Rockbridge Academy

Posted: July 20, 2024

My children (now adults) graduated from Rockbridge. All 3 went on to graduate college. One is pursuing an advanced degree in mathematics, one graduated with an engineering degree from a well-regarded tech university. All three were well prepared to succeed at the collegiate level. All three continue to love and serve the Lord. Rockbridge is not for every student. Upper- school reading materials are high-level, so students who struggle to read dense materials may eventually feel like it is too hard. The school is good about helping to find a tutor, but that may not always be enough. The school has beefed up the science offerings, but even before this happened, my kids were prepared for their college classes. Take a look! We loved it.

Posted: July 20, 2024

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Posted: May 21, 2023

With two graduates and two current students enrolled, I am very experienced with Rockbridge Academy. When presented with the identification of potential learning differences noticed by the teachers, we were guided to proper testing, remediation and accommodations to help our students succeed. The Rockbridge community rallied around us and presented perspectives (some difficult) that we had not previously considered. The demanding academic standards prepared my graduates to succeed in engineering undergraduate and graduate programs at top tier institutions. I highly recommend the Rockbridge Academy. Attend as a family and participate in the community with a willingness to do hard things with gratitude and the benefits will be pronounced.

Posted: May 21, 2023

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Posted: May 15, 2023

Absolutely no support for anyone who needs accommodations or might be different in any way. Unwilling to consider that people learn differently. Unable to be innovative or creative. Unwilling to work toward solutions. Unwilling to take any responsibility. They took a vibrant child into someone with mental issues. Wish we had realized it sooner.

Posted: May 15, 2023

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Posted: January 30, 2023

The wonderful teachers at this school are fully invested in their students success, and are excited about the subjects that they teach! I am grateful for the experience my children have had at Rockbridge Academy, both inside and outside the classroom.

Posted: January 30, 2023

Posted: December 22, 2022

We graduated two healthy kids who thrived in college and both are following the Lord. Academically, the school is in a league of its own and sets the standard for classical schools around the nation. The focus in raising good, well rounded citizens is noticeable and appreciated. This is not the school for special needs kids in general but the perfect school for a Christian challenging academic pursuit. Highly recommend from our experience.

Posted: December 22, 2022

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Posted: September 29, 2022

Do not go here this is a horrible school. That will ruin a child's mental and physical health. They will be racist, sexist and not support any one with any type of disability. If you value yourself or your kids run from this school.

Posted: September 29, 2022

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Posted: August 22, 2021

If you are looking for a loving Christian environment combined with excellent academics in kindergarten through 12th grade, Rockbridge Academy is what you want for your family. I am so thankful to have found Rockbridge Academy for kindergarten many years ago. I look forward to my son going all the way through and graduating well equipped to be a Christian leader in the future.

Posted: August 22, 2021

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Posted: June 2, 2021

I gave this school three healthy, happy children with a good self esteem. In return I got 3 unhappy, insecure and sad kids. I've spent the last year "deprogramming" them from the toxicity that was this environment. The most hurtful part is that I truly believed at one point that this school was loving on my kids. It wasn't till we left that I was able to connect the dots. The social bullying was tough especially for children of color, I can't tell you how many times I had to console a crying child because another student or in many cases a teacher made them feel other.
The only reason I gave 2 stars is because the academics are strong. So if you are looking for strong academics and are willing to play counselor for your black or brown child all day then by all means send your kids here.

Posted: June 2, 2021

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Posted: December 6, 2019

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Posted: December 6, 2019

Posted: December 6, 2019

I attended Rockbridge Academy for 13 years, and I believe that they prepared me for college and the jobs I have held since then. I contribute much of my success to the skills I learned while at Rockbridge, and to the lifelong friendships that I made while I was there.

Posted: January 16, 2019

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Posted: January 16, 2019

We started our educational journey as a homeschool family. When we had to make a a decision about choosing a school, our search was for one that was Christ-centered and would regard us (the parent) as their primary educators. We have found that and much more at Rockbridge. Their curriculum employs the classical method which essentially follows a child's natural development. It is rigorous, comprehensive and well-rounded. And while we have reaped the early fruits of this teaching philosophy, it is their focus on Christ and how He undergirds every subject and school life area that has been the "clincher" for our family. At Rockbridge, education is perceived as the unpacking and understanding of God's creation through math, science, history, art, music and physical education. With respect to discipline, the focus is always forgiveness and restoration, and the teachers graciously, patiently and lovingly carry out this part of their calling. They work tirelessly and sacrificially on behalf of the students for Christ. No school is perfect (not even my own homeschool - smile), but we are so incredibly grateful that God led our family here.

Posted: January 3, 2019

Posted: January 3, 2019

I went to Rockbridge for 11 years and I truly believe it provided me with a platform for success. The curriculum was challenging, my peers pushed me to grow in leaps and bounds, and the faculty and staff came alongside parents to guide and encourage us.

