Choosing the right high school is one of the most important decisions families make. The Best High Schools in Alexandria offer diverse academic programs, strong extracurricular opportunities, and supportive learning environments that prepare students for college, careers, and beyond. Whether you’re exploring public high schools in Alexandria, private high schools in Alexandria, or specialty programs, this guide helps parents and students compare options confidently and plan for successful high school enrollment in Alexandria.
High Schools in Alexandria Comparison Table
| School Name | Type | Grades | Known For | Best For Students Who |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alexandria City High School – King Street | Public | 9–12 | AP & Career Pathways | Want academic & extracurricular balance |
| Alexandria City High School – Minnie Howard | Public | 9 | Freshman Academy | Need structured 9th grade transition |
| Bishop Ireton High School | Private Catholic | 9–12 | College Prep | Want faith-based education |
| St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes School | Private | JK–12 | IB Program | Seek global curriculum |
| Commonwealth Academy | Private | 3–12 | Small Classes | Need individualized learning |
| Fusion Academy Alexandria | Private | 6–12 | 1-to-1 Instruction | Prefer personalized schedule |
| Thomas Jefferson HS for Science & Technology | Public Magnet | 9–12 | STEM Excellence | Love advanced science & tech |
| Edison High School | Public | 9–12 | Career & Tech Ed | Want hands-on pathways |
| Mount Vernon High School | Public | 9–12 | IB & Arts | Value creativity & academics |
| Hayfield Secondary School | Public | 7–12 | Athletics & Academics | Enjoy strong extracurriculars |
Top 50 High Schools in Alexandria
1. Alexandria City High School – King Street Campus
Alexandria City High School – King Street Campus serves as the primary comprehensive public high school in Alexandria, USA. It offers a wide academic selection including Advanced Placement courses, career pathways, and dual enrollment opportunities. The campus supports a diverse student body and focuses on college and career readiness. With strong athletics and arts programs, it consistently ranks among the top high schools in Alexandria for well-rounded development.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Broad AP course offerings
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Strong athletic teams
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Career and technical education programs
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College counseling support
Programs & Activities
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AP and honors courses
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STEM pathways
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Performing arts and music
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Robotics, debate, athletics
Best For: Students seeking academic rigor with extracurricular variety
Location: 3330 King St, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: (703) 824-6800
2. Alexandria City High School – Minnie Howard Campus
The Minnie Howard Campus supports ninth-grade students during their transition into high school. Designed as a freshman academy, it offers structured academic guidance and mentoring programs. Students benefit from smaller learning communities before moving to the senior campus. Families searching for supportive public high schools in Alexandria often appreciate the focused attention provided here.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Freshman-focused support system
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Academic mentoring
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Strong counseling services
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Leadership development programs
Programs & Activities
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Honors courses
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Introductory athletics
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Clubs and leadership workshops
Best For: Students beginning their high school journey
Location: 3801 W Braddock Rd, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: (703) 824-1600
3. Bishop Ireton High School
Bishop Ireton High School is a respected Catholic college-preparatory institution in Alexandria, USA. The school blends faith-based values with strong academics and service leadership. Students consistently achieve high college acceptance rates. It remains one of the most recognized private high schools in Alexandria for academic excellence and character formation.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Faith-centered education
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Strong college prep curriculum
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Competitive athletics
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Community service opportunities
Programs & Activities
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AP courses
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Campus ministry
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Performing arts
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Varsity sports
Best For: Students seeking Catholic education with strong academics
Location: 201 Cambridge Rd, Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: (703) 549-0153
4. St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes School
St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes School offers a rigorous college-preparatory education with a strong emphasis on global learning. The International Baccalaureate program prepares students for competitive universities. Small class sizes encourage individual growth and leadership development.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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IB Diploma Program
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Small student-teacher ratio
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Leadership and service learning
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Excellent arts and athletics
Programs & Activities
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IB courses
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Theater and music
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Competitive sports
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Community outreach programs
Best For: Students pursuing global academic pathways
Location: 1000 St Stephens Rd, Alexandria, VA 22304
Phone: (703) 212-2700
5. Commonwealth Academy
Commonwealth Academy focuses on personalized instruction for students who benefit from smaller classes and individualized support. It provides a structured environment that builds confidence and academic independence.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Small class sizes
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Individual learning plans
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Supportive teaching staff
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College-focused preparation
Programs & Activities
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Customized curriculum
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Arts programs
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Leadership clubs
Best For: Students thriving in close-knit academic settings
Location: 1321 Leslie Ave, Alexandria, VA 22301
Phone: (703) 548-6912
6. Fusion Academy Alexandria
Fusion Academy offers one-to-one instruction tailored to each student’s pace and learning style. Flexible scheduling benefits students balancing academics with athletics, arts, or personal needs.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Personalized learning
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Flexible schedules
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College counseling
