Galway Elementary School
Silver Spring, MD 20904
Phone: (240) 740-0140
District: Montgomery County Public Schools
GreatSchools Rating
public • Grades PK,KG,1,2,3,4,5 • 680 students
Galway Elementary School, a public school located in Silver Spring, MD, serves grades PK-5 in the Montgomery County Public Schools.It has received a GreatSchools Rating of 4 out of 10, based on a variety of school quality measures.
Galway Elementary School is a public school located in Silver Spring, MD. 680 students attend Galway Elementary School.
School Ratings
| Category | Rating | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Test Scores | 5/10 | The Test Score Rating examines how students at this school performed on standardized tests compared with other schools in the state. The Test Rating was created using 2025 Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program data from Maryland State Department of Education, and using 2025 Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program End-Of-Course data from Maryland State Department of Education. |
| Student Growth | 2/10 | The Student Progress Rating measures whether students at this school are making academic progress over time based on student growth data provided by the Department of Education. Specifically, this rating looks at how much progress individual students have made on state assessments during the past year or more, how this performance aligns with expected progress based on a student growth model established by the state Department of Education, and how this school's growth data compares to other schools in the state. The Growth Rating was created using 2025 Student Growth - Elementary Level data from Maryland State Department of Education, and using 2025 Student Growth - Middle Level data from Maryland State Department of Education. |
Posted: June 18, 2026
My kids joined this school from another state. The school has been excellent in supporting them academically, socially, and behaviorally. The teachers are outstanding, and the principal, vice principal, and counselor are all very responsible, professional, and caring. Overall, it is a great school, and we truly appreciate the dedication and support of the staff.
Posted: June 18, 2026
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Posted: January 20, 2026
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Posted: January 20, 2026
Posted: January 20, 2026
Galway ES always has fun parent involvement nights and opportunities for the community to come and engage which I really appreciate. The PTA is strong and holds creative meetings to build up support for both teachers and the students. The principal is very strong in her role and is always visible and shes and knowledgeable. I love this school, my son is in 4th and next year his brother will join for K and hoping he has a great experience too. They have the enrichment program for students with high test scores and grades, and STEM fairs, different clubs to join too. My son reads to the K-2 classes (roaring readers which gets the young students excited to learn by seeing the older students visit and read to them). They also have the minority scholars program where students discuss important issues of race and equity, and discuss how to create change in the community, which gives leadership responsibility to the students involved. Its a great school. Very impressed with what all they do throughout the school year.
Posted: December 9, 2025
I have three students at Halway. My kids get all the support from their teacher. The school is very organized compared to school nearby.And i'm happy that my kids go to this school.
Posted: December 9, 2025
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Posted: November 17, 2025
Galway elementary is a good school. Teachers are great. Everything is perfect although there used to be one teacher my daughter was in his class in second grade. Im not gonna name his name but yeah he got fired I think or he just quit but this one teacher, Ive heard people saying he was like a kind of rude teacher. I dont think so because he was pretty nice he wasnt a bad teacher like at teaching the kids, but he was kind of rude to the children. It was a second grade teacher. My daughter now is in third grade, but I dont recommend Galloway elementary school. My daughter goes there and I really wanna take her at the school, but she doesnt want to let me cause yeah teachers are perfect teachers they teach so good kind nice and everything but some teachers are way too rude to the kids.
Posted: November 17, 2025
Posted: November 17, 2025
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Posted: June 23, 2025
My son is non verbal; Autistic. I handed my son off to his teacher at 10:09am for his kindergarten promotion. My husband and I looked for my child throughout the program. My two kids looked. After which we found out that he had been taken to the learning center to sit with the second grade teacher. Ms. FULLER the principal said Good morning. I explained that we were going to skip the pleasantries as I was Not having a good morning. Ive had previous issues with her and did not take her good morning as pleasant. She spoke to me for several minutes refusing to listen to my concern because I didnt say Good morning. I was both upset and emotional. She continued to chastise me as if I was a student. My son, Nor my family can get back that moment. As I stated to administration I hope the way things were handled with my son was enough to have a better system in place for kids who have social and emotional struggles to be able to participate in such a pivotal moment in their school journey. My son has zero behavioral issues outlined in his IEP or by teachers before this day. This was mishandled and of course is the short version of what happened. To date I have NOT spoken to the Principal in reference to the matter. The staff that did take the time out to talk to me were apologetic. The assistant principal is professional, empathetic and maybe needs to step in the role as principal! I dont think this review does any justice as to our experience.
