St. William of York Catholic School in Stafford

Posted: May 19, 2026

When our daughter entered 6th grade at Saint William of York, we immediately saw the difference in the quality of her education. After coming from public school, the strong academic foundation, structured environment, and genuine care from teachers stood out right away.

SWOY delivers on its commitment to core elementary and middle school subjects while also providing a strong Catholic education rooted in values and close connection to the parish. The school emphasizes discipline, accountability, and respect, which is reflected in the positive relationships students build with one another.

The teachers and staff know every student by name and truly invest in their success. SWOY feels like a family, and it has allowed our daughter to grow both academically and in her faith. We highly recommend St. William of York.

Posted: May 19, 2026

Posted: March 20, 2026

The administration here is the worse I have experienced. Emails are ignored and the staff act inconvenienced whenever you ask a question. They seem completely disorganized, and the teachers seem burnt out and unsupported. There is no sense of community, just bureaucracy. Save yourself from disappointment and stress, there are plenty of other great schools in the diocese.

Posted: March 20, 2026

Posted: August 28, 2025

This school had been an eye-opener! The security is excellent! The teachers are kind and supportive, and the administration is helpful to all!!!

Posted: August 28, 2025

Posted: February 20, 2025

. The current teachers have my little sister on a no talking policy where they can not talk at lunch, class, in the hallways ,and so much more. The problem is the mental abuse they make you feel stupid and insecure. The root of all these problems is the principal. She told my sister that she was rude and inconsiderate so she shouldnt ask. She has many friends at this school but it was such a exhausting and horrible experience she will not be coming back

Posted: February 20, 2025

Posted: October 23, 2024

We've been sending our children to Saint William of York for seven years and have been very happy with our overall experience and would absolutely recommend touring the campus.

This is not just a school we send our children to. Saint Wills is a community where our children are educated, and supported, both academically and spiritually. Like any community, it's important to be involved and supportive, but that investment of time and energy is small price to pay for the return I feel we get for our children. Parents can be as involved as they like, or are able to be, and the administration views parents as partners in their children's development, which is very appreciated especially in these times. The faculty is supportive and accessible, the academics are strong and there is a variety of extracurricular activities available.

If I was to be asked the things, as a parent, that I appreciate the list would be lengthy. The top three things would be:

1.) Safety. There is consistent evaluation of security protocol on the part of the administration. I drop my children off each morning on that front sidewalk and am completely confident they will be protected and cared for. I love that I see staff, teachers and volunteers taking individual interest in all the children.

2.) Academics. This is especially true, in my opinion, in the older grades but the foundation is certainly laid in the elementary grades. The academic expectations are high, but the students are supported and encouraged to meet the challenge(s) of them. The curriculum is traditional in nature and every academic subject is taught with respect to Catholic tradition and culture.

3.) Culture. Saint Wills fosters development of my children' Catholic identity that will carry them through well beyond their academic years.

In short, Saint Wills is the standard to meet for a school that delivers an exceptional classical education in a community environment that protects and values each and every child.

Posted: October 23, 2024

Posted: August 5, 2024

Here are a few issues at this school that warrant further inquiry. Bottom line the principal appears to be at the root of all problems at this school and if she is not removed immediately, she will drive it into the ground, along with turning away countless families and youth from the Catholic Church.

1. Non-compliance with OCS and SWOY policies.
2. Repeated Irregular and unannounced changes to curriculum adversely impacting students.
3. Failure to provide services as offered / outlined in the SWOY policy and required per OCS.
4. Toxic and unsafe learning environment.
5. Failure to properly investigate, report, and address multiple instances of bullying.
6. Lack of accountability.
7. Hostile work environment for staff and volunteers.
8. Hiring and retention of unqualified staff and administration.
9. Improper financial practices.

Posted: August 5, 2024

Posted: March 21, 2024

I previously attended this school and had a terrible experience. These staff members made students emotions, claims, and feeling seem unreal and "stupid". It seems like nothing has changed, my younger brothers attend the school and are experiencing the same treatment I was. All the school cares about is their image, they have no care whatsoever for the students and what they are going through. When they are faced with a problem, they ignore it and will do anything to make the situation seem like it was anyone's fault but theirs. This school not only damaged how I view myself, but also how I view church and religion. It really is such a shame, because I do believe that if the staff opened up their minds just a bit and cared about anyone or anything but themselves the school would be amazing. They always made their school seem like it was the best on earth and constantly spoke terribly about other schools, especially public schools. I find it quite ironic, because after dealing with that terrible school I was enrolled in public school. Needless to say, it was the best thing I could have done for myself. I still learn the same high level education that they teach at that school, and I have more options if anything. I am able to explore my interests and accept who I am as a person without any judgement. I have TONS of horrific stories from this school and all of them ruined my mental health. I am very glad to be where I am today and just wanted to share my experience and I know I'm not the only one who went through this. I know so many other people who have experienced the terrible treatment at this school or are currently dealing with it. We need more people to speak up about this. Please do not enroll your children in this school, save your money. This school is not worth it.

