Best private high schools in Virginia
As filmmaker and writer Nora Ephron said during a ’96 commencement address at Wellesley College, “Your education is a dress rehearsal for a life that is yours to lead.” If that’s the case, high school may be one of the greatest dress rehearsals of all.
It’s a place where students explore their interests, dive into extracurricular activities, finally get the freedom to choose their own classes, and prepare for college or the workplace. For many of these students and their families, education is key: 1.4 million students enrolled in private high schools in fall 2021, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. There were about 3,600 private secondary schools nationwide as of 2020.
For many anxious parents, getting their kids into the best of these private high schools is of the utmost importance. Some families even move homes to send their kids to better schools. However, among all of these thousands of schools, a few stand out for their academic excellence, incredible track records, and the future success of their young students.
Stacker compiled a list of the best private high schools in Virginia using 2024 rankings from Niche. Niche uses seven weighted factors for its rankings. A majority of the score is based on academics, but other factors include culture and diversity; sports; clubs and activities; resources; and surveys of parents, teachers, and students.
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#30. Walsingham Academy
– Location: Williamsburg, VA
– Enrollment: 502 (7:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
Walsingham Academy is recognized for rigorous academics paired with a mission-driven culture. Students develop strong skills in analysis, writing, and collaboration. Families value the balance of high expectations and genuine care.
A broad curriculum offers honors and advanced courses across core disciplines. Faculty provide close mentorship that builds confidence and curiosity. Graduates leave prepared for selective colleges and meaningful pursuits.
The arts thrive through studio work, ensembles, and theater. Athletics promote resilience, teamwork, and school spirit across multiple sports. Clubs and service opportunities connect learning to community impact.
Small class sizes ensure each student is known, challenged, and supported. Character education is woven through day-to-day life and traditions. This whole-child approach keeps the school among Virginia’s best.
Where is Walsingham Academy?
Walsingham Academy is in Williamsburg, Virginia, a historic city in the Hampton Roads region. Williamsburg is known for Colonial-era landmarks, museums, and a strong tourism economy. Nearby institutions and parks broaden cultural and outdoor opportunities for students. The community’s blend of history and growth enriches school life.
#29. Bishop O’Connell High School
– Location: Arlington, VA
– Enrollment: 1,155 (10:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
Bishop O’Connell High School delivers college-preparatory rigor grounded in values and service. Students practice critical thinking through writing, labs, and seminars. The culture fosters integrity, leadership, and compassion.
A comprehensive catalog of honors and AP courses supports ambitious scholarship. Teachers mentor students toward independence and academic depth. College counseling helps align goals with selective opportunities.
Athletics emphasize discipline, teamwork, and school pride across many sports. The arts flourish with programs in music, theater, and visual arts. Co-curricular clubs translate interests into real-world engagement.
Graduates are known for scholarship, character, and initiative. Families praise the balance of challenge and care. The school’s consistent outcomes sustain its strong reputation.
Where is Bishop O’Connell High School?
Bishop O’Connell is in Arlington, Virginia, just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. Arlington offers access to museums, federal institutions, and internship opportunities. The urban-suburban setting provides transit connections and vibrant neighborhoods. This location supports learning beyond the classroom.
#28. Trinity Christian School
– Location: Fairfax, VA
– Enrollment: 750 (10:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
Trinity Christian School pairs rigorous academics with a mission-centered community. Students learn to question thoughtfully, write persuasively, and collaborate effectively. The school emphasizes wisdom, character, and service.
Advanced courses and electives challenge learners across STEM and the humanities. Faculty provide personalized attention that builds confidence and curiosity. Guidance supports purposeful planning for college and vocation.
Arts programs nurture creativity through performance and design. Athletics cultivate perseverance, teamwork, and healthy competition. Clubs and service initiatives extend learning into the community.
Families value the blend of high expectations and supportive relationships. Graduates are prepared to contribute with integrity and skill. This holistic approach drives strong, sustained results.
Where is Trinity Christian School?
Trinity Christian School is in Fairfax, Virginia, within Northern Virginia’s technology and business corridor. The area features parks, cultural venues, and proximity to D.C. institutions. Universities and employers offer enrichment through events and partnerships. These resources complement rigorous academic life.
#27. Collegiate School
– Location: Richmond, VA
– Enrollment: 1,672 (8:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
Collegiate School is renowned for academic excellence and a vibrant student experience. Learners build advanced skills in analysis, communication, and problem-solving. The community values honor, respect, and responsibility.