The teachers there were always joyful and deeply invested in the academic, personal, and spiritual lives of us as students. When the faculty or staff needed to correct a student, they always spoke the truth in love. If we needed extra tutoring in a particular area, teachers would sacrifice lunch or personal time to help make sure we didn't fall behind.

I believe Rockbridge is one of the best environments to immerse a child in - to help them learn, process, expand, and share their knowledge.

Posted: January 3, 2019

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Posted: November 13, 2018

Posted: November 13, 2018

Posted: November 13, 2018

This is one of Rock bridge's greatest strengths.

Posted: November 13, 2018

Posted: November 13, 2018

I went to Rockbridge for 12 years and know that I would not have gone into teaching as wholeheartedly if I hadn't had such great mentors, teachers, and a community of learner's around me. Rockbridge is a rare find, where Faith and practice meet, where books are consumed for fun and discussions had because people are curious. I am thankful for my years there.

Posted: November 13, 2018

The teachers at Rockbridge are the reason I loved my experience there so much. They weren't perfect, but they strived to live and teach the gospel in every aspect of life, and they truly embodied lifelong learning.

Posted: November 12, 2018

The staff prays together every morning, led by the Headmaster. The teachers are role models in the character they seek to impart on the students.

Posted: November 12, 2018

Teachers are always available to work with students who require additional help but there are not different programs.

Posted: November 12, 2018

Bullying would not be tolerated in any way. It would be dealt with in a loving and respectful way to all involved.

Posted: November 12, 2018

Our experience has been excellent. The environment is nurturing and loving. It is a wonderful community.

Posted: November 12, 2018

Homework assignments are appropriate for the grade level and in the lower grades are reinforcements for what is taught in the classroom.

Posted: November 12, 2018

The teachers are excellent communicators and are effective in explaining material in an age appropriate way.

Posted: November 12, 2018

Developing character is given as much emphasis as academics. Children are evaluated on obedience, diligence, consideration, and honesty.

Posted: May 8, 2018

This school has a great curriculum. It is very advanced for their age group. However, it is more for Caucasian/white, Republican people. Teachers and students can easily get away with racism. Teachers give certain students good/bad grades because they like/don't like them. Students obviously single-out certain other students by isolating them at lunch or not listening to ANYTHING they say that is contradictory to their Republican, Caucasian/white beliefs. Rockbridge does claim to be "Christ-centered" and to be open to discussions. Unfortunately, this does not display in anything they do. One must come into the school ready to be ignored or discriminated against if they disagree with the "school views"; especially if they are African American/black. The most Christ-like thing they do in the school is pray. - a current student

Posted: April 27, 2017

Great school with very knowledgeable staff.
The program is great and children learn having fun.

Posted: October 6, 2016

This is a Christ-centered community of parents, teachers and staff who pour themselves out for the sake of their students. Rockbridge is committed to giving students an education without parallel, but even more in preparing young hearts to be a source of leadership, virtue and joy.

Posted: July 18, 2016

Rockbridge Academy is the only school where I have felt peace leaving my children. I know that they will be well cared for, safe, and challenged academically.

Posted: April 15, 2016

Do not attend here. Worst school ever. The academics and teachers are pathetic. Math and science classes especially are severely lacking. There is also a huge amount of favoritism, and the same kids get picked for everything. Would not recommend. Do not waste your money.
-alumni

Posted: April 15, 2016

Posted: April 15, 2016

Posted: February 6, 2015

As the father of three sons who attended Rockbridge Academy, I can honestly give the school my highest endorsement. The education they received at Rockbridge was truly superior and is was certainly not narrow-minded, as some reviewers have indicated. The faculty and staff at Rockbridge exposed my sons to a world of great ideas--some that lined up with the Biblical worldview they learned at home and many ideas that did not. However, students at Rockbridge learn to evaluate all ideas in light of the scriptures of the Old and New Testaments. They learn how to engage in the great conversation in the context Western Civilization. Almost as important as the fine education my sons received at Rockbridge was the community they were a part of. With very few exceptions, their fellow classmates were lovers of learning and lovers of Christ. Rockbridge Academy is a place that welcomes and encourages students to learn. The teachers and staff encourage sincere faith in Christ because they, themselves, are possessors of it. In a world that seems to value many things above knowledge and wisdom, Rockbridge marches boldly against the culture.