Posted: March 21, 2024

Posted: December 6, 2023

I have 2 children who have attended this school. One is graduating this year, the other graduated a few years back. Our experience with this school has been nothing short of beautiful. I am not a Catholic, and my husband is, we have both been welcomed with open arms, as have my children. My son decided to join the Catholic church while he has been a student, and my daughter decided not to. Both kids were loved and treated the same by the teachers, faculty, and staff.
I cannot express enough the gratitude I have for the teachers here. My children's learning experiences have gone above and beyond my expectations. I was very hesitant about sending them to this small school, thinking they probably could get a better education at a larger school. Our time here has been completely the opposite. I am so very happy to call St William of York home.

Posted: December 6, 2023

Posted: November 22, 2023

Two of my kids went to this school. I'm glad I pulled them out. They experienced racism, bullying and discrimination and were gaslite when they complained about their treatment.
The curriculum is terrible and very outdated. If you want the best for your children please do not enroll them here. I learned my lesson. They preach about catholicism but do not practice what they preach.

Posted: November 22, 2023

Posted: June 7, 2023

I love this school! My son went from 3rd grade until he graduated in 8th grade. While he was not at the top of his class here at SWOY and did not receive any academic awards at graduation, he went on to the Commonwealth Governor's School where he received highest honors in Latin and AP Science. He has done exceedingly well and I attribute it to the foundation given to him by the dedicated staff and faculty at Saint William of York School.

Posted: June 7, 2023

Posted: July 27, 2021

Outstanding school! Well worth the cost as an investment in those we treasure the most in this world. Public schools here are rife with discipline problems and their teachers are average at best. The academic focus at St. William of York is brilliance in the basics. Reading, writing, math, history, science, these are emphasized and that emphasis on getting it right will set their students apart from their public school counterparts in higher education and beyond. As a Catholic school, they imbue the student population with the tenants of love, tolerance and respect. Discipline problems are few and far between and issues like bullying are handled swiftly and effectively. One of the best schools in the county staffed with people who love their profession and share a passion for the academic and ethical development of their students.

Posted: July 27, 2021

Posted: July 17, 2021

My children attend this private school because the public schools in their residence is very poor. I believe the school provides a standard education. I I do wish they would bring in more diversity and inclusion to the school in terms of teachers and leadership. Same demographics, older teachers who lack the modern touch and not connected to what will help children be more prepared for the next level - the old guard that needs to be replaced with teachers with new ideas and innovation. Sadly, If I was a child of color, my diversity would be ignored and not acknowledge at this school. Last, I do wonder about the ethics and value system of certain teachers and administrators.

Posted: July 17, 2021

Posted: July 10, 2021

Dissapointed in the quality and lack of diversity of the teachers. One teachers was working at fast food manager prior to joining the school. Also, I do question the ethics and value system of the teachers and school administration. They truly lack transparency regarding information to help my children.

My last rant, why is the staff mostly one demographic, the world is quickly embracing diversity and inclusion - why not hire folks that represent that.

Posted: July 10, 2021

Posted: November 2, 2019

This school has nothing but one word, HORRIBLE.

Posted: November 2, 2019

My son was bullied many times and they ignored it.

Posted: August 11, 2019

The teachers are wonderful at adapting to different kids learning styles.

Posted: August 11, 2019

The principal and all administrative staff are very involved in the kids day to day lives. My daughter is always very excited to see any of them when out and about!

Posted: August 11, 2019

My family has had an amazing experience at this school. I have one child in second grade and one will be coming there in a year. Picking this school was the best decision my husband and I made. They promote family values, strong faith and academics!

Posted: August 11, 2019

Posted: February 11, 2019

Teaches morals and traditional Catholic values to all students.

Posted: February 11, 2019

Principal is the best I have ever worked with, he really listens and solves problems quickly.

Posted: February 11, 2019

Best school my kids have ever attended. We love St William of York!

Posted: February 11, 2019

I love how the teachers make sure the homework is challenging enough for my advanced kid.