A wide selection of honors and AP courses supports depth and exploration. Teachers mentor students toward independence and intellectual risk-taking. College counseling guides thoughtful, well-matched outcomes.
The arts shine with robust programs and public showcases. Athletics promote teamwork, resilience, and school spirit across seasons. Clubs help students discover interests and lead with purpose.
Graduates are prepared to thrive in selective universities and beyond. Families appreciate the balance of rigor, warmth, and tradition. Collegiate’s reputation reflects consistent achievement over time.
Where is Collegiate School?
Collegiate School is in Richmond, Virginia’s capital city. Richmond offers a growing arts scene, historic neighborhoods, and riverfront recreation. Nearby colleges and employers provide cultural and academic connections. The city’s scale supports both community feel and big-city access.
#26. Virginia Episcopal School
– Location: Lynchburg, VA
– Enrollment: 260 (7:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
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About
Virginia Episcopal School blends challenging academics with a close residential and day community. Students learn independence, collaboration, and leadership. The school emphasizes integrity, service, and curiosity.
Coursework includes honors and AP options that build college-level skills. Faculty provide individualized attention and long-term mentorship. Graduates leave confident in their abilities and aspirations.
Arts programs encourage creativity through visual, musical, and theatrical pursuits. Athletics develop perseverance and teamwork across many sports. Outdoor opportunities leverage the region’s natural setting.
Boarding life fosters time management, responsibility, and lasting friendships. Day students benefit from the same supportive, mission-driven culture. This holistic environment keeps outcomes strong year after year.
Where is Virginia Episcopal School?
Virginia Episcopal School is in Lynchburg, Virginia, near the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The city features universities, greenways, and a revitalized downtown. Outdoor amenities and cultural venues enrich student experiences. The region’s setting supports both focus and exploration.
#25. St. Anne’s – Belfield School
– Location: Charlottesville, VA
– Enrollment: 882 (8:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
St. Anne’s–Belfield School is recognized for academic depth and student-centered learning. Learners practice inquiry, research, and articulate communication. The community champions honor, empathy, and leadership.
A broad curriculum offers advanced study across disciplines. Teachers foster independence while providing close guidance. College counseling aligns strengths with selective opportunities.
Arts and design programs inspire creativity and innovation. Athletics promote health, resilience, and teamwork across competitive teams. Clubs and service projects connect passions to purpose.
Graduates are prepared to thrive in college and contribute meaningfully. Families value the balance of rigor and care across divisions. The school’s outcomes reflect its enduring mission.
Where is St. Anne’s–Belfield School?
St. Anne’s–Belfield is in Charlottesville, Virginia, a university town in the Piedmont. Charlottesville offers a vibrant arts scene, historic sites, and mountain access. The presence of higher education expands cultural and academic opportunities. The community’s spirit complements a forward-looking school culture.
#24. Wakefield Country Day School
– Location: Huntly, VA
– Enrollment: 188 (6:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
Wakefield Country Day School provides intimate class sizes with high academic expectations. Students strengthen reasoning, writing, and collaboration skills. The culture values curiosity, integrity, and perseverance.
Advanced coursework and enrichment invite depth in core subjects. Faculty mentorship supports confident, independent learning. Graduates pursue selective colleges with strong preparation.
Arts programs encourage expression through studio work and performance. Athletics build discipline, teamwork, and school pride. Clubs and competitions extend learning beyond the classroom.
Families appreciate the nurturing environment and personalized attention. Students are known, challenged, and supported daily. This combination sustains the school’s strong reputation.
Where is Wakefield Country Day School?
Wakefield Country Day is in Huntly, Virginia, within scenic Rappahannock County. The area is known for mountain vistas, farms, and small-town charm. Proximity to Shenandoah National Park offers abundant outdoor activities. The peaceful setting supports focused academic life.
#23. Renaissance School
– Location: Charlottesville, VA
– Enrollment: 50 (4:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
Renaissance School is designed for accelerated academics in a small, seminar-style setting. Students engage deeply through discussion, critique, and creative projects. Individual strengths are cultivated with care and precision.
A rigorous curriculum emphasizes advanced work in the arts and humanities. Faculty provide intensive mentorship and feedback. College guidance highlights fit, portfolio development, and voice.
