2024 Best Schools in the Norfolk Area

• Norfolk, VA•

• Private School•

• 1-12

• •
  Rating 4.5 out of 5  147 reviews

Alum: I loved the six years that I have spent at Norfolk Academy. The spirit, involvement, and social life were amazing. The resources and academics that this school provides also I believe are second to none. The school taught me how to juggle academics, athletics, social life, and home life. I believe that in that sense, the school prepared me very well for the future. However, I hope the arts programs, including the broadcasting program, improve. Field day was also another event that I enjoyed. Even though I went through some years without field day due to covid, the years that I was able to attend the event were the most fun. As an alum, one aspect of the school that I love is the amount of involvement that the school allows for alums. For example, the academic opportunities such as internships that the school provides are very useful. I am very fortunate to have an opportunity to participate in an internship through them.... Read 147 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,205

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Virginia Beach, VA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.8 out of 5  81 reviews

Parent: As a military family we have had our children in a number of different schools. CHC stands out as one of the best schools they’ve attended due to the engaging community and the high level of academics. The faculty engages with the kids and meets them at their level providing excellent instruction. There is ample opportunity to be challenged as well as receive support when necessary in academics and in athletics and the arts. We have been so pleased with the vast array of opportunities our children can partake in. We love the idea of keeping them in the same school for lower, middle and upper school. The entire staff is caring, committed, and invested in the students. We’ve enjoyed getting to know many of the families throughout our time at CHC. Our children love going to school and have excelled academically and socially thanks to the support of the teachers and staff.... Read 81 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,070

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Chesapeake, VA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.61 out of 5  112 reviews

Parent: Veritas has been such a good fit for our family. Coming from a homeschooled background, we were concerned how our child would do there all day. My child looks forward to being at school everyday and especially in his classroom with his teacher. Our son feels totally safe there and had no separation anxiety. Every morning my child excitedly ran to greet the administrators at the door. He loved that he could start his day by racing them to be the first to say hello. He also loves going to memory period. He has grown so much this year. His teacher is bright, loving, fun and very patient. She takes them outside several times a day, gives them snack time and miraculously gets them to nap. It is amazing how much better his reading and social grace has gotten too. They have an excellent classical curriculum delivered in love. The teachers are very invested and the small class sizes guarantee personal attention. We also love the other parents. This family community is priceless!... Read 112 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 259

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Williamsburg, VA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.31 out of 5  105 reviews

Parent: As not only a Walsingham Academy parent but also a teacher and most importantly a practicing Catholic, my experience as part of the community has been second to none. I believe in the power and importance of a faith based education where my children can grow spiritually and morally. Walsingham encourages faith and instills values that they will carry in life forever. The teachers at Walsingham genuinely care for their students and are committed to seeing them succeed. The school provides academic rigor and high-quality education that prepare students for college, equipped with the mental toughness and the academic and social skills needed to excel. Walsingham Academy develops the whole child and allows each to tap into his/her talents and interests from performing arts, numerous clubs, athletics and more. We choose Walsingham because it provides a strong moral foundation and shapes confident, capable, and well-rounded young adults. Go Trojans!... Read 105 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 502

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Virginia Beach City Public Schools, VA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.11 out of 5  672 reviews

Junior: Ocean Lakes has a large variety of classes that other schools in the area do not offer. This includes: sign language, organic and biochemistry, technology classes, and many more! The majority of teachers are capable and great, but some are simply relying on tenure. The building is in decent condition, but has definitely seen better days. There are plenty of resources available to students and the school regularly promotes events to give students more information regarding future paths.... Read 672 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,978

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Newport News, VA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.11 out of 5  45 reviews

Sophomore: I have been at Hampton Roads Academy since I was four. The environment at Hampton Roads Academy is amazing. The teachers and staff are wonderful, and they are always willing to help and accommodate each students needs. The academics at the school are also spectacular. The smaller classes allow a student to feel comfortable in the classroom. This leads to students building relationships with their teachers and in turn teaches them how to ask for help and talk to adults. At Hampton Roads Academy I also took part in many activities. This allowed me to find like minded people and build a friend group. Another aspect of Hampton Roads Academy that allows for a trust and bond between the community is the Hampton Roads Academy honor code. The honor code upholds the students to be honest, respectful, and responsible in all aspects of their life. I personally feel like the honor code has helped shape the way I make decisions today. This is why I would recommend to any student.... Read 45 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 641

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Suffolk, VA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  67 reviews

