2024 Best Schools in Washington, D.C.

• Mclean, VA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  60 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 60 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 588

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Washington, DC•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.25 out of 5  75 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 75 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,142

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Washington, DC•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.79 out of 5  53 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 53 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,075

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Mclean, VA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.23 out of 5  112 reviews

Sophomore: I have had a very positive experience at Madeira. The teachers and staff are friendly and talented, and the campus is beautiful. The food is pretty good (especially taco days!) The mod schedule eliminates the week many students dread: finals week. It does mean that every week 5, the end of a mod, is particularly stressful. I think the schedule is worth it overall though because it means I can dive deeper into a concept, such as a time period in history in my Global Studies class. My favorite part of Madeira will always be the spirit of the community, across all the events and extracurriculars. Go Snails!... Read 112 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 343

• Student-teacher ratio 4:1

• Washington, DC•

• Private School•

• 4-12

• •
  Rating 4.34 out of 5  77 reviews

Parent: Absolutely top notch school . Our junior (11th grade) joined in 6th grade and it has been very socially fulfilling and academically rigorous but with support systems in place as needed. Over the last five years in this community we have seen our daughter become more confident, more motivated and focused while showing great kindness and humility to those around her. She loves NCS and we have made good friends in the parent community. She is surrounded by confident, kind, and very supportive peers. I have countless examples I could cite of seniors helping juniors just in the last few weeks alone! The college counseling preparation is also excellent. It is very easy to write this review because we have had a very good experience.... Read 77 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 599

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• 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

• Alexandria, VA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.4 out of 5  48 reviews

Alum: Episcopal High School boasts an impressive faculty, comprised of knowledgeable and experienced educators who are dedicated to helping students achieve their full potential. The school's extracurricular offerings are diverse and plentiful, with opportunities for students to explore interests in the arts, athletics, community service, and beyond. The campus is well-equipped with modern facilities, including a state-of-the-art library, performing arts center, and athletic complex. Episcopal High School places a strong emphasis on service, both to the local community and the world at large. The school encourages students to think beyond themselves and engage in meaningful ways with the world around them. With its rigorous curriculum, dedicated faculty, and commitment to service, the school offers a transformative educational experience that prepares students for success in college and beyond.... Read 48 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 463

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Washington, DC•

• Private School•

• 4-12

• •
  Rating 4.58 out of 5  50 reviews

Freshman: As a freshman at STA, having started in 4th grade, I have always been incredibly proud of the school that I go to, and been exceedingly excited and happy to go to school every day. The reasons for this are many, but in my eyes, the clear primary reason for the love of the school that is shared between nearly all of the students here is the powerful sense of community and brotherhood that is interwoven into every aspect of the school from the very first day. In the weekly assemblies, the daily lunches that promote interaction between students in different grades, and the chapels, which give all members of the school a chance to rest and come together, the sense that every person in the school has the back of everyone else is clear. All of that leaves little time to discuss the excellent athletics and academics, which, while posing a challenge to every student, are never too difficult, and the coaches and teachers truly love the school and strive to ensure that every student succeeds.... Read 50 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 592

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• 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

• North Bethesda, MD•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.4 out of 5  70 reviews

Parent: The best all-boy high school! My son grew so much from the rigorous studies, incredible teachers, and awesome sports. Prep does an amazing job of turning these young boys into competent men who are ready for college and the world. These high school graduates are not just academically prepared for college but are thoughtful, kind young men. My husband and I found lifelong friends within this beautiful, welcoming community. Truly impressed with the education our son received and the incredible community he'll be a part of forever.... Read 70 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 506

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• 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

• Washington, DC•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.52 out of 5  44 reviews

Parent: The Abbey has been an absolute gift for our sons. The teachers have been top-notch, and their classmates are interesting, thoughtful young men. This is the first time either son has been truly happy at school since preschool (and they have been in other schools which get high marks on paper). The curriculum is especially rich in the humanities, which is a good fit for our family. As a parent, I especially love that most of the teachers and administrators care as much about helping these boys grow into generous, humble, and courageous young men as they do about their academic achievement.... Read 44 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 256

