The 30 Best High Schools in Virginia: Rankings and Performance Metrics
Choosing the right high school is a critical decision for families across Virginia. With numerous options available, parents and students often seek information about which institutions offer the strongest academic programs, extracurricular activities, and college preparation.
The Commonwealth of Virginia boasts many outstanding high schools that consistently demonstrate excellence in student achievement, teacher quality, and overall educational environment.
These top-performing schools can be found throughout the state, from Northern Virginia’s bustling suburbs to the rural communities of the Shenandoah Valley and beyond.
They represent both public and private institutions, each with unique strengths and educational philosophies that cater to different student needs and aspirations. Understanding what makes these schools exceptional can help families make informed decisions about their children’s educational futures.
Here are the 30 best high schools in Virginia:
1. Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology
Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) ranks consistently as the top high school in Virginia. Located in Alexandria, this prestigious magnet school serves academically gifted students with a specialized curriculum focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Established in 1985, TJHSST maintains exceptionally high academic standards with a competitive admissions process. The school boasts impressive college placement rates, with graduates regularly attending Ivy League universities and other top institutions.
Students benefit from specialized research labs, including robotics, oceanography, and biotechnology facilities. These resources provide hands-on experience that prepares students for advanced studies and careers in STEM fields.
TJHSST has received numerous accolades, including being recognized among the top high schools nationally by U.S. News & World Report. The school’s challenging curriculum includes advanced placement courses, research opportunities, and mentorship programs with industry professionals.
2. W.T. Woodson High School
W.T. Woodson High School, located in Fairfax, consistently ranks among Virginia’s elite educational institutions. With a strong academic program and diverse extracurricular offerings, the school has established itself as a cornerstone of excellence in Fairfax County.
The school boasts impressive statistics with a graduation rate exceeding 95% and a high percentage of students advancing to top-tier universities. Its Advanced Placement program features over 20 courses, allowing students to earn college credit while still in high school.
Woodson’s strength extends beyond academics to its award-winning performing arts programs and competitive athletic teams. The school’s commitment to well-rounded education is evident in its support for various student clubs and organizations.
Faculty members at Woodson are highly qualified, with many holding advanced degrees in their teaching fields. The school’s supportive learning environment promotes critical thinking and college readiness.
3. McLean High School
McLean High School, located in Fairfax County, serves students in grades 9-12 with a reputation for academic excellence. The school consistently ranks among Virginia’s top educational institutions with strong performance in standardized testing and college readiness metrics.
McLean offers a comprehensive Advanced Placement program with over 30 AP courses available to students. Its STEM program is particularly noteworthy, with students regularly participating in prestigious competitions like the Science Olympiad and Mathematics League.
The school boasts impressive college acceptance rates, with graduates attending prestigious universities across the country. Its student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 17:1 allows for personalized attention while maintaining diverse educational opportunities.
McLean’s extracurricular activities complement its academic focus with award-winning debate teams, music programs, and athletic achievements. The school’s dedication to well-rounded education has earned it recognition from various educational ranking organizations.
4. Langley High School
Langley High School, located in McLean, Virginia, has established itself as one of the state’s premier educational institutions. The school consistently ranks among the top 5% nationally for academic achievement and college readiness.
With a strong emphasis on STEM education, Langley offers over 25 Advanced Placement courses and numerous honors programs. Students regularly excel in mathematics and science competitions at both state and national levels.
The school boasts exceptional facilities including recently renovated science laboratories and a state-of-the-art performing arts center. Its graduation rate exceeds 98%, with approximately 95% of graduates continuing to four-year colleges.
Langley also maintains competitive athletic programs, winning multiple state championships in sports such as tennis, soccer, and lacrosse. The school’s supportive community and dedicated faculty contribute significantly to its reputation for educational excellence in Northern Virginia.
5. James Madison High School (Vienna)
James Madison High School stands as a premier educational institution in Vienna, Virginia. Established in 1959, this school has built a strong reputation for academic excellence and comprehensive student development.