Alum: I transferred to Nansemond-Suffolk Academy my sophomore year of high school (Fall 2020) and it has been the best decision of my life. I was having trouble making/keeping friends at my past school and because of this, my grades and mental health were taking a turn for the worst. I shadowed at NSA in February of 2020, this was probably the best day of my life and a turning point for my future. The kindness and community that I was greeted with was eye-opening and immediately helped me see the light at the end of the tunnel. When I stepped foot on campus as an official Saint, I was so scared about fitting in and finding friends. I was greeted with open arms and smiling faces. I found my true self at NSA! I would not be the outgoing, independent, and strong-willed person I am today if it wasn't for NSA. Everyone has the students' best interest at heart and will do anything to see them succeed. I highly recommend NSA to anyone that is thinking of enrolling their family!... Read 67 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 900

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Virginia Beach City Public Schools, VA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.05 out of 5  528 reviews

Junior: It’s a cool place, most of the teachers here are nice, but I wouldn’t say they really cared about you completely. I don’t know, there’s too many students here for them to genuinely care about every individual student, but they definitely have their favorites. The people here are kind of mean, but depending on who you choose to be friends with, these friendships can last for a WHILE. The best part about Princess Anne High School is the fact it’s right next to town center, and places like Panera, Chipotle, Crumbl, Target, IHop, and more. My favorite part of PA is going to IHop with my friends during SOL week when we have SOL’s. I hope that in the future the teachers can try to care for their students more instead of just brushing them off. I also hope that after PA gets remodeled, the time it takes to get from the portables to our inside classes are shortened, because the amount of times I’ve been late to class because of that has to be a crime!... Read 528 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,705

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• York County School Division, VA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  279 reviews

Senior: The school itself is alright - it receives good funding so students receive free tutoring and textbooks in classes, and there's a wide variety of AP classes. As far as rules go, the dress code is relatively lax, and only really reinforced in the hallways; the only strict rule the school has applies to phones, where students are allowed to use them anytime class isn't happening. Many classrooms are bright and well decorated with topics relevant to the content of the class. For the most part, the teachers are nice and supportive, the only exception seeming to be the cold shoulder to Governor's Schools students from certain teachers. Outside of that, the counselors are simply inept when it comes to making schedules, forcing students into classes they aren't comfortable taking and remaining unbudging on the topic, something that needs changing. A high student population means crowded, stifling hallways that make it difficult to get to class on time if two classes are far from each other.... Read 279 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,082

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• York County School Division, VA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  317 reviews

Alum: Great sports programs, I played field hockey but I had a lot of friends who played other sports and loved the program and coaches. Most teachers were phenomenal, very caring and helpful to students who struggled. I attended the middle school as well, which is attached, so transitioning from middle to High school was simple. I was also heavily involved in their choral program. I sang in a women's choir and mixed choir as well. This school is also known for its theatre program. People come from other counties just to see our plays and performances. A lot of money is put into our arts programs but also equally our sports. The student's experience is very important to the school and they offer over 50+ clubs so there is a place for almost everyone!... Read 317 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,180

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Newport News, VA•

• Private School•

• 8-12

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  100 reviews

Senior: Peninsula Catholic High School is a tightknit community with educators who share the important priority of guiding their students towards accomplishing their goals and ensuring successful futures. Peninsula Catholic has been successful in encouraging me to plan ahead and fulfilled its title of being a college preparatory regional school. Not only is it academically oriented, but it also strives to nourish the faith and reminds the students to always put their morals first. A year has passed since Peninsula Catholic had lost its first student in the most tragic way possible, and the school's amazing and strong leaders brought the community together and bonded the students by providing us with the best counselor. Peninsula Catholic promotes mental health and inclusiveness through its variety of clubs such as the mental health club and diversity club. Anyone can find a sense of belonging in this community.... Read 100 reviews

• grade A

• Students 284

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Chesapeake Public Schools, VA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.15 out of 5  720 reviews

Senior: Grassfield High school gives all students an amazing opportunity to focus on their passions! The school has dozens of knowledgeable teachers who have made it their goal to help you succeed. The teachers are always willing to meet before or after school in case you need extra help, or just want to talk. Grassfield is also home to the Governor's S.T.E.M. Academy. The S.T.E.M. Academy allows students to take college courses in one of three pathways, Engineering and Technology, Programming and Software Development, and Global Entrepreneurship and Technology. The Academy also gives students access to Grassfield's S.T.E.M. Coordinator, Meredith Strahan. She is an indispensable resource that will make her personal responsibility to see you succeed and provide an experience that will make you successful in whatever you decide to pursue. Overall, the opportunities and teachers make Grassfield High school unbeatable.... Read 720 reviews

