2024 Best School Districts in the Washington, D.C. Area

Best districts

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Parent: I must say, I have appreciated Washington Latin educating my child and preparing her for college and her future. We started in the fifth grade, and just as they promised, they have treated us like family. Washington Latin is a whole community. The experiences and opportunities my daughter has had there were beyond my wildest dreams. They have helped groom my daughter, and with that I am very confident in her future; wherever it takes her. Thank you Washington Latin!... Read 1 review
#1 Best School Districts in Washington, D.C. Area.
Washington Latin Public Charter Schools
Blue checkmark.
School District,
WASHINGTON, DC,
1 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.
Featured Review: Parent says I must say, I have appreciated Washington Latin educating my child and preparing her for college and her future. We started in the fifth grade, and just as they promised, they have treated us like....
Read 1 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Total Schools: 3,
Students: 917,
View nearby homes
Senior: My experience with Falls Church City Public Schools has been generally positive. The teachers are dedicated to creating a supportive learning environment, ensuring that students thrive academically. Given that Falls Church City is small, the strong sense of community is a highlight as a resident since elementary school. There are highly engaged parents and diverse extracurricular activities. The worst part might be occasional administrative delays in addressing concerns. I would appreciate more transparency in decision-making processes. Overall, Falls Church City Public Schools offer a solid educational foundation but could benefit from improved communication and transparency.... Read 17 reviews
#2 Best School Districts in Washington, D.C. Area.
Falls Church City Public Schools
Blue checkmark.
School District,
FALLS CHURCH, VA,
17 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says My experience with Falls Church City Public Schools has been generally positive. The teachers are dedicated to creating a supportive learning environment, ensuring that students thrive academically.....
Read 17 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Total Schools: 5,
Students: 2,496,
View nearby homes Virtual tour
Senior: Throughout my time of being a student in Arlington Public Schools (APS) it’s been overall enjoyable. There is a lot of diversity so it is very easy to find your group of people and make friends. The only necessarily bad thing about APS is the safety. Ever since parents voted to remove School Resource Officers (SROs) from the schools I have felt less safe. Instead of SROs, we have “security guards” who block the entrances of the school. However, majority of us students don’t feel as though they’re actually doing anything.... Read 132 reviews
#3 Best School Districts in Washington, D.C. Area.
Arlington Public Schools
School District,
ARLINGTON, VA,
132 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says Throughout my time of being a student in Arlington Public Schools (APS) it’s been overall enjoyable. There is a lot of diversity so it is very easy to find your group of people and make friends. The....
Read 132 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Total Schools: 42,
Students: 27,562,
View nearby homes
SponsoredPrivate School
British International School of Washington
Private School·
WASHINGTON, DC·
PK, K-12
·
Rating 3.84 out of 5 25
SponsoredPrivate School
Pinnacle Academy
Private School·
CHANTILLY, VA·
PK, K-12
·
Rating 4.5 out of 5 30
SponsoredCatholic Diocese
The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Washington
Catholic Diocese
Freshman: Montgomery County's strength is in its cultural diversity and dedication to including all cultures in its programming. My English and History classes throughout my educational career always included diverse perspectives from a wide variety of cultures. Its weakness is in communication with parents and students. When a school's safety is threatened, which is happening increasingly often in Montgomery County, Admin often neglects informing students and parents in a timely manner. When they do, their responses are often vague. I have noticed that this only leads to more fear and rumors. Other than this, I can say that I've thoroughly enjoying learning with MCPS.... Read 672 reviews
#4 Best School Districts in Washington, D.C. Area.
Montgomery County Public Schools
School District,
ROCKVILLE, MD,
672 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says Montgomery County's strength is in its cultural diversity and dedication to including all cultures in its programming. My English and History classes throughout my educational career always included....
Read 672 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Total Schools: 207,
Students: 160,554,
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Junior: My overall experience is fairly decent because of my friends and teachers. Although some teachers can be a bit difficult to understand, a good bit of them actually have immersive lesson plans that allow for students to understand as well as their abilities to answer questions thoroughly and to your understanding. As for school culture, there are many activities throughout the year that I have taken upon myself to be more involved in, i.e, the clubs at our school. Since our school is one of the most diverse schools in the county, we have many clubs to showcase it. We also have seasonal pep rallies with games and performances. Throughout Fairfax County Public Schools, from Elementary to High School, there has been an overall trend in cultural acceptance and more showcases showing that. For example, elementary schools are starting to implement International Nights. The cultural of FCPS is founded by closeness despite different grade levels, which explains the many volunteer opportunities.... Read 683 reviews
#6 Best School Districts in Washington, D.C. Area.
Fairfax County Public Schools
School District,
FALLS CHURCH, VA,
683 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says My overall experience is fairly decent because of my friends and teachers. Although some teachers can be a bit difficult to understand, a good bit of them actually have immersive lesson plans that....
Read 683 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Total Schools: 223,
Students: 179,858,
View nearby homes