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Safe, supportive environment
Programs & Activities
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College prep courses
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Creative arts
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Mentorship programs
Best For: Students needing customized education
Location: 333 John Carlyle St, Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: (703) 879-3700
7. Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology
Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology is a nationally recognized magnet school serving the Alexandria area. Known for advanced STEM education, it offers cutting-edge labs and research opportunities.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Advanced STEM curriculum
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Research labs
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High national rankings
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Competitive academic environment
Programs & Activities
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Engineering pathways
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Robotics
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Science research mentorship
Best For: Students passionate about science and technology
Location: 6560 Braddock Rd, Alexandria, VA 22312
Phone: (703) 750-8300
8. Edison High School
Edison High School serves Alexandria-area students with strong academic and career-focused programs. It offers hands-on learning through technical pathways and college preparation courses.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Career and technical education
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Strong athletics
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Supportive staff
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College readiness programs
Programs & Activities
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Health sciences
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Engineering tech
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Sports teams
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Arts programs
Best For: Students interested in career-focused pathways
Location: 5801 Franconia Rd, Alexandria, VA 22310
Phone: (703) 924-8000
9. Mount Vernon High School
Mount Vernon High School provides a balanced academic program including IB courses and arts opportunities. It supports student creativity while maintaining academic rigor.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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IB curriculum
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Arts programs
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Strong athletics
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College counseling
Programs & Activities
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IB Diploma
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Performing arts
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Sports teams
Best For: Students seeking arts and academic balance
Location: 8515 Old Mount Vernon Rd, Alexandria, VA 22309
Phone: (703) 619-3100
10. Hayfield Secondary School
Hayfield Secondary School offers a strong academic foundation with competitive sports and extracurricular programs. Families appreciate its balanced approach to education.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Wide course offerings
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Strong sports culture
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College prep focus
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Student clubs
Programs & Activities
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Honors classes
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Athletics
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Student leadership
Best For: Students wanting academics with strong sports involvement
Location: 7630 Telegraph Rd, Alexandria, VA 22315
Phone: (703) 924-7400
11. West Potomac High School
West Potomac High School serves students near Alexandria with strong academic programs and community engagement.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Honors and AP courses
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Active parent community
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Diverse extracurriculars
Programs & Activities
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AP curriculum
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Music programs
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Athletics
Best For: Students seeking academic challenge and community involvement
Location: 6500 Quander Rd, Alexandria, VA 22307
Phone: (703) 718-2500
12. Annandale High School
Annandale High School offers IB programs and career pathways serving students in the Alexandria area.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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IB opportunities
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Career-focused academies
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Diverse student body
Programs & Activities
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IB Diploma
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STEM clubs
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Athletics
Best For: Students pursuing IB and global studies
Location: 4700 Medford Dr, Alexandria, VA 22312
Phone: (703) 642-4100
13. Wakefield High School
Wakefield High School emphasizes academic achievement and student engagement through varied programs.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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College readiness
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Extracurricular diversity
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Supportive environment
Programs & Activities
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AP courses
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Arts programs
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Sports teams
Best For: Students seeking academic growth
Location: 1325 S Dinwiddie St, Alexandria, VA 22304
Phone: (703) 228-6700
14. Yorktown High School
Yorktown High School is known for strong academics and competitive sports.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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High test scores
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Athletic excellence
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Active clubs
Programs & Activities
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AP courses
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Athletics
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Performing arts
Best For: Students excelling academically and athletically
Location: 5200 Yorktown Blvd, Alexandria, VA 22310
Phone: (703) 228-5400
15. Falls Church High School
Falls Church High School offers diverse programs supporting academic and career growth for Alexandria-area families.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Career pathways
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Supportive teachers
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Community involvement
Programs & Activities
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STEM labs
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Arts programs
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Athletics
Best For: Students interested in balanced academic and career development
Location: 7521 Jaguar Trl, Alexandria, VA 22304
Phone: (703) 207-4000
16. T.C. Williams High School (Former Name of Alexandria City High School)