The school serves approximately 2,100 students in grades 9-12 and maintains an impressive student-to-teacher ratio of 16:1. This allows for more personalized attention and stronger teacher-student relationships.
Madison High School offers a robust Advanced Placement program with over 20 AP courses available. Students consistently perform above state averages on standardized tests and college entrance exams.
Beyond academics, the school boasts championship-winning athletic programs and award-winning performing arts departments. Their “Warhawk” teams have captured numerous district and regional titles.
The school’s dedication to STEM education is evident through specialized programs and state-of-the-art facilities. Many graduates go on to attend prestigious universities and colleges throughout the country.
6. Mount Vernon High School
Mount Vernon High School in Alexandria stands out for its commitment to academic excellence and diverse educational opportunities. Established in 1939, the school serves approximately 2,100 students in grades 9-12 and maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 14:1.
The school offers a robust Advanced Placement program with over 20 AP courses available to students. Its International Baccalaureate program further enriches the academic landscape, providing students with globally recognized credentials.
Mount Vernon’s STEM initiatives have gained recognition throughout Virginia for innovative approaches to science and technology education. The school’s engineering program partners with local technology firms to provide students with real-world experience.
Athletics and arts programs thrive at Mount Vernon, with competitive teams in multiple sports and award-winning performing arts departments. The school’s diversity is considered one of its greatest strengths, with students representing over 80 countries and 30 languages.
7. Chantilly High School
Chantilly High School, located in Fairfax County, continues to be one of Virginia’s academic powerhouses. The school serves approximately 2,800 students and maintains an impressive 96% graduation rate.
Chantilly offers a robust Advanced Placement program with over 25 AP courses, allowing students to earn college credit while in high school. Their STEM focus is particularly strong, with specialized programs in engineering and computer science.
The school’s extracurricular activities are equally impressive, with championship-winning robotics teams and performing arts programs. Their athletic department has consistently produced competitive teams in multiple sports.
Chantilly High School maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 15:1, ensuring personalized attention. The school’s diversity reflects its surrounding community, with students representing various cultural backgrounds.
College acceptance rates for Chantilly graduates remain high, with many students attending prestigious universities across the country.
8. Heritage High School (Leesburg)
Heritage High School in Leesburg stands as one of Virginia’s premier educational institutions. Established in 2002, this school has consistently demonstrated excellence in both academic and extracurricular programs.
The school maintains a strong faculty-to-student ratio, allowing for personalized attention that supports student success. Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate courses provide challenging options for college-bound students.
Heritage boasts impressive facilities, including modern science labs, a performing arts center, and comprehensive athletic fields. The school’s diverse student body benefits from a wide range of clubs and activities.
Athletics are particularly strong at Heritage, with competitive teams in multiple sports. Their music and arts programs have also earned regional recognition.
The school’s graduation rates exceed state averages, with a high percentage of graduates continuing to four-year colleges and universities.
9. Broad Run High School
Broad Run High School, located in Ashburn, Virginia, has established itself as one of the state’s premier educational institutions. Established in 1969, the school serves approximately 1,800 students in grades 9-12 within the Loudoun County Public School system.
The school offers a robust academic program including numerous Advanced Placement courses and specialized programs in STEM fields. Their Science and Engineering program has received particular recognition for preparing students for collegiate studies in these demanding disciplines.
Broad Run boasts impressive athletic programs, with their football, basketball, and soccer teams frequently competing at state championship levels. The school maintains a student-teacher ratio of approximately 15:1, allowing for personalized attention.
Students at Broad Run consistently perform above state averages on standardized tests, with over 95% graduation rates and strong college acceptance statistics. The school’s diverse extracurricular offerings include award-winning performing arts programs and active student government.
10. Stone Bridge High School
Stone Bridge High School, located in Ashburn, Virginia, has established itself as one of the commonwealth’s premier educational institutions. Founded in 2000, this Loudoun County public school serves approximately 1,800 students in grades 9-12.
