2024 Best Elementary Schools in the Washington, D.C. Area

• Mclean, VA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  62 reviews

Parent: My 2 children have attended Basis for 6 years, since elementary age and are currently in middle and high school. My children are thriving both socially and academically, they are challenged! It is an environment that will teach self advocacy, independence, executive functioning skill sets that will bring out your child's grit. It will make them stronger, more confident in themselves and their abilities. It isn't for the faint at heart when it comes to work, time management is taught and is critical in grades 8 and above. Every school has its share of issues, but if you want a stellar education and a place where they will learn resilience, commitment and discipline then consider Basis. I gave it 4 stars only because they lack high quality PE facilities that other private high schools in the area have.... Read 62 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 588

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Washington, DC•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.26 out of 5  78 reviews

Parent: My child started at Sidwell in 9th grade and absolutely loved it! He came from a school without grades, so we weren’t sure how it would go at a place we had heard was pretty intense, but it was wonderful. He loved the Quaker ethos and silent meetings and loved the challenge of his classes. He was able to participate in theater, music, and sports, and he felt that the program completely supported his desire to try new things. He excelled at the sport he tried for the first time there and felt the camaraderie of the team was one of the best parts of his school life. The friendships he made at Sidwell are still his closest. He did very well academically and surprised us by heading off to an Ivy League School with a generous scholarship (and not a sports recruit). Can’t say enough good things.... Read 78 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,142

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Washington, DC•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.8 out of 5  54 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 54 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,075

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Bethesda, MD•

• Private School•

• 3-12

• •
  Rating 4.41 out of 5  137 reviews

Parent: Without a doubt, Holton Arms is the best decision we've made with our daughter's education. From academics to diversity... the community to the athletics, Holton Arms is... hands down... a great place for girls to grow, create community and to build great educational & social skills. As a family who's been a part of lower, middle & upper school, we love the support of each division and the opportunities for risk taking and maturation that our daughter has been exposed to. We highly recommend Holton Arms!... Read 137 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 665

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Bethesda, MD•

• Private School•

• 3-12

• •
  Rating 4.52 out of 5  62 reviews

Parent: We sent our twin boys to Landon two years ago in response to MCPS's delay in going back to school during the pandemic. We had friends with children there during the pandemic and the priority that Landon put on their students' mental health was very apparent. They made sure to keep the boys physically safe while also educating them and allowing the boys to have physical activity and maintain friendships. Although the pandemic is now behind us, our boys couldn't imagine leaving Landon. The relationships that they have built with their classmates and teachers are deep. The teachers do more than educate - they get to know the student on a personal level and they become mentors. My boys have very different personalities - you would never know that they are twins - but both of them think Landon is the perfect school for them. I think that says a lot about the nurturing environment. Everyone knows everyone. From the head of school to the maintenance crew, everyone is friendly and polite.... Read 62 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 700

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Mclean, VA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.06 out of 5  78 reviews

Senior: I absolutely adore Potomac School! It holds a special place in my heart due to its incredible community of students and people. The atmosphere here is exceptionally supportive, encouraging, and nurturing, making it a truly remarkable learning environment. The sense of camaraderie among the students is infectious, fostering genuine friendships and a strong sense of belonging. Not only does Potomac School prioritize academic excellence, but it also places a high emphasis on the overall well-being and personal growth of its students. With engaging activities, events, and a fun-filled approach to education, Potomac School ensures that every day is filled with joy and memorable experiences.... Read 78 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,069

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Washington, DC•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.17 out of 5  54 reviews

Junior: I am a junior, and it is my third year at Maret. The teachers at Maret make their classes engaging and interesting for students and are also very helpful and available for help outside of class. The Maret community is vibrant, supportive and inclusive in both academic and athletic. Overall, I am very happy with my experience at Maret!... Read 54 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 650

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Washington, DC•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.3 out of 5  53 reviews

Middle school student: I have been at WIS since Pre-K and I’ve absolutely loved my time here. It has amazing people with an amazing community, a great campus and provides a great education. Some areas of improvement would be that WIS has a bit of trouble holding on to teachers for a long time and someone’s it can feel like the administration is a little unorganized. All the teachers I have had have been incredibly supportive and kind and typically I feel the correct challenge level in the classes I take.... Read 53 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 902

