Academy of Academic Excellence
2545 Gayton Centre Road, 23233
Contact Rita Busch, 740-6500
www.academy-of-excellence.com
Est. 1998
Religious affiliation: None
Coed. Grades: K – 3
E. Carlton Wilton School of International Studies.
Special academic emphasis: Busch’s philosophy is that intelligence is not what you know, it’s what you do when you don’t know. Her curriculum is based on developing strategies so children can become lifelong learners. An integrated language specialist who approaches reading as a process while cultivating a love of literature, Busch holds writing workshops and heavily emphasizes phonics. Students learn to use the Internet by exploring top educational Web sites. This year the Academy offers an immersion into Spanish daily. The school uses the community including a bank that holds accounts for the students, a Monday dress-up, eat-out day, and a Friday visit to a Chinese restaurant. Enrollment: 28
Student – teacher ratio: 8 to 1
On-site food service: no
On-site tutoring: yes
Extended day program: yes
Scholarships/ Financial aid: no
Family discount: no
Tuition: $7,000
Accreditation: SACS
All Saints Catholic School
3418 Noble Ave., 23222
Contact: Ken Soistman, 329-7524
Est. 1982
Religious affiliation: Catholic
Coed. Grades: Preschool-8th grade
Special academic emphasis: The school follows the Catholic Diocese religion curriculum, which includes religion class and church attendance throughout the year. Students wear uniforms.
Enrollment: 225
Average class size: 25
On-site food service: yes
On-site tutoring: yes
Extended day program: yes
Scholarships/ financial aid: only financial aid
Family discount: yes
Tuition: Preschool — $3,360; K-8 Catholic students — $2,760; non-Catholic students — $3,120.
Accreditation: VCEA
Benedictine High School
304 N. Sheppard St., 23221
Contact: Dr. Rickey A. Kolb, 342-1300
www.BenedictineHighSchool.org
Est. 1911
Religious affiliation: Catholic
Boys. Grades: 9-12
Special academic emphasis: Students participate in college preparatory and Army Jr. ROTC programs. All students are involved in the army military program (requires uniform) and participate in a daily military drill. 15 percent of the graduates attend military colleges.
Enrollment: 270
Average class size: 16
On-site food service: yes
On-site tutoring: yes
Extended day program: no
Scholarships/ financial aid: yes
Family discount: no
Tuition: $9,500
Accreditation: VAIS, SACS
Blessed Sacrament/ Huguenot
2501 Academy Road, Powhatan, 23139
Contact: Catherine Brown, 598-4211
Est. 1997 (Blessed Sacrament and Huguenot Academy combined programs)
Religious affiliation: Catholic
Coed. Grades: Preschool-12th grade
Special academic emphasis: The school offers a comprehensive Catholic college preparatory program in a private, coed environment. 100 % of students receive college acceptances. Students wear uniforms.
Enrollment: 500
Average class size: 18-20
On-site food service: yes
On-site tutoring: yes
Extended day program: no
Scholarships/ financial aid: yes
Family discount: yes
Tuition: $2,650-$6,475
Accreditation: SACS
Charterhouse School
3900 W. Broad St., 23220
Contact: Principal Ed Dawson, 254-9678
Est. 1978
Religious affiliation: none
Grades: 6-12
Special academic emphasis: Charterhouse is a special education school serving “at risk” youth. Students are referred through public agencies or social services departments; the school also accepts referrals from teachers, family members or counselors. Classes are held in a one-room schoolhouse with a low student/teacher ratio.
Enrollment: 44
Average class size: 10
On-site food service: yes
On-site tutoring: yes
Extended day program: no
Scholarships/ Financial aid: yes
Family discount: no
Tuition: $18,000
Accreditation: SACS, VASEF
Collegiate School
103 North Mooreland Road, 23229
Contact: Amanda Surgner, 741-9722
www.collegiate-va.org
Est. 1915
Religious affiliation: none
Coed. Grades: K-12
Special academic emphasis: Collegiate offers a comprehensive college preparatory program with emphasis on technology, the arts, and service. An entirely new facility plus Upper and Middle school science building were recently completed. Campus is 55 acres plus a Goochland campus with athletic fields.
Enrollment: 1,500
Average class size: 15
On-site food service: yes
On-site tutoring: yes
Extended day program: yes
Scholarships/ financial aid: yes
Family discount: no
Tuition: K — $10,170 (half day), $11,070 (full day); 1-4 — $11,070; 5-8 — $12,375; 9-12— $13,325
Accreditation: VAIS, SACS
Commonwealth Christian School
6255 Warwick Road, 23224
Contact: Bruce Secrest, 276-6300
Est. 1985
Religious affiliation: Baptist
Coed. Grades: K(4 yr. Old)-12
Special academic emphasis: Commonwealth Christian follows the Bob Jones University Press curriculum and ABEKA curriculum (Pensacola Christian College), which are Bible- and phonics-based. Students attend Bible classes and chapel services. Students can participate in competitive sports during high school.
