Current BI parent. My kid is in their Freshman year.

The school enrollment is current at/capped around 950. To put that into perspective, some of the local High Schools in Fairfax County are 2400+ students.

From our perspective, you should have zero concern about BI being too big and or lost in the fray. It's really the exact opposite at BI.

That being said, freshman year is a transition for most and has it's up and downs regardless of where your kid goes to school-BI is no different.

But my kid is adjusting, challenged academically in her honor classes, and plays two sports. There are ample opportunities to get involved through clubs, sports, theaters, etc and truly believe every kid can find a place at BI.

There's a genuine and sincere feel at BI, too that permeates throughout the campus beginning with the Head of School office. The administration and staff are really proud of their community and what it has to offer to prospective students.

I hope this helps!

Bumping for more thoughts on BI. My chief concern is whether it so large that kids can get lost in the fray/have trouble finding mentors?

Current BI parent - We have been impressed across the board. Our student is working hard in school and enjoying the athletic and arts opportunities. DC didn't know many kids going in and has made many friends. It's such a warm community.

Not OP, but appreciate this feedback

My son who was disappointed about NOT going to another popular all boys school was not all that excited about BI but that didn’t last long. He’s made tons of friends, there’s always something fun going on school-wise, lots if offerings sports-wise and plenty of other activities abound. I even hear praise about the food. Cardinal swag is proudly worn these days!

We are very happy there. It's a very down to earth community. There are a ton of options for students academically. I have one child there currently. They have the heaviest graduation requirements of many of the schools around with core classes required each year while still offering a lot of elective choices. Nice size school, great area, great kids, great teachers. My child does two sports and it's been a good experience. Lots of good schools around and we are really happy with our choice of BI.

Anonymous wrote:Any recent thoughts on Bishop Ireton?

Have a couple of kids there and been very pleased. It has a variety of academic offerings so plenty of rigorous academic opportunities for my driven kids as well as more laid back for my less than stellar student.

It’s got tons of sports, clubs and arts stuff (more theatre and music than visual offerings tho.) We’ve been very happy and feel so blessed it is close by and affordable.

Curious as well—we’ve been accepted and will most likely go. In talking to parents and students, people seem to really like it. Plenty of challenging courses and lots of sports and activities and it seems like a good community. That’s what I’ve glean from conversations, but I would also love to hear from people who are current parents.