Posted: February 11, 2019

My kids love school and are learning so much!

Posted: February 7, 2019

My children have been attending this school since preschool and I have been so pleased with the faculty, admissions and teachers. Everyone wants the child to succeed and is evident throughout their daily work.

Posted: October 18, 2015

Caveat Emptor! We enrolled our son about six months ago. At that time, we advised the principal that we would need to discuss my sons special needs. At the previous school he attended this was never an issue and my child was an A student. His success was due to a concerted effort on our part as his parents and on the schools part as exceptional educators. The staff at SWOY never had time to meet with us, there was no plan put in place for our son (even though my sons previous school provided them with a plan), and his grades began to reflect the lack of effort. My son would have tests on information that never came home. My son spent hours learning religion but the Language Arts and Math curriculums were rudimentary at best. This school talks a good game and gives parents the lip service they want to hear in person, but you quickly realize the emperor isnt wearing any clothes. I was horrified to watch my son begin to feel singled out. I can look around the halls of SWOY and see why American school children are not competitive with their foreign counterparts. Its because our teachers arent competitive with their foreign counterparts. Is this really the future of American education? Someone needs to remind this school that many of the greatest minds in U.S. history came with learning disabilities: George S. Patton, Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Edison, and the ultimate Catholic leader himself; John F. Kennedy. Some teachers excel when their classroom is filled with cookie cutter children who require little effort. SWOY wanted to turn my child into a C student because thats easier than doing the job that a good teacher feels inclined and compelled to do; reach all children. My son will do well in spite of this school and not because of it. There is an irony in the fact that the word catholic means universal, and yet, this school is anything but an environment which helps all. The dogmatic attitude of the Church, which perpetuated so much ill will in centuries gone by, is alive and well in the halls of SWOY. Its this attitude which provided me with confirmation that my decision to walk away from the Catholic faith many years ago was such a good one. The school would also benefit immensely from a web-based application where homework assignments, lesson plans, and grades can be posted.

Posted: September 15, 2015

Buyer Beware! SWOY Catholic School provides a wonderful first impression. I must begin by stating that the teachers at the school truly care about their students and attempt to take every step necessary to provide a quality Catholic education. The roadblock in place that prevents the school from reaching its true potential is the principal.
I speak from experience, that he is the most self-serving individual I have ever encountered. He will listen closely, take notes, provide perspective all wonderful traits of a leader; except for when it comes to action. The typical resolution to any issue is to ignore it. He quietly mans the helm of a rudderless ship. His main priority is enrollment, and he will sell you the farm to fill another seat. If you enjoy volunteering, or being involved in your childs education, this is not the place for you. The principal hand picks his support, to include the PTO staff no election here You will also find that once the volunteer he has in each selected role realizes that they have zero influence, they typically do not return the following year on average 80%-90% turnover with each volunteer role every year.
Please do not misinterpret my comments, as the school is full of wonderful people. If you are able to overlook the poor leadership currently in place, you will not be disappointed by the teachers, the student body and their families.

Posted: September 15, 2015

Posted: July 15, 2015

We are a new family to SWOY and you can judge a school and it's staff by how they treat the most vulnerable and helpless child. Our daughter has special needs and the principal has offered to allow her to attend school with her brother. They accept her not because they are mandated by federal law, as in public schools, but because they have the hearts of servants.

Posted: July 15, 2015

Our Catholic faith is a part of everything that the teachers and students do together. As part of our faith, students are developing honesty, integrity and fairness.

Posted: July 15, 2015

Posted: May 28, 2015

this school is unrecommend by me because none of the teachers care and the principal does not even care.

Posted: May 28, 2015

i have had many children complain that some of these teaches don't even care and they do the same thing everyday with no change and nothing interesting happens and that they are not challenged enough

Posted: May 28, 2015

i feel that the homework is okay and that in some classes could be less but its not over done.

Posted: May 28, 2015

there is favoritism from what i have seen ,and i have heard incredibly rude comments from some teachers.

Posted: May 11, 2015

We are a military family who have moved our children to many different schools. St. William of York School and Parish have been a blessing to our entire family. The authentic Catholic Culture and education that this school offers is excellent. The teachers are enthusiastic, readily available to parents and are dedicated to every student. The Administration also has an "open door" policy and are easily approachable and helpful at any time. St. William of York Catholic School truly is a family. The sports and after school activities are rapidly growing and can only continue to succeed. Our children have thrived at St. William of York!

