The Potomac School is undoubtedly one of the finest schools in Washington D.C. that's technically not even in the city at all. The school is in McLean, Virginia, about three miles away from the American capital's city center. Fortunately, it's still close enough that any family living in D.C. can easily send their kids to school here. But is it worth the trip? Yes, it is! This college-preparatory school upholds and highlights academic excellence while encouraging holistic growth. In a way, all kids get to have a complete education here, with the promise of intellectual, emotional, and even spiritual growth always at hand.
Source: The Potomac School Facebook Page
History of The Potomac School
While
Washington D.C. residents Edith Draper Blair, Hetty Fairfax Harrison, and Ellen Warder Thoron founded The Potomac School in 1904, the school (and the trio) truly have to thank John Dewey too. The American psychiatrist and education reformer was known for his teaching model and educational philosophy, which then inspired the three women to establish a new school in the American capital. For them, early childhood education ought to be a joyful and enriching endeavor instead of a rigid requirement for one's growth. Thus, they opened The Potomac School, originally in Dupon Circle, and instill this new academic sensibility. In 1948, the school's Board of Trustees purchased land in McLean, Virginia and moved the school there.
What is The Potomac School's Campus Like?
As mentioned previously, The Potomac School is located in McLean, Virgina, which is only three miles from
Washington D.C.'s central neighborhoods. Since the school grounds used to be farmlands, the campus is tucked away from the more rural parts of Virginia. It boasts modern, state-of-the-art facilities amidst beautiful woodlands in a stunning estate that's all its own. There are well-manicured fields, massive common areas, and all classrooms are equipped with the necessary tools for learning. Here, students can study and play to their hearts' content, all while remaining safe and sound inside this well-secured campus.
Source: The Potomac School Facebook Page
The Potomac School Student Body
With its massive campus, it's only natural that The Potomac School also has an equally huge student body. The school welcomes over 1,000 students per year, composed of both new enrollees and those returning who haven't graduated yet. They're also pretty diverse. About 68% of them are White, 10% of them are Multiracial, 9% of them are Black, 7% of them are Asian/ Pacific islander, and 75 of them are Hispanic. This only goes to show that everyone is welcome to study here and there's a place for all kids, regardless of their background.
What is The Potomac School's Curriculum?
True to its early years, The Potomac School has retained its mission on making education a joyful and enriching endeavor. Hence, its curriculum and approach to education is far less strict compared to other schools of its caliber. This isn't to say that the school isn't serious about academics. The Potomac School remains devoted to helping children excel in their educational journeys, especially if they want to continue on to higher education. At the same time, however, the school highly encourages its students to participate in extracurricular activities. They believe that holistic growth includes going beyond academics.
Source: The Potomac School Facebook Page
How Much Does It Cost to Study at The Potomac School?
Given its respected status as one of the finest schools in Washington D.C. and its incredible campus, it's no surprise that The Potomac School is expensive. Its kindergarten alone already costs about $43,350.00 per year, which remains the same as the student reaches grade 3. From grades 4 to 6, the tuition fee goes up to around $46,600.00 per year, and from grades 7 to 8, it's $49,700.00 per year. Upon reaching senior high school, grades 9 to 12, the tuition fee would be $51,000.00 per year. On top of all that, there are other school fees that tend to change year to year.
Where is The Potomac School in Washington D.C.?
Mclean, Virginia, where The Potomac School is located, can best be described as suburb of the American capital. Though a fair distance away from the city center of Washington D.C., it's still near enough that families can still take their kids to school here. Naturally, its rural-like atmosphere and open approach to education draw parents to consider this for their kids' schooling too. But in terms of staying near the school, Mclean, Virginia is also a nice option. It boasts some of the finest
luxury homes to rent in Washington D.C. and is entirely peaceful too.
Source: The Potomac School Facebook Page
The Potomac School is where you'll want to enroll your kids if you want them to get into the best universities when they grow up. This is one of the best college-preparatory schools in Washington D.C., even more so since it goes beyond academics and encourages holistic growth.