Posted: June 23, 2025
Posted: June 23, 2025
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Posted: June 23, 2025
Posted: June 17, 2025
My son is special need.He is placing at Galway learning center. The teachers are amazing. They are kind, patient, and full of love. They take the time to know each child. They meet them where they are.
The school is calm, safe, and structured. Its a place where our child can grow. Every day, we see progress in learning, behavior, and confidence.
Posted: June 17, 2025
Posted: June 17, 2025
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Posted: January 29, 2024
Taking the time to write a recent review as prior reviews are severely outdated. Principal Fuller is NOT involved in what goes on at Galway and lets her staff run the show (YIKES!). Fuller does the BARE minimum (IF that). She doesnt seem bothered by complaints brought forth by parents (very concerning). Perhaps she used to be a good principal, several years ago, but thats certainly not the case now.
Posted: January 29, 2024
Posted: January 29, 2024
Posted: January 29, 2024
Posted: May 12, 2017
Posted: May 12, 2017
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Posted: May 12, 2017
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Posted: May 12, 2017
My child has been in this school since kindergarten. She is in 3rd grade now and has made advances academically and socially. The school provides a socially nurturing and academically challenging environment. The principal collaborates well with parents and believes in giving opportunities to all kids. The teachers are energetic. For a school of its size (about 800 kids), the school feels small because there is a great sense of community. Overall, I consider this school an asset to the community.
Posted: August 19, 2016
Staff turnover is very high here because teachers are not treated well. The focus is all on test scores rather.
Posted: June 9, 2016
I'm going to use my kindergartener as an example. She is reading on a 2nd grade level. And that just speaks for itself.
Posted: June 9, 2016
As a parent I don't think there is ever too much homework or learning. I feel children should have something to do every night.
Posted: June 9, 2016
This is a great school with phenomenal staff members. My children love going to school. There are lots of events that the children can express themselves freely. I love how talented and gifted the children are. Of course the school wouldn't be complete without the direction of the wonderful selfless Dr. Fuller. I am proud to say my children are a part of the Galway team!
Posted: June 6, 2016
People who say 'back in my day things were different' really don't add much to the conversation as they have no tangible evidence about the current climate.
I came from private school and thought private school was the answer for my kids. When things didn't work out I was reluctant (i.e. scared) to send my kids to public school, especially after reading comments here about Galway. Almost immediately I found the environment remarkable. The teachers in 2nd, 3rd, and 4th grade were amazing. They were responsive and accommodating and used a very inclusive, holistic approach to education. They answered all my questions and worked with my child to get them to the level they need to be intellectually and socially. Staff is friendly and the Principal (Dr. Fuller) is the type of leader you want. She is effective, extremely intelligent when dealing with every day challenges, and fights for her school and its resources. While I can understand some people may have had negative experiences or they may complaints about a school with 800 kids (that's a junior high attendance) with only having 1 assistant principal, 2 secretaries, and a lack of resources from the county but that is hardly the school's fault. The staff does an incredible job with the limited resources they get and my child has never been happier than at Galway. Conflict resolution between students is a HUGE management approach made by the leadership in the school and the teachers adhere to an environment that is predicated on positive.
The only reason I don't give 5 stars is because MCPS does not seem to provide enough resources for the school.
Posted: April 30, 2015
I moved when it was time for my kid to start kindergarten. That should make my opinion of this school clear. Thanks.