The school boasts impressive academic credentials with a graduation rate consistently above 95%. Advanced Placement participation is robust, with over 25 AP courses available to students seeking college-level challenges.
Stone Bridge’s STEM program has gained recognition for its innovative approach to science and technology education. The school’s robotics team regularly competes in regional and national competitions.
Athletics also flourish at Stone Bridge, with particularly strong football and volleyball programs. The Bulldogs have captured multiple state championships across various sports.
The school maintains a student-teacher ratio of approximately 15:1, allowing for personalized instruction. Stone Bridge’s dedicated faculty includes numerous teachers with advanced degrees and professional accolades.
11. Yorktown High School
Located in Arlington, Virginia, Yorktown High School consistently ranks among the state’s elite educational institutions. The school serves approximately 2,000 students in grades 9-12 and maintains an impressive student-to-teacher ratio of 18:1.
Yorktown’s academic programs are particularly strong in mathematics and science, with numerous Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate offerings. Students regularly achieve high standardized test scores, with over 90% meeting or exceeding state benchmarks.
The school boasts exceptional extracurricular activities including award-winning debate teams and performing arts programs. Athletic excellence is also evident with multiple state championships in sports like swimming, soccer, and tennis.
Yorktown’s college acceptance rates are noteworthy, with graduates attending prestigious universities across the country. The school’s modern facilities include state-of-the-art science laboratories, a performing arts center, and recently renovated athletic fields.
12. South Lakes High School
South Lakes High School, located in Reston, Virginia, has established itself as one of the top educational institutions in the state. The school serves approximately 2,500 students in grades 9-12 and is part of Fairfax County Public Schools.
South Lakes offers a comprehensive International Baccalaureate (IB) program, which attracts academically motivated students from across the district. Its rigorous curriculum prepares students for college while developing critical thinking skills.
The school boasts strong STEM programs and has received recognition for its achievements in mathematics and science competitions. South Lakes also excels in the arts, with award-winning band, chorus, and theater departments.
Athletics play an important role in the school community, with numerous teams competing at regional and state levels. The school’s facilities include modern science labs, a performing arts center, and recently renovated athletic fields.
13. Briar Woods High School
Briar Woods High School in Ashburn, Virginia has established itself as one of the top educational institutions in the state. Founded in 2005, this Loudoun County public school serves approximately 1,800 students in grades 9-12.
The school boasts impressive academic credentials with a graduation rate of over 95%. Students at Briar Woods have access to numerous Advanced Placement courses and specialized programs in STEM and the arts.
Briar Woods maintains strong athletic programs, with multiple state championships in various sports. The Falcons, as they are known, compete in the Dulles District of the Virginia High School League.
The school’s commitment to extracurricular activities is evident through its award-winning band program and diverse student clubs. Faculty members are highly qualified, with many holding advanced degrees in their fields.
14. Poquoson High School
Poquoson High School serves students in grades 9-12 in the coastal city of Poquoson, Virginia. The school maintains strong academic standards with a graduation rate consistently above 95%.
Students at Poquoson benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that includes numerous Advanced Placement courses and dual enrollment options through partnerships with local colleges. The school’s mathematics and science programs have received particular recognition for their excellence.
Extracurricular activities are abundant at Poquoson, with competitive athletic teams and a variety of clubs that enhance student development. The school’s relatively small enrollment of approximately 800 students allows for more personalized attention from educators.
Poquoson High School has earned distinction for its supportive learning environment and strong community connections. Parent involvement remains high, contributing to the school’s continued success and positive culture.
15. Frank W. Cox High School
Frank W. Cox High School, located in Virginia Beach, has established itself as one of Virginia’s premier educational institutions. Serving approximately 1,900 students, Cox offers a comprehensive curriculum that balances academics, arts, and athletics.
The school maintains an impressive graduation rate exceeding 95%, with a significant percentage of graduates advancing to four-year colleges. Its Advanced Placement program includes over 20 courses, allowing students to earn college credit while still in high school.