T.C. Williams High School is the former name of Alexandria City High School and remains widely recognized in Alexandria, USA for its long-standing academic and athletic tradition. While now operating under the Alexandria City High School name, many families still refer to it historically. The school has built a reputation for diversity, strong AP offerings, and competitive sports programs that unite the community.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Strong academic heritage
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Championship athletics history
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Wide extracurricular selection
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College and career readiness focus
Programs & Activities
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AP and honors courses
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Career & technical pathways
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Athletics and performing arts
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Student government
Best For: Students wanting a well-established public high school experience
Location: 3330 King St, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: (703) 824-6800
17. Jefferson-Houston School
Jefferson-Houston School is a public school serving students in Alexandria, USA, offering a structured academic pathway that extends into secondary grades. Families appreciate the continuity and supportive environment that prepares students early for high school rigor. The school emphasizes literacy, math achievement, and character development.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Strong foundational academics
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Supportive learning environment
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Community engagement
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Leadership opportunities
Programs & Activities
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Honors coursework
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STEM enrichment
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Arts integration
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After-school clubs
Best For: Students who benefit from a structured academic pathway
Location: 1501 Cameron St, Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: (703) 706-4500
18. Lyles-Crouch Traditional Academy
Lyles-Crouch Traditional Academy offers a classical approach to education in Alexandria, USA. With an emphasis on structured curriculum and character education, it prepares students for strong high school performance. Families value its consistent expectations and academic focus.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Structured academic model
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Focus on discipline and character
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Strong parent involvement
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Solid preparation for advanced coursework
Programs & Activities
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Traditional curriculum
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Enrichment clubs
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Leadership activities
Best For: Students who thrive in structured academic settings
Location: 530 S Saint Asaph St, Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: (703) 706-4400
19. George Washington Middle/High Continuation School
George Washington Middle/High Continuation School provides alternative education pathways for students in Alexandria, USA. It supports learners who may need flexible scheduling or additional academic assistance. The school emphasizes personalized support and credit recovery.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Small class sizes
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Credit recovery programs
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Flexible learning pace
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Strong counseling services
Programs & Activities
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Alternative diploma pathways
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Career readiness support
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Individualized instruction
Best For: Students needing non-traditional academic support
Location: 1005 Mount Vernon Ave, Alexandria, VA 22301
Phone: (703) 706-4405
20. Bryant Alternative High School
Bryant Alternative High School offers a smaller, more personalized setting for students in Alexandria, USA who may benefit from a flexible educational approach. It focuses on helping students meet graduation requirements while building confidence and life skills.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Personalized learning plans
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Supportive staff
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Flexible scheduling
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Career readiness focus
Programs & Activities
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Credit recovery
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Career exploration
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Student mentoring
Best For: Students seeking a smaller, supportive school environment
Location: 2709 Popkins Ln, Alexandria, VA 22306
Phone: (703) 660-2000
21. The Howard Gardner School
The Howard Gardner School is a private institution serving students in Alexandria, USA with a focus on individualized instruction and small class sizes. The school emphasizes nurturing each student’s strengths while maintaining strong academic standards.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Small student-to-teacher ratio
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Personalized instruction
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Strong community environment
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Academic flexibility
Programs & Activities
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College prep courses
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Arts and music
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Enrichment clubs
Best For: Students thriving in individualized academic settings
Location: 4910 Brenman Park Dr, Alexandria, VA 22304
Phone: (703) 751-4730
22. Burgundy Farm Country Day School
Burgundy Farm Country Day School serves Alexandria-area families with a progressive, experiential learning approach. Students benefit from hands-on instruction and outdoor education experiences that enhance traditional academics.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Experiential learning model
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Outdoor education focus
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Small classes
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Community-centered environment
Programs & Activities
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Project-based learning
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Arts programs
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Athletics and clubs
Best For: Students who enjoy experiential, hands-on learning
Location: 3700 Burgundy Rd, Alexandria, VA 22303
Phone: (703) 960-3431
23. Grace Episcopal School
Grace Episcopal School offers faith-based education with strong academic preparation for students in Alexandria, USA. The school focuses on character development alongside academic achievement.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Faith-centered curriculum
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Strong academic preparation
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Supportive community
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Leadership development
Programs & Activities
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College prep coursework
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Arts and music
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Service learning
Best For: Students seeking Episcopal-based education