Posted: June 5, 2014
Galway is AWESOME and it's getting better every year. Growth is evident in our school's scores. My child is in the 2nd grade and is thriving at Galway. We have had wonderful teachers, who have helped make learning fun. The Principal has instituted amazing programs that provide all of the children with leadership opportunities, recognition for achievements, and she has been a great partner to our PTA. Please visit Galway's PTA website at www.galwaypta.org to learn more about our school, contact a PTA member if you have concerns, and look for ways to get involved. There are opportunities for working and stay at home parents. Parent involvement is the key to academic success for our children, our school, and our community. I encourage all parents to volunteer with the PTA....it's a great way to be your child's biggest advocate!
Posted: May 29, 2014
Was a great school in the past. It is too bad because teachers are leaving and the principal is not very effective. Fights daily at an elementary school level, on the bus, on the playground, not acceptable. The school itself is beautiful but it is being run into the ground. The principal has to work with the PTA not against it. There has to be meaningful punishment for children but also love and respect. Children should not wish to stay inside for recess merely because they are scared to go outside. I wish Galway the best as it tries to right the ship. MCPS should help in this endeavor.
Posted: May 23, 2014
Very sad to see a great school in the past being run to the ground bc of lack of leadership. 2 prior principals took leadership in the school & all teachers parents & students loved & admired. Mr. Mohammed and Ms. Stanislav left the school, the new principal has let the school go down hill. Tenured teachers retired bc they didn't want to deal with the new principal. Drop off & pick up of children is dangerous & total chaos. New design of drop off was given to Stanislav & was going to be implemented to improve this horrible situation but when Fuller came aboard, nothing was done. Too many cars going too many ways & parents all over the place, just trying to get their kids. We have lost so many great teachers bc of this administration change, & parents had little if no input of this change. Gladly my child is leaving this school, but I hope MCPS really takes a look at how this school is being handled. There are little if no supervision on playgrounds, volunteers have no control of the children fights breaking out and no discipline. Lunch rooms again run by volunteers out of control. Its a shame this school is rated a 4 because when I went to school there it was rated a 10.
Posted: August 7, 2013
I went to the school in the early 2000's under the guidance of Principal Muhammad. It was amazing. I met a lot of my friends that I still have today from Galway. Sad to know my favorite teachers are gone .The new principal is okay, But Galway back then was better :)
Posted: July 11, 2013
i used to go to this school and it was amazing, but many of my favorite teachers have left.
Posted: July 15, 2012
Thank heavens this school finally has a strong principal that is about the business of educating students. Over the past two years Ms.Stanislaus (principal) has worked to hold the staff accountable to do the jobs they are being paid to do. Quality education starts with those who are providing the education and Ms. Stanislaus is sending the message that she wants quality instruction every day for every child. You can tell that she is living these words and holding all the teachers accountable to do just that, because the reading and math scores are finally going up! Before Ms. Stanislaus got there the test scores where stagnant or going down. I look forward to seeing her as the principal of Galway for many years to come.
Posted: July 1, 2012
Thank Heaven's for the new principal at Galway ES!!! Under her dynamic, "let's make it happen" leadership style,, Mrs Yolanda Stanislaus has expanded Parent outreach and involvement to include Dads& Donuts, Grandparent Day, Walk for Autism, Iinternational Day, Health Fair, Art Shows, picnics, Curriculum nights and more. Her efforts have been recognized by MCPS as exemplary models for other schools. I live in the Calverton community and volunteer in the office and the classrooms. I found Mrs S and her staff to be warm, welcoming, and supportive of parents and community members. She makes time to listen to your ideas or concerns. Parents appreciate her honest and knowledgeable responses . Ms. S is also a parent of 2 children in MCPS schools. She is very child focused and sensitive to the role and needs of parents. My grandchild insists that I come to all events at Galway when her mom can not attend. She is so proud of her school as am I. Great Work Galway! . PS Unfortunately, there are a few parents who paint an unfair and negatively biased view of this wonderful school and staff. They DO NOT speak for the Majority of the more than 850 Galway families.