Students showcase talents through exhibits, performances, and publications. Cross-disciplinary projects encourage innovation and collaboration. The community celebrates scholarship and creativity together.
Graduates are prepared for specialized programs and selective universities. Families value the school’s precision, flexibility, and support. The results reflect a purposefully intimate model.
Where is Renaissance School?
Renaissance School is in Charlottesville, Virginia. The city’s university presence fuels lectures, exhibits, and cultural events. Walkable districts and parks create an engaging daily environment. This setting enriches both academic and artistic pursuits.
#22. Loudoun School for Advanced Studies
– Location: Ashburn, VA
– Enrollment: 75 (5:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
Loudoun School for Advanced Studies offers an accelerated, research-rich program. Students pursue depth through projects, seminars, and independent study. The culture rewards curiosity, originality, and collaboration.
Advanced coursework spans STEM and humanities with significant rigor. Teachers mentor students in design, experimentation, and communication. Outcomes reflect strong preparation for selective colleges.
Clubs and competitions extend scholarship beyond class time. The arts and makerspaces support creative problem-solving. Community partnerships connect learning to real issues.
Families choose the school for its pace, precision, and flexibility. Students build confidence through authentic, challenging work. This model consistently develops advanced thinkers.
Where is Loudoun School for Advanced Studies?
The school is in Ashburn, Virginia, within fast-growing Loudoun County. The area hosts technology companies, parks, and modern town centers. Proximity to D.C. adds museums, internships, and research connections. This ecosystem supports advanced, hands-on learning.
#21. St. Christopher’s School
– Location: Richmond, VA
– Enrollment: 938 (9:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
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About
St. Christopher’s School combines rigorous academics with character education for boys. Students practice leadership, integrity, and empathy daily. The community encourages scholarship and service together.
A strong curriculum offers honors and AP options across disciplines. Faculty mentorship helps boys discover strengths and purpose. College counseling supports ambitious, well-matched outcomes.
Athletics promote teamwork, discipline, and resilience across many sports. The arts provide avenues for creativity and confidence. Clubs and service projects build community engagement.
Graduates are prepared to lead with competence and compassion. Families value the balance of tradition and innovation. Results reflect consistent excellence over time.
Where is St. Christopher’s School?
St. Christopher’s is in Richmond, Virginia. The capital city offers museums, universities, and riverfront trails. Historic neighborhoods and a growing arts scene enrich daily life. The location supports learning on and beyond campus.
#20. Randolph-Macon Academy
– Location: Front Royal, VA
– Enrollment: 323 (7:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
Randolph-Macon Academy blends college-preparatory rigor with leadership development. Students learn responsibility, initiative, and effective communication. The culture prizes honor, perseverance, and service.
Advanced courses, aviation opportunities, and STEM tracks add depth. Faculty guide students through ambitious goals and steady growth. College guidance aligns strengths with selective programs.
Athletics emphasize teamwork and resilience across many teams. The arts engage students in performance, design, and studio work. Clubs connect interests to leadership and community impact.
Boarding and day options foster independence and supportive relationships. Graduates are prepared for college, careers, and citizenship. Families value the school’s structure and care.
Where is Randolph-Macon Academy?
Randolph-Macon Academy is in Front Royal, Virginia, near Shenandoah National Park. The town offers access to trails, rivers, and mountain views. Regional colleges and historic sites provide cultural opportunities. The setting supports focus, adventure, and community life.
#19. Veritas Collegiate Academy
– Location: Chesapeake, VA
– Enrollment: 259 (10:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
Veritas Collegiate Academy delivers rigorous academics grounded in classical principles. Students practice logic, rhetoric, and thoughtful inquiry. The community emphasizes character, wisdom, and service.
A structured curriculum builds depth across literature, languages, and STEM. Teachers mentor students in disciplined habits and independent thinking. College advising supports purposeful, well-matched pathways.
Arts programs encourage beauty, craft, and creative expression. Athletics foster teamwork, perseverance, and school spirit. Clubs and events knit families and students together.
Graduates are prepared to lead with humility and conviction. Families appreciate the clarity of mission and outcomes. The school’s approach yields confident, articulate scholars.
Where is Veritas Collegiate Academy?
This campus is in Chesapeake, Virginia, part of the Hampton Roads region. The area features waterways, parks, and a diverse economy. Nearby cultural institutions and universities broaden enrichment. The community’s scale offers both neighborhood feel and regional access.
