2023 Best Elementary Schools in the Washington, D.C. Area

• C•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.82 out of 5  51 reviews

Freshman: This is my first year at GDS, and so far it's been amazing! All of my teachers are excellent, the classes are challenging, and I've been learning so much. I've been able to go in person two days a week, which is great, and most of my teachers have been on campus as well. The facilities are nice and modern, the students are interesting, and everyone is really kind. The clubs are well-run, too. I would recommend GDS to anyone who is willing to put in work at school and pay the tuition.... Read 51 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,075

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Washington, DC•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.22 out of 5  72 reviews

Parent: Sidwell has provided my children with an exceptional academic experience emphasizing critical thinking and problem solving, writing and communications, and quantitative reasoning. The workload has been substantial at times, but always enriching and interesting (i.e., rarely if ever busywork) and will fully prepare students for the rigors they'll experience in college and beyond. Moreover, Sidwell has done a great job of developing my children as well informed, highly engaged, and socially conscious citizens. Strongly recommend!... Read 72 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,145

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Mclean, VA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  52 reviews

Parent: My kids have been attending Basis since before the pandemic, and we are so impressed! Rich academic curriculum, good inclusion of the arts, excellent opportunity for differentiation based on student needs. The teachers are dedicated and so are the parents to the kids' success. While the administration has been bumpy as the school has gotten established (only 5 years old), they earned their stripes during the pandemic. Organized, safety-focused and diligent about communication. We supplement school with sports leagues and scouting outside of school, which many parents do. Easy to do given the extensive choice you have in the DC area. Also appreciate the international study body with impressively bright students from all over the world. A real meritocracy, unlike other private schools that admit based on VIP status or connections/donations. In the next few years, this school will only continue to advance its place in the rankings.... Read 52 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 588

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Bethesda, MD•

• Private School•

• 3-12

• •
  Rating 4.39 out of 5  134 reviews

Parent: We have two daughters at Holton, both started in the 3rd grade and we are currently working our way through the middle school. We can not say enough good things about Holton. It is a warm loving environment that takes seriously its responsibility to shape its students to be compassionate, well rounded leaders. We see it in all aspects of what the school does. In fact, in every local, national, or global challenge that has occurred in our time there (of which there have been many) the schools response has always been exceedingly thoughtful, effective and in line with its values. Holton's Learn Well, Live Well, Lead Well (LW3) philosophy creates an environment where students have the freedom to learn and grow with an eye on making themselves and their world a better place. Our daughters have grown and changes in countless wonderful ways throughout their years at Holton. Thank you Holton!... Read 134 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 665

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Mclean, VA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.03 out of 5  77 reviews

Parent: Both my children went here and they received an outstanding education, flourished in a small environment that challenged them and encouraged them at the same time. They found their passions, were able to take on leadership roles and became excellent writers and critical thinkers because this is what the school stresses. While we are white, we are not rich, or entitled. The school does an excellent job with financial aid opportunities and strives to promote diversity. As with any school, the equity and diversity component is a work in progress. The facilities are second to none! The faculty overall is outstanding and the work load, while extremely rigorous, is not just busy work, but work with purpose. We loved our experience at Potomac!... Read 77 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,069

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• D•

• Private School•

• 3-12

• •
  Rating 4.49 out of 5  59 reviews

Junior: Landon is an incredible institution with excellent teachers, advisors and coaches. I have been a student here for 7 years, and I have experienced many wonderful moments, and created a plethora of memories. Landon is a very special place, and the brotherhood between the students is evident through grades 3-12!... Read 59 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 700

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Washington, DC•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.13 out of 5  48 reviews

Niche User: I am currently a Maret School grandmother. My daughter attended, and now her son attends. For that reason, I am one of the oldest people involved with the school, although several teachers are also still there. The teachers are amazing and are there because they simply love teaching. The youth from K-12 are extremely disciplined (all 650 students assembling for a fire drill without speaking a word; and the dismissal of K-12 music performances without a sound are examples), and as in my daughter, it is said that the students Run to get to school. Life long learning!!! My daughter, although bring accepted to all other local private schools, loved the school so much, that she wanted her son to be nurtured by the life long learning experience. Hungry to learn students, motivated teachers parents involvement, and top leadership are key factors to this scholastic learning Power house! I would like to have more land to expand!... Read 48 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 650

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Washington, DC•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.31 out of 5  52 reviews

Senior: My experience at WIS has been overwhelmingly positive. As a senior, it is great to have access to our own indoor/outdoor lounge and a cafe! The campus is beautiful and the academics are rigorous. It would be nice to see some improvement in the arts at WIS, as there are low budgets and a lack of participation. WIS's sports program is top-notch and all students are given the opportunity to participate. It is also important to note that students at WIS tend to be more stressed, driven, and over-achieving. As all students take the rigorous full IB program in addition to hours of extracurriculars and college prep, many are overcommitted and stressed. However, the WIS administration does a good job of providing student resources and the college counseling department is excellent!... Read 52 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 901

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Bethesda, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.13 out of 5  24 reviews