Location: 3601 Russell Rd, Alexandria, VA 22305
Phone: (703) 549-5067
24. Immanuel Lutheran School
Immanuel Lutheran School provides Christian-centered education to families in Alexandria, USA. It emphasizes academic excellence while nurturing spiritual growth and character.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Christian values
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Small class sizes
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Academic focus
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Community engagement
Programs & Activities
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College prep curriculum
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Arts and music
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Athletics
Best For: Students seeking Lutheran-based education
Location: 1801 Russell Rd, Alexandria, VA 22301
Phone: (703) 549-0155
25. St. Rita Catholic School
St. Rita Catholic School supports Alexandria families seeking faith-based academic preparation. Students benefit from structured curriculum and strong moral foundation.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Catholic-centered instruction
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Strong academic base
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Supportive faculty
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Community service programs
Programs & Activities
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College prep academics
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Arts programs
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Athletics and clubs
Best For: Students seeking Catholic educational values
Location: 3801 Russell Rd, Alexandria, VA 22305
Phone: (703) 836-1640
26. Fairfax Christian School
Fairfax Christian School serves Alexandria-area students with a Bible-centered curriculum and strong college preparation focus.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Christian worldview
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Academic excellence
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Strong discipline standards
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College placement support
Programs & Activities
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Honors coursework
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Athletics
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Student leadership
Best For: Students seeking Christian college-prep education
Location: 1624 Hunter Mill Rd, Alexandria, VA 22312
Phone: (703) 759-5100
27. NOVA Early College High School
NOVA Early College High School allows Alexandria students to earn college credits while completing high school. The program partners with Northern Virginia Community College to provide accelerated pathways.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Dual enrollment opportunities
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College credit savings
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Academic acceleration
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Career pathways
Programs & Activities
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Associate degree pathways
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STEM courses
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Career counseling
Best For: Students ready for college-level coursework
Location: 4001 Wakefield Chapel Rd, Alexandria, VA 22304
Phone: (703) 323-3000
28. Achieve Academy
Achieve Academy provides alternative education pathways in Alexandria, USA. The school focuses on supporting students who benefit from individualized pacing and academic recovery.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Flexible scheduling
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Small classes
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Academic mentoring
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Graduation pathway support
Programs & Activities
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Credit recovery
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Career readiness workshops
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Counseling support
Best For: Students needing flexible academic plans
Location: 3330 King St, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: (703) 824-6800
29. West Springfield High School
West Springfield High School serves Alexandria-area students with strong academics and competitive extracurricular programs. It is known for community involvement and high graduation rates.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Advanced coursework
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Competitive sports
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Active parent engagement
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College readiness programs
Programs & Activities
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AP curriculum
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Performing arts
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STEM clubs
Best For: Students seeking academic rigor and strong athletics
Location: 6100 Rolling Rd, Alexandria, VA 22315
Phone: (703) 913-3800
30. South County High School
South County High School provides Alexandria families with a balanced academic and extracurricular experience. The school emphasizes leadership, community service, and academic achievement.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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AP and honors programs
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Strong athletics
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Leadership initiatives
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Supportive environment
Programs & Activities
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AP courses
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Student government
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Arts and athletics
Best For: Students seeking a balanced high school experience
Location: 8501 Silverbrook Rd, Alexandria, VA 22309
Phone: (703) 446-1600
31. Oakcrest School
Oakcrest School is a private Catholic school serving families in Alexandria, USA with a strong emphasis on character formation, leadership, and academic excellence for girls. The school combines a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum with faith-based values and mentorship. Small class sizes allow teachers to challenge students while offering individualized support. Parents looking for private high schools in Alexandria that focus on leadership development often consider Oakcrest a strong option.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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All-girls learning environment
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Catholic values and service focus
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Strong college placement record
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Leadership and mentoring programs
Programs & Activities
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Honors and AP-level coursework
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Campus ministry
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Athletics and fine arts
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Leadership clubs
Best For: Girls seeking faith-based college preparation
Location: 850 Balls Hill Rd, Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: (703) 790-5450
32. The Potomac School
The Potomac School serves students near Alexandria, USA with a challenging college-preparatory program. Known for academic rigor and a beautiful campus setting, the school promotes intellectual curiosity and personal growth. Students benefit from strong faculty mentorship and advanced coursework options.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Excellent college prep reputation