#18. The Steward School
– Location: Richmond, VA
– Enrollment: 717 (7:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
The Steward School is known for academic innovation and a supportive community. Students build strong skills in analysis, writing, and collaboration. The culture values honor, curiosity, and initiative.
A wide range of honors and AP classes supports depth across disciplines. Faculty mentorship encourages independence and intellectual risk-taking. College counseling aligns interests with selective opportunities.
Arts programs thrive through studios, ensembles, and performances. Athletics cultivate wellness, grit, and teamwork across seasons. Clubs and service projects connect passions to meaningful action.
Graduates are prepared to contribute thoughtfully in college and beyond. Families praise the balance of rigor and warmth. Steward’s steady outcomes reinforce its reputation.
Where is The Steward School?
The Steward School is in Richmond, Virginia. The city offers museums, theaters, and riverfront recreation. Universities and employers provide academic and cultural partnerships. The metro’s size supports robust opportunities for students.
#17. Christchurch School
– Location: Christchurch, VA
– Enrollment: 216 (5:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
Christchurch School blends rigorous academics with a distinctive waterfront campus culture. Students learn independence, collaboration, and stewardship. The community emphasizes honor, service, and curiosity.
Coursework includes honors and AP options across STEM and humanities. Faculty provide individualized attention and experiential learning. College advising supports confident, well-considered choices.
Sailing and outdoor programs take advantage of the school’s riverside setting. Arts and athletics offer breadth for creative and competitive growth. Clubs connect interests with leadership opportunities.
Boarding life builds responsibility, time management, and close friendships. Day students share in the same supportive environment. Graduates leave ready to excel in college and life.
Where is Christchurch School?
Christchurch School is in Christchurch, Virginia, on the Middle Peninsula. The region features rivers, bays, and access to the Chesapeake. Small towns and natural spaces create a close-knit community feel. The setting encourages exploration and environmental awareness.
#16. Cape Henry Collegiate
– Location: Virginia Beach, VA
– Enrollment: 1,070 (8:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
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About
Cape Henry Collegiate is recognized for academic excellence and global outlook. Students practice inquiry, communication, and collaboration. The culture values honor, respect, and responsibility.
Advanced courses and signature programs promote depth across disciplines. Teachers mentor students toward independence and leadership. College counseling supports strong outcomes across selective universities.
Arts offerings include studio work, ensembles, and theater productions. Athletics cultivate fitness, resilience, and teamwork across many sports. Clubs connect passions to service and innovation.
Graduates are prepared to thrive in college and beyond. Families appreciate the balance of rigor, warmth, and opportunity. The school’s outcomes reflect its enduring mission.
Where is Cape Henry Collegiate?
Cape Henry Collegiate is in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The city offers oceanfront recreation, parks, and cultural venues. A diverse regional economy and nearby bases add unique opportunities. Students benefit from both coastal and metropolitan access.
#15. Ideaventions Academy for Math and Science
– Location: Reston, VA
– Enrollment: 68 (5:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
Ideaventions Academy for Math and Science provides an advanced, STEM-focused program. Students engage in research, design, and problem-solving. The culture rewards curiosity, collaboration, and creativity.
An accelerated curriculum spans mathematics, science, and computing. Faculty guide individualized projects and authentic investigations. College advising supports specialized, selective pathways.
Makerspaces and labs support hands-on learning and innovation. Clubs and competitions extend STEM beyond the classroom. The arts and humanities balance analytical growth with expression.
Families value the pace, precision, and personalization. Students build confidence through real-world challenges and mentorship. Outcomes reflect strong preparation for advanced study.
Where is Ideaventions Academy for Math and Science?
The school is in Reston, Virginia, within Fairfax County. Reston features lakes, trails, and a planned-town layout with mixed-use centers. The region’s tech economy and proximity to D.C. expand opportunities. This environment supports inquiry-driven learning.
#14. Chatham Hall
– Location: Chatham, VA
– Enrollment: 122 (5:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
Chatham Hall is a leading boarding and day school for girls with a strong academic tradition. Students develop voice, confidence, and leadership. The community values integrity, curiosity, and service.
Rigorous coursework includes honors and AP options across disciplines. Faculty mentorship supports independence and scholarly ambition. College counseling helps chart purposeful next steps.
The arts encourage creativity through visual, musical, and theatrical programs. Athletics build resilience, teamwork, and wellness. Clubs and global initiatives broaden perspective and impact.