Posted: June 8, 2012
It's a shame so many good teachers are leaving so quickly. Many parents are starting to pull their children out as well. The reason being the principal. Her dishonesty and favoritism seems to guide her decisions more than what is good for the children. Children are treated differently based on background and several staff members describe the principal as evil. I hope the district wakes up to this behavior soon before the test scores at this school slip even more.
Posted: April 29, 2010
Becuse my babygirl love her teacher Mrs Wilson,And i like her too .
Posted: April 25, 2010
I love this school. The staff is friendly and professional. My daughter has met great friends here.
Posted: March 25, 2008
Posted: January 22, 2008
Reviews provided by GreatSchools™
| # | Name | Type | City | State | Overall Rating | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Iverly | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Silver Spring | MD | 1.5 mi | |
| 2 | Hillandale | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Silver Spring | MD | 3.1 mi | |
| 3 | DuMont Oaks | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Silver Spring | MD | 3.3 mi | |
| 4 | Forest Knolls | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Silver Spring | MD | 4.4 mi | |
| 5 | Norwood | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Olney | MD | 6.1 mi | |
| 6 | Takoma Park | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Takoma Park | MD | 6.3 mi | |
| 7 | Maple Lawn | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Fulton | MD | 6.7 mi | |
| 8 | White Flint | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Rockville | MD | 9 mi | |
| 9 | The Willoughby | Condominium/Townhouse | Chevy Chase | MD | 10.4 mi | |
| 10 | Old Farm | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Rockville | MD | 10.5 mi | |
| 11 | Midway Common | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Fort Meade | MD | 10.6 mi | |
| 12 | Harvest Run | Condominium/Townhouse | Odenton | MD | 12.3 mi | |
| 13 | The Provinces | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Severn | MD | 12.5 mi | |
| 14 | Piney Orchard at Pinedale Courts | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Odenton | MD | 12.8 mi | |
| 15 | The VIO | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Washington SW | DC | 12.9 mi | |
| 16 | Lake Village Town Homes | Apartment Complex | Severn | MD | 13.3 mi | |
| 17 | Shelter Cove Luxury Apartments | Apartment Complex | Odenton | MD | 14.1 mi |
| # | Name | City | State | Overall Rating | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | White Oak | Silver Spring | MD | 3.1 mi | |
| 2 | Laurel | Laurel | MD | 5.9 mi | |
| 3 | Hammond Hills | Laurel | MD | 6.4 mi | |
| 4 | Silver Spring | Silver Spring | MD | 6.6 mi | |
| 5 | Georgetown | Washington | DC | 12 mi | |
| 6 | Washington DC | Washington D.C. | DC | 12.3 mi | |
| 7 | Capitol Hill | Washington | DC | 12.4 mi | |
| 8 | Arlington | Arlington | VA | 14.1 mi |
| Base | Distance |
|---|---|
| Walter Reed Medical Center | 9 mi. |
| Fort Meade NSA | 11.5 mi. |
| Marine Barracks Washington | 13 mi. |
| Washington Navy Yard | 13.3 mi. |
| Fort McNair | 13.9 mi. |
| Coast Guard Headquarters DC | 14.2 mi. |
| Fort Myer | 14.5 mi. |
| Pentagon | 14.5 mi. |
| Henderson Hall | 15.1 mi. |
| Bolling AFB Joint Base Anacostia | 15.9 mi. |
| Andrews AFB | 18 mi. |
| Mark Center Alexandria | 18.5 mi. |
| Defense Health Headquarters Falls Church | 19.6 mi. |
| Coast Guard Curtis Bay | 22.3 mi. |
| US Naval Academy | 25.3 mi. |
| Annapolis Naval Station | 26.1 mi. |
| Fort Belvoir | 26.7 mi. |
| NRO Chantilly | 29.8 mi. |
| Indian Head Naval Base | 35 mi. |
| Fort Detrick | 36.5 mi. |
| Quantico Marine Base | 45.4 mi. |
| Dahlgren NSWC | 50 mi. |
