The Best Private Schools in Springfield, Virginia
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Springfield. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Langley School
Independent School
The Langley School is a highly-regarded independent school serving Northern Virginia families with a comprehensive Pre-K through 8th grade program. Located just minutes from Springfield in McLean, the school emphasizes academic excellence through innovative teaching methods and small class sizes. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, art studios, and performance spaces. Langley's curriculum integrates technology, world languages from early grades, and a robust arts program. The school is known for its strong community values and prepares students exceptionally well for top-tier high schools throughout the region.
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St. Bernadette School
Catholic Diocese of Arlington
St. Bernadette School is a premier Catholic private school located directly in Springfield, serving students from Pre-K through 8th grade. The school combines rigorous academic preparation with strong moral and spiritual development. Facilities include modern classrooms, a dedicated STEM lab, library, and gymnasium. The curriculum features advanced mathematics, comprehensive language arts, science instruction, and daily Spanish classes. Extracurricular offerings include competitive sports teams, choir, robotics, and various clubs. Parents consistently praise the school's dedicated faculty, safe environment, and strong sense of community.
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Burgundy Farm Country Day School
Independent School
Burgundy Farm Country Day School is a progressive independent school located in Alexandria, serving families throughout Northern Virginia including Springfield. The school's unique approach combines traditional academic excellence with hands-on, experiential learning across its 25-acre campus. Notable programs include an extensive environmental science curriculum utilizing the school's farm and natural spaces, integrated arts programs, and project-based learning. The school emphasizes social-emotional development and community engagement. Burgundy graduates are well-prepared for competitive high schools and are known for their critical thinking skills and environmental stewardship.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Springfield, Virginia
What are the main types of private schools available in Springfield, VA, and how do they differ?
Springfield, VA, offers a diverse range of private school options, primarily including independent schools, religious-affiliated schools, and progressive/alternative schools. Independent schools like The Langley School typically offer a rigorous, college-preparatory curriculum with strong arts and athletics. Religious schools, such as St. Bernadette School (Catholic), provide a faith-based education alongside core academics. Unique options like Burgundy Farm Country Day School emphasize experiential, environmental, and progressive education on a campus with a working farm. This variety allows parents in Springfield to choose a school that aligns closely with their educational philosophy and values.
How does the tuition for private schools in Springfield, VA, compare to state averages, and what financial aid options are commonly available?
Tuition for private schools in Springfield is generally at or above the Virginia state average for private education, reflecting the area's high cost of living and the caliber of schools. For the 2024-2025 academic year, K-8 tuition often ranges from approximately $25,000 to $35,000, while high school can be higher. Most top schools, including those listed, have robust financial aid programs based on demonstrated need. Virginia also has education improvement scholarship tax credit programs that can provide scholarships for some families. It's crucial to inquire directly with each Springfield school about their specific aid deadlines and application processes, as they vary.
What are the typical enrollment timelines and key deadlines for applying to private schools in Springfield?
The private school enrollment cycle in Springfield, VA, largely follows the independent school calendar common in the greater Washington D.C. area. Key deadlines often fall between December and February for the following academic year. This typically includes submission of applications, financial aid forms, and required testing or assessments. Many schools host open houses in the fall. Admission decisions and contracts are usually issued in March. Because spaces, especially in early grades, can be limited at sought-after schools like The Langley School or Burgundy Farm, starting the process in the fall of the year prior to desired enrollment is highly recommended.
How do the academic and extracurricular offerings at Springfield private schools leverage the local D.C. metro area resources?
Private schools in Springfield uniquely capitalize on their proximity to Washington D.C. and Northern Virginia's tech corridor. Academic programs often include specialized courses in government, international relations, and STEM, with opportunities for internships and mentorship. Extracurriculars frequently feature field trips to Smithsonian museums, the National Mall, and federal institutions. Schools may also partner with local tech companies for robotics or coding initiatives. This access provides Springfield students with an enriched, real-world educational context that is a significant advantage of schools in this specific location.
For families considering the excellent Fairfax County Public Schools, what are the defining reasons to choose a private school in Springfield instead?
While Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) are highly ranked, families in Springfield often choose private schools for more personalized educational approaches, smaller class sizes, and specific pedagogical philosophies. Private schools can offer greater consistency in programming without being subject to county-wide budget or redistricting changes. They may also provide distinct focuses—such as Burgundy Farm's environmental ethos or St. Bernadette's faith-based community—that aren't available in the public system. The decision often comes down to seeking a specific community, educational method, or level of individual student attention that aligns with a family's priorities, despite the significant financial investment.
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