Boarding life nurtures independence and lifelong friendships. Day students share in a cohesive, mission-driven culture. Graduates are prepared to lead and thrive in college.
Where is Chatham Hall?
Chatham Hall is in Chatham, Virginia, in the state’s Southside region. The town offers a quiet, supportive setting with access to nature. Regional colleges and cultural sites expand enrichment. The pace supports focus and community connection.
#13. Flint Hill School
– Location: Oakton, VA
– Enrollment: 1,062 (7:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
Flint Hill School is known for academic rigor and a forward-looking program. Students build advanced skills in analysis, communication, and collaboration. The community emphasizes honor, empathy, and initiative.
A broad catalog of honors and AP courses supports depth and exploration. Teachers mentor students toward independence and intellectual risk-taking. College counseling produces well-matched, selective outcomes.
Arts programs thrive through studios, ensembles, and performances. Athletics promote teamwork, resilience, and school spirit. Clubs and service projects connect passions to purpose.
Graduates are adaptable, creative problem-solvers ready for complex challenges. Families appreciate the blend of high expectations and support. Flint Hill’s reputation reflects consistent excellence.
Where is Flint Hill School?
Flint Hill is in Oakton, Virginia, within Fairfax County. The area features parks, transit access, and proximity to D.C. cultural institutions. Universities and employers offer enrichment and partnerships. This location complements an ambitious academic program.
#12. Norfolk Academy
– Location: Norfolk, VA
– Enrollment: 1,205 (8:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
Norfolk Academy pairs deep academic tradition with innovative learning. Students cultivate critical thinking, articulate writing, and collaboration. The culture values honor, service, and leadership.
Extensive honors and AP offerings allow for breadth and depth. Faculty provide mentorship that encourages independence and curiosity. College counseling supports strong, selective placements.
Arts programs include studios, ensembles, and theater. Athletics build resilience, teamwork, and pride across many sports. Clubs and civic engagement connect learning to community needs.
Graduates leave prepared to lead and contribute meaningfully. Families praise the balance of rigor and warmth. Norfolk Academy’s outcomes are consistently strong.
Where is Norfolk Academy?
Norfolk Academy is in Norfolk, Virginia, part of the Hampton Roads region. The city offers waterfront access, cultural venues, and universities. Naval heritage and a diverse economy shape local life. The regional network broadens student opportunities.
#11. Blue Ridge School
– Location: St George, VA
– Enrollment: 170 (4:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
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About
Blue Ridge School provides a college-preparatory education for boys in a close residential community. Students develop responsibility, resilience, and leadership. The culture emphasizes honor, empathy, and grit.
A rigorous curriculum includes honors and AP options. Faculty mentorship supports academic growth and personal character. College counseling guides thoughtful, well-matched outcomes.
Athletics leverage expansive outdoor spaces and facilities. The arts encourage creativity through music, studio work, and performance. Clubs and service projects build community and purpose.
Boarding life fosters independence and lifelong friendships. Graduates are prepared for selective colleges and real-world challenges. Families value the structure, support, and results.
Where is Blue Ridge School?
Blue Ridge School is in St. George, Virginia, near the Blue Ridge Mountains. The surrounding area offers trails, rivers, and scenic vistas. Proximity to Charlottesville provides cultural and academic resources. The natural setting supports focus, health, and exploration.
#10. Foxcroft School
– Location: Middleburg, VA
– Enrollment: 150 (4:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
Foxcroft School is a premier girls’ boarding and day school with a strong academic legacy. Students cultivate voice, confidence, and leadership. The community values integrity, creativity, and service.
Advanced coursework and seminars encourage depth across disciplines. Faculty mentor students through research, writing, and presentations. College counseling supports selective, well-fitted placements.
Arts programs flourish through studios, ensembles, and theater. Athletics promote wellness, teamwork, and competitive spirit. Signature programs expand horizons beyond campus.
Boarding life builds independence and lasting connections. Day students share a cohesive, mission-driven experience. Graduates are prepared to thrive in college and beyond.
Where is Foxcroft School?
Foxcroft is in Middleburg, Virginia, in the heart of Hunt Country. The town is known for equestrian traditions, rolling hills, and historic charm. Regional parks and nearby towns add cultural and outdoor options. The setting supports focus, balance, and community engagement.
