Cortona Academy of Science, Technology & the Arts in Herndon

Posted: April 26, 2025

Cortona Academy is a homeschool that even now my son is still trying to recover from academically and emotionally. He only was there one half of his junior year- but the damage will span for much longer. We found it extremely unorganized, strangely secretive, not to mention threatening and dangerous for him as a Type 1 Diabetic. For example you sign something to say the kids wont use phones understandably. We did not sign that because he needed to read his sugars on his phone to be able to take insulin when he medically needed it. She took his phone away many times leaving him twice in a situation I needed to drive to get him and help him. One time he needed medial attention at the Urgent care because Sharon not allowing him either his phone or being able to eat sugar to be safe. The owner Sharon made it very difficult to communicate to the teachers and strongly discourages communication between the parents and teachers. She also strongly discourages any contact between the parents themselves. Even asking her to give my phone number to a specific parent was declined. She is strangely over controlling on many levels which results in uncomfortable confusion. For example two teachers teaching a class - Sharon being one- and consistently contradicting the other teacher. One teacher actually rolled their eyes behind her back while she was talking throwing their hands up in frustration. I witnessed two different teachers actually scared to talk or speak up when it was clear Sharon was wrong. This atmosphere rubs off on the kids too in that they are reluctant to speak up. My son had a total of five Algebra 2 teachers in one half a year. I have that documented. His binder included schedules of classes his was not enrolled by accident given to him by Sharon and strongly directly and publicly reprimanded at not getting his work done in the class he was not enrolled in. A very quick apology was made to me (not him) when I pointed it out.
I believe this homeschool could be good for some children- but I struggle to see who that could be. I couldnt leave fast enough and the damage done lasted for years.

This school may be good for some kids for confidence or individual help but only if you understand its rules with an uneven iron fist.

I have been thinking about this post for quite a while and its important people know this.
*make sure you read all one stars before you enroll there are elements of their complaints throughout our experience

Posted: April 26, 2025

Posted: October 20, 2024

Have a lawyer look over contract before signing. Glorified home school. Save your money for a real private education.

Posted: October 20, 2024

Posted: May 17, 2024

We moved our child from public high school to Cortona Academy during the middle of 11th grade. Prior to the move, we had daily homework battles and so much negativity in our home. After years of struggling, he hated school and was failing. Cortona Academy's rolling enrollment saved us. They were willing to accept him within a week of applying and have worked tirelessly to help him catch up in all of the areas he was previously failing. Our son is very bright, but prior to Cortona, never had anyone actually require him "do school". The expectations of these teachers are high - every student MUST work to his/her potential. Also, the academic content is very rigorous- these kids are getting seriously educated. All of this is happening in a school environment where ALL kids fit in. Guess what? Our kid likes school again. He's working harder than ever before, but for once he has something to be proud of, instead of relentless Fs that he used to get. The positivity in school has seeped into the other parts of his life too - his sports, his interactions with friends, and his job. He even has a regular volunteer job now. Since school is no longer an emotional drain, his overall stress levels have dropped and he can now participate in more of "life" without getting overwhelmed. This move has been life changing for our whole family. We highly recommend Cortona Academy for any kid - it is a place where they can be at their very best.

Posted: May 17, 2024

Posted: January 1, 2024

As a parent of 2 daughters, not only was I concerned about the lack of quality and curriculum in the public & many privite school systems, but very concerned with any school to be able to look at their unqiue gifts & talents and be able to cultivate them. I had the privelidge of working in the most fabulous school in northern Virginia, The Cortona Academy. What I witnessed their was unlike any other school I have worked with, been involved in or have had my girls in. I can say that The Cortona Academy saved many students from failing in their education, and most importanly their self image. The standard of excellence in the teachers surpassed all that I have experienced. Not only was I impressed with their educational skills, but also with their desire to develop all the students uniquely and thoroughly in their indiviual gifts. Students that would have never made it to the college level were graduating with 4 plus GPA's. This was achieved by the cooperation of the teachers and staff to promote the students in every way possible. The work that was put into getting students their scholarships for college could not be done without collaboration. I would encourage any parent to check out this academy if you want a successful, secure son or daughter.