• grade A

• Students 2,289

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Norfolk, VA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  59 reviews

Senior: Great school. I learned a great deal with all my basic courses. Great opportunities for additional learning as well as college preparation. Counselors were helpful. I was a little disappointed regarding the limited diversity however.... Read 59 reviews

• grade A

• Students 596

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Virginia Beach, VA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.13 out of 5  82 reviews

Parent: We are pleased academically which is the main reason our child continously attending the Catholic High School - Virginia Beach. For this reason I would recommend this school. The Girls Varsity Basketball program is not that great. Their main focus is typically on specific player(s) to grow. If your child was not getting playing time in public school bring them here & if you are a type of parent who has time to be in coaches' face all the time, then your child will be awarded a "consolation" playing time. It makes a perfect place for your child and your family. But if sports TRULY matters to your child while attending high school then you may want to consider exploring different school where she can grow, develop & be successful! Because she won't get it from here. Currenty their Boys Varsity Basketball program is excellent- from players' development to training to coaching! This is the best time to join your athlete student!... Read 82 reviews

• grade A

• Students 425

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• York County School Division, VA•

• K-5

• grade A

• Students 374

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• York County School Division, VA•

• K-5

• grade A

• Students 662

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• York County School Division, VA•

• K-5

• grade A

• Students 635

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• York County School Division, VA•

• 6-8

• •
  Rating 3 out of 5  3 reviews

Senior: I t was a typical middle school, however, first year students in 6th grade got their own hallway sand some of the best teachers! Administration was great there, club activities and meetings were always going on, and the chorus teacher is incredible. A pretty great experience! And last thing, the library? The best in the county!... Read 3 reviews

• grade A

• Students 890

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Virginia Beach City Public Schools, VA•

• 2-8

• •
  Rating 4.33 out of 5  21 reviews

Sophomore: Old Dominion has been a great place from what I have experienced during my freshmen year. Most of the teachers I had the pleasure of learning from were enthusiastic when they were teaching, and had a lot of passion for their subjects. The only downside I would say I had was some of the teachers, like my chemistry teacher, made it very hard to learn the subject at the task. Leading most of the class to have to learn on their own time. If they could change that then my rating of the school would skyrocket.... Read 21 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,304

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• York County School Division, VA•

• PK, K-5

• grade A

• Students 622

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• York County School Division, VA•

• PK, K-5

• •
  Rating 5 out of 5  1 review

Parent: My child has flourishes at MVES. He enjoys his classmates and teachers. The school communicates very well with the parents and the teachers seem very engaged. I think the school work is fairly rigorous, though I would like to see my son challenges a bit more. The homework seems appropriate. I have not heard of any bullying, fighting, or behavior that would be very distracting to the little learners.... Read 1 review

• grade A

• Students 583

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Hampton, VA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.32 out of 5  19 reviews

Parent: Hampton Christian is an excellent academic and Christian school. They foster student independence and Godliness and help them be the best citizens they can be!... Read 19 reviews

• grade A

• Students 254

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• York County School Division, VA•

• 6-8

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  1 review

Middle School Student: I transferred to this school mid-season from Tokyo, and I was really nervous since that was my first time to attend an American public middle school, and my English proficiency level was not very high. However, the students and teachers welcomed me warmly and I was able to adjust to the school nicely and improve my english. I felt like the academic level of this school was in a pretty high range. It could have been better if they had more variety in their food choice other than pizza and sandwich, but overall, I had a great experience at that school.... Read 1 review

• grade A

• Students 881

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• York County School Division, VA•

• K-5

• grade A

• Students 359

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Williamsburg-James City County Public Schools, VA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  220 reviews

Other: Jamestown high school was a very good school to go too. It offered very effective teachers and staff. Jamestown has its faults like any other school, such as certain teachers not performing as well as others. I would say this is to be expected with any high school. My experience at Jamestown was, for the majority, very good and without fault. I was able to have a close relationship with my school counselor, which allowed me to talk to them about graduation and other stress full topics without worry of judgment. I think that if there was anything to change at Jamestown, it would be the lunch system. The lunches at jamestown were short and crammed due to the amount of students. I would suggest a cheaper lunch with more sitting space, and a longer time for eating.... Read 220 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,236

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1