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Bethesda, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.17 out of 5  24 reviews

Parent: Rochambeau follows the French curriculum, most classes are taught in French, but it is more an international school with IB options. Our daughters have had classmates from endless countries (around 70 represented). It prepares our children to live with others that have different cultures, languages, experiences, and religions ... in other words, it prepares them for their multicultural future. Studying at Rochambeau can be challenging at times, because of the high academic level of the French system, but this high amount of work will also depend on the (many) options that are offered. All of this is also balanced by a great School's sports teams program which is a fantastic experience for our children. Lastly, my husband studied there in high school in the early 90s and he still has many friends that he still sees regularly. So your children will create lifetime bonds with an international community.... Read 24 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,149

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Arlington, VA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.9 out of 5  48 reviews

Junior: I came to this school last September as an 11th grade student. The faculty at this school is very adequate, all teachers are very good, they are very responsible, and the small class size system allows students to get a better education. This school has an unparalleled authority in academics and I will continue my studies at this school in the 12th grade and look forward to your joining us!... Read 48 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 152

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Chantilly, VA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.48 out of 5  29 reviews

Senior: It is a great school, in my opinion, it is the best private school in northern Virginia or Virginia entirely. The best part of the school is the Dual-Enrollment program. Once you are a junior you take all your classes through the community collage. Then the only issue is there becomes no school life but full-time collage. So if you are ready to delve into the collage environment this school is perfect for you!... Read 29 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 245

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Bethesda, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.17 out of 5  139 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 139 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 757

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Potomac, MD•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.38 out of 5  134 reviews

Parent: There are so many aspects of Bullis that we love and it is hard to fit them all in one review! We have 3 children at the school who are very different learners, different personalities and different interests. Yet each is thriving at Bullis and the teachers meet each of their needs. We love that school is joyful and fun. Our kids WANT to go to school and have fun learning. They get a great balance of academics, arts, athletics, STEM, etc. It is a nice community of parents and friends who watch out for each other and help each other. And there is a strong value to diversity in race, ethnicity, religion, socio-economic status, style of learning, etc. It is a very special place!... Read 134 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,023

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Dulles, VA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.32 out of 5  44 reviews

Parent: This is a truly caring place that will stimulate your kids to think. Teachers are kind and attentive to both academics and keeping a supportive class environment. The administration takes behavior incidents seriously and handles them well. Class sizes are small and allow teachers to work with each child and get their best learning experience. The campus is clean, pleasant and in a convenient location. Kids get a good amount of time to exercise through PE. The playground is being expanded so we look forward to that. Homework is fairly light, I’m a little confused by the reviews that say it is heavy. The teachers come from a variety of Christian denominations, so the Bible lessons don’t focus on only one church. French for all ages was a huge plus for us. Clubs and activities are always running. There is less variety of sports than some schools, but the local area has so many sports leagues there is nothing lost there. Overall a great learning environment, worth getting a tour.... Read 44 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 276

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Potomac, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.31 out of 5  87 reviews

Parent: My kids have been in the SAES lower school for three years now, and have had a wonderful experience. The teachers and administration are warm and supportive, and my kids have loved all of them. When one of my kids (and a few others in the class) needed some help with reading in K, they put together a small group to receive some additional attention from the head of the lower school to ensure the challenges were addressed: he is now reading very well! I also like that SAES goes through 12th grade: happy to not have to go through an application process until college as long as it continues to be the right environment for our kids (which I hope it will!).... Read 87 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 707

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Alexandria, VA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.39 out of 5  150 reviews

Parent: SSSAS is an excellent school in every sense of the term. The teachers, school administration, families altogether have built this amazing community. We just finished our truly magical Kindergarten year and all I can say is what an excellent, attentive, loving and nurturing community! The quality of instruction, the school traditions, and day to day activities all reflect the values of “goodness as well as excellence”. This is exactly the kind of environment we envisioned for our kids.... Read 150 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,210

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Oakton, VA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  96 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 96 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,062