Posted: October 9, 2023

Cortona Academy has made a profound difference for our dyslexic child. The small classroom setting, individualized instruction, challenging curriculum, and safe environment are some of the things we like the most about Cortona. Their dedicated and experienced staff is particularly well attuned to the needs of dyslexic students and provide one-on-one instruction in the classroom setting and during study halls. Prior to Cortona, our child was receiving inappropriate services, no individualized instruction, and an unchallenging and mediocre curriculum in the Fairfax County Public School (FCPs) system. FCPS was also highly unresponsive to the needs of our child, who was suffering increasingly widening gaps in reading, spelling, writing, and math achievement. On the other hand, Cortonas intensive, repetitive, and multi sensory approach to instruction has worked very well laptops, c-pens, and textbooks (yes those still exist!) are used in every class. There is absolutely no stigma to using assistive technology as it is integrated into everything they do. The curriculum is also from very reputable sources (The American School and University of Nebraska High School), therefore it is well structured and challenging. In stark contrast to FCPS, the courses involve a lot of writing and critical thinking. Because they challenge their students and give them the confidence to succeed, our child was even able to earn high school credits while an 8th grader. In the first year at Cortona, our child jumped four grade levels in reading proficiency (based on Qualitative Reading Inventory administered by the public school.) Our child never picked up books before, but now actually reads books for pleasure and without prompting. Math skills have greatly improved as well, and calculators are not permitted for simple Algebra. Cortona also offers a fairly flexible schedule. The staff will work with you if your child has other tutoring services or extracurricular activities they take part in (outside of Cortona.) The field trips are also enriching and promote a sense of community. Cortona has truly changed our childs life, from feeling inadequate and ignored at FCPS to feeling empowered and confident at Cortona.

Posted: October 9, 2023

Posted: March 9, 2023

Cortona Academy allowed me to bounce back from what was an incredibly distressing year in my life. As the world dealt with the troubles and uncertainties of the pandemic, this academy provided a stability I was unable to find anywhere else. Contrary to the newfangled online schooling and virtual classes, I discovered that the teachers and staff are all incredibly supportive and easy to approach, always willing to help and answer questions. I have a good relationship with all of my peers, largely thanks to how the environment is extremely low-stress. Ive been provided with plenty of study halls in my schedule, which allows me to focus and have the ability to ask others questions rather than panic and stay up late at home. While going through the process of applying to colleges this year, I found that I was much more at ease than I expected and was able to get assistance for every step. Ive already been accepted to some schools and offered large scholarships, a testament to how Cortona Academy has improved my academic skills and my life.

Posted: February 14, 2023

Education has always been at the top of our family priorities. Recently our 14-year-old grandson came to live with us during the school year. Knowing he was bright and gifted, we sought out an institution that could help him advance academically, but in a stress-free and caring environment. We researched several private schools, did interviews, and found the right fit for him. Cortona Academy offered him an aggressive curriculum but was sensitive to his needs. The academy went beyond academics, helping instill confidence through team building activities, field trips, luncheons, and other engaging activities. The staff fostered his creativity and an enthusiasm for learning. He enjoyed each day there. Thanks to a competent and caring director and staff, our grandson is back on track. We're grateful to Cortona for providing him with a first-rate educational experience!

William G

Posted: September 22, 2022

A grandson was left in our care. We did an extensive search for schools that are interested in helping children to learn with a low student/teacher ratio. After our first meeting with the Director, we brought our grandson in for an interview and test. We fortunately were able to get him into the 9th grade program. For the past month he's been smiling on his way to and from school! He enjoys his classmates and the instructors. It's openning up dormant parts of his brain and we're loving it. GP

Posted: November 23, 2021

Growing up, I had always succeeded and enjoyed school. I never struggled and enjoyed my experience. Things changed once in high school as I started to not enjoy school. I was losing motivation to go to school and struggling with my classes. I was constantly not caring about myself or my future and needed a new healthier environment. After Sophomore year I decided that I need to try something new and thats when I found Cortona Academy. This turned out to be an amazing experience as this school was my savior. I am very grateful for this as I couldnt imagine where I would be without this experience. I have seen firsthand people that have lost all motivation from being in a negative environment. Its sad still having friends that dont have any happiness for school and their future. I dont think I would have made it through school if it were not for this decision. Cortona Academy has motivated me once again for school and my future.

Posted: November 4, 2021

We have been very impressed with our son's learning experience at Cortona Academy. Over his last two year's of attendance his skill set has approved across all areas. The small classroom size allows for direct teacher interaction and instruction. The teachers are all fully engaged and take a lot of interest in the student's mental and emotional well being. The methods of learning are setting up the kids to excel at the next level of education. I would highly recommend this school for any and all students no matter where their current educational skill level is currently at.

Posted: October 6, 2021

Cortona is an inclusive school where every students success matters. The staff is caring about the students successes and they work closely to ensure the students thrive. Highly recommend Cortona!

Posted: September 22, 2021

I spent two summers at Cortona as a camp counselor for their STEM summer camp. From my experience, I personally learned a great deal from Sharon, Karlis, and all of the wonderful instructors about how to work with kids.

I was very impressed by the size of the facility, and their emphasis on giving the kids fun, engaging, and hands-on projects. Cortona was the first school I had ever heard of that had elementary schoolers learning 3D modeling, and working with 3D printers, laser-cutters, and laser-engravers. If I could go back and do high school again, I would definitely consider going to Cortona.

Last note, I was also very impressed by their teacher to pupil ratio!

