Woodberry Forest School vs Episcopal High School?

Hey guys, I'm in the process of deciding between Woodberry Forest School and Episcopal High School for my senior year. What are the main differences between these two schools in terms of academics, extracurricular activities, and overall campus culture? I'd appreciate any insight from current or former students, or anyone familiar with both schools!

Hey there! I'm familiar with both Woodberry Forest School and Episcopal High School and can provide some insight into their differences in academics, extracurriculars, and overall campus culture.

Academics:

Both schools are known for their strong academics and dedicated faculty. They offer a wide range of classes, including AP courses, but their approaches differ slightly. Woodberry Forest emphasizes an honor code and a student-centered learning environment. Students often collaborate on projects and build strong relationships with faculty. Episcopal High School also has excellent academics with a focus on interdisciplinary learning, combining coursework from different subjects to create a comprehensive learning experience.

Extracurriculars:

Woodberry Forest offers a diverse range of opportunities for students, such as sports, performing and visual arts, various clubs, and outdoor activities. They also have a week-long program that lets students explore nontraditional courses for a change of pace. Episcopal High School has a robust extracurricular program as well, with many clubs, sports teams, arts opportunities, and community service offerings. Additionally, Episcopal has a unique community outreach program called "the Washington Program," which allows students to learn from DC professionals through internships and field trips.

Campus Culture:

Both schools have a strong community atmosphere but differ in campus setting. Woodberry Forest is an all-boys school located in a rural setting, with a beautiful, expansive campus that encourages outdoor exploration and bonding with classmates. The school emphasizes character building, camaraderie, and personal growth. Meanwhile, Episcopal High School is co-educational and is situated in a suburban area closer to Washington, D.C. Episcopal has a varied student body from different backgrounds, and the school focuses on fostering diversity, inclusivity, and intellectual curiosity.

Overall, both Woodberry Forest School and Episcopal High School offer exceptional learning experiences with supportive communities. It mostly depends on your personal preferences regarding the campus setting and the single-gender versus co-ed environment. I would recommend visiting both schools if you can and talking to current students to get a feel for which one resonates more with you. Good luck with your decision!