Enrollment: 300
Average class size: 16-20
On-site food service: yes
On-site tutoring: yes
Extended day program: yes, but only for enrolled students
Scholarships/ financial aid: yes
Family discount: yes
Tuition: K4 — $3,330; 1-8 $3,445; 9-12 — $3,590
Accreditation: AACS, member of Virginia Commonwealth Conference (Athletics)
Ephesus Junior Academy
3700 Midlothian Turnpike, 23234
Contact: 233-4582
Est. 1954
Religious affiliation: Seventh-day Adventist
Grades: K-8
Special academic emphasis: The school’s mission statement is as follows: “The Ephesus school strives to develop in each child an appreciation for learning; developing the head, hands, as well as the heart; teaching each child the principles of God’s word to equip them for service in this world so that spiritual maturity may be achieved.” The emphasis is on the spirit of excellence, principal Alberta says.
Enrollment: 62
Average class size: 18
On-site food service: no
On-site tutoring: yes
Extended day program: program available on premises for children ages preschool through 12 years old
Scholarships/ Financial aid: some scholarships available for church members
Family discount: yes
Tuition: $2,245 for members; $2,500 for non-members (charges include application and registration fees)
Accreditation: North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists
Faith Baptist Christian Academy
10124 Royerton Drive, 23228
Contact: Susanne Crain, 266-4271
www.lifewaylink.com/8042664271
Est. 1983
Coed. Grades: Pre-kindergarten (age 4)-6th grade
Special academic emphasis: The school follows the ABEKA curriculum, which is Bible- and phonics-based. All students wear uniforms and attend a Bible class and chapel twice a month. Expect accelerated and structured learning in a traditional classroom.
Enrollment: 125
Average class size: 15
On-site food service: no
On-site tutoring: yes
Extended day program: yes
Scholarships/ financial aid: no
Family discount: yes
Tuition: PreK (age 4) — $2,900; K (age 5) — $2,750; 1-6 — $2,300
Accreditation: AACS
Faith Life Academy
420 Oronoco Ave., 23222
Contact: Kendra Scott, 321-1333
www.webmastwer@acsi.org.
Est. 1991
Religious affiliation: Non-denominational Christian
Coed. Grades: K-6
Special academic emphasis: All learning objectives are focused on building a strong Christian character in each student, regardless of his or her race or socio-economic background. Students attend chapel every morning and wear uniforms.
Enrollment: 30
Average class size: 12
On-site food service: yes
On-site tutoring: yes
Extended day program: yes
Scholarships/ Financial aid: no
Family discount: no
Tuition: $1,500
Accreditation: in process of gaining accreditation from ACSI
Good Shepherd Episcopal School
4207 Forest Hill Ave., 23225
Contact: Dr. Brenda C. Rahn, interim head of school, 231-1452
www.gses.org
Est. 1971
Religious affiliation: Episcopal
Coed. Grades: Preschool (age 3 and up)-8th grade
Special academic emphasis: Students learn Spanish beginning in preschool. Students participate in computer labs and classes. There is a special emphasis on fine arts – music, art and drama – as well as lab sciences. All students attend a weekly chapel service.
Enrollment: 145
Average class size: 16-20
On-site food service: no
On-site tutoring: yes
Extended day program: yes
Scholarships/ financial aid: yes
Family discount: yes
Tuition: Preschool — $2,750; K $4,195 (half-day)- 4,995 (full-day program); 1-5 — $4,995; 6-8 — $5,195
Accreditation: VAIS
Grove Avenue Baptist Christian School
8701 Ridge Road, 23229
Contact: Lee Austin, 741-2860
www.groveave.com/school
Est. 1978
Religious affiliation: Baptist
Coed. Grades: Pre-kindergarten (starting at age 3)-12th grade
Special academic emphasis: School curriculum runs 1 to 11/2 years ahead of public school curriculum. The curriculum is Christian-based and students attend Bible classes and a weekly chapel service. Students follow a dress code they call “wardrobe;” they do not wear one particular uniform but have a limited choice.
Enrollment: 250
Average class size: 14-15
On-site food service: no
On-site tutoring: no
Extended day program: no
Scholarships/ financial aid: yes, offer in house scholarships, but must meet certain requirements
Family discount: yes
Tuition: Parishioner: Pre-K and K— $960 – $1,960; 1-5 — $1,770 – $3,070; 6-8 — $1,820-$3,170; 9-12 — $ 1,870 – $3,250. Non-Parishioner: Pre-K and K — $1,200 – $2,450; 1-5 — $2,190 – $3,810; 6-8 — $2,220 – $3,870; 9-12 — $2,290 – $3,840
Accreditation: In the middle of a 2-year accreditation process with ACSI
Hanover Academy
115 Frances Road, Ashland, 23005
Contact: Principal Rebecca Thomas, 798-8413
www.hanoveracademy.org
Est. 1959
Religious affiliation: Nondenominational Christian
Coed. Grades: Preschool-8th grade
Special academic emphasis: Students begin learning Spanish in pre-kindergarten. Tutoring is offered to all students on Friday afternoons. The school offers small classes and a preschool program that is designed to be academically challenging (not day care). Music classes and computer classes — which are taught in a state-of-the-art computer lab — begin in preschool.
Enrollment: 135
Average class size: 15 (preschool and pre-K), no more than 10 (K-8)
On-site food service: yes
On-site tutoring: yes
Extended day program: yes
Scholarships/ financial aid: yes
Family discount: yes
Tuition: Preschool and Pre-K — $115 a week (full time), $105, part time; K-5 — $4,750; 6-8 — $4,875. Payment plans are available.