Alum: I spent 10 years in the PWCS public school system, and through those years I have had so many new and wonderful experiences. I find that the positive that sticks out the most to me is the teachers in the Art programs. Every single one has been so supportive and kind both in middle and high school. I loved talking with my teachers, and visiting their classrooms the following years. The downside to PWCS is definitely the social aspects. The community at the schools were very tight knit and vibrant, but at times it was incredibly difficult for me to find my place among them. I was alone for a long time, but I began to involve myself with clubs and extracurriculars, which helped me find my people and my community.... Read 410 reviews
#7 Best School Districts in Washington, D.C. Area.
Prince William County Public Schools
Blue checkmark.
School District,
MANASSAS, VA,
410 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says I spent 10 years in the PWCS public school system, and through those years I have had so many new and wonderful experiences. I find that the positive that sticks out the most to me is the teachers in....
Read 410 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A minus,
Total Schools: 98,
Students: 91,101,
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#8 Best School Districts in Washington, D.C. Area.
E.L. Haynes Public Charter Schools
School District,
WASHINGTON, DC,
3 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says There wasn’t anything bad, but when opportunities were shown only selected students were given the opportunity and did not let other students know of the opportunity. I feel like they should let all....
Read 3 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A minus,
Total Schools: 3,
Students: 1,164,
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#9 Best School Districts in Washington, D.C. Area.
KIPP DC Public Charter Schools
Blue checkmark.
School District,
WASHINGTON, DC,
3 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says What I like about kipp is that it’s a educational school but we have fun while learning. They are connected to the kids very well and they work hard to prove themselves as a school.when it comes to....
Read 3 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B+,
Total Schools: 20,
Students: 7,354,
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Alum: I attended Duke Ellington School of the Arts and am a recent graduate. I had a very positive experience at this school with its world reknown staff members and artists, celebrity connections, and nurturing school environment. I was able to develop my musical skills and explore career opportunities. I was disappointed that the school district was planning to shut down some of the funding for my school and future students. I am hoping as an alumni to advocate for continuous support of the school. Students like me learn best when they are allowed to create and perform.... Read 82 reviews
#10 Best School Districts in Washington, D.C. Area.
District Of Columbia Public Schools
School District,
WASHINGTON, DC,
82 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says I attended Duke Ellington School of the Arts and am a recent graduate. I had a very positive experience at this school with its world reknown staff members and artists, celebrity connections, and....
Read 82 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B,
Total Schools: 116,
Students: 49,687,
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#12 Best School Districts in Washington, D.C. Area.
Capital City Public Charter Schools
School District,
WASHINGTON, DC,
2 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says My experience at capital city was the best i got the best education and help i needed to graduate and become a different person in life..
Read 2 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B,
Total Schools: 3,
Students: 1,004,
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Senior: Paul is a fantastic school my time at Paul has been one of the best out of all the schools I went to. My teachers constantly go out their way to help me like my math teacher who always is willing to make time to help tutor me or my history and English teacher who always give me feed back on how and where I can improve my writing skills. The only minor inconvenience about Paul is the school spirit I feel like it’s not there the students and some staff alike just seem like they do not want to be there or involved in anything for that matter. But other than school spirit my time has been wonderful at Paul I truely and honestly feel at home when I’m there.... Read 13 reviews
#13 Best School Districts in Washington, D.C. Area.
Paul Public Charter Schools
School District,
WASHINGTON, DC,
13 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says Paul is a fantastic school my time at Paul has been one of the best out of all the schools I went to. My teachers constantly go out their way to help me like my math teacher who always is willing to....
Read 13 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B,
Total Schools: 2,
Students: 694,
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Junior: Due to the very small community, the students at Manassas Park City Schools are offered more opportunities than schools with a larger student body. This means each grade level is properly given the right amount of attention in mannerly timing. The worst part of the school has to be the students inside the schools. This clearly can’t be controlled since the schools rely on the parents to raise their children correctly, but that doesn’t change the fact that the students create a negative impact on the school. Other than that, I believe the school truly isn’t as bad as people make it out to be.... Read 34 reviews
#14 Best School Districts in Washington, D.C. Area.
Manassas Park City Public Schools
School District,
MANASSAS PARK, VA,
34 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says Due to the very small community, the students at Manassas Park City Schools are offered more opportunities than schools with a larger student body. This means each grade level is properly given the....
Read 34 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B,
Total Schools: 4,
Students: 3,434,
