The Nysmith School

Accreditation: NIPSA

Founded: 1984

Ages/Grades: 3 years - 8th Grade

School Schedule: 8:30-3:00

School days in Calendar Year: 178

School Holidays: We follow Fairfax County Public Schools for most holidays

School Size: 650 students, 150 teachers and staff

Classroom Size: 18 Max

Student/Teacher Ratio: 9:1

Percentage of Graduating Class: 100

After School Programs: Yes

Computer Capabilities:

The Nysmith School stands out in Washington, DC, for its distinctive daily technology instruction, a feature that sets us apart from other schools. Our teams also make us proud by competing nationally virtually every year.

School Championships:

Our website's achievements page is a testament to our students' diverse talents. They have won National Awards in STEM and robotics, as well as in debate, history, geography, chess, and more, showcasing the breadth of our academic program.

School Clubs:

Nysmith offers over 65 afterschool clubs each week, including sports, academics, competitions, and fun social clubs.

Admissions Deadline: Rolling Admissions

Philosophy/Belief Statement: We firmly believe that every child has value; each has a role in this world. Nysmith's goal is to help every child become the best version of themselves and to learn their potential

School History: Carole Nysmith, a teacher in Fairfax County Public Schools Gifted and Talented program, founded the Nysmith School. Carole loved teaching but realized that with 25-35 children in each of her classes, she could give each child the time and attention to help each of her students reach their potential. Carole began The Nysmith School to help every child reach their potential. She believed that making school fun was just as important as academics and that, in fact, challenging academics can be fun if presented in a hands-on, engaging lesson. Small classes with a maximum 1:9 ratio allow teachers to teach up to four grade levels above grade to inspire the children. The curriculum includes hands-on science and technology classes, foreign language, reading, and math classes differentiated up to four grade levels above grade to nurture and challenge intellectual curiosity. The school also has a unique and powerful character education/ communication program for kindergarten eighth grade that teaches social skills, how to find happiness, time management, life balance, and so much more to help the children internalize the skills they will need to not only survive in a rapidly changing world but to thrive. The school minimizes repetition both in class and as homework to help children enjoy life while developing the skills that they will need.