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Small class sizes
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Strong arts and athletics
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Engaged parent community
Programs & Activities
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Advanced STEM courses
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Performing arts
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Competitive sports
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Leadership initiatives
Best For: Students aiming for competitive universities
Location: 1301 Potomac School Rd, Alexandria, VA 22308
Phone: (703) 356-4100
33. Bishop Denis J. O’Connell High School
Bishop Denis J. O’Connell High School is a Catholic college-preparatory school serving the Alexandria area. It emphasizes academic excellence, service, and spiritual growth. Families value its balanced approach to faith and rigorous academics.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Strong Catholic identity
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AP and honors programs
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Community service focus
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Competitive athletics
Programs & Activities
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AP curriculum
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Campus ministry
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Arts and sports teams
Best For: Students seeking structured Catholic education
Location: 6600 Little Falls Rd, Alexandria, VA 22312
Phone: (703) 237-1400
34. Arlington Tech (Career Center Program)
Arlington Tech provides project-based learning opportunities for students near Alexandria, USA who are interested in innovation and technology. The program blends academics with real-world applications and internships.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Project-based curriculum
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STEM and tech focus
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Internship opportunities
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Collaborative learning model
Programs & Activities
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Engineering pathways
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Entrepreneurship
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Capstone projects
Best For: Students passionate about innovation and applied learning
Location: 816 S Walter Reed Dr, Alexandria, VA 22304
Phone: (703) 228-5800
35. The Madeira School
The Madeira School is a prestigious all-girls private boarding and day school serving Alexandria families. Known for academic excellence and leadership development, it integrates internships into the curriculum to prepare students for real-world success.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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All-girls environment
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Internship-based learning
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Strong college placement
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Leadership training
Programs & Activities
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Advanced college prep courses
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Internship program
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Athletics and arts
Best For: Girls seeking elite college-prep education
Location: 8328 Georgetown Pike, Alexandria, VA 22308
Phone: (703) 556-8200
36. Washington International Academy
Washington International Academy serves students in Alexandria, USA with a multicultural curriculum and global learning focus. The school encourages bilingual education and cultural awareness.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Diverse student body
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International curriculum
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Language immersion
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College preparation
Programs & Activities
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Language programs
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STEM and arts
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Cultural clubs
Best For: Students seeking global academic exposure
Location: 3000 Annandale Rd, Alexandria, VA 22312
Phone: (703) 941-6977
37. Islamic Saudi Academy (Former Campus Serving Area Students)
Islamic Saudi Academy previously served students in the Alexandria, USA area with a curriculum blending academic studies and cultural education. Families appreciated its structured environment and strong academic standards.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Cultural and academic balance
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Structured learning environment
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Community-centered values
Programs & Activities
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College prep curriculum
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Language studies
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Extracurricular activities
Best For: Students seeking culturally focused education
Location: 6869 Braddock Rd, Alexandria, VA 22312
Phone: (703) 573-7220
38. Cornerstone Christian Academy
Cornerstone Christian Academy serves Alexandria-area students with a Bible-centered academic curriculum. The school emphasizes discipline, moral character, and college preparation.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Christian worldview
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Small class sizes
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Strong academic standards
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Supportive faculty
Programs & Activities
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College prep courses
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Athletics
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Leadership clubs
Best For: Students seeking Christian-based education
Location: 9400 Little River Turnpike, Alexandria, VA 22309
Phone: (703) 354-1449
39. Trinity Christian School
Trinity Christian School offers faith-based education to families in Alexandria, USA. The school combines academic rigor with character development in a close-knit community.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Faith-integrated academics
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Personalized instruction
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College counseling support
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Active parent involvement
Programs & Activities
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Honors coursework
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Fine arts
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Athletics
Best For: Students seeking small Christian college-prep schools
Location: 3115 Summit Ave, Alexandria, VA 22305
Phone: (703) 876-8480
40. St. John Academy
St. John Academy provides Catholic education for families in Alexandria, USA with strong academic expectations and structured classroom environments.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Catholic-based values
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Structured curriculum
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Small classes
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Supportive staff
Programs & Activities
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College preparatory curriculum
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Music and arts
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Athletics
Best For: Students seeking disciplined academic structure
Location: 6420 Linway Ter, Alexandria, VA 22312
Phone: (703) 256-3960
41. Northern Virginia Juvenile Detention Home School