Posted: June 11, 2021

Before Cortona, I was at a loss. I was just a person rolling around, not really caring for the work I was doing. I was not thinking, Just like a robot. I was memorizing and writing information down, but not really gaining any critical thinking skills. That all changed when I came to Cortona. Here I was taught to really think about the work I was doing, not only to evaluate what work I was given, but also to expand upon it.
This school helped me expand my interests and to explore different fields. They also helped me greatly with the college admissions process. I am so much more motivated to learn now, and it is all thanks to Cortona Academy. They never gave up on me, even when I had given up on myself. For that, Cortona has my greatest thanks.

Posted: May 27, 2021

Before coming to Cortona, I struggled to focus and keep up in class. During 10th grade, I realized it would only get harder and something needed to change. So, I started attending Cortona in the middle of that school year. Even though I had to start over and complete the entire 10th grade, I was able to do so with the great support of teachers and the unique setup at Cortona, which included make-up weeks where I could catch up when needed. The small class sizes and personal attention are invaluable. Now, as I look forward to college, I feel like I am well-prepared because of the things Ive learned at Cortona. I learned how to be prepared for class and have tools for studying effectively.

Posted: May 27, 2021

Entering my first year of high school, I realized early on that I was different from my peers. I was not enrolled in any honors or advanced courses, while most of my friends were. This bothered me at the time, because even when I tried hard to get good grades and remain on top of my work, my grades remained average or below average. With every new year I thought that it would be my year to finally prove to myself and everybody else that I could do well. Every year my grades were barely better, and I started to lose hope in my academic abilities. I had just accepted the fact that the way I learned was not going to be how the school taught, and I will always be at a disadvantage.
Halfway through my junior year of high school, I began to struggle even more. My mother noticed my struggle and began to search for help. I started working with a tutor and staying after school for extra help. Even with the extra help I still struggled in my classes. After having enough, I found Cortona Academy and was intrigued by how different the school was. After visiting and reading up on the school, I knew that I could excel and reach my academic goals here.
I have now been at Cortona Academy for a whole year. Although most of that being during the COVID-19 pandemic, I still excelled and had the help that I needed that I did not get in public school. My GPA before Cortona Academy was about a 3.0 and it is now a 3.6. If I had not transferred here when I did, I do not think that I would had been as successful as I have been in my academics. I do not think I could have gotten into any of the schools I have gotten into such as VCU, GMU and ODU and committed to James Madison University.

Posted: May 27, 2021

When I started my high school journey I had no desire to participate in, let alone graduate from high school. I was unfocused and unmotivated, and was barely getting C's. I moved to Cortona Academy near the end of my freshman year. I was immediately welcomed not just as a student, but as something like a family member. I was not only shown love, but I was given the extra push I needed by the teachers to get where I am now, with straight A's. I am headed to college this fall, having been accepted to my dream school with about $80,000 in merit scholarships. I credit my academic success to the staff at Cortona and it was truly a pleasure to have been a student here.

Posted: October 22, 2020

They build in study time during the day for the kids to do their work so they don't have to take it home.

Posted: October 22, 2020

It's a 1 to 4 student to teacher ratio. The schools director also hires teachers who are committed to the children.

Posted: October 22, 2020

The pursuit of the "Congressional Award" by the students brings the opportunity to develop these characteristics.

Posted: October 22, 2020

The Director sees through the artificial labels others put on kids and develops a curriculum for the child to be successful.

Posted: October 22, 2020

ABSOLUTELY NO TOLERANCE at all for physical or cyber bullying.

Posted: October 22, 2020

Excellent. The school is small, with a high teacher/student ratio and a passionate director and staff who clearly care for the students.

Posted: October 22, 2019

Before I went to Cortona Academy I was not doing well in school, and I was not looking into going to college. I started attending Cortona Academy in the 11th grade. I was immediately surrounded by teachers that really cared about me and my grades. The classes, though demanding, are taught by great teachers who are very willing to work with you. After just one year at Cortona, I have achieved all As and am now looking at going to college and have a totally new outlook on school. Cortona has given me the confidence to take my learning to the next level and the confidence of knowing that I can excel in my future education. For that I am very thankful.
The thing I am most grateful for is the teachers; they are truly amazing. Most of them have PhDs in their fields and are great when working with me. Classes here are fun. For the science classes we do hands-on experiments which helps you better understand the material. In history, we watch films to see real world experiences about what we are learning. In English we have long discussions which help me understand more about the book I am reading. In Spanish we do a lot of interactive games which make the class fun while we are learning. In math classes, we work a lot with the teacher both in groups and one-on-ones. Cortona has small class sizes which means you get a lot of attention from your teachers which has helped me gain my confidence.
Cortona Academy is just an all around great environment. Everyone supports everyone, the people are amazing, and the teachers and great. I strongly recommend Cortona Academy if you are seeking a private school education for your child.

Andrew, Class of 2020

Posted: May 21, 2019

Cortona Academy has been a wonderful experience for our daughter. We transferred to Cortona as a senior to give our daughter a much better opportunity to learn, achieve her potential and be fully prepared for college. The staff at Cortona has been invaluable to her! Their program and teaching is focused on a students individual learning style and that has made a tremendous difference for our daughter. She now has the skills and self-confidence to be successful in college and has been accepted by all the universities she applied to and will be attending her top choice in the Fall. We thank Cortona and the teaching staff for all they did for our daughter!