Accreditation: VAIS
Heritage Christian Academy
Elementary school: 10500 Newby’s Bridge Road, 23832
Middle/High school: 10700 Academy Drive, 23113
Contact: Elementary Principal Joette Lehberger, 796-4960
Middle/High school Principal Joette Lehberger, 745-2387
www.hop.org
Est. 1990 (high school established in 1996)
Religious affiliation: nondenominational
Coed. Grades: Preschool (starting at age 3)-12th grade
Special academic emphasis: Heritage Christian Academy’s high school offers a college preparatory program that includes French, Latin, and high-level math and sciences. There is a full sports program that offers both junior varsity and varsity sports in high school. The elementary school focuses on strong academics and building character and relationships, and has a program for academically gifted students. Bible classes are offered each day, and students wear uniforms and attend chapel once a week. For an extra charge, students who are tested can join a two-year learning challenge program called the Discovery Program (designed by the National Institute of Learning Disabilities). It is a corrective learning distinctive program that helps students retrain their brains to correct their deficiencies.
Enrollment: 250
Average class size: 20
On-site food service: yes
On-site tutoring: yes
Extended day program: elementary school students only
Scholarships/ Financial aid: no
Family discount: yes
Tuition: K – 6— $3,491; 7-12 — $3,580 plus school fees (House of Prayer members receive a discount)
Accreditation: ICAA, Oral Roberts University Educational Fellowship
Kingdom Preparatory Academy
6851 S. Laburnum Ave., 23231
Contact: Principal Edwin Goodall, 222-8446
Est. 1992
Religious affiliation: Non-denominational Christian
Coed. Grades: K-8
Special academic emphasis: Kingdom follows the ABEKA curriculum. While the school emphasizes religion, it also focuses on high performance in academics. Academics for each grade are about 1 1/2 years ahead of public schools. Students wear uniforms.
Enrollment: 145
Average class size: 1-15
On-site food service: no
On-site tutoring: yes
Extended day program: yes
Scholarships/ financial aid: yes, through Children First
Family discount: yes
Tuition: $2,500
Accreditation: ICAA, State Certification
Landmark Christian School
4000 Creighton Road, 23223
Contact: Principal Ken Crain, 644-5550
Est. 1968
Religious affiliation: Baptist
Coed. Grades: Preschool (starting at age 4)-12th grade
Special academic emphasis: Landmark Christian School offers a college preparatory program. Students attend Bible classes and chapel services.
Enrollment: 320
Average class size: 25
On-site food service: no
On-site tutoring: no
Extended day program: no
Scholarships/ Financial aid: no
Family discount: yes
Tuition: Preschool — $2,550; K — $2,200; 1-6 — $2,200; 7-8 — $2,300; 9-12 — $2,450
Accreditation: Contact principal for accreditation information.
Liberty Christian School
8094 Liberty Circle, Mechanicsville, 23111
Contact: Principal Margaret Greer, 746-3062
www.libertychristianschool.org
Est. 1962
Religious affiliation: Non-denominational Christian
Coed. Grades: Preschool-5th grade
Special academic emphasis: The school emphasizes fine arts as well as academics and aims to incorporate both the arts and sciences. Students attend Bible classes and a weekly chapel service.
Enrollment: 200
Average class size: 20
On-site food service: yes
On-site tutoring: yes
Extended day program: yes
Scholarships/ financial aid: no
Family discount: yes
Tuition: $3,500
Accreditation: ACSI
Luther Memorial School
1301 Robin Hood Road, 23227
Contact: Dottie Berlin, 321-6420
Est. 1856
Religious affiliation: Lutheran
Coed. Grades: Preschool (starting at age 3)-8th grade
Special academic emphasis: Luther Memorial focuses on academic excellence in a nurturing Christian environment. Students attend chapel weekly.
Enrollment: 225
Average class size: 18
On-site food service: yes
On-site tutoring: yes
Extended day program: yes
Scholarships/ financial aid: yes
Family discount: yes
Tuition: Preschool — $250 (monthly); K — $3,100 (half day), $5,900 (full day with extended care); 1-8 — $4,450
Accreditation: NLSA
Millwood School
15100 Millwood School Lane, Midlothian, 23112
Contact: Betsy Latham, 639-3200
http://www.millwoodschool.com
Est. 1989
Religious affiliation: none
Coed. Grades: K-8
Special academic emphasis: Millwood provides an individualized education in a small classroom setting; it recognizes that each student learns differently and at different speeds. The curriculum is tailored to match their needs. The middle school is a member of the Middle Years International Baccalaureate Program (a nationally accredited standardized middle school program).
Enrollment: 316
Average class size: 12
On-site food service: no
On-site tutoring: no
Extended day program: yes
Financial aid: yes
Family discount: yes
Tuition: K-1 — $7,050; 2-8 — $7,300
Accreditation: VAIS
Orchard House
3421 Hawthorne Ave., 23222
Contact: Nancy Davies, 228-2436
Est. 1998
Religious affiliation: none
Girls. Grades: 5-8
Special academic emphasis: Orchard House promotes a strong sense of community along with a rigorous, interdisciplinary program of academics. Areas of study include literary and visual arts; drama, dance and music; math, science and technology; and specific training in organization and study skills. There is also a strong focus on leadership, with each girl participating in community service and the development of positive social skills. There is a physical education program as well as after-school athletic teams to promote physical well being. The Orchard House community is committed to diversity, and the program is designed to build community, strengthen personal excellence and develop well-rounded girls who are engaged and active learners. Teaching methods known to be most effective for adolescent girls are used.