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Junior: Going to Alexandria City High School has been quite the ride for me! Just like any high school in the U.S., it's got its ups and downs, but overall, it's been pretty awesome. Since we're the only high school in town, it feels like one big family here. I've been lucky to have some really great teachers who've always had my back and genuinely want to see me succeed. Mrs. Marera, my guidance counselor, is seriously the best – she's always there for me, making sure I stay on top of things and hooking me up with all kinds of info to help me figure out my future. Plus, our career and scholarship centers on campus are total game-changers. With awesome friends, cool teachers, and supportive admins, high school here's been a blast! I believe in staying positive and doing the right thing, which has made my experience so much better. Sure, every school's got stuff to work on, but overall, I've loved every minute of it, making some epic memories along the way.... Read 93 reviews
Alexandria City Public Schools
Blue checkmark.
School District,
ALEXANDRIA, VA,
93 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says Going to Alexandria City High School has been quite the ride for me! Just like any high school in the U.S., it's got its ups and downs, but overall, it's been pretty awesome. Since we're the only....
Read 93 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B minus,
Total Schools: 19,
Students: 16,040,
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Senior: The best part about Friendship PCS is that the administration across all campuses is invested in seeing every child's educational goals met. They collaborate among educational campuses and try to mirror and implement proven, and strategies that are effective in the classroom and surrounding areas. The worst part of the Friendship PCS experience is that many of the campuses are nestled in rough areas where violence is at an all-time high. Something that I would like to see change within Friendship PCS is to have a new facility that can house both high schools in one location.... Read 6 reviews
Friendship Public Charter Schools
School District,
WASHINGTON, DC,
6 Niche users give it an average review of 4.7 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says The best part about Friendship PCS is that the administration across all campuses is invested in seeing every child's educational goals met. They collaborate among educational campuses and try to...The worst part of the Friendship PCS experience is that many of the campuses are nestled in rough areas where violence is at an all-time high. Something that I would like to see change within Friendship PCS is to have a new facility that can house both high schools in one location..
Read 6 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: C+,
Total Schools: 15,
Students: 4,609,
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Manassas City Public Schools
School District,
MANASSAS, VA,
25 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says My experience with Osbourn High school has been a wonderful one. With growing academic opportunities as well as ample introductions to CTE programs I loved attending High school at Osbourn..
Read 25 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: C,
Total Schools: 11,
Students: 7,413,
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Prince George's County Public Schools
Blue checkmark.
School District,
UPPER MARLBORO, MD,
648 Niche users give it an average review of 3.6 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says Some areas need more improvement on the architect. Some buildings were built in the 1950's so the schools sometimes look unappetizing. However, the staff care about their students and the school life....
Read 648 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: C,
Total Schools: 199,
Students: 131,133,
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Elsie Whitlow Stokes Community Freedom Public Charter Schools
School District,
WASHINGTON, DC,
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Total Schools: 2,
Students: 673,
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Two Rivers Public Charter Schools
School District,
WASHINGTON, DC,
Overall Niche Grade: A minus,
Total Schools: 3,
Students: 1,052,
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DC Prep Public Charter Schools
Blue checkmark.
School District,
WASHINGTON, DC,
Overall Niche Grade: A minus,
Total Schools: 6,
Students: 2,128,
View nearby homes Virtual tour
Mundo Verde Bilingual Public Charter Schools
School District,
WASHINGTON, DC,
2 Niche users give it an average review of 1 stars.
Read 2 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B,
Total Schools: 2,
Students: 1,007,
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Center City Public Charter Schools
School District,
WASHINGTON, DC,
Overall Niche Grade: B,
Total Schools: 6,
Students: 1,408,
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Rocketship Public Schools - Washington, DC
Blue checkmark.
School District,
WASHINGTON, DC,
Overall Niche Grade: C,
Total Schools: 3,
Students: 1,493,
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Review your school
Eagle Academy Public Charter Schools
School District,
WASHINGTON, DC,
Overall Niche Grade: C,
Total Schools: 2,
Students: 412,
View nearby homes
Works Here: Working at AppleTree is amazing! All of the staff are incredibly passionate about the work they do and making a difference in the lives of students, families, and the community. We have many staff members who have been here for a long time, and there are a lot of opportunities for advancement. AppleTree is on the forefront of education innovation and we are committed to closing the achievement gap before children enter kindergarten. Definitely recommend working here!... Read 2 reviews
AppleTree Early Learning Public Charter Schools
Blue checkmark.
School District,
WASHINGTON, DC,
2 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Works Here says Working at AppleTree is amazing! All of the staff are incredibly passionate about the work they do and making a difference in the lives of students, families, and the community. We have many staff....
Read 2 reviews.
Total Schools: 6,
Students: 630,
View nearby homes
Digital Pioneers Academy Public Charter Schools,
School District,
WASHINGTON, DC,
Total Schools: 2,
Students: 511,
View nearby homes
SponsoredChristian School
Spencerville Adventist Academy
Private School·
SPENCERVILLE, MD·
PK, K-12
·
Rating 4.15 out of 5 67
SponsoredCharter School
Imagine Lincoln Public Charter School
Prince George's County Public Schools, MD·
K-8
·
Rating 1 out of 5 1
SponsoredPrivate School
Templeton Academy DC
Private School·
WASHINGTON, DC·
6-12
·
Rating 4.13 out of 5 32

