Virginia is widely recognized for its strong public education system and commitment to academic excellence. Middle schools across the state focus on developing critical thinking, leadership, and social skills while preparing students for high school success. This list of the best middle schools in Virginia highlights schools known for academic performance, balanced class sizes, and supportive learning environments.
Best Middle Schools in Virginia– Quick Comparison Table
| Rank | School Name | City | Grades | Students | Student–Teacher Ratio |
| 1 | B.T. Washington Middle | Newport News | 6–8 | 427 | 16:1 |
| 2 | Corporate Landing Middle | Virginia Beach | 6–8 | 1,039 | 17:1 |
| 3 | Kenmore Middle | Arlington | 6–8 | 1,004 | 13:1 |
| 4 | Jefferson Middle | Arlington | 6–8 | 1,088 | 14:1 |
| 5 | Bayside Middle | Virginia Beach | 6–8 | 702 | 12:1 |
| 6 | Gunston Middle | Arlington | 6–8 | 1,031 | 14:1 |
| 7 | Bayside 6th Grade Campus | Virginia Beach | 6 | 650 | 10:1 |
| 8 | Brandon Middle | Virginia Beach | 6–8 | 1,022 | 16:1 |
| 9 | Ella J. Fitzgerald Middle | Newport News | 6–8 | 969 | 15:1 |
| 10 | Crittenden Middle | Newport News | 6–8 | 849 | 12:1 |
🏫 Top 10 Best Middle Schools in Virginia
1. B.T. Washington Middle School
- Address: 3700 Chestnut Ave, Newport News, VA 23607
- Ranking: #1 Middle School in Virginia
- Grades: 6–8
- Students: 427
- Student–Teacher Ratio: 16:1
- Link: Visit this school
B.T. Washington Middle School in Newport News serves students in grades 6–8 and focuses on strong academic foundations. The school emphasizes literacy, math, and structured classroom learning while encouraging student participation. With a manageable student population and balanced class sizes, teachers can provide personalized support that helps students transition confidently toward high school academics.
2. Corporate Landing Middle School
- Address: 1597 Corporate Landing Pkwy, Virginia Beach, VA 23454
- Ranking: #2 Middle School in Virginia
- Grades: 6–8
- Students: 1,039
- Student–Teacher Ratio: 17:1
- Link: Visit this school
Corporate Landing Middle School is a well-known public school in Virginia Beach serving grades 6–8. The school offers a structured curriculum with a focus on academic consistency and student engagement. With modern facilities and experienced educators, students receive a well-rounded education that supports both academic growth and personal development.
3. Kenmore Middle School
- Address: 200 S Carlin Springs Rd, Arlington, VA 22204
- Ranking: #3 Middle School in Virginia
- Grades: 6–8
- Students: 1,004
- Student–Teacher Ratio: 13:1
- Link: Visit this school
Kenmore Middle School in Arlington is known for its low student–teacher ratio and academic rigor. The school encourages critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration through structured classroom instruction. Its supportive learning environment allows teachers to focus on individual student progress, making it one of the top-performing middle schools in Virginia.
4. Jefferson Middle School
- Address: 125 S Old Glebe Rd, Arlington, VA 22204
- Ranking: #4 Middle School in Virginia
- Grades: 6–8
- Students: 1,088
- Student–Teacher Ratio: 14:1
- Link: Visit this school
Jefferson Middle School in Arlington provides a strong academic curriculum designed to prepare students for advanced high school coursework. The school emphasizes balanced learning, student responsibility, and academic discipline. With consistent performance and dedicated educators, Jefferson Middle School remains a trusted choice for families in the region.
5. Bayside Middle School
- Address: 965 Newtown Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23462
- Ranking: #5 Middle School in Virginia
- Grades: 6–8
- Students: 702
- Student–Teacher Ratio: 12:1
- Link: Visit this school
Located in Virginia Beach, Bayside Middle School is known for its supportive classroom environment and low student–teacher ratio. The school focuses on academic growth, student well-being, and steady progress across subjects. Teachers work closely with students to ensure academic confidence and readiness for future educational challenges.
6. Gunston Middle School
- Address: 2700 S Lang St, Arlington, VA 22206
- Ranking: #6 Middle School in Virginia
- Grades: 6–8
- Students: 1,031
- Student–Teacher Ratio: 14:1
- Link: Visit this school
Gunston Middle School in Arlington serves a large student population while maintaining effective classroom instruction. The school emphasizes structured academics, collaboration, and extracurricular involvement. Its balanced teaching approach supports both academic achievement and social development for middle school students.
7. Bayside 6th Grade Campus
- Address: 4722 Jericho Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23462
- Ranking: #7 Middle School in Virginia
- Grades: 6
- Students: 650
- Student–Teacher Ratio: 10:1
- Link: Visit this school
Bayside 6th Grade Campus in Virginia Beach is dedicated exclusively to sixth-grade students. This focused setting helps students smoothly transition from elementary to middle school. Smaller class sizes allow teachers to give individualized attention, supporting both academic learning and social adjustment.
Historical & Interesting Facts About Virginia Education
- Virginia was among the first U.S. states to establish public education standards.
- Arlington County Public Schools consistently rank among the nation’s top districts.
- Middle school education in Virginia emphasizes STEM and college readiness.
- Virginia integrates career exploration programs starting at the middle school level.
8. Brandon Middle School
- Address: 1700 Pope St, Virginia Beach, VA 23464
- Ranking: #8 Middle School in Virginia
- Grades: 6–8
- Students: 1,022
- Student–Teacher Ratio: 16:1
- Link: Visit this school
Brandon Middle School offers a comprehensive educational experience for students in grades 6–8. The school balances academic instruction with extracurricular opportunities that support overall student development. Consistent teaching methods and student support services make it a strong choice in Virginia Beach.
9. Ella J. Fitzgerald Middle School
- Address: 432 Industrial Park Dr, Newport News, VA 23608
- Ranking: #9 Middle School in Virginia
- Grades: 6–8
- Students: 969
- Student–Teacher Ratio: 15:1
- Link: Visit this school
Ella J. Fitzgerald Middle School in Newport News focuses on academic consistency and student engagement. The school provides structured instruction and learning support to help students develop strong academic habits. Its emphasis on preparation and performance makes it a reliable option for middle school education.
10. Crittenden Middle School
- Address: 6158 Jefferson Ave, Newport News, VA 23605
- Ranking: #10 Middle School in Virginia
- Grades: 6–8
- Students: 849
- Student–Teacher Ratio: 12:1
- Link: Visit this school
Crittenden Middle School in Newport News offers a supportive academic environment with a low student–teacher ratio. Teachers focus on individualized instruction, academic discipline, and student progress. The school plays an important role in preparing students for high school readiness and long-term success.
Conclusion
Virginia offers a wide range of high-quality middle schools focused on academic excellence, structured learning, and student development. The schools listed above represent some of the best middle schools in Virginia, providing strong educational foundations and preparing students for high school and beyond.
Recommended Reading: Best Elementary Schools in Virginia
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FAQs About Middle Schools in Virginia
B.T. Washington Middle School ranks highly for academic balance and student support.
Arlington, Virginia Beach, and Newport News have several top-ranked middle schools.
Yes, Virginia public middle schools consistently perform well academically.
Most Virginia middle schools serve grades 6–8.
Rankings consider academics, student–teacher ratios, enrollment, and learning environment.