Enrollment: 78
Average class size: 16-18
On-site food service: no
On-site tutoring: yes
Extended day program: in process
Scholarships/Financial aid: yes
Family discount: no
Tuition: $6,250 plus $375 activity fee, $225 technology fee
Accreditation: none
Our Lady of Lourdes School
8200 Woodman Road, 23228
Contact: Principal Lucy Reilley, 262-1770
Est. 1968
Religious affiliation: Catholic
Coed. Grades: Preschool-8th grade
Special academic emphasis: Our Lady of Lourdes follows a block schedule (extended length for each class). Students wear uniforms and attend religion classes. The school holds chapel twice a month.
Enrollment: 430
Average class size: 25
On-site food service: no
On-site tutoring: no
Extended day program: yes
Scholarships/ financial aid: for parishioners only
Family discount: yes
Tuition: Parishioner — $2,908; non-parishioner — $3,710
Accreditation: Virginia Council for Private Education, VCEA
Richmond Academy of Seventh-day Adventists
3809 Patterson Ave., 23221
Contact: Principal Bill Friday 353-0036
Est. 1911
Religious affiliation: Seventh-day Adventist
Coed. Grades: K-12
Special academic emphasis: Community outreach is required for students in grades 11 and 12. High schoolers also take trips; in the past, students have visited St. Louis, New England, Atlanta, and France. The school offers a winter ski program for grades 7 – 12 and has a strong music program.
Enrollment: 107
Average class size: 15-20
On-site food service: no
On-site tutoring: limited
Extended day program: yes
Scholarships/ financial aid: through individual churches and limited private sources
Family discount: yes
Tuition: Parishioner — $1,920 – $3,300 depending on grade; non-parishioner — $3,120 – 4,450 depending on grade
Accreditation: Virginia Council for Private Education Commission; North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists
Richmond Christian School
6511 Belmont Road, Chesterfield, 23832
Contact: Administrator Dr. Jerry Hubbard, 276-3193
www.richmondchristian.com
Est. 1951
Religious affiliation: Ministry of Clover Hill Baptist Church
Coed. Grades: K-12
Special academic emphasis: The school follows an advanced diploma program, the ABEKA curriculum and Bob Jones University Press Curriculum. It offers a standard education from a biblical perspective. Students attend Bible classes and chapel weekly.
Enrollment: 600
Average class size: 20
On-site food service: yes
On-site tutoring: yes
Extended day program: yes
Scholarships/ financial aid: yes
Family discount: yes
Church member discount: yes
Tuition: K — $1,900 (half day), $3,100 (full day); 1-5 — $3,500; 6-8 — $3,800; 9-12 — $3,990
Accreditation: ACSI
Richmond Montessori School
499 N. Parham Road, 23229
Contact: Sandra Johnson 741-0040
http://www.richmondmontessori.org
Est. 1964
Religious affiliation: none
Coed. Grades: Preschool (starting at age 2 1/2)-8th grade
Special academic emphasis: Students who attend Richmond Montessori are educated in multi-level age groupings. The Montessori method of teaching began in 1907 and is used throughout the world. It produces motivated learners and goal-oriented children who learn through a hands-on curriculum.
Enrollment: 280
Average class size: varies
On-site food service: no
On-site tutoring: yes
Extended day program: yes
Scholarships/ financial aid: yes
Family discount: yes
Tuition: $5,500-$8,900; extended care (before and after school) $2800-$5400; summer hours available
Accreditation: AMS (American Montessori Society)
Rudlin Torah Academy
6801 Patterson Ave., 23226
Contact: Principal Rabbi Hal Klestzick, 288-7610
Est. 1966
Religious affiliation: Jewish
Coed. Grades: K-8
Special academic emphasis: Rudlin Torah provides both general and Judaic studies. The school also offers art, computer, drama, music and physical education programs.
Enrollment: 140
Average class size: 15
On-site food service: no
On-site tutoring: no
Extended day program: no
Scholarships/ financial aid: yes
Family discount: yes
Tuition: contact school for information
Accreditation: VAIS and member of National Society for Hebrew Day Schools
Shaarei Torah of Richmond (a continuation of Rudlin Torah Academy)
6300 Patterson Ave., 23226
Contact: Principal Rabbi Hal Klestzick, 288-8672
Girls. Grades: 9-12 (boarding and day)
Est. 1994
Religious affiliation: Jewish
Special academic emphasis: The school offers both general and Judaic studies with a special focus on Jewish philosophy. There are also art, computer, music and physical education programs.
Enrollment: 25
Average class size: 12
On-site food service: yes
On-site tutoring: yes
Extended day program: no
Scholarships/ financial aid: yes
Family discount: yes
Tuition: call for more information
Accreditation: Not yet accredited, Member of National Society for Hebrew Day Schools
Richmond Preparatory Christian Academy
301 W. Main St., 23220
Contact: Principal Dr. Mary Gordon-West, 344-0051
Coed. Grades K – 9
Est. 1983
Religious affiliation: Non-denominational Christian
Special academic emphasis: The school follows the ABEKA curriculum, which is Bible- and phonics-based. The goal is to educate children by reestablishing Christian principles in the academic process.