Posted: October 31, 2018

Fantastic experience. The stress free approach is the key. The staff has the time to spend with the students and in turn, the students feel they are listened to and their opinion matters. There is a significant amount of interactive field trips and activities throughout the school year and these events keep the student's engaged. The teachers are all top notch and the director has a genuine compassion for each student and their path to success.

Posted: September 5, 2018

PhDs in their teaching subjects, 4:1 student:teacher ratios and flexible, individualized learning plans for each student.

Posted: September 5, 2018

Incredibly passionate leadership team who build this school from scratch. 28 years and still driven by the success of each student.

Posted: September 5, 2018

Individualized plans and 1:1 focus on each student.

Posted: September 5, 2018

Monthly discussions with students about bullying, respecting differences and inclusion.

Posted: September 5, 2018

Outstanding experience. This school does This school does not teach to the middle. Kids must do the work, even though each path may be different. Take the time to talk to the administation. We have not found anything like this and are very excited for our son.

Posted: May 29, 2018

Our son needed a fair amount of one on one help, as it turned out. The school's head had no problem with making arrangements for that and it did a world of good. The local public school system, on the other hand, basically wrote him off as hopeless.

Posted: May 29, 2018

As I wrote above, Cortona had no problems in arranging a good deal of one on one time with my son, which turned out to be extremely effective. I don't think many schools would have gone to such lengths for a single student.

Posted: May 29, 2018

My son, who has moderate ADHD and possibly some degree of autism, has said many times that he actually enjoys being at Cortona and likes his teachers. I never thought to hear those words coming out of his mouth. It's clear to me that he appreciates the extra time and effort his teachers have made, which is saying a lot for a 14 year old boy....

Posted: May 29, 2018

Last fall, my son required a 180 degree change in the course he was taking. Some work remains to be done but the improvement in his attitude and generally ability to concentrate and learn has been very significant. I should say that Cortona is a school for children who learn differently, as opposed to my son who has some degree of learning disability and so Cortona was not, perhaps, the best fit for him. Having said that, I can't imagine another school doing a better job of getting him turned around. I say this to point out the excellent work Cortona did, even with an 'exceptional' case like my son.

Posted: November 5, 2017

Cortona Academy has helped me a lot, for example, when I was in public school, I was stressed out doing homework and studying for tests. I was failing in English class. When I came to Cortona I knew it was a good fit for me. Cortona has a unique note-taking system, and accommodates students who have different learning styles. One thing that stood out to me was small group classes and one-on-one attention which enables the teacher to focus on you . I also like the fact that if you don't understand something, the teacher will happily explain the concept again. It allows me to get my homework done at school, so I didn't have to be worry about it doing it at home. Cortona has the support and the learning systems to get me ready for a four year college and pursue my dream in dentistry. Cortona has helped me set my future because when I was a public school, I didn't think that college would be in the picture. Now the doors are wide open.

Posted: November 2, 2017

My sophomore year I was in all honors classes at a 3000 person public school, passing all my classes with As. I was on two varsity teams, but something wasnt right. I took classes that their only goal was to prepare us for a standardized test that only seemed to evaluates the teachers ability to teach. Class sizes were large enough to the point where I was afraid to ask questions out of fear of looking stupid. Now, I go a school with small-individualized classes, where I can go to more in depth areas that are not on the Virginia standardized tests. The teachers are always there for you, and making sure you truly understand the content. The school hours are more individualized, so there is more time to get real life experience, such as volunteer work and internships. For example, I now have the time to go to George Washington University and do nanotechnology research in the afternoons after school. My next step is college, and I dont think I could be more prepared.

Posted: April 5, 2017

My daughter came from a bullying situation and now she looks forward to coming to school every day, because of Cortona Academy's welcoming embrace. The teachers are supportive, encouraging and last, but not the least, the students treat each other with respect only found in families. Now I have a very young, confident young lady graduating from Cortona Academy with a solid academic foundation and looking forward to nursing school. Before Cortona, my daughter was always worried about going to school and always came home depressed and sad, regardless of all the encouragement from her family. At Cortona, this became history. She enjoys coming to school every day and already says how much she will miss the school after graduation. Mrs. Strauchs, the Director, has been a God-sent gift to the school and we all truly appreciate all her help and faith in her students.