Junior: Rochambeau, French International school is an amazing place to spend your highschool years. Enriched by a multi-cultural student body, Rochambeau has the mix of rigorous academia and a fun social life. The school is primarily taught in French, following the Baccalaureate curriculum. Students are given the option of classes they wish to develop as their "specialties': these include Humanities, Philosophy and French Literature, Social Economic Science, Political Science, Physics, Biology, and Maths. Most teachers are extremely insightful and engaging, and show off an extremely impressive resume from working at international schools around the world. One disadvantage that the school has would maybe be it's limited class size (200 in whole highschool) However, this could be considered a good thing as most students are really close.Overall, the bi-lingual education that is offered with the IB system serves as extremely good preparation to college, while still being a formative experience.... Read 24 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,149

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Bethesda, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.12 out of 5  130 reviews

Parent: After retaining an educational consultant and searching the entire DMV for the right independent school, we chose Stone Ridge. We were impressed with the school's sprawling campus and Aquatic Center, but fell in love with the all-girl environment and the school's ubiquitous message of empowerment. Our lower and middle school daughters have already formed wonderful friendships and a love of learning! My middle schooler is constantly challenged in her rigorous curriculum, but as she puts it, "I never knew school was supposed to be fun." In summary: Best. Decision. Ever.... Read 130 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 757

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Potomac, MD•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.42 out of 5  130 reviews

Works Here: Bullis is amazing! I am so impressed with the curriculum. Teachers challenge students academically, yet they incorporate a joyful hands-on learning experience. The enriching opportunities are endless in academics, arts, athletics, and service, which provides a well-rounded education and cultivates respect for others, confidence, and the joy of discovery. Faculty, students, and parents are incredibly welcoming and friendly. I grew up in the DC area and assumed a different experience. However, the modern-day folklore that lingers — nothing could be further from the truth! Everyone I've met is genuinely kind, caring, and helpful. I am thrilled to be a part of the Bullis community.... Read 130 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 900

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Oakton, VA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  87 reviews

Senior: I have been a student here since Lower School (elementary school) and I am currently a Senior. The opportunities provided in education, art, music, athletics, community, leadership, research, and more are simply incredible. Flint Hill has allowed me to join several clubs and become a leader of multiple. I am in the Spanish Honor Society, International Thespian Society, Major Minors A Capella group, and more. I have been given this amazing opportunity through their spectacular financial aid resources. If I could rate the school any higher, I would give it a 100,000/5!... Read 87 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,014

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Alexandria, VA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.38 out of 5  133 reviews

Parent: As the parent of two children in the lower school, I am extremely pleased with SSSAS. The Early Saints teachers make each day engaging for my 3-year-old. The monthly units the ES learn have prompted my son to apply what he’s learned to the world around him (the food unit they completed prompts a nightly discussion about which foods on his plate are muscle foods, brain foods, etc.). His teachers started a recent parent conference with 3 very specific adjectives to describe my son and given the examples they gave me, it is clear that really understand him as a whole child. My experiences with JK and K were also nothing short of fantastic; even during the pandemic the teachers were able to connect with my son. The K and 1st grade teachers have also provided my son a solid educational foundation; they have identified his strengths and given additional challenging work so that he hasn’t been bored. Any issues I’ve had have been quickly and appropriately addressed by his teachers.... Read 133 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,241

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Chantilly, VA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.44 out of 5  27 reviews

Parent: I met with this school when I moved to NOVA. I have two kids graduated from Pinnacle Academy. First of all, the teachers are so passionate and dedicated to their craft. My kids had incredible opportunities in fine arts, and other extracurricular activities. The school administrators recognize the children by name and have a loving community. Secondly, the school has the powerful and challenging academic curriculum. I followed my kids improving themselves at finding out and expecting higher from themselves as well. Now, my daughter and my son get accepted good universities with good scholarship. The school has a dual credit enrollment opportunity with NOVA College for eligible students that help students get acceptance good colleges. They loved the school environment and they were happy. Highly recommend!... Read 27 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 245

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Potomac, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.29 out of 5  85 reviews

Parent: Our daughter has attended the school for four years and will begin her fifth year in 2022/2023. She has excelled under the school's engaging teachers, drive for academic achievement and supportive learning culture. She also enjoys the sports programs, playing for the soccer and basketball teams and running track. Overall, she is lifted by the spirit and substance of St. Andrews and wants to continue until high school graduation.... Read 85 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 707

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Fairfax, VA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.24 out of 5  45 reviews

Senior: I love the Christian community at Trinity and the challenges that it presents academically as well as in preparation for college. It is very easy to get involved in clubs, leadership, sports, and school events. The teachers all incorporate Christ into their classes and most clearly care about their students personally - not just academically. Trinity has given my the best of friends and a foundation that makes me who I am as a Christian, student, and person.... Read 45 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 750

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Arlington, VA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.9 out of 5  40 reviews

Alum: Top notch faculty and administration, and a great appreciation for global international thinking and performance. The school emphasizes the importance of independent thinking and expression, while still maintaining a strong sense of community. Veritas allowed me to grow into the person I am today. It put me in challenging situations that have benefitted me overall and put me on the path to success. One of my most unique experiences: while at Veritas, I had an opportunity to study abroad at the campus in Beijing. What an experience! I highly recommend my alma mater. #alwaysaspartan... Read 40 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 152