Enrollment: 175
Average class size: 12
On-site food service: in development
On-site tutoring: reading specialist
Extended day program: yes
Scholarships/ Financial aid: call for information
Family discount: call for information
Tuition: $310 monthly
Accreditation: ACSI
St. Andrew’s School
227 S. Cherry St., 23220
Contact: Principal Phyllis Adams, 648-4545
Est. 1894
Religious affiliation: Episcopal
Coed. Grades: K-5
Special academic emphasis: Small classes are taught in a safe environment. An education at St. Andrew’s helps students make an easy transition to public school. Oregon Hill children, for whom the school was founded, have initial access to spaces.
On-site food service: no
On-site tutoring: yes
Extended day program: no
Scholarships/ financial aid: free
Family discount: free
Tuition: Free. $45 supply fee/year
Accreditation: in development
St. Benedict School
3100 Grove Ave., 23221
Contact: Principal Ed Rossmoore 254-8850
Est. 1919
Religious affiliation: Catholic
Coed. Grades: K-8
Special academic emphasis: St. Benedict provides an accepting, open and stimulating atmosphere in which the potential of each child may be fully realized. Academic skills and concepts are stressed while children are taught to use their talents to serve others.
Enrollment: 230
School uniforms: yes
Average class size: 20 – 25
On-site food service: yes
On-site tutoring: yes
Extended day program: yes
Scholarships/ financial aid: yes
Family discount: yes
Tuition: Parishioner — $2,866 one child; $4526, two children; $5,499, three children; $7,444 four children; Non-parishioner — $4,064 per child
Accreditation: VCEA
St. Bridget’s School
6011 York Road, 23226
Contact: Principal Anne T. Carroll, 288-1994
Est. 1952
Religious affiliation: Catholic
Coed. Grades: K-8
Special academic emphasis: St. Bridget’s aims to uphold and instill the principles of a high quality Catholic education in a family-centered parish school environment. Students attend religion classes, which are a part of the curriculum, and wear uniforms.
Enrollment: 470
Average class size: 26
On-site food service: yes
On-site tutoring: yes
Extended day program: yes
Scholarships/ financial aid: yes
Family discount: yes
Tuition: Parishioner— one child $3,030; two children $5,735; three children $8,080; four children $10,015; five children $11,560. Non-parishioner— one child $5,310
Accreditation: VCEA
St. Catherine’s School
6001 Grove Ave., 23226
Contact: Kathy Wallmeyer, 288-2804
www.st.catherines.org
Est. 1890
Religious affiliation: Episcopal
Girls. Grades: Jr. Kindergarten-12th grade (day); 9-12 (boarding)
Special academic emphasis: Since its founding in 1890, St. Catherine’s has been at the forefront of women’s education as an Episcopal diocesan day and boarding school for girls. The school’s knowledge of how girls learn best has helped generations of women achieve success in the liberal arts, math and science. St. Catherine’s works to develop each girl intellectually, emotionally, physically and spiritually, and is committed to promoting the confidence and courage needed to assume leadership roles.
Enrollment: 796
Average class size: 6:1 student-faculty ratio
On-site food service: yes
On-site tutoring: yes
Extended day program: yes (held on campus of St. Christopher’s School, three blocks away)
Scholarships/ financial aid: yes (approximately $1.2 million in financial aid is available)
Family discount: no
Tuition: Day: Jr.K-K — $10,140; 1-5 — $11,055; 6-8 — $12,070; 9-12 — $12,920; Boarding: $25,850
Accreditation: VAIS
St. Christopher’s School
711 St. Christopher’s Road, 23226
Contact: Ann D. Booker, 282-3185, 387
www.stchristophers.com
Est. 1911
Religious affiliation: Episcopal
Boys. Grades: Jr.K-12th grade
Special academic emphasis: The school’s all male college prep program involves a coordinate program with St. Catherine’s during the upper school years. There is a diverse curriculum, music, athletics, computers and technology, and art. Students attend chapel three times per week.
Enrollment: 900
Average class size: 16
On-site food service: yes
On-site tutoring: Tutoring can be arranged through the resource department.
Extended day program: yes
Scholarships/ financial aid: yes
Family discount: no
Tuition: Jr.K-K — $9,925; 1-2 — $10,825; 3-5 — $11,675; 6-8 — $12,325; 9-12 — $12,975
Accreditation Status: VAIS, SACS
St. Edward-Epiphany School
10701 W. Huguenot Road
Contact: Georgette Richards, 272-2881
Est. 1961
Religious affiliation: Catholic
Coed. Grades: Preschool-8th grade
Special academic emphasis: St. Edward-Epiphany is a Catholic school with a religious and academic emphasis. Students attend religion classes daily and wear uniforms.
Enrollment: 490
Average class size: 25
On-site food service: daily lunch provided
On-site tutoring: no
Extended day program: yes, bus service provided
Scholarships/ financial aid: yes
Family discount: yes
Tuition: Parishioner $2,575; two children, $4,625; three children $6,225. Non-parishioner $4,500; two children $8,000; three children $9525.
