Albemarle county schools have declined in recent years. We are in the western district and that is the highest rated (Henley middle school and western).

We had our kids in public but pulled them for private about 5 years ago. Henley enrollment has declined about 30 percent in an area or rapid population growth so that should tell you something. Google Henley lawsuit and you’ll learn more.

Western has an okay reputation, but there is grade inflation and a test policy that allows unlimited retakes, thus the reason for grade inflation. Kids from western get into decent schools, but we know many who have failed miserably in college and had to switch schools or quit.

I was against private schools initially, but ultimately we didn’t have a choice. The private schools down here are a fraction of the price in northern Virginia so you may want to look into that option.

I’m not OP but I often wonder what the culture of the schools is like. I grew up in Lynchburg, which was obviously never as cultured as Cville, but it’s not geographically far away, and it was all guns, good ole boys, lots of racism. That would be shocking, coming from APS. What is the culture of the schools like?

Academics are strong for the kids interested in rigor and with college plans.

How are the academics? Historically, it had a good reputation. Is that still justified?

Some UVA faculty utilize Albemarle and Charlottesville schools, and some utilize the private schools. Albemarle desperately needs a new high school but the elected officials don’t want that hot potato, aka chickens. We’re almost done with Albemarle schools as are youngest is graduating. We have mostly been happy with the schools and education our kids have received, but I am glad the end is near since there is no sense of urgency on the physical plant situation. Feel free to ask me more.

What do folks in Albemarle think about the Albemarle County schools these days ?

Thinking of moving into the County. Thinking UVA faculty living in the county will mean the schools should be good. Any feedback is helpful.