Posted: April 3, 2017

Cortona is such a unique school that will cater to child's own learning style and work with them to achieve goals they never before thought they could reach! Cortona had been such a great school for our daughter with excellent staff and teachers. They know what they are doing and how to work alongside your child at their own pace, but also will help them work and learn son a way know other school does. Cortona teachers are to notch and surely the most caring, supportive, knowledgeable teachers around. They go above and beyond the normal school. The school offers a very unique way of learning that know other school had. I feel that all students should have the luxery to learn this method.
Cortona Academy had helped en outage our daughter to dream of the future she never thought she was capablr of achieving . The staff encourages your child to dream big and they'll help them to be prepared to follow that dream. They help build confidenceinto these kids and to know that if they continue to dream big, work hard, and stay focused they can achieve what they started out to do.
Cortona Academy had helped our daughter further her education farther than she ever thought she could achieve. She's receiving an excellent grades at a higher level of learning than ever before this allowing her to raise her GPA and help her to receive acceptance letters to three of the wonderful colleges she sought to attend. Not only accepted but with wonderful scholarships as well! She has received scholarships offers for $19,000.00 and another for $17,000.00 from two different colleges. This is amazing!!!
We are so excited for our daughter and thankful for all of the hard work, patience, and support she has received from Cortona Academy in helping her toward achieving her goal. She couldn't have done it without you behind her cheering her on to success! We are forever grateful we found your school Cortona Academy!

Posted: April 3, 2017

There is no bullying allowed and being a small school anything thought to be happening is dealt with immediately.

Posted: April 3, 2017

When leaving this school each student should be leaving with a better understanding of themselves , stronger in character and more self confident and understanding to others differences!

Posted: April 3, 2017

Very caring , supportive , and will individualize each child's classes to what they need.

Posted: April 3, 2017

They will work with your child in the way that they need to to accomplish their work. They have built in study halls to help with their workload.

Posted: April 3, 2017

Cortona Academy is such a unique school that will cater to your child's own learning style and work with them to achieve goals they never before thought they could reach! Cortona had been such a great school for our daughter with excellent staff and teachers. They know what they are doing and know how to work alongside your child at their own pace, but also will help them work and learn in a way know other school does. Cortona teachers are top notch and surely the most caring, supportive, knowledgeable teachers around. They go above and beyound the normal school. This school offers a very unique way of learning that know other school has. I feel that all students should have the luxury to learn this method.
Cortona Academy has helped encourage my daughter to dream of a future she never thought she was capable of achieving. The staff encourages your child to dream big and they'll help them to be prepared to follow that dream. They help build confidence into these kids and to know that if they continue to dream big , work hard, and stay focused they can acheive what they started out to do.
Cortona Academy has helped our daughter further her education farther than she ever thought she could achieve. She's receiving excellent grades at a higher level of learning than ever before thus allowing her to raise her GPA and help her to receive acceptance letters to three colleges she sought to attend. Not only accepted but with wonderful scholarships as well! She has received a scholarship offer for $19,300.00 and another for $17,000.00 from two different schools. This is amazing!!!
We are so excited for our daughter and thankful for all of the hard work, patience, and support she had received from Cortona Academy in helping her toward achieving her goal. She couldn't have done it without you behind her cheering her on to success! We are forever grateful we found your school Cortona Academy!

Posted: March 31, 2017

My son just received over $100,000 in merit college scholarship at the college of his choice to study pre-med with guaranteed acceptance to medical school. This is due to his transferring to Cortona Academy as a junior. Before that time, he was only looking to attend NOVA and hopefully transfer into a 4-year college. This wonderful future that my son now has would have been impossible without the wonderful help, patience and encouragement of the teachers and staff at Cortona Academy. When I came to this country 30 years ago, I never imagined my son ever being in such an advantageous position with his schooling. This is all due to the decision I made two years ago to move him from the public school and invest in his future before college. Now Cortona has prepared him for college. He is confident, self-assured, and ready to tackle any academics that come his way. All because of the solid foundation at Cortona Academy.

Posted: February 28, 2017

All the teachers are very knowledgeable and dedicated to the students' success.

Posted: February 28, 2017

There is no bullying at Cortona and the students are respectful and supportive of each other.

Posted: February 28, 2017

Cortona Academy is the epitome of a great school. The classes are tailored to the needs of the students, and the teachers give them methods that they will use to be successful in College. My child has ADHD, and although very smart, he was failing in the other school he used to attend. Cortona Academy allowed him to get back on track, to develop method in a supportive and understanding environment. The cost is equal to most private schools in the area, but the investment is worth every penny! Before Cortona, my child was anxious and thought that he didn't have a future. In addition to a great education, Cortona Academy gave him back hope in his future!

Posted: February 16, 2017

The teachers at Cortona are dedicated to the students and work tirelessly to guide them to success. Every person is unique and the teachers understand that students learn in different ways. They are gifted in helping each student find his or her own path to success.

Posted: February 7, 2017

The environment is supportive and respectful - the students are kind to each other.

Posted: February 7, 2017

Education is tailored to the student's interests and academic level - the students are set up for success.

Posted: February 7, 2017

Students are taught to respect each other and to be responsible and thoughtful.

Posted: February 7, 2017

The teachers are highly educated and extremely dedicated to the students.