Accreditation: VAIS
Saint Gertrude High School
3215 Stuart Ave., 23221
Contact: Margaret Shibley, 358-9114
www.saintgertrude.org
Est. 1922
Religious affiliation: Roman Catholic
Girls. Grades: 9-12
Special academic emphasis: The school’s college preparatory program uses computers in every classroom and a fully networked library. There is a four-year theology program. St. Gertrude stresses service to the community and offers a wide variety of extracurricular activities and sports. It is the only all-girls Catholic high school in Virginia. Students wear uniforms.
Enrollment: 295
Average class size: 16
On-site food service: no
On-site tutoring: yes
Extended day program: no
Scholarships/ financial aid: yes
Family discount: yes
Tuition: $7,600
Accreditation: VAIS, SACS
St. Mary’s Catholic School
9501 Gayton Road
Contact: Principal Judith Regec, 740-1048
Est. 1965
Religious affiliation: Catholic
Coed. Grades: Preschool-8th grade
Special academic emphasis: The school offers a challenging academic program that focuses on religious values. Students wear uniforms and attend religion classes daily and mass monthly.
Enrollment: 450
Average class size: 25
On-site food service: yes
On-site tutoring: yes
Extended day program: yes
Scholarships/ financial aid: yes
Family discount: yes
Tuition: Parishioner – $2,975; two children $4,715. Non-parishioner – $4,585; two children $7,700.
Accreditation: VCEA
St. Michael’s Episcopal School
8706 Quaker Lane, Bon Air, VA 23235
Contact: Betty Isaacs, 272-3514
Est. 1957
Religious affiliation: Episcopal
Coed. Grades: K-8
Special academic emphasis: St. Michael’s Episcopal School strives to provide children with superior academic instruction in an environment that acknowledges and develops Christian values. There is a strong phonics program in the lower grades and a liberal arts curriculum through middle school. A fine arts as well as athletic program is offered to all students.
Enrollment: 368
Average class size: 21
On-site food service: no
On-site tutoring: no
Extended day program: no
Financial aid: yes
Family discount: no
Tuition: K – $5,000; 1-5 – $5,200; 6-8 – $5,400
Accreditation: NAIS, VAIS, NAES
St. Patrick’s School
2600 E. Grace St., 23223
Contact: Judith S. Brown, 648-3621
Est. 1866
Religious affiliation: Catholic
Coed. Grades: K-8
Special academic emphasis: At St. Patrick’s, students will find a strong academic program in a Christian environment. The school tries to build community leaders through academics, Christ and family. Families are encouraged to involve themselves in the school, which is located on Church Hill. Students wear uniforms, attend mass once a month and plan their own prayer services.
Enrollment: 130
Average class size: 20
On-site food service: yes
On-site tutoring: yes
Extended day program: yes
Scholarships/ financial aid: yes
Family discount: yes
Tuition: Catholic $2,760; Non-Catholic $3,120
Accreditation: VCEA
Seven Hills School
3602 Hawthorne Ave.
Contact: David Dorsey, Head of School, 321-7727
www.7hillsschool.org
Est. 2001
Religious affiliation: none. Non-military.
Male. Grades: 6-8
Special academic emphasis: Seven Hills School offers an engaging and challenging curriculum with methods that reflect best practices in educating middle school boys, including an active, hands-on, experience-based approach to learning; high academic standards; an integrated, interdisciplinary program; and responsiveness to students’differing learning styles and strengths. Seven Hills values diversity, fosters leadership, encourages integrity, responsibility, empathy, respect and personal courage, and supports boys in their journey from childhood to young adulthood as they discover their emerging intellectual interests, abilities and talents.
Enrollment: 30 (planned to grow to 90 in 3 years)
Average class size: 15 maximum
On-site food service: no
On-site tutoring: yes
Extended day program: yes
Scholarships/Financial aid: yes, limited
Family discount: no
Tuition: $6,850
Accreditation: In process, contact head of school of information
Spring Meadow Waldorf School of Richmond
1010 W. Laburnum Ave., 23227
Contact: Carolyn Prescott, 262-7588
Est. 1996
Religious affiliation: none
Coed. Grades: Multiple-aged kindergarten (ages 3 and 1/2 through 6) and 1st, 2nd, 3rd grades; school plans to grow by one grade per year until it serves K-8
Enrollment: 90
Special academic emphasis: SMWS has arts integrated into its academic curriculum. These arts include watercolors, drawing, wax-sculpting, puppetry, craft, poetry, song and movement.
Average class size: 16-20
On-site food service: no
On-site tutoring: no
Extended day program: yes, until 3 p.m.
Scholarships/ financial aid: yes, but most is assigned by May
Family discount: yes, 10 % for each additional child
Tuition: $1,830-$3,050 for kindergarten (3-, 4- and 5-day program available); $4,450 for grades 1, 2, 3 plus fees. Option of paying yearly or monthly.
Accreditation: Association of Waldorf Schools of North America (AWSNA)
The Steward School
11600 Gayton Road, 23233
Contact: Scott Moncure, 740-3394
www.stewardschool.com
Est. 1972
Religious affiliation: none
Coed. Grades: K-12
Special academic emphasis: Steward offers a college preparatory program where students interact in small classes. Advanced placement courses and English as a Second Language are offered. There is a code of responsibility in addition to an honor code. The Center for Advancement of Learning provides tutors who help students who want to excel or who might need extra support.
Enrollment: 470
Average class size: 15
On-site food service: no
On-site tutoring: yes
Extended day program: yes
Scholarships/ financial aid: yes
Family discount: no
Tuition: K-3 — $10,200; 4-6 — $10,400; 7 — $10,800; 8-9 — $11,300; 10 — $11,600; 11-12— $12,300.