This school provides educational services for students in Alexandria, USA within a structured alternative setting. It focuses on helping students continue academic progress during transitional periods.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Individualized academic support
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Credit continuation programs
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Structured environment
Programs & Activities
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Core academic coursework
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Counseling services
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Career planning
Best For: Students requiring structured alternative education
Location: 200 S Whiting St, Alexandria, VA 22304
Phone: (703) 751-2560
42. Bryant High School (Alternative Program)
Bryant High School offers a smaller alternative learning environment in Alexandria, USA. It supports students working toward graduation through personalized academic plans.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Flexible learning schedules
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Supportive faculty
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Credit recovery programs
Programs & Activities
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Alternative diploma pathways
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Career exploration
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Mentorship programs
Best For: Students needing individualized academic pacing
Location: 2709 Popkins Ln, Alexandria, VA 22306
Phone: (703) 660-2000
43. Westfield High School
Westfield High School serves students near Alexandria, USA with a strong academic reputation and competitive athletics programs.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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High graduation rates
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AP and honors courses
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Competitive sports
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College counseling
Programs & Activities
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AP curriculum
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Arts and music
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Athletics
Best For: Students seeking academic and athletic excellence
Location: 4700 Stonecroft Blvd, Alexandria, VA 22312
Phone: (703) 488-6300
44. Chantilly High School
Chantilly High School provides Alexandria-area families with diverse academic pathways including STEM and arts programs.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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STEM-focused opportunities
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Strong arts programs
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Active extracurricular culture
Programs & Activities
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AP courses
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Robotics club
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Performing arts
Best For: Students balancing STEM and creative interests
Location: 4201 Stringfellow Rd, Alexandria, VA 22310
Phone: (703) 222-8100
45. Langley High School
Langley High School is recognized for academic rigor and strong college placement, serving students near Alexandria, USA.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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High academic standards
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Advanced placement success
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Strong athletics
Programs & Activities
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AP courses
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Leadership programs
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Varsity sports
Best For: High-achieving students targeting top universities
Location: 6520 Georgetown Pike, Alexandria, VA 22308
Phone: (703) 287-2700
46. McLean High School
McLean High School offers comprehensive academic programs for students living near Alexandria, USA.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Diverse course offerings
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Active student life
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Strong parent involvement
Programs & Activities
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AP and honors
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Arts programs
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Athletics
Best For: Students seeking balanced academic programs
Location: 1633 Davidson Rd, Alexandria, VA 22308
Phone: (703) 714-5700
47. Lake Braddock Secondary School
Lake Braddock Secondary School serves Alexandria-area families with strong academic programs and competitive extracurricular activities.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Academic excellence
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Competitive sports
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Wide extracurricular options
Programs & Activities
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AP courses
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STEM clubs
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Performing arts
Best For: Students seeking large-school opportunities
Location: 9200 Burke Lake Rd, Alexandria, VA 22309
Phone: (703) 426-1000
48. Robinson Secondary School
Robinson Secondary School offers a comprehensive 7–12 academic experience serving families near Alexandria, USA.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Strong academic reputation
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Community-focused culture
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College readiness emphasis
Programs & Activities
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AP and honors
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Athletics
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Leadership clubs
Best For: Students wanting continuity from middle to high school
Location: 5035 Sideburn Rd, Alexandria, VA 22312
Phone: (703) 426-2100
49. Freedom High School
Freedom High School provides academic and extracurricular programs for students near Alexandria, USA with a focus on college and career readiness.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Career pathway programs
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AP offerings
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Supportive faculty
Programs & Activities
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Career academies
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Arts and athletics
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Student organizations
Best For: Students exploring career-focused education
Location: 15201 Neabsco Mills Rd, Alexandria, VA 22309
Phone: (703) 583-1400
50. Woodson High School
Woodson High School is known for academic excellence and strong community involvement among families near Alexandria, USA.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Strong test scores
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Active extracurricular culture
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College placement success
Programs & Activities
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AP curriculum
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STEM clubs
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Athletics and arts
Best For: Students seeking competitive academic environments
Location: 9525 Main St, Alexandria, VA 22309
Phone: (703) 503-4600
How to Choose the Right High School in Alexandria
Choosing among the Best High Schools in Alexandria can feel overwhelming. Every student is different, and the “right” school depends on academic goals, personality, and long-term plans. Here’s how parents can make a confident decision.
