/or a copy of their current teaching license if applicable.
More information can be found at the Arlington Public Schools Careers website.