Cox High School boasts award-winning performing arts programs, including band, chorus, and theater. Their athletic teams, known as the Falcons, have captured numerous regional and state championships across various sports.
The school emphasizes community service and leadership development through various clubs and student organizations. Its dedicated faculty includes many teachers with advanced degrees and professional recognitions for their contributions to education.
16. Centreville High School
Centreville High School, located in Fairfax County, has established itself as one of Virginia’s premier educational institutions. The school serves approximately 2,400 students in grades 9-12 and maintains a student-to-teacher ratio that facilitates personalized learning experiences.
The school offers a comprehensive Advanced Placement program with over 20 AP courses available to students. These rigorous academic options help prepare graduates for success in higher education and beyond.
Centreville’s strong STEM program includes specialized courses in engineering, computer science, and robotics. The school also boasts award-winning performing arts and athletic programs that complement its academic focus.
Students at Centreville consistently perform above state averages on standardized tests. The school’s graduation rate exceeds 95%, with a significant percentage of graduates continuing to four-year colleges and universities.
The diverse student body benefits from numerous clubs and extracurricular activities that foster leadership and community engagement.
17. James River High School (Chester)
James River High School in Chester, Virginia, has established itself as one of the commonwealth’s premier educational institutions. Founded in 1994, the school serves approximately 1,800 students in grades 9-12 within the Chesterfield County Public School system.
The school offers a robust Advanced Placement program with over 20 AP courses available to students. This comprehensive curriculum helps prepare graduates for success in higher education and beyond.
James River boasts strong performance in both academics and athletics. Their student athletes compete in Virginia High School League AAA division sports, with notable achievements in swimming, soccer, and baseball.
The school maintains a student-teacher ratio of approximately 18:1, allowing for more personalized instruction. Faculty members hold advanced degrees and certifications in their respective fields.
James River’s campus features modern facilities including well-equipped science labs, a performing arts center, and updated athletic fields.
18. Freedom High School (Loudoun)
Freedom High School in South Riding consistently ranks among Virginia’s top educational institutions. Established in 2005, this Loudoun County public school serves approximately 2,100 students in grades 9-12.
The school boasts impressive academic credentials with a graduation rate exceeding 95%. Advanced Placement participation is particularly strong, with over 30 AP courses available to students seeking college-level challenges.
Freedom’s STEM programs have gained recognition throughout the region. Their robotics team regularly competes in state and national tournaments, demonstrating the school’s commitment to technical education.
Athletic programs at Freedom are equally notable, with state championships in several sports including soccer and track. The school’s performing arts department showcases student talent through award-winning band, orchestra, and theater productions.
The diverse student body benefits from numerous clubs and extracurricular activities that foster leadership and community engagement.
19. Glen Allen High School
Glen Allen High School, established in 2010, serves students in Henrico County with a comprehensive educational program. The school maintains a strong academic reputation with a 94% graduation rate and offers numerous Advanced Placement courses.
Glen Allen’s STEM program has received recognition for its innovative approach to integrating technology across the curriculum. Students have access to state-of-the-art computer labs and specialized equipment for hands-on learning experiences.
The school boasts impressive athletic facilities including a modern gymnasium, well-maintained sports fields, and an indoor training center. Their competitive sports teams have secured several regional championships in recent years.
Glen Allen’s performing arts department provides extensive opportunities in theater, band, and choral programs. The school also offers over 30 clubs and extracurricular activities that cater to diverse student interests.
20. Lake Braddock Secondary School
Lake Braddock Secondary School, located in Burke, Virginia, serves students in grades 7-12 within the Fairfax County Public School system. The school maintains a solid academic reputation with a comprehensive curriculum that includes numerous Advanced Placement and honors courses.
Lake Braddock’s strong athletics program has earned recognition throughout the state, particularly in sports like cross country, track, and baseball. The school features modern facilities including science labs, a performing arts center, and extensive athletic fields.
With approximately 4,200 students, Lake Braddock operates on a unique “subschool” system that creates smaller learning communities within the larger campus. This organizational approach helps foster closer student-teacher relationships despite the school’s large enrollment.