#9. St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes School
– Location: Alexandria, VA
– Enrollment: 1,210 (6:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes School offers rigorous academics within a faith-informed community. Students build habits of inquiry, reflection, and service. The culture emphasizes honor, empathy, and leadership.
A wide range of honors and AP courses supports ambitious learning. Teachers provide mentorship that encourages independence and curiosity. College counseling guides purposeful next steps.
Arts offerings include music, visual arts, and theater. Athletics cultivate teamwork, resilience, and school spirit across many teams. Clubs and service programs connect passions to impact.
Graduates are prepared to contribute thoughtfully in college and life. Families appreciate the blend of tradition and innovation. Outcomes reflect sustained excellence across divisions.
Where is St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes School?
The school is in Alexandria, Virginia, along the Potomac River. Alexandria features historic districts, museums, and vibrant neighborhoods. Proximity to D.C. expands internships and cultural opportunities. Transit and parks make daily life active and connected.
#8. Fairfax Christian School
– Location: Dulles, VA
– Enrollment: 276 (6:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
Fairfax Christian School provides a college-preparatory education with a global perspective. Students strengthen analysis, communication, and collaboration. The community values character, excellence, and service.
Advanced coursework spans STEM, languages, and the humanities. Faculty mentorship promotes independence and academic confidence. Graduates pursue selective colleges in the U.S. and abroad.
Arts programs develop creativity through performance and design. Athletics build fitness, teamwork, and perseverance. Clubs and leadership opportunities connect interests to community needs.
Families value the school’s emphasis on both scholarship and character. Students are known, challenged, and supported. This balanced approach sustains strong outcomes.
Where is Fairfax Christian School?
Fairfax Christian School is in Dulles, Virginia, near major transit and business hubs. The area features parks, town centers, and international connectivity. Nearby employers and universities create enrichment and partnerships. The location aligns with a global-minded mission.
#7. Pinnacle Academy
– Location: Chantilly, VA
– Enrollment: 229 (9:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
Pinnacle Academy is known for advanced academics in a close-knit environment. Students engage in accelerated coursework and interdisciplinary projects. The culture prizes curiosity, collaboration, and integrity.
Faculty provide personalized attention and clear academic pathways. Learners build confidence through seminars, labs, and presentations. College guidance supports selective, well-matched outcomes.
Clubs, competitions, and service expand learning beyond class. Arts opportunities cultivate creativity and communication. Athletics and wellness programs support balance and resilience.
Families appreciate the school’s precision and supportive relationships. Students are encouraged to lead and innovate. Results reflect strong preparation for future study.
Where is Pinnacle Academy?
Pinnacle Academy is in Chantilly, Virginia, within Fairfax County. The area offers parks, technology corridors, and access to major roadways. Proximity to D.C. expands cultural and academic options. The suburban setting combines convenience with community feel.
#6. Veritas Collegiate Academy
– Location: Arlington, VA
– Enrollment: 152 (8:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
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About
Veritas Collegiate Academy in Arlington delivers a classical, college-preparatory education. Students practice logic, rhetoric, and clear expression. The community emphasizes faith, character, and service.
A structured curriculum builds mastery across literature, languages, and STEM. Teachers mentor students in disciplined habits and independent thought. College advising supports purposeful pathways and fit.
Arts programs cultivate beauty, craft, and performance. Athletics develop perseverance, teamwork, and school spirit. Clubs and house activities knit the community together.
Graduates are confident, articulate, and grounded in purpose. Families value the clarity of mission and outcomes. The approach consistently yields strong scholars and leaders.
Where is Veritas Collegiate Academy (Arlington)?
This campus is in Arlington, Virginia, minutes from Washington, D.C. The urban-suburban mix offers museums, internships, and civic engagement. Parks, transit options, and neighborhoods make daily life accessible. The setting enriches classical studies with modern opportunities.
#5. Woodberry Forest School
– Location: Woodberry Forest, VA
– Enrollment: 392 (7:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
Woodberry Forest School is a renowned boarding school for boys with a deep academic tradition. Students develop leadership, honor, and resilience. The culture balances high standards with genuine mentorship.
A rigorous curriculum includes honors and AP pathways across disciplines. Faculty provide close guidance that fosters independence and mastery. College counseling supports selective, well-suited placements.
Athletics are integral, emphasizing teamwork and perseverance. The arts encourage creativity through studios, ensembles, and theater. Outdoor programs leverage expansive fields and forested grounds.