Accreditation: VAIS, NAIS
Stony Point School
3400 Stony Point Road, 23235
Contact: Head of School Betty Wolfrey, 272-1341
www.thestonypointschool.com
Est. 1966
Religious affiliation: none
Coed. Grades: Preschool-8th grade
Special academic emphasis: Students are taught in small classes and receive individualized instruction. The campus is surrounded by 28 acres of wildlife.
Enrollment: 115
Average class size: 8-12
On-site food service: yes
On-site tutoring: yes
Extended day program: yes
Scholarships/ financial aid: no
Family discount: yes
Tuition: $4,900- $7,200
Accreditation: VISA, SACS
Trinity Episcopal School
3850 Pittaway Drive, 23235
Contact: Emily H. McLeod, 272-5864
www.trinityes.org
Est. 1972
Religious affiliation: Episcopal
Coed. Grades: 8-12
Special academic emphasis: Trinity provides students with a coed college preparatory program. While it offers Advanced Placement courses, it is the only independent school in Richmond that also offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma, which provides students with an education that has a global focus. Both programs give students the opportunity for advanced standing in college.
Enrollment: 350
Average class size: 13
On-site food service: no
On-site tutoring: yes
Extended day program: no
Scholarships/ tuition assistance: yes
Family discount: no
Tuition: 8-12— $11,750
Accreditation: VAIS, SACS
Victory Christian Academy
8491 Chamberlayne Road, 23227
Contact: Principal Lamar Banister, 262-8256
Est. 1985
Religious affiliation: nondenominational Christian
Coed. Grades: Pre-kindergarten-12th grade
Special academic emphasis: Victory Christian offers a college preparatory program that features a Biblical academic curriculum. Students attend chapel once a week as well as Bible class. The school offers vocational, advanced college preparatory, and general diplomas. Features include a computer lab program as well as sports and fine arts programs. There is a strong student-teacher ratio.
Enrollment: 220
Average class size: 20
On-site food service: partial
On-site tutoring: yes
Extended day program: yes
Scholarships/ financial aid: no
Family discount: yes
Tuition: Pre-K -6 — $3,000; 7-12 — $3,250; fees additional
Accreditation: ICAA, Virginia Council for Private Education.
Boarding Schools in Virginia
The following boarding schools are accredited by the VAIS:
Blue Ridge School
Boys. Grades 9-12
St. George, VA. 22935
(434) 985-2811
www.blueridgeschool.com
Chatham Hall
Girls. Grades 9-12
800 Chatham Hall Circle
Chatham Va. 24531-3085
(434) 432-2941
www.chathamhall.com
Christchurch School
Boys. Grades 8-12 (boarding)
Coed. Grades 8-12 (day)
Route 33
Christchurch, Va. 23031-9999
(804) 758-2306, 1-800-296-2306
www.christchurchschool.org
Episcopal High School
Coed. Grades 9-12
1200 N. Quaker Lane
Alexandria, Va. 22302
(703) 933-3000, 1-877-933-4EHS
www.episcopalhighschool.org
Fishburne Military School
Boys. Grades 8-12
225 S. Wayne Ave. P.O. Box 988
Waynesboro, Va. 22980-0722
(540) 946-7703, 1-800-946-7773
www.fishburne.org
Foxcroft School
Girls. Grades 9-12
P.O. Box 5555
Middleburg, Va. 20118
(540) 687-5555, 1-800-858-2364
www.foxcroft.org
Madeira School
Girls. Grades 9-12
8328 Georgetown Pike
McLean, Va. 22102
(703) 556-8200
www.madeira.org
The Miller School of Albemarle
Coed. Grades 6-12 (day and boarding)
1000 Samuel Miller Loop
Charlottesville, Va. 22903-9328
(434) 823-4805
www.millerschool.org
Oak Hill Academy
Coed. Grades 8-12
2635 Oak Hill Road
Mouth of Wilson, Va. 24363-3004
(276) 579-2619
www.oak-hill.net
St. Anne’s-Belfield School
Coed. Grades Preschool-12
2132 Ivy Road
Charlottesville, Va. 22903
(434) 296-5106
www.stab.org
St. Margaret’s School
Girls. Grades 8-12 (boarding and day)
P.O. Box 158
444 Water Lane
Tappahannock, Va. 22560
(804) 443-3357
www.sms.org
Stuart Hall
Girls. Grades 8-12 (boarding)
Coed. Grades 6-12 (day)
P.O. Box 210
Staunton, Va. 24402-0210
(540) 885-0356, 1-888-306-8926
www.stuart-hall.staunton.va.us
Virginia Episcopal School
Coed. Grades 9-12
400 V.E.S. Road
Lynchburg, Va. 24503
(434) 385-3607
www.ves.org
Woodberry Forest School
Boys. Grades 9-12
1 Walker Drive
Woodberry Forest, VA 22989
(540) 672-3900, 1-888-798-9471 for admissions information
www.woodberry.org
Schools Specializing in
Learning Difficulties:
Brook Road Academy
8000 Brook Road, 23227
Contact: Craig Hedley, 553-3226
www.stjosephsvilla.net
Established: 2000
Religious affiliation: none
Coed. Grades 6 – 12
Special academic emphasis: Brook Road Academy offers a learning community geared toward the student who requires a flexible and open educational environment in order to flourish academically. As a non-traditional school, Brook Road Academy offers students the opportunity to explore areas of interest while completing a SOL-based curriculum. With a very low student to teacher ratio, each student has the opportunity and support needed to maximize their potential.