Posted: January 7, 2015

As a former student, it's important to note that different students have fundamentally different experiences at Rockbridge. Judging the merits of a Rockbridge education, and I'd assume any education whatsoever, is not as straightforward as taking one's own experience of the school as paradigmatic of all experiences in general; let alone, the very "essence" of the institution. I know many students who love their Rockbridge education, attribute to it their spiritual and academic health/success and would send their own children back. I also know many students (many!) who believe they've succeeded academically and spiritiually IN SPITE OF their Rockbridge education, they wouldn't send their children back to Rockbridge. Rockbridge has a unique academic curriculum that anyone would benefit from having, but I (*just me) think the culture at Rockbridge is parasitic and the administration in denial. I know, and knew, students who struggled greatly at Rockbridge, and in large part because of Rockbridge. Sex, drugs, depression, suicidal thoughts, racism, sexism, it's all there. Though it's at every other school as well Rockbridge tends to shame and isolate and in the name of Christ and Truth.

Posted: December 7, 2014

I attended Rockbridge for twelve years. In the last few years I have come to fully appreciate the value of the education I received while I was there. First, Rockbridge taught me how to think critically. The upper school teachers help the students learn how to assess ideas from a biblical worldview. Second, Rockbridge taught me how to write well. When I arrived at college I discovered that not all students who graduate from high school are adequately prepared to express their thoughts well in writing or in speech. At Rockbridge, every junior and senior writes a 15-20 page thesis which is presented and defended in front of the faculty and an audience. After completing this rigorous process, I can honestly say that I was undaunted by my college writing assignments; this thesis process adequately prepared me for college in this way. Lastly, on a more personal note, at Rockbridge each student is genuinely loved and nurtured. All of my teachers made themselves available to me to meet outside of class if I ever needed help or had questions. I would highly recommend this school to any parents seeking an excellent Christ centered education in a warm and caring school community.

Posted: December 4, 2014

Rockbridge, from Kindergarden to one's Senior year, is adamantly focused on pouring into their students and forming them to be strong, independent thinkers with a heart for others. Every class, every sports practice, every extracurricular activity is planned with the upmost wisdom and care in order to benefit the students. Furthermore, although Rockbridge pours into its students and fosters their growth, they also give their students the freedom to grow in their own abilities. Things like the Kindergardeners' Family Tree Presentation, The Grand Tour (a 17 day trip to Greece and Italy), and Senior Theses are all examples of ways Rockbridge gives its students the freedom to grow in their character, their academic prowess, and in their relationship with God. Finally, in addition to preparing me for life as a whole, Rockbridge has given me the ability to excel in college. I am at one of the top business schools in the country and am near the top of my class. I accredit my success here to Rockbridge's excellent education and formulation of my character. I have the upmost pride in saying I am a Rockbridge Academy Alumni.

Posted: December 4, 2014

I graduated from Rockbridge Academy and had a great experience. The teachers, academics, and sports were fantastic! I wanted to address the November 11, 2014 post that says Rockbridge only prepares students for a small conservative Christian-type college and to anticipate struggling immeasurably at a reputable secular college. That certainly wasn't the experience of my graduating class. I attended the University of Maryland-College Park which is 62nd in the US News & World Report national rankings with 26,000+ undergraduates and certainly not conservative. However, I graduated with honors and found myself extremely well prepared for the academics and student life at UMD. Others in my class also graduated from Maryland as well as the University of Virginia and James Madison University. Bottom line is I thoroughly enjoyed both schools! Both high school & college are what you make of it. Stay positive, work hard, maintain a sense-of-humor, manage your time effectively, and make the most of your education. Give Rockbridge a try..you won't have any regrets!

Posted: December 3, 2014

Rockbridge is a great school if you want your kids to get in to great colleges, have an ability to communicate in public, learn how to really solve complex problems and most of all do all of this whilst learning the beauty and strength of Christ-like humility. We are a very passionate Catholic family yet we sent our 6 kids to a very passionate Protestant school. Why? Well we tried other private schools in the area. We know what is out there from experience and not from brochures. Rockbridge not only has crazy high SAT scores, it teaches kids values and really helps form character. They teach humility. Highschoolers serving lower grades. A zero tolerance on arrogance or disrespect. We have very different children yet each one blossomed at the school. If you are in doubt about the school just swing by and observe. You will be impressed. God is alive at the school and it is therefore a joyful and peaceful place where kids learn to love learning.

Posted: December 3, 2014

In my time at Rockbridge, I found it to be a very strong school academically with a very caring staff. Although the curriculum is challenging, the teachers spend a great deal of time working one on one with students to ensure that they have the best possible comprehension of the material.

Posted: December 3, 2014

Looking at some previous reviews, I have to say, if you are not up for invigorating discussions every time you walk in the door, Rockbridge is not for you. Rockbridge is not a collection of "hardline conservative evangelical protestants" who "condemn and mock your beliefs", if they are contrary to their own. I attended Rockbridge for many years, a Catholic in a mainly Protestant school. But I never felt targeted or threatened by anyone. I just understood that sometimes, people speak about things they do not understand. I was always arguing with some person or another over anything and everything having to do with my faith. But, that really helped me grow stronger in my beliefs. Anyone who hates on Rockbridge Academy, is just ignorant of the fact, that not everyone will agree with you. But in order to solve this, you must openly discuss your problems. I did this for once, last year, and it was remarkable. The discussion that ensued was not condemning, or disdaining, but really informative and eye-opening. Go SCOTS!