Posted: February 7, 2017

Posted: February 1, 2017

What makes Cortona Academy such a great school is that it looks out for the individual student and caters to their needs. I had to stop going to high school in 10th grade due to personal matters, and the hope for living the future I had planned for myself started to diminish, until Cortona came along. I ended up being able to complete grades 10, 11, and 12 in around the same time frame the rest of my former class was graduating, thanks to Cortona's philosophy on individuality. The professors also have an excel amount of education, which made the classes full of profound conversations enabling students to use their intellect and apply what they learn in real life. My circumstances had also made it difficult for me to keep up with the curriculum at a public high school, but not at Cortona. It also made me feel better that I wasn't the only one with special circumstances. The environment is very stress-free and supportive. Attending Cortona has been by far the best decision I've made in my academic career. It opened up many opportunities for me and allowed me to pursue my academic dreams, and for that I am very grateful to everyone at Cortona.

Posted: January 26, 2017

Cortona Academy has helped me to realize my true potential. The people here have taught me to strive for more in life. That if someone works hard and puts in the effort they can be successful in life. The teachers at Cortona are very helpful, understanding, and knowledgeable. They want to help me to do well and to have a fun in a safe, comfortable learning environment. Cortona Academy believes in their students and they work to make sure that their students believe in themselves as well. Everyone here is different and that means that they learn differently so, the staff helps everyone in any way possible to understand the material to succeed in their class. If a student is having trouble in class, the staff works to make sure that they can accomplished the tasks with the least amount of stress. The staff will even coordinate time for students to meet with the teacher one-on-one to make up work and classes. Cortona has taught me to learn more efficiently and on my own. I am thankful for all that Cortona Academy has done for me and for my future. Thanks to Cortona Academy I have learned so many new ways to help myself to succeed in the future. Cortona Academy really, truly cares about their students. For all these reasons and more, I am thankful.

Posted: January 26, 2017

Cortona Academy and its teachers do a tremendous job helping students better their skills in the classroom. Smaller classes allow for better student/ teacher relations and a more relaxed learning environment. Cortona also teaches students invaluable study skills that will allow them to succeed now, and in college. The best option among DC area private schools for furthering student growth is without a doubt Cortona Academy.

Posted: November 27, 2016

Cortona Academy was the best investment I ever made in my child's future. The cost is equal to other private schools in the DC Area, but there are merit scholarships and financial aid available. No where could I find a school that insured that once my daughter was in college, Cortona's level of education and systems of learning would KEEP her in college. Nor did I believe that the money I was paying would nearly all be paid back by the level of college scholarship my daughter would receive. This happened to us! We were amazed! Looking back, the fact that from the beginning, the Director saw my daughter as a successful, confident student and leader changed her life. She began to believe in herself and imagine a great future. This Director focuses on the whole child, not labels and not grades. An incredible woman! What I truly loved so much about our time at Cortona was the humanitarian values instilled in all the students and the incredible staff. What school has a staff like this? I'm so proud of who my daughter is today, and thankful to everyone at Cortona Academy for everything they have given our family.

Posted: November 13, 2016

Cortona Academy is a great school. Cortona has helped me strengthen my academic career over the last two years. They have a great support system for students from grades 6 to 12. When I came to Cortona last year I didn't have the greatest grades even though I considered myself smart and Cortona has helped me realize my potential.

Posted: November 13, 2016

Every student is free to form their own path. Students run the projects at Cortona. No one student is the same and everyone is encouraged to be leaders within the community.

Posted: November 13, 2016

Cortona Academy places a strong emphasis on hard work and determination. Students are rewarded for their hard work. Every student is free to form their own path and be leaders rather than following after others. The students are respectful, the staff is respectful. At Cortona, students learn what it means to not only be successful but to learn from mistakes and figure out how to prevent them in the future. This prepares students for the real world. Cortona offers values that everyone can keep dear to them even past college.

Posted: November 13, 2016

The teachers are extremely dedicated to doing their work. If anything is unclear the instructors clear up any confusions. The teachers are friendly and welcoming. Students should not hesitate to ask questions and Cortona offers a safe learning environment where everyone feels safe.

Posted: November 13, 2016

At Cortona homework no longer feels like an obligation. Homework is fun and studying is an interesting way of learning more about the topics at hand. The homework implements real world events and situations and allows for elaborate discussions in class.