Student life at Lake Braddock includes diverse extracurricular options spanning from robotics and debate to music and community service organizations. The school maintains consistent SOL test scores above state averages.
21. Robinson Secondary School
Robinson Secondary School, located in Fairfax, has established itself as one of Virginia’s premier educational institutions since its founding in 1971. The school serves students in grades 7-12, offering a comprehensive secondary education experience on its spacious campus.
With approximately 4,000 students, Robinson maintains strong academic programs while providing extensive extracurricular opportunities. The school offers numerous Advanced Placement courses and has consistently achieved high pass rates on standardized tests.
Robinson’s athletic program has earned multiple state championships across various sports. The school particularly excels in cross country, soccer, and lacrosse competitions.
The school prides itself on its diverse student body and inclusive community atmosphere. Students benefit from modern facilities including well-equipped science labs, a performing arts center, and athletic fields.
Robinson’s dedicated faculty emphasizes critical thinking and college preparation. Many graduates continue to prestigious universities throughout Virginia and beyond.
22. Douglas S. Freeman High School
Douglas S. Freeman High School, located in Henrico County, has established itself as one of Virginia’s educational standouts. The school serves approximately 1,800 students in grades 9-12 and maintains a student-to-teacher ratio that allows for personalized attention.
Freeman High School offers a comprehensive Advanced Placement program with over 20 AP courses available to students. Their college acceptance rate consistently ranks among the highest in the region, with graduates attending prestigious universities across the country.
The school boasts strong performance in athletics, with competitive teams in football, basketball, baseball, and soccer. Their debate team and music program have received state recognition for excellence in recent years.
Freeman’s dedicated faculty includes numerous teachers with advanced degrees and professional accolades. The school community emphasizes academic achievement while supporting student development through various extracurricular activities and clubs.
23. Loudoun County High School
Loudoun County High School, located in Leesburg, Virginia, stands as one of the oldest educational institutions in the region. Founded in 1954, this school maintains a solid academic reputation while serving a diverse student population.
The school offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes numerous Advanced Placement courses and specialized programs. Their dedication to academic excellence is evident in their consistently strong performance on standardized tests and college acceptance rates.
Beyond academics, Loudoun County High School boasts strong athletic programs and a wide variety of extracurricular activities. Their sports teams, known as the Raiders, have achieved notable success in regional competitions.
The school features modern facilities and technology integration throughout the learning environment. With a student-teacher ratio that allows for personalized attention, students receive the support needed to succeed.
24. Patrick Henry High School (Ashland)
Patrick Henry High School serves students in Ashland, Virginia with a commitment to academic excellence and personal growth. The school maintains a solid reputation for its balanced curriculum and diverse extracurricular offerings.
With approximately 1,400 students, Patrick Henry fosters a community-centered learning environment where individual attention remains possible despite its size. The school boasts a graduation rate consistently above the state average.
Students at Patrick Henry benefit from a range of Advanced Placement courses and career-focused programs. The school’s STEM initiatives have gained recognition for preparing students for future careers in growing fields.
Athletic programs complement academic pursuits, with teams regularly competing at regional and state levels. The school’s arts programs also provide students with opportunities to develop creative talents through music, theater, and visual arts.
Patrick Henry maintains strong connections with local colleges, offering dual enrollment options for motivated students.
25. Clover Hill High School
Clover Hill High School, located in Midlothian, Virginia, has established itself as one of the top educational institutions in Chesterfield County. The school serves approximately 1,800 students in grades 9-12 and maintains a student-to-teacher ratio that allows for personalized attention.
Academically, Clover Hill offers a robust selection of Advanced Placement courses and dual enrollment opportunities through partnerships with local colleges. Their mathematics and science programs have received recognition for excellence in preparing students for STEM careers.
The school boasts strong athletic programs, with their baseball team having particularly notable success over the years. Extracurricular activities extend beyond sports to include award-winning performing arts, debate teams, and various student-led clubs.