Enrollment: 40
Class size: 7
On-site food service: yes
On-site tutoring: yes
Scholarships/Financial aid: no
Family discounts: yes
Tuition: $8,600
Accreditation: Virginia Department of Education, VAISEF
Dooley School
8000 Brook Road, 23227
Contact: Hattie Porter, 553-3241
Est. 1970
Religious affiliation: none
Coed. Grades: K-12
Special academic emphasis: Dooley School at St. Joseph’s Villa offers a strong psycho-educational model designed to help children with special and alternative education needs such as behavior disorders, emotional disturbances and learning disabilities. Through a team of teachers, case managers and treatment specialists, students receive the support they need to overcome barriers to learning, with the goal of returning the student to the least restrictive environment. Most students are referred to Dooley from the public schools. Some attend their home school and receive one-on-one services from Dooley staff, while others attend school on the St. Joseph’s Villa campus.
Enrollment: 132
Average class size: 8-10
On-site food service: yes
On-site tutoring: one-on-one
Extended day program: no
Scholarships/ financial aid: no
Family discount: no
Tuition: $44/ day to $142/ day
Accreditation: Virginia Association of Independent Specialized Education Facilities
Educational Development Center of the Geara Group Inc.
3001 Fifth Ave., 23222
Contact: Ann Hanford, 228-2600
Est. 1992
Religious affiliation: none
Coed. Grades: K-12
Special academic emphasis: The Educational Development Center is a private, special education school whose students have behavior problems, learning disabilities or emotional problems. Students are often referred to the school by the public schools they attend. The school offers individual and group counseling, and family counseling can be arranged. It specializes in its elementary school and vocational programs.
Enrollment:100
Average class size: 8-10
On-site food service: yes
On-site tutoring: yes
Extended day program: no
Scholarships/ Financial aid: yes
Family discount: no
Tuition: $18,000
Accreditation: Virginia State Department of Special Education
The John G. Wood School
8716 West Broad St., 23294
Contact: Principal Charles A. Shipp Sr., 270-6566, ext. 34
Est: 1974 (1856 Boys Home)
Religious Affiliation: none
Coed (Day program), Boys (Residential program) Grades: 6-12
Special academic emphasis: The John G. Wood School’s students are emotionally disabled, learning disabled, or educable mentally retarded.
Enrollment: 40
Average class size: 6-7
On-site food service: yes
On-site tutoring: yes
Scholarships/ Financial aid: no
Family discount: no
Extended day program: no
Tuition: $92 per day
Accreditation: Virginia Association of Independent Special Education Facilities
The New Community School
4211 Hermitage Road, 23227
Contact: Mrs. Gita Morris, 266-2494
www.tncs.org
Est. 1974
Religious affiliation: none
Coed. Grades: 6-12
Special academic emphasis: New Community offers a college preparatory program. The school serves students who have dyslexia but also average or above average intelligence. Students interact in small classes that have less than ten students.
Enrollment: 100
Average class size: Depends on class
On-site food service: no
On-site tutoring: no
Extended day program: no
Scholarships/ financial aid: limited
Family discount: no
Tuition: Grades 6-8 — $16,100; 9 – 10 — $16,600; 11- 12 — $17,100
Accreditation Status: VAIS
Northstar Academy
8055 Shrader Road, 23233
Contact: Candace David, Meg Medina or Whitney Sears, 747-1003
Est. 1995
Religious affiliation: none
Coed. Grades: 1-12
Special academic emphasis: Northstar Academy is the only independent school in greater Richmond for children with a broad range of learning challenges in grades 1-12. The school provides an individualized academic program as well as support services such as reading resource, speech and language therapy, social development curriculum, and occupational therapy.
Enrollment: 100
Average class size: 10:1 student-faculty ratio
On-site food service: no
On-site tutoring: yes
Extended day program: yes
Scholarships/ financial aid: yes
Family discount: no
Tuition: grades 1-4 $8,897; grades 5-8 $9,035; grades 9-12 $9,218
Accreditation: Virginia Association of Independent Specialized Education Facilities
Riverside School
2110 McRae Road, Bon Air 23235
Contact: Director Patricia W. DeOrio, Principal Julie Wingfield 320-3465
Est. 1974
Religious affiliation: none
Coed. Grades: Though not classified by grade, students are the ages of first through eighth graders.
Enrollment: 50
Average class size: 7-11
On-site food service: yes
On-site tutoring: one-to-one language, fundamental tutoring. Students receive that for 45 minutes, 4 days a week.
Extended day program: no
Scholarships/ financial aid: yes
Family discount: no
Tuition: $13,850
Accreditation: members of Virginia Association of Independent Specialized Education Facilities, and formal candidates for accreditation by The Academy of Orton-Gillingham Practitioners and Educators (AOGPE), teacher’s training program.
Schools in main listing with
special learning programs:
The Steward School – The Center for Advancement of Learning
Heritage Christian Academy – Discovery Program (designed by the National Institute of Learning Disabilities)