Boarding life builds responsibility, time management, and lasting friendships. Graduates are prepared to lead with character and competence. Families value the school’s tradition and outcomes.
Where is Woodberry Forest School?
Woodberry Forest School is in Woodberry Forest, Virginia, near the foothills of the Blue Ridge. The campus sits amid fields, forests, and nearby rivers. Regional towns and Charlottesville provide cultural access. The setting supports focus, health, and community bonds.
#4. The Potomac School
– Location: Mclean, VA
– Enrollment: 1,069 (6:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
The Potomac School offers exceptional academics in a mission-driven community. Students hone analysis, communication, and collaboration. The culture emphasizes integrity, respect, and service.
Extensive honors and AP courses support depth across disciplines. Teachers mentor students toward independence and intellectual curiosity. College counseling aligns strengths with selective opportunities.
Arts programs flourish through studios, ensembles, and stage productions. Athletics promote wellness, resilience, and teamwork. Clubs and civic engagement connect learning to real-world impact.
Graduates are prepared to thrive in selective universities and beyond. Families praise the balance of challenge and support. Potomac’s outcomes reflect enduring excellence.
Where is The Potomac School?
The Potomac School is in McLean, Virginia, just west of Washington, D.C. The area offers parks, trails, and access to national institutions. Nearby employers and universities create enrichment and internships. The location blends suburban calm with metropolitan opportunity.
#3. Episcopal High School
– Location: Alexandria, VA
– Enrollment: 463 (5:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
Episcopal High School combines rigorous academics with a distinctive residential experience. Students practice critical thinking, clear writing, and collaborative problem-solving. The community emphasizes honor, service, and leadership.
A rich curriculum includes honors and AP options across fields. Faculty mentorship fosters independence and ambition. College counseling supports selective, well-matched outcomes.
Athletics are central to campus life and character development. The arts provide avenues for expression through music, theater, and visual arts. Clubs and civic partnerships connect learning to purpose.
Boarding life cultivates responsibility, time management, and lifelong friendships. Graduates leave prepared to contribute meaningfully in college. Families value the school’s tradition and results.
Where is Episcopal High School?
Episcopal High School is in Alexandria, Virginia, near the nation’s capital. The city offers historic districts, museums, and waterfront access. Proximity to D.C. expands internships and cultural experiences. The location amplifies academic and civic engagement.
#2. The Madeira School
– Location: Mclean, VA
– Enrollment: 343 (4:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
The Madeira School is a leading boarding and day school for girls with a distinctive program. Students build voice, confidence, and leadership through academics and internships. The culture values integrity, curiosity, and impact.
Challenging coursework includes honors and AP options across disciplines. Faculty mentor students through research, writing, and presentations. College counseling supports selective, well-suited matches.
The arts flourish with studios, ensembles, and theater. Athletics develop strength, teamwork, and resilience. Signature programs connect classroom learning to real organizations.
Boarding life fosters independence and enduring friendships. Day students share in a cohesive, mission-driven community. Graduates are prepared to lead in college and beyond.
Where is The Madeira School?
Madeira is in McLean, Virginia, set on a scenic campus along the Potomac. The area offers trails, parks, and proximity to D.C. institutions. Cultural venues and universities provide rich partnerships. The location strengthens experiential learning.
#1. BASIS Independent McLean
– Location: Mclean, VA
– Enrollment: 588 (8:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
BASIS Independent McLean delivers an accelerated, STEM-strong college-preparatory program. Students develop advanced habits in analysis, problem-solving, and communication. The culture prizes curiosity, diligence, and initiative.
A rigorous sequence includes high-level math, science, and humanities. Faculty guide students through research, seminars, and capstones. Graduates routinely pursue selective universities.
Clubs, competitions, and internships extend scholarship beyond class. Arts and design programs build creativity and presentation skills. Athletics support wellness, teamwork, and balance.
Families choose the school for its pace, precision, and outcomes. Students gain confidence by mastering challenging material. This approach consistently produces exceptional results.
Where is BASIS Independent McLean?
BASIS Independent McLean is in McLean, Virginia, in Fairfax County. The community offers parks, town centers, and access to major roadways. Proximity to D.C. expands cultural, academic, and professional opportunities. The setting aligns with an accelerated, globally minded program.
This story features data reporting by Wade Zhou, writing by Emma Rubin, and is part of a series utilizing data automation across 50 states.
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