The Best Private Schools in The Plains, Virginia
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in The Plains. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Hill School
Independent
Located just minutes from The Plains in historic Middleburg, The Hill School is a prestigious independent day school serving students from pre-kindergarten through 8th grade. Founded in 1922, the school has a century-long tradition of academic excellence and character development. The Hill School offers a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum with small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and comprehensive arts and athletics programs. The beautiful 147-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, performing arts center, athletic fields, and technology-enhanced classrooms. The school is particularly noted for its strong community values, individualized learning approach, and exceptional track record of preparing students for top secondary schools.
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The Highland School
Independent
The Highland School is a highly-regarded independent school serving The Plains and surrounding Fauquier County. Founded in 1971, this progressive school offers Montessori-based education for preschool through 8th grade. The school emphasizes hands-on learning, critical thinking, and individual student development. With small class sizes and a 8:1 student-teacher ratio, Highland provides personalized attention. The campus features modern classrooms, science labs, art studios, and extensive outdoor learning spaces. The school's curriculum balances strong academic fundamentals with creative arts, technology integration, and environmental education, making it a top choice for families in the region.
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Foxcroft School
Independent
Foxcroft School is a premier independent boarding and day school for girls located just 10 minutes from The Plains. Established in 1914, this historic institution offers a rigorous college preparatory education for grades 9-12. The school is renowned for its academic excellence, with a comprehensive curriculum including Advanced Placement courses, robust STEM programs, and extensive arts offerings. Foxcroft's 500-acre campus features exceptional facilities including modern academic buildings, science and technology centers, riding arenas, athletic complexes, and arts facilities. The school's signature programs include its nationally-recognized equestrian program, leadership development initiatives, and global education opportunities. With a strong emphasis on empowering young women and preparing them for top colleges, Foxcroft serves as a regional educational leader.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in The Plains, Virginia
What are the primary private school options available directly in The Plains, Virginia, and what age groups do they serve?
The Plains, VA, is home to three prominent private schools, each with a distinct focus. The Highland School is a co-educational, independent day school serving students from Pre-K through 8th grade, known for its project-based learning. The Hill School is a co-educational day school for grades Pre-K through 8, emphasizing a traditional curriculum with strong arts and character education. Foxcroft School is a prestigious all-girls boarding and day school for grades 9-12, renowned for its college preparatory program and equestrian offerings. This range provides continuous private education from early childhood through high school within the community.
How does the tuition for private schools in The Plains, VA, compare to state averages, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition at The Plains' private schools is generally at or above the Virginia state average for private education, reflecting the schools' resources and specialized programs. For the 2024-25 academic year, day school tuition ranges from approximately $20,000 to $35,000 annually, with Foxcroft's boarding program significantly higher. All three schools are committed to socioeconomic diversity and offer need-based financial aid. Virginia's Education Improvement Scholarships Tax Credits program also benefits donors to scholarship funds, indirectly supporting aid. Parents should inquire directly about aid applications, which are typically separate from admissions and due early in the calendar year.
What unique academic or extracurricular specializations are offered by private schools in The Plains that leverage its local culture and environment?
Private schools in The Plains uniquely integrate the region's rural, equestrian, and historical character into their programs. Foxcroft School has a world-class equestrian program with riding facilities and competitions central to campus life. The Highland School utilizes its 100-acre campus for extensive outdoor and environmental education. The Hill School incorporates local history and field studies into its curriculum. All schools benefit from proximity to Washington, D.C., for cultural and governmental internships and trips, offering a distinctive blend of pastoral setting with access to metropolitan resources.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in The Plains, and how competitive is admission?
The enrollment timeline for The Plains schools follows the independent school standard, with applications opening in the fall (September-October) for the following academic year. Key deadlines for admissions and financial aid are usually between January and February. Admission competitiveness varies: Foxcroft, as a selective boarding school, has a rigorous process including interviews, testing, and essays. The Highland and Hill Schools, while also selective, may have more flexibility, especially in younger grades. Due to the small size of the community, spaces, particularly in specific grade levels, can be limited. Early inquiry and campus visits are highly recommended.
For families considering both options, what are the key factors when comparing the public Fauquier County schools to private schools in The Plains, VA?
Key factors include class size, educational approach, and program specialization. Public schools in Fauquier County serve a larger, more diverse population and follow state Standards of Learning (SOLs). Private schools in The Plains offer significantly smaller class sizes (often 10-15 students), more individualized attention, and distinct pedagogical philosophies (e.g., project-based or traditional classical). Private schools also provide specialized programs like Foxcroft's leadership focus for girls or The Highland's outdoor curriculum. Transportation is another consideration; public schools provide busing, while private schools often require parent transportation or have limited private bus routes. The decision often hinges on the value a family places on a specific educational environment versus the no-tuition public system.
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