Clover Hill’s graduation rate consistently exceeds the state average, with a high percentage of graduates continuing to four-year colleges and universities. The school’s dedicated faculty emphasizes both academic achievement and character development.
26. Great Bridge High School
Great Bridge High School, located in Chesapeake, Virginia, serves students in grades 9-12 and has established itself as one of the top educational institutions in the state. The school maintains a solid academic reputation with comprehensive AP and honors programs that challenge its students.
Great Bridge boasts strong performance in standardized testing, with scores consistently above both district and state averages. Its graduation rate exceeds 95%, with a significant percentage of graduates continuing to four-year colleges and universities.
The school offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including championship-winning athletic teams and award-winning performing arts programs. Their debate team and academic competition squads have earned regional recognition.
Faculty members at Great Bridge are highly qualified, with many holding advanced degrees in their teaching fields. The school’s commitment to technology integration enhances the learning experience, preparing students for success in an increasingly digital world.
27. Cosby High School
Cosby High School, located in Midlothian, Virginia, has established itself as one of the top educational institutions in Chesterfield County since opening its doors in 2006. The school serves approximately 2,000 students in grades 9-12 and maintains an impressive student-to-teacher ratio that allows for personalized attention.
Academically, Cosby High School boasts strong performance metrics with consistently high graduation rates and standardized test scores above state averages. The school offers a robust Advanced Placement program with over 20 AP courses available to students seeking college preparatory experiences.
Beyond academics, Cosby is known for its competitive athletic programs and extensive extracurricular opportunities. The school fields successful teams in multiple sports and provides numerous clubs that cater to diverse student interests.
Cosby High School’s modern facilities include well-equipped science laboratories, technology centers, and performance spaces that enhance the learning environment. The school’s commitment to academic excellence and student development has earned it recognition at both state and national levels.
28. York High School
York High School stands as a respected educational institution in Yorktown, Virginia. Part of the York County School Division, it serves approximately 1,100 students in grades 9-12.
The school maintains a solid academic reputation with a graduation rate of over 95%. York High offers a comprehensive curriculum including honors courses, Advanced Placement options, and dual enrollment opportunities with local colleges.
Students at York High benefit from a 16:1 student-teacher ratio, allowing for more personalized instruction. The school’s dedicated faculty includes numerous teachers with advanced degrees and professional certifications.
Beyond academics, York High boasts strong athletic programs and diverse extracurricular activities. Their sports teams, known as the Falcons, compete in Virginia High School League competitions with notable success in several sports.
The school’s commitment to community service and character development further enhances its educational mission.
29. Chesapeake Bay Governor’s School
Chesapeake Bay Governor’s School (CBGS) offers a specialized education focusing on marine and environmental science for talented students across multiple counties in Virginia. The school operates as a part-time program where students attend their base high schools for part of the day and CBGS for advanced coursework.
CBGS maintains campus locations in Warsaw, Glenns, and Bowling Green to serve students from the Middle Peninsula and Northern Neck regions. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning through field studies, research projects, and environmental monitoring activities in the Chesapeake Bay watershed.
Students at CBGS complete rigorous coursework in marine and environmental science while earning college credits through dual enrollment arrangements. The school’s strong partnership with local colleges and environmental organizations provides students with unique research opportunities and internships.
CBGS consistently produces graduates who excel in STEM fields at prestigious universities and environmental careers.
30. Princess Anne High School
Princess Anne High School, located in Virginia Beach, has established itself as a strong educational institution within the state. The school maintains a solid academic reputation with a variety of advanced placement courses and specialized programs.
Students at Princess Anne benefit from the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, which offers rigorous college preparatory curriculum. This program helps graduates stand out during the college application process.
The school boasts a diverse student body and maintains competitive sports teams. Their extracurricular activities include award-winning performing arts programs and various student clubs.
Princess Anne’s faculty consists of experienced educators dedicated to student success. Many teachers hold advanced degrees in their fields.
The school’s campus features modern facilities including updated technology labs and athletic fields. Princess Anne continues to serve as an important educational cornerstone in the Virginia Beach community.