Posted: November 13, 2016

Cortona Academy is a prestigious school that has helped me in ways I could not have imagined. Before I arrived at Cortona I attended a very competitive public school. I have attended public schools my entire life and the environment is much different from that of a private school. At my previous high school, I was just an average student, I was a part of the band, I made good grades, and I always did my work. Though it seemed I was getting a feel for public schools, I was not happy with what was going on. At my public high school, the environment was very stressful. I had to force myself out of bed at 5:30 am to get ready for school. I had to stay up late at night finishing piles of homework to make sure all the work for my seven classes were finished. I was overwhelmed. I no longer enjoyed school and I no longer saw the value of education. When my parents saw how stressed out I was it was the final straw. I searched for a good private school in Virginia in hopes of better opportunities. We stumbled upon a private school in Herndon called Cortona Academy.
Cortona Academy brings more to the table. When we went for our consultation I sensed a much better environment. The students and teachers are very friendly and the environment is stress-free. I was able to adjust to the school very quickly. The teachers are more than qualified and are extremely dedicated towards teaching their students all they can. The curriculum is advanced yet easy to follow and the course-load is very reasonable. At Cortona, every student is given the essentials necessary to be more than prepared for college and the outside world. Cortona offers a STEM program like no other. Every student is free to work on their own projects. Each project offers ways to solve real world problems. Through STEM I have been able to link many ideas to a bigger picture. Before Cortona, I was upset and frustrated, not sure how to achieve my academic goals. Cortona Academy gave me hope, motivation, and the tools necessary to prepare me for the outside world and I am forever grateful for what Cortona Academy has done for me.

Posted: March 21, 2016

When I took classes at Lake Braddock from 2007-2010, I was just another face in the crowd. Classes were packed with students beyond capacity where some kids could not even benefit from a desk. For four years I went into classes feeling like teachers were not really focused on me, that I was not receiving the proper productive attention that a child my age needed. Also, in addition to feeling isolated at school, my family was going through a difficult era at the same time. The cumulative result of both these foundations of my upbringing being unstable drove me to find some semblance of stability with whoever could offer it the fastest, meaning that the quality of the new support network was of very low quality. Therefore, my grades, and my life, quickly took a nosedive for the worse. Luckily, my parents still cared enough about my future that they found a solution to my travails, sending me to Cortona Academy.
That being said, Cortona Academy was a different experience to me. I was used to a large school environment with over 4,500 students; coming to a school where there were only thirty or so peers was quite a change for me. However I was not aware of the skills which I could apply to college and general life that I would learn from my tenure at Cortona Academy. I learned how to be a fast, but productive, reader of difficult texts and textbooks. I learned how to take effective, memory-enforcing notes that helped me retain much of what I read. But even greater than the study-skills that I garnered from Cortona Academy, were the life lessons that I learned. I realized how important it is to do as much as I can while I had the privilege of youth; that all that I did as early as I could would greatly affect my lifes progression, either positively or negatively. Before Cortona Academy, the now was all that mattered to me. Adulthood and responsibility were a long way off. But Cortona Academy helped me to see that time really does fly and that I must be aware of that or time would pass me by. Cortona Academy truly did speed up my maturing process and helped to shape me into the better, more social, and contributing member of society that I am today.

Posted: February 8, 2016

My daughter has attended Cortona Academy for almost two years. Cortona has been an excellent school choice for her. She has had great academic classes and access to interesting and educational field trips. I was also impressed that they read nine classics in English class during one school year, wrote essays and discussed them all. She has been taught valuable note-taking and organizational skills. Note-taking is performed on their computers as well as the written essays in class and out. She has done very well here due to her teachers, her specialized curriculum, small instruction groups and the flexibility to add in one-on-one sessions to the schedule.
Her curriculum was geared towards her needs. The courses she takes are challenging but the schedule is setup to ensure she has ample time for homework and time to pursue her interests outside of school. If your child is sick, has an opportunity outside of school or otherwise misses classes, the school is setup to support the student and the teachers work with them to catch up. For all of those reasons and more, it has removed the stress and anxiety she would otherwise experience at school.
What we also appreciate about Cortona is the environment. All of the students know and support each other. The rare issue is addressed quickly by the principal, whose goal is to ensure there are no social issues hindering their academic and emotional development as students.

Posted: November 18, 2015

Cortona Academy's curriculum and computer-based teaching techniques are light years ahead of other schools we've looked at, and we can't thank them enough for their all-out effort to help our son achieve at higher levels than we ever expected.

Posted: June 16, 2015

Cortona has helped my son in math. He struggled in the public school because of lack of resources. Cortona provided teachers and tutors to bring him up to speed. He was even able to pass a Chemistry course because of the excellent teaching staff at Cortona. My son was given a second chance. College was a possibility because Cortona made it possible for him to be eligible to achieve success. He got into 3 of the 4 colleges he applied to with Cortona's ability to crack the code on each child's learning capabilities.

Posted: January 28, 2015

Cortona Academy has helped me so much over the past 2 years. The small class size and individual attention paid to each student allows them to move at their own pace and excel. The technology that this school possesses is amazing too. The 3D printers alone are a huge draw for anyone interested in a STEM field. The teachers really care about the students and the student body itself is so supportive. Cortona Academy helped give me the confidence and optimism that i know is going to help me succeed in college.