Posted: December 3, 2014

I am a graduate of Rockbridge and I am supremely grateful for my experiences there. Rockbridge is truly unique in that it offers students a world-class education combined with a small, close-knit community. It pains me to see that other graduates did not have a good experience at Rockbridge. I feel for them; and at the same time I believe that many of their problems were self-inflicted. If you keep an open mind and work hard, you will succeed at Rockbridge. You will also succeed after Rockbridge. There are people on this site saying that Rockbridge didn t prepare them for college; but at the same time, Rockbridge students are doing very well at some of the nation s top universities (USNA, MIT, etc.). Could it be that the naysayers didn t prepare themselves well for college? In the end, Rockbridge is going to be what you make of it. If you re too cool for school, Rockbridge is not the place for you. However, if you willing to apply yourself and invest in your education, Rockbridge will help you succeed in whatever you choose to do.

Posted: December 2, 2014

I had the distinct privilege of attending Rockbridge from K-12 and graduating from this excellent institution. I definitely struggled academically at points at Rockbridge, but I would say that Rockbridge equipped me with irreplaceable skills that have benefitted me in my experience at college and in my career. Firstly, Rockbridge cultivated in me a deep love for the Lord. The teachers have a contagious and fervent love for Christ that is evident in all that they do. They showed me the unique way that we could see God's design in each of their subjects and also continuously pointed me to the call that He had on my life. Secondly, they held me to a high standard academically and morally. While this challenged at times, it allowed me to witness the genuine love that the school has for each of their students. My education at Rockbridge gave me a deep love for the Lord and for learning as well as teaching me to be a well-educated, well-spoken, and courteous individual. In college and my career, I have found that I am far better equipped to succeed than most. When I speak of my education, they are always impressed. I'm so thankful for Rockbridge and strongly believe in their mission.

Posted: November 10, 2014

I graduated from Rockbridge Academy and I would highly caution any parent who is considering putting their children in school there. Rockbridge claims to teach the "Great Ideas" of western philosophy however, the slightest knowledge of philosophy would make it clear that these classes are taught poorly and with the sole purpose of indoctrinating students in a particular right wing conservative reformed evangelical philosophical niche. Any students who exhibit tendencies towards ideas that do not fall comfortably within this niche should expect to be singled out by teachers, even if they are supported in these views by their parents and pastors. No amount of tact or intelligence on the part of these students will deliver them from this ridiculous mistreatment. Rockbridge prepares its students for college at a small conservative Christian school. If, however, you chose to attend school at any sort of reputable secular university, you should expect to struggle immeasurably. Rockbridge Academy in no way prepared me for my college experience.

Posted: August 23, 2014

I am a former student of Rockbridge Academy, and all I can really say is that depression and anxiety were all I received from that school. I didn't learn or think like the rest of my grade and that greatly ostracized me from them. I ended up just not going to school because crippling embarrassment and anxiety were all I felt. Yes, many teachers are great as I've seen in previous reviews. But there were many that showed obvious stress and had very little time to help mentor students. It was one of the best decisions to leave that school, I am happier and way more healthier than I was. I no longer dread waking up for school, because I enjoy learning. I enjoy it because my way of thinking is no longer looked down upon.

Posted: May 24, 2014

I am a former student. I learned a lot at Rockbridge. Most importantly, I really did learn how to think for myself. Unfortunately, this was not the actual goal of the instructors; in fact, just the opposite. If you are not a hardline conservative evangelical protestant, your beliefs and opinions will be openly condemned and mocked in the classroom and your objections will be brushed off and ignored. Students who advocated for mildly more liberal theology or politics were met with scandalized looks, while students who suggested writing a paper about revoking the woman's right to vote were all but applauded. If you are a parent of a child who is any way a divergent personality, prepare to have Rockbridge do everything it possibly can to crush their spirit in the iron grip of social, idealogical, and theological conformity. Your objections to their methods will meet with resistance. After I graduated from Rockbridge, I was fairly knowledgeable, articulate in speech and on paper, had developed robust critical thinking skills, and was more than prepared for college. I was also left with severe, crippling mental health issues that were due in large part to my experiences there.

Posted: February 22, 2014

Rockbridge does more than provide the highest SAT scores in the area. It does more than train young men and women to be excellent public speakers and thinkers. It helps co-parent them on core values like service, humility, kindness, purity and hope. We are moving away from the area and know that we will never find a school like them.