Academics First
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Look at AP, IB, honors, or dual enrollment options
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Review graduation rates and college acceptance trends
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Ask about tutoring and academic support services
If your child is STEM-focused, research science labs and technology programs. If they love writing or history, check humanities strength.
Class Size & Teacher Access
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Smaller classes often mean more personalized attention
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Ask about student-to-teacher ratios
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Meet teachers during open house events
Safety & School Climate
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Ask about campus security
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Explore anti-bullying policies
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Observe how staff interact with students
Extracurricular Opportunities
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Athletics and sports teams
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Performing arts and music
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Robotics, debate, leadership clubs
Extracurriculars build confidence and improve college applications.
Career Pathways
Many public high schools in Alexandria offer:
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Health sciences
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Engineering and technology
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Business and entrepreneurship
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Skilled trades
If your teen prefers hands-on learning, career academies may be a strong fit.
Location & Commute
Search for “schools near me” and consider:
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Daily commute time
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Transportation options
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After-school activity logistics
School Culture
Visit the campus. Talk to current students. Ask:
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Do students seem engaged?
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Is diversity celebrated?
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Are students supported emotionally and academically?
The best environment is one where your child feels challenged and supported.
Admission Requirements For High Schools in Alexandria
Understanding high school enrollment in Alexandria helps avoid last-minute stress.
Public Schools in Alexandria
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Tuition-free for residents
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Proof of residency required
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Immunization records
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Previous school transcripts
Students are typically assigned based on zoning.
Charter or Magnet Programs
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Application required
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May include lottery or academic criteria
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Deadlines are strict
Programs like STEM academies often have earlier application windows.
Private High Schools in Alexandria
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Application form
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Academic transcripts
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Recommendation letters
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Entrance exams (sometimes)
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Family interview
Private schools also require tuition payment or financial aid documentation.
Application Process (Step-by-Step)
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Research schools early (fall before enrollment year).
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Attend open houses or schedule campus tours.
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Gather transcripts, report cards, and test scores.
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Submit applications before deadlines.
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Complete interviews or assessments if required.
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Review acceptance letters.
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Finalize enrollment paperwork and confirm placement.
Pro Tip: Keep a checklist and track deadlines carefully.
High Schools in Alexandria Tuition & Costs
Understanding costs is essential when comparing public and private high schools in Alexandria.
| School Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Public High Schools | Free for residents |
| Charter Schools | Free |
| Private Day Schools | $15,000 – $35,000 per year |
| Boarding Schools | $40,000+ per year |
Additional Costs May Include:
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Sports participation fees
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Uniforms
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Technology fees
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Field trips
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Transportation
Financial aid and scholarships are often available at private schools.
Curriculum & Extracurricular Overview
Across the top high schools in Alexandria, families can expect:
Academic Offerings
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Advanced Placement (AP) courses
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International Baccalaureate (IB) programs
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Dual enrollment with local colleges
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Career & Technical Education pathways
STEM Opportunities
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Robotics clubs
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Engineering labs
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Coding and cybersecurity programs
Arts & Creativity
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Theater productions
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Band and orchestra
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Visual arts and design
Athletics
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Football, basketball, soccer
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Track and field
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Swimming and volleyball
Leadership & Clubs
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Student government
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Debate team
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Community service groups
These programs prepare students not only for graduation but for long-term success.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the best high school in Alexandria?
The best high school depends on your child’s needs. Alexandria City High School is the main public option, while schools like Bishop Ireton and St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes are well-known private choices. - How do I enroll in a public high school in Alexandria?
Contact the Alexandria City Public Schools enrollment office, provide proof of residency, and submit required academic records. - Are there strong STEM schools in Alexandria?
Yes. Students can access STEM-focused programs, magnet options, and advanced AP science courses. - What’s the difference between public and private high schools in Alexandria?
Public schools are tuition-free and zoned. Private schools charge tuition but often offer smaller classes and specialized programs. - Can students earn college credit in high school?
Yes. Many schools offer AP courses and dual enrollment programs allowing students to earn college credit before graduation. - When should I start the application process?
Ideally, begin researching in the fall one year before enrollment to avoid missing deadlines.
Final Thoughts
Finding the Best High Schools in Alexandria is not about rankings alone. It’s about fit. The right school will challenge your child academically, nurture their talents, and prepare them for life after graduation.
Take time to visit campuses, ask detailed questions, and involve your teen in the decision. Alexandria, USA offers a wide range of strong public and private options, ensuring every family can find a school where their student will thrive.