Posted: January 14, 2014

Cortona Academy is just what I needed to get back on my feet. As a high school student attending a public school, I never felt appreciated as an individual. Sure the social culture of a public school was great, but it lacked the individual attention I needed from my professors. I also was never very comfortable speaking to my teachers outside of class if I needed the extra help because, in all honesty, it was 1) intimidating 2) sometimes not worth the wait. In a public school, teachers have about 100 students, give or take, to teach and look after. They grade every test, essay, and homework of every student, and just don't have the time for one on one help sessions. Cortona gave me the attention and compassion that I needed to stay focused and truly feel comfortable around my teachers. Their small classes provide that individualism that I was looking for. Although I was unnerved by the fact that the school was less that three dozen students, I have made wonderful friends and found each and every day enjoyable. Although very frightening at first, I have found it to be one of the best decisions of my life. I am proud to say that I am a Cortona student. =)

Posted: November 27, 2013

November 2013 Cortona Academy has one the best STEM-based programs on the East Coast. The ratio of students to staff is approximately 3:1. This ensured that our son received one of the best educations in the Washington Metro area. The tuition is comparable to any great private school in the D.C area, but I would have paid double just because of the unbelievably wonderful and helpful staff that helped my son become everything he now is, which is a great and prosperous college student. Our experience is typical of any parent who cares about their child, his well-being, and happiness. Signed, Happy Cortona Parent.

Posted: September 25, 2013

Caring and supportive teachers and staff who want your student to succeed. Flexible scheduling if your student has outside interests, as well as flexible areas of study.

Posted: September 9, 2013

Cortona Academy offers a unique learning environment. It may not be for every student, but for some it is the way to salvage their academic future. My very bright son has struggled for years with ADD, a significant health issue, and a terrible attitude toward school. He had given up, after bad experiences in two private schools and a public high school - all well respected institutions. Cortona has turned him around and he sees a way forward to success. Small classes with excellent, caring, highly-qualified teachers. A low-key, flexible approach that allows kids to be who they are. No judging, no bullying. Yes, you will have to go elsewhere for most extra-curriculars, but there is ample opportunity for service and there are some extraordinary field trips. My son goes to school willingly, enjoys his classes and his friends and knows he is accepted and valued. If your child tends to be an "outside the box" kind of person, and needs to be in a more intimate environment, Cortona may be the answer. There is nothing else like it.

Posted: June 10, 2012

I started at Cortona Academy in the fall. I really like the small class sizes and the teachers. They let you work at your own pace and you only take the tests when you are really prepared. The later start times are also a huge benefit. All the kids are supportive of each other and get along well.

#	Name	Type	City	State	Distance
1	Fox Mill Estates	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Herndon	VA	2.2 mi
2	Franklin Glen	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Fairfax	VA	3.9 mi
3	Fox Farm	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Great Falls	VA	6.2 mi
4	South Riding	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Chantilly	VA	6.5 mi
5	Little Rocky Run	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Clifton	VA	9.2 mi
6	Lewis Park	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Fairfax	VA	9.3 mi
7	Stonehurst	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Fairfax	VA	9.9 mi
8	Barkley	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Fairfax	VA	10.3 mi
9	Kings Park West	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Fairfax	VA	11.2 mi
10	Middleridge	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Fairfax	VA	11.4 mi
11	Shreevewood	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Falls Church	VA	11.7 mi
12	Willow Woods	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Annandale	VA	12.5 mi
13	The Elms	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Burke	VA	12.7 mi
14	Long Branch	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Annandale	VA	12.8 mi
15	The Townes	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Manassas Park	VA	12.9 mi
16	Burke Conservancy	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Burke	VA	13.5 mi
17	Broyhill Crest	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Annandale	VA	13.5 mi
18	Burke Station Square	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Burke	VA	13.9 mi

#	Name	City	State	Distance
1	Chantilly	Chantilly	VA	4.1 mi
2	Ashburn	Ashburn	VA	7.5 mi
3	Vienna	Vienna	VA	8.7 mi
4	West Falls Church	Falls Church	VA	11.7 mi
5	Falls Church	Falls Church	VA	12.5 mi
6	Burke Centre	Burke	VA	13 mi
7	Burke	Burke	VA	13.4 mi

Base	Distance
NRO Chantilly	5.2 mi.
Defense Health Headquarters Falls Church	12.4 mi.
Walter Reed Medical Center	17.4 mi.
Mark Center Alexandria	18 mi.
Fort Myer	18.6 mi.
Henderson Hall	19.1 mi.
Pentagon	20 mi.
Fort Belvoir	22 mi.
Fort McNair	22 mi.
Coast Guard Headquarters DC	22.3 mi.
Bolling AFB Joint Base Anacostia	22.6 mi.
Washington Navy Yard	23 mi.
Marine Barracks Washington	23 mi.
Indian Head Naval Base	28.2 mi.
Quantico Marine Base	28.7 mi.
Andrews AFB	30 mi.
Fort Detrick	33.6 mi.
Fort Meade NSA	37.6 mi.
Shepherd Field	43.8 mi.
Dahlgren NSWC	46.9 mi.
Coast Guard Curtis Bay	48.3 mi.
US Naval Academy	49.8 mi.

Cortona Academy of Science, Technology & the Arts

Herndon, VA 20171

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