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2024 Best School Districts in the Washington, D.C. Area

Washington Latin Public Charter Schools

Washington Latin Public Charter Schools

Falls Church City Public Schools

Falls Church City Public Schools

Arlington Public Schools

Arlington Public Schools

Montgomery County Public Schools

Montgomery County Public Schools

Fairfax County Public Schools

Fairfax County Public Schools

Prince William County Public Schools

Prince William County Public Schools

E.L. Haynes Public Charter Schools

E.L. Haynes Public Charter Schools

KIPP DC Public Charter Schools

KIPP DC Public Charter Schools

District Of Columbia Public Schools

District Of Columbia Public Schools

Capital City Public Charter Schools

Capital City Public Charter Schools

Paul Public Charter Schools

Paul Public Charter Schools

Manassas Park City Public Schools

Manassas Park City Public Schools

Alexandria City Public Schools

Alexandria City Public Schools

Friendship Public Charter Schools

Friendship Public Charter Schools

Manassas City Public Schools

Manassas City Public Schools

Prince George's County Public Schools

Prince George's County Public Schools

Elsie Whitlow Stokes Community Freedom Public Charter Schools

Elsie Whitlow Stokes Community Freedom Public Charter Schools

Two Rivers Public Charter Schools

Two Rivers Public Charter Schools

DC Prep Public Charter Schools

DC Prep Public Charter Schools

Mundo Verde Bilingual Public Charter Schools

Mundo Verde Bilingual Public Charter Schools

Center City Public Charter Schools

Center City Public Charter Schools

Rocketship Public Schools - Washington, DC

Rocketship Public Schools - Washington, DC

Eagle Academy Public Charter Schools

Eagle Academy Public Charter Schools

AppleTree Early Learning Public Charter Schools

AppleTree Early Learning Public Charter Schools

Digital Pioneers Academy Public Charter Schools,

Digital Pioneers Academy Public Charter Schools,

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