10 Reasons That West Springfield Stands Out

West Springfield High School is a vibrant community dedicated to fostering personal growth, respect, and a love of learning in every student. We strive to create a supportive environment where students are empowered to reach their highest potential and develop the skills they need to succeed. Beyond the classroom, West Springfield provides opportunities for holistic development through engaging after-school programs, including academic enrichment, arts, and cultural clubs, that encourage curiosity and build confidence. 

Academic Achievement

WSHS is known for high academic achievement including:
100% pass rate Grades 9-12 SOL
97% pass rate Grades 9-12 SOLs
100% students grades 9-12 meeting reading and math screener benchmarks
100% multilingual learners grades 9-12 who demonstrate progress in language acquisition.
100% students succeeding in one or more AP/IB/DE or other 1.0 weighted courses, or earning CTE finisher status by the end of high school.
Three WSHS students were named 2025 National Merit Semifinalists.

National Recognition

US News & World Report ranked West Springfield High School 10th in Virginia. Total minority enrollment is 52%, and 17% of students are economically disadvantaged.

Advanced Class Options

Our rigorous course offerings include 32 Advanced Placement and nine Dual Enrollment courses. We were named a Gold Distinction School in the 2024 AP Honor Roll. This recognition was based on criteria that reflect a commitment to increasing college-going culture, providing opportunities for students to earn college credit, and maximizing college readiness.

High Student Participation

The AP participation rate at West Springfield High School is 62%. Of those students who participated, 73% scored a 3 or higher on the AP exam.

Integrated Leadership Program

The Integrated Leadership Program at West Springfield High School empowers students to develop essential leadership skills through hands-on experiences and collaboration. This unique program integrates leadership principles across various disciplines, preparing students to excel as confident, capable leaders in both their school and community.

Performing Arts

West Springfield's 2024 production of Sweeney Todd School Edition won multiple Cappies Critics Awards including recognition for Special effects and/or Technology, Hari and Make-Up, Lighting, Orchestra, Ensemble in a Musical, Lead Actor in a Male Role in a Musical, Song, and Musical.

Purple Star School

The Virginia Department of Education and the Virginia Council on the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children have designated West Springfield High School as a Purple Star School. This designation recognizes schools for their dedication to helping military-connected students and their families. WSHS serves more than 500 military connected students. Our Military Ambassadors Club (MAC) is a student group that supports our military-connected students.

Outstanding Staff

We are very proud of Madison McKenna, who was named the 2024 Outstanding Secondary Teacher in Fairfax County Public Schools. Also, our amazing WSHS Spartan Tech Team won a 2023 FCPS Excellence Award for their innovative approach to technology distribution, resource tracking, and staff training, and making technology integration seamless for students and staff.

Community Partners

We are thankful for dedicated community partners who have long supported our students in the areas of workforce development, mentorship, entrepreneurship, and food insecurity. Our partners include Edu-Futuro, Genesys Works, Junior Achievement of Greater Washington and Food for Neighbors.

Wonderful Alumni

Alumni pride runs deep at West Springfield. FCPS Hall of Fame 2024 inductee Todd Stottlemyer (‘81) is CEO and board member of Acentra Health. Stottlemyer was honored for demonstrating exceptional leadership in the healthcare industry, influencing policy and innovation. WSHS’ Alumni Hall is a collaboration space that honors our distinguished alumni and alumni staff in. Our Athletics Hall of Fame recognizes alumni and their achievements in athletics at WSHS and beyond.