Criteria for Ranking High Schools
Determining the best high schools requires a comprehensive evaluation system that goes beyond basic metrics. Our ranking methodology incorporates multiple factors to provide a holistic assessment of each institution’s ability to prepare students for future success.
Academic Performance Metrics
Virginia high schools are evaluated primarily on standardized test results, including SOL (Standards of Learning) scores and SAT/ACT averages. These measurements provide objective data about student achievement and college readiness.
College preparation rates factor significantly in our rankings, including AP/IB participation percentages and the number of students who earn qualifying scores. We analyze graduation rates and college acceptance statistics, with special attention to admissions at competitive universities.
Advanced course offerings are weighted heavily, as schools with robust AP, IB, and dual enrollment programs typically better prepare students for higher education. The student-to-teacher ratio is also considered, as smaller class sizes often correlate with more individualized instruction.
Schools receive additional consideration for academic achievements like National Merit Scholars, Presidential Scholars, and performance in academic competitions.
Extracurricular Opportunities
The availability and quality of activities beyond academics significantly impact student development. We evaluate the breadth of sports programs, including the number of varsity teams and championship achievements.
Arts programs are assessed based on offerings in visual arts, music, theater, and dance, along with student participation rates and accomplishments. Community service opportunities and student participation levels reflect schools’ commitment to civic engagement.
Leadership development programs, including student government, debate teams, and JROTC, contribute positively to rankings. We examine the variety of clubs and special interest groups, particularly those that foster skills in STEM, humanities, and emerging fields.
Schools with innovative extracurricular programs that address contemporary issues or utilize advanced technologies receive higher marks. Student participation rates across all extracurricular areas are weighed to ensure programs serve the broader student population.
Student Diversity and Support
Effective schools create inclusive environments where all students can thrive. We evaluate diversity across racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic dimensions, along with programs that promote understanding and inclusion.
Support services factor prominently in our assessment, including counseling resources, college advising, and mental health support. Schools with robust special education programs and services for English language learners demonstrate commitment to supporting all students.
We examine disciplinary practices and school climate data to assess the learning environment. Schools with positive approaches to conflict resolution typically score higher.
Parent and community involvement levels are considered, including volunteer hours and community partnerships. Advanced technology integration and resources available to students factor into final rankings, particularly programs that help bridge digital divides.
Virginia’s Education System Overview
Virginia’s education system is widely recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and innovative learning approaches. The state maintains rigorous standards while providing diverse educational pathways for students with different needs and aspirations.
Public vs. Private High Schools
Virginia offers both public and private high school options that cater to diverse student needs. The state operates 322 public high schools serving approximately 1.3 million students across 132 school divisions. These schools receive state funding and must follow Virginia’s Standards of Learning (SOL) curriculum guidelines.
Private high schools in Virginia, numbering around 135, serve about 85,000 students. These institutions typically feature smaller class sizes, with an average student-to-teacher ratio of 12:1 compared to 17:1 in public schools.
Tuition costs for private schools range from $8,000 to $35,000 annually, while public education is taxpayer-funded. Many private institutions emphasize specific religious affiliations or educational philosophies, offering families alternatives to the standardized public system.
Advanced Academic Programs
Virginia high schools provide numerous advanced academic opportunities for high-achieving students. The International Baccalaureate (IB) program is available in 42 Virginia high schools, offering rigorous, globally-recognized curricula that emphasize critical thinking and global citizenship.
Advanced Placement (AP) courses are even more widespread, with 98% of Virginia high schools offering at least one AP option. Students completed over 162,000 AP exams in 2024, with a passing rate of 63.2%.
The Governor’s Schools program represents another exceptional opportunity, with 19 academic-year programs and 7 summer residential programs specializing in STEM, arts, and humanities. These selective programs serve approximately 8,500 gifted students annually.
Dual enrollment partnerships with Virginia’s community colleges allow students to earn college credits while still in high school, with over 35,000 students participating in these programs each year.