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Sandy Spring, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.22 out of 5  76 reviews

Parent: We are a new family coming into the school & will most likely have more to say in the future, but our experience w/the admissions & leadership team deserves a review now. We are thrilled & feel like this is a very good fit for us- values, education & community-wise. From the very first moment I heard leadership and staff announce their pronouns, to throughout the many open houses, I feel like we were seen & belong. Both Shamika & Ashaki were phenomenal throughout the admissions process. Their responsiveness, attention to detail, kindness & professionalism were top notch. They both spent time really getting to know us, and contributed to a feeling that no matter what happened, we had a fairest opportunity in the process. Further, to have received an invite right away for my daughter to join a cooking class for new middle schoolers this week blew my mind- we are months away from start & they would be forgiven for taking a break before jumping into welcoming activities! Thank U SSFS!... Read 76 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 676

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Dulles, VA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.27 out of 5  41 reviews

Parent: We have been parents here at Fairfax Christian for the past three years. We now have a child in each level of the school, lower, middle and high school. The school kept our children safe and in school during the tumultuous time of the pandemic and we will be forever grateful. We have been blessed with teachers who are attentive and care about the character and education of our children. The challenging curriculum, diverse student population and a Christian education will keep our family at Fairfax Christian.... Read 41 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 276

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Potomac, MD•

• Private School•

• 3-12

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  48 reviews

Senior: The Heights School provides a great curriculum, which focuses on the liberal arts. The teachers are probably the best feature of the school. You are not only their student but their friend once you get to know them. The campus is also beautiful with Lower schoolers (3rd-5th grade) having classes in "The Valley".... Read 48 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 540

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Rockville, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.29 out of 5  35 reviews

Parent: I can’t say enough great things about this school! Living in Virginia, I did not think attending a school in Maryland was even possible. The moment we stepped foot in CESJDS, I knew It was the perfect place for my son. It was risky switching schools his Junior year, but it was the best decision we made for him academically, spiritually, and socially. The teachers are very approachable and invested in the well-being of all students. There’s such a tight community and the students share a special bond. My son loves the small class sizes and the close relationships he has made. He loves starting his day with morning Minyan and learning in a pluralistic setting with his Jewish peers. I can go on and on about how this school has impacted my son in the best ways possible. To quote my son, “ I’m in the best place of my life!” If you are Jewish and want to give your children a meaningful, impactful, Jewish education, this school is for you!... Read 35 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 913

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Rockville, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  18 reviews

Alum: Good school, old building but they have fixed it up a lot. A lot of the administration has left from when I was there, so there will be different faces and leaders.... Read 18 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 712

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Washington, DC•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.44 out of 5  16 reviews

Parent: My daughter has been attending BISW since nursery due to our well regarded public school remaining close during the pandemic. We’re in Primary now and we simply love the school and have no plans to leave despite having a local and good public option. Staff at BISW are competent, kind, responsive and the school is well organized. Clear and constant communication from teachers and administrators is the norm. The curricula is strong and very focused on child literacy. My child is thriving. As others have mentioned, the facilities are not grand, but given the small classes and school size they certainly make good use of the space. Classrooms are well appointed. A new gym being built. I feel that there is PLENTY of racial and ethnic diversity, since BISW attracts embassy and international families. I’ve met people from all around the world.... Read 16 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 510

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Bethesda, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.45 out of 5  29 reviews

Parent: WWS is an extraordinary place! The dedication and commitment of the staff and faculty is unmatched. I'm amazed with their tireless work to create an inspiring and loving environment for all the kids. We've been attending classes since our son was 6 months old - starting with the parent/child classes. He's now attending his second year of Waldorf in the Woods, which was been such a beautiful experience. It's rich traditions, cultivation of imagination and reverence for nature are touchstones needed more than ever. The way they've worked to handle the pandemic is a marvel. They planned early and worked around the summer to develop a safe school environment. Their renovations and improvements have been impressive. I’m just constantly in awe of all the work the faculty does. There a sense of unity as everyone is working toward the same mission. Many members are wearing new hats or multiple hats to adapt to the circumstances and it makes us feel that much more connected!... Read 29 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 274

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Silver Spring, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.4 out of 5  15 reviews

Parent: This is my second year sending my 2 kids to Barrie. Although no schools are perfect and this year in particular is extremely challenging for parents/kids with Covid, the school has done an extraordinary job organizing safe and effective, in-person learning. And it has made an incredible difference for my kids and for our family. The school leadership is phenomenal and their communications has been above and beyond... just the "push" but interactive and engaging meeting we have had as a school-parent community. I am paying out of pocket for this school, and private education is not cheap.. but it's worth every penny... each of my girls has 2 teachers, small class size, access to a beautiful outdoor space, emphasis on their social and emotional health and well being (shout out to nurse Kirstie and counselor Maddison!) I hope I can keep my kids here for a long time! Finally, this is a high "value" school choice. Community is chill and not snobby, people are friendly & progressive!... Read 15 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 364

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1