Posted: May 6, 2015

We are very happy with the education our children are receiving at St. William of York Catholic School. The Catholic Culture is first and foremost with each and everything at the school. Academically, our children are receiving a great education from teachers who are knowledgeable about the subject matter. We like the family environment that continues from the school into the Parish. We feel we made the right choice in sending our children here!

Posted: March 9, 2015

My child started in their preschool program. We decided that financially we could not afford a private education for all our children and we enrolled him into SCPS. Things were awful. My son was told he is not to share what happens at school with us. And the counselor told him what happens and is shared between them is a secret that he cannot share with his parents NO MATTER WHAT! And the mountains of problems all over the place. So I made a phone call and registered for my child to attend St. William. Totally different child. He shares and is excited about school again. Now, he's waking me up before our alarm, I have to take him to school! My thoughts since Rockhill is the principal may be the head of the school but the body (teachers, parents, and students) can influence the head to turn wherever the problems are. This school has been nothing but fantastic. All 4 of my children will attend this school and will NEVER step foot into a SCPS again. The money for tuition can be found thanks to our Parish, family and friends who understand the difference a Catholic education has on a child.

Posted: November 23, 2014

After six years at St William of York, it feels like home. The academic rigor is challenging, yet reasonable. Adding the Latin, Saxon Math, and Excellence in Writing programs were wonderful recent additions. The authentic Catholic culture is unmatched in the area. Many extra-curricular activities are available. My child has done choir, band, baseball, cheerleading, school newspaper, girls club, art club, even Engineering for Kids! My child is safe and well cared for at their extended care program. All of her teachers have shown a strong passion for teaching. Some have been young and inexperienced, but all have shown a great love for our children. When problems arose, as they always do, teachers were eager to help. Our principal is a caring administrator with a passion for teaching truth and goodness with only the best interest of our children in mind. No school is perfect, but the unkind reviews posted below say much more about the writers than they do the subject. I highly recommend St William of York to any parents wanting to offer their children a safe haven from the secular public schools, challenging academics, and an opportunity to learn and love their Catholic faith.

Posted: November 18, 2014

The Principal is very nice and approachable (maybe a little too nice and less assertive). The front office staff is just as nice and helpful. However, 60% of this school's teaching staff is questionable as it pertains to the high percentage of young, inexperienced teachers who exhibit the following characteristics: Lack of Content Knowledge, Lack of Professionalism, Poor Judgment, and Poor People Skills. The school needs more teachers who consider the following: What could I have done differently? What assignment could I have changed? Are there things I should do regarding texts, approaches, assessments that better connect to the student?" SWOY allows parent-teachers to teach their own children, giving the appearance of favoritism and influence in many instances (e.g. grades, awards, etc.). On a scale of 1 to 10, we give this school a "4" for K-8 education. Their pre-school program is top rate! The Pre-school Director and her staff are very professional, kind, and caring. I recommend SWOY for parents with Pre-K children.

Posted: September 5, 2014

We are going into our 2nd year at SWOY and I'm surprised by some of these reviews. No school is perfect and there is always room for improvement, but overall we've been very happy here. The principal has an open door policy and is very approachable. SWOY has a great sense of community and the kids are surrounded by many wonderful, Catholic families. I'm hopeful that the issues we saw in our first year (especially teacher retention and communication) will continue to improve.

Posted: August 27, 2014

St. William of York Catholic School encourages open communication with all parent stakeholders with a view toward continuous improvement, and we recognize the importance of personal, face to face conversation as a vital step toward effecting change. Our principal is just a phone call away for parents and prospective parents to engage in meaningful conversation about and on behalf of our students and school. Our enthusiastic and growing team of parent leaders is a tribute to this collaboration.

Posted: August 16, 2014

Poor Leadership, principal is inadequate! We have since moved our kids from this school! Spare yourself, save your time and money! Other great Private schools in the area!!

Posted: August 10, 2014

Before enrolling your child in any school in the Diocese of Arlington, please read the "Policy on the Protection of Children" on the diocesan web site. It was my experience in the past that neither the leadership of this school, nor that of the affiliated church, nor even key members of the Diocese, chose to follow this policy's guidelines to protect one of its students from physically abusive behavior. I was surprised to learn that not even the child's family was informed by the school. I sincerely hope that everyone from the school to the Chancery has learned from its past mistakes. Adults at the school - and this includes parents - should be advocates for every child. If you see something wrong, correct it. Make a fuss. Kids are worth it. Children need our love and our protection - even in a Catholic school. Teachers, principals, and priests are not without fault. If you see a wrong, speak out! Sin loves silence.