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Reston, VA•

• Private School•

• 1-12

• •
  Rating 4.74 out of 5  23 reviews

Sophomore: I've been attending Ideaventions for my last 2 years of high-school and have had nothing but a great experience! All of my teachers have been very supportive and I've really had a chance to get to know them in and outside of class time. The classes are definitely challenging, and the workload isn't always well spread out, but if you use your time wisely it's always manageable. The high school class is small, but to me that's been a big benefit since the whole upper school co-operates and we all know each other very well. This last school year I really got involved in more extracurriculars, including the robotics and volleyball teams. It's been great fun because it's basically a huge friend group working together! I'd highly recommend Ideaventions, but just know that's it's definitely not a typical high-school experience (in a good way).... Read 23 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 68

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Sandy Spring, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.24 out of 5  79 reviews

Sophomore: I have attended SSFS since kindergarten and love my "lifer" experience. The best part has been the community of friends made over the years and the support received from my teachers. I have felt comfortable and safe as well as ready to learn always! Sometimes, it can be difficult to deal with some students who want to be difficult, but I have been supported by faculty and staff to help me be my best and move forward from conflicts. I would like to see improved offerings in the school cafeteria because the choices are not always the best.... Read 79 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 676

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Potomac, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  15 reviews

Works Here: I am thrilled to share my overwhelmingly positive experience at this exceptional institution. The school's commitment to fostering a vibrant international community make it a true gem in the heart of our nation's capital.First and foremost, the sense of community at the German International School is simply unparalleled. The strong emphasis on culture creates a unique atmosphere where diversity is celebrated, and every individual feels welcome and appreciated. The school's Mint/STEM program is undoubtedly one of its biggest strengths. The dedication of our educators to providing cutting-edge learning experience is evident in the way they passionately deliver the curriculum. The dedication of the faculty and staff at the German International School cannot go unnoticed. Their unwavering commitment to the success and well-being of each student is truly commendable. They create a safe and nurturing environment where students can thrive academically, emotionally, and socially.... Read 15 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 543

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Fairfax, VA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.1 out of 5  48 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 48 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 750

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Silver Spring, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  21 reviews

Senior: The Barrie School is a very diverse high school in terms of the student population. The diversity between faculty and administration is definitely lacking. Since the staff is not very diverse students of color often experience many microaggressions. The school's academics are solid because they have a creative curriculum that uses a project-based learning approach. The student-to-teacher ratio is quite small which allows students to truly get one-on-one attention if they need it. Since the student body is so small the school is not great for socializing and activities. In terms of college prep, they have a specific college counselor that helps students with the college process throughout their high school career. The school offers a program called "extended study week" where students can travel locally or abroad and learn about different topics.... Read 21 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 364

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Bethesda, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.52 out of 5  33 reviews

Parent: WWS is renowned for its unwavering dedication to academic excellence. The meticulously structured curriculum provides a strong foundation for students to expand their knowledge. The highly knowledgeable and dedicated teachers ensure that students receive a top-notch education. What sets WWS apart is the supportive environment it provides. The staff and faculty go above and beyond to create a nurturing atmosphere where students feel valued and encouraged. The school places great emphasis on inclusivity and diversity, fostering a sense of belonging among the student body. With WWS, students are not only prepared for academic success but also equipped with the skills necessary to thrive in a diverse and inclusive community.... Read 33 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 274

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Washington, DC•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  23 reviews

Works Here: The school has an incredibly diverse, international population and as a result, develops kindness, confidence and curiosity. The staff team works tirelessly to ensure the children have the best experience possible and there is a grreat community feel to the school. Children are taught a variety of subjects and use a range of teaching techniques and technology to support student learning. Additionally, there are two school counsellors and a school nurse of site as there is a focus on children's emotional wellbeing and development - not just academic.... Read 23 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 536

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Rockville, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.28 out of 5  36 reviews

Alum: Great faculty aside from a couple of teachers. Ultimately, each faculty and staff member looks out for each individual student and their success. Jewish culture is existent but not overtly present. The school culture is very communal but also competitive which is toxic, however, the faculty are very helpful in assisting students that need help or are overwhelmed.... Read 36 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 913

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1