Students either sink or swim - there isn't often an in-between. Some really thrive in a more independent environment, but some have real challenges with time management and behavior.
Students can have a privileged or entitled attitude towards adults because they are so used to being respected by teachers and administrators. This can translate into negative and/or manipulative behavior that would not even have the chance to develop in a traditional program.
Parents in Arlington can feel desperate for their kids to go to HB. If they are not accepted, parents and students may experience real feelings of loss and frustration at an opportunity only available to few students.
For as special as HB is, and the good it can do, it can also cause dissatisfaction or jealousy which is not good for the Arlington County Public School community or the students.
Because HB has a strong amount of self-directed students, there is a culture of high achievement in academics and performance. Many students feel the need to stack on AP classes when they could benefit from a less intense schedule. Students who aren't high achievers may feel left out or that they don't get enough attention.