Posted: July 30, 2014

First, I'll say that my child's teachers were wonderful but they are limited by the actions and in-actions of the PRINCIPAL. We enrolled our child at St. William of York Catholic School thinking that private education would be more focused on giving her advantages later in school. What a mistake! This school has a principal that is less than unsatisfactory. I personally thinks he does not really care about the children. Last winter was brutal; however, if i want my child to be home when public school is out i would have sent them to public school and not pay for private school. The fact is that when you are paying so much for private education we expect it to be good or at least worth it. The principal loves to speak and just will not keep quiet long enough to listen to concerned parents. He always has something to do except address the issue at hand. We took our child out of the school and moved to another private school. Thinks to think about: - Would you pay for your child to take a trip to the cafeteria? - Why pay for a day off because its cold outside? Parents - be aware and ask the tough questions before enrolling your child/children.

Posted: October 17, 2013

This is my child's second year here, and we have been very satisfied. Great teachers and staff, and the principal is very accessible and approachable. Good variety of school activities, both inside and outside of the classroom. Very dependable after school care with teachers who do more than just "watch" the kids.

Posted: July 23, 2013

Our son is an incoming 1st grader and attend last year in Kindergarten. His teacher and the teacher's aide are hands down one of the BEST teacher combos in the school. Really hands, readily available to talk if needed, super connected with the children and believe that not all children learn in the same ways or pace (that was the biggest plus for me as my son is not a traditional learner but more a visual and auditory learner). There have been quite a few teacher departing but I remain hopeful that the high level set at the Kindergarten level will continue as our son goes thru. Parents are also very involved and encourage to participate and be active in the school community.

Posted: October 10, 2012

My two daughters attended this school from 2009 to 2012. When they transferred to another Catholic school, they did really well. St William of York prepared them to easliy grasp math, science, and English. In addition, this school prepared them to work in teams such as playing on the school's basketball and volleyball teams.

#	Name	Type	City	State	Distance
1	Aquia Harbour	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Aquia Harbour	VA	1 mi
2	Hampton Oaks	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Stafford	VA	1 mi
3	Woodstream	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Stafford	VA	1.1 mi
4	Austin Ridge	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Stafford	VA	1.8 mi
5	Manors of Greenridge	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Stafford	VA	1.9 mi
6	Amber Hill	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Stafford	VA	1.9 mi
7	Park Ridge - The Manors	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Stafford	VA	1.9 mi
8	Autumn Ridge	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Stafford	VA	2 mi
9	Aquia Harbour	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Stafford	VA	2.2 mi
10	Park Ridge The Towns	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Stafford	VA	2.2 mi
11	Embrey Mills	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Stafford	VA	2.7 mi
12	Eastern View	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Stafford	VA	2.8 mi
13	Vista Woods	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Stafford	VA	4 mi
14	Augustine	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Stafford	VA	4 mi
15	Apple Grove	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Stafford	VA	4.4 mi
16	St. George's Estates	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Stafford	VA	4.8 mi
17	Hunter's Pond	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Stafford	VA	5.4 mi
18	Potomac Highlands	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Triangle	VA	7 mi
19	Stonewall Manor	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Triangle	VA	7.8 mi
20	Leeland Station	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Fredericksburg	VA	8.5 mi
21	Brittany	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Dumfries	VA	9.8 mi

#	Name	City	State	Distance
1	Public Quarry at Government Island	Stafford	VA	1.4 mi
2	Stafford	Stafford	VA	2.7 mi
3	Aquia Landing Park	Stafford	VA	7.1 mi
4	Leeland Station Area	Fredericksburg	VA	7.6 mi

Base	Distance
Quantico Marine Base	5.8 mi.
Indian Head Naval Base	15.3 mi.
Dahlgren NSWC	22 mi.
Fort Belvoir	22.2 mi.
Fort AP Hill	27.2 mi.
NRO Chantilly	29.2 mi.
Mark Center Alexandria	29.9 mi.
Defense Health Headquarters Falls Church	30 mi.
Henderson Hall	33.4 mi.
Bolling AFB Joint Base Anacostia	33.5 mi.
Fort Myer	33.9 mi.
Pentagon	34 mi.
Coast Guard Headquarters DC	35 mi.
Fort McNair	35.2 mi.
Washington Navy Yard	36.1 mi.
Marine Barracks Washington	36.4 mi.
Andrews AFB	36.7 mi.
Walter Reed Medical Center	41 mi.

St. William of York Catholic School

Stafford, VA 22554

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