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Arlington, VA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.91 out of 5  47 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 47 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 152

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Bethesda, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.16 out of 5  137 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 137 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 757

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Potomac, MD•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.39 out of 5  132 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 132 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,023

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Potomac, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.3 out of 5  86 reviews

Junior: I love St. Andrews becuase it is just a heartwarming, friendly, and accepting community! My overall experience has been excellent as I have been supported by my peers and my teachers. The school cares about its students and the work that goes into it as well as the student voice, the student's voice is defiantly something that I can proudly say has been listened to more and taken into perspective. St. Andrews is a very heart-filling community and is definitely one a prospective student should take into consideration.... Read 86 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 707

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Alexandria, VA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.38 out of 5  149 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 149 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,210

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• District of Columbia Public Schools, DC•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  423 reviews

Senior: School Without Walls HS provides students with a rigorous education that will prepare them for college and beyond. While it is known as a humanities magnet school, the humanities are not emphasized more than science or math. Multiple AP courses are available to students and there is a good mix of electives. I have liked the support I received from my counselor when choosing courses or navigating high school in general, the support from teachers for challenging concepts, and support from administration on other matters. I also particularly enjoy the school culture in which most students are motivated to learn and friendly with one another, and the variety of clubs that build community and allow for leadership. The school pushes everyone to be independent in managing their time and taking responsibility for their actions which comes with privileges such as off-campus lunch. Wholly, I have had a positive experience in high school and would recommend the school to those ready to learn!... Read 423 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 597

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Washington, DC•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.22 out of 5  63 reviews

Parent: The Field School has been a wonderful school, not only for our son but for our family. When we first arrived at Field we were struck by how welcoming the community was. As a family, this was important to us. Our son started at Field in 7th grade and recently graduated. During his time at Field, I feel like our son found his voice. He wasn’t ever a quiet kid, but he had leadership skills that he hadn’t discovered yet. The environment at Field, was one that provided our son that opportunity to discover his leadership abilities. By the end of his time at Field he was a school leader and founded an organization that is still going strong at Field currently. Truly grateful we found this hidden gem for our son and our family!... Read 63 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 352

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Washington, DC•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.55 out of 5  99 reviews

Junior: My experience at Gonzaga has been great. I will be a rising Junior in the fall and both my Freshman and Sophomore year have been great. I have made several friends inside and outside the classroom, whether that is through clubs or sports. The academics are rigorous and help you prioritize your time. The athletics are amazing and competitive, which supports athletes to do better on the field, while remaining to be a student-athlete, not an athlete-student. The best part about my experience is like I said, meeting and making new friends through various activities across the school. The worst part about my experience is nothing really, the only thing I wish I did was get involved into clubs a lot earlier since I did not participate in clubs until my Sophomore year. What I would like to see change is the constant construction. We live on a great campus less than 10 blocks away from the Capitol, so there is a lot of construction going on which can be annoying sometimes.... Read 99 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 964

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Montgomery County Public Schools, MD•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  457 reviews

Junior: The teachers are very 50/50 in terms of whether they are good or not. Either you get a very good teacher, or you get a bad teacher. The teachers for the advanced classes often vary, and I found myself grabbing out, especially during my Freshman (COVID) year as well. Many of the teachers won't offer support to students for the simplest of reasons. I was denied once because I "Submitted an assignment a few minutes before it was due" and the teacher said I "was lazy." Teacher toss-up aside, I loved the experience at this school. The students are very interconnected but also not connected. There are two middle schools that feed into the high school, so social life is a safety net if you don't want to expand. The school has some issues with college preparation. They don't chart what you should be doing for college (best possible grades, very rigorous cirriculum), which leaves the parents to hire private consultants. However the classes offered are wide and rigorous.... Read 457 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,289

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Washington, DC•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.08 out of 5  49 reviews

Parent: Great school for all student types. We enjoyed our son attending and participating in everything about this school. The community it brings is welcoming and vibrant, our son has made some lifelong friends, enjoyed an outstanding eduction and we feel is ready for a great college experience.... Read 49 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 314

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1