Saint Rita School embraces the principle that “the soul of education is the education of the soul”.
We are a small Catholic school dedicated to forming children intellectually and spiritually using the teachings and traditions of the Catholic Church and the patrimony of Western Civilization.
St. Rita School believes: children are created in God's image and therefore have great dignity; parents are the primary educators of their children and they glorify God by bringing their children closer to Him; education enhances a child's potential to glorify God; the school is to teach a strong academic curriculum, the tenets of the Catholic Faith, and the habits of mind and traits of character that are essential for success in this world and the next; teachers are to be living models of faith, animated by love and generosity, and capable of forming young minds and hearts; and the parish supports this Catholic education of children by providing prayer, the presence of priests and volunteers, and financial subsidies.
Quick Facts (2025-26)
- Top Ranked VA School
- Grades: Prekindergarten-8
- Enrollment: 268 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
Top Rankings
St. Rita School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Virginia for:
School Overview
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-8
Year Founded
1952
School Calendar
Student Body
Total Students
268 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
26%
State avg.: 31%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
16 teachers
Student-Teacher Ratio
17:1
National avg.: 13:1
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Application URL
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
Frequently Asked Questions
What schools are St. Rita School often compared to?
St. Rita School is often viewed alongside schools like The Basilica School Of St. Mary by visitors of our site.
What is St. Rita School's ranking?
St. Rita School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Virginia for: Largest student body and Oldest founding date.
When is the application deadline for St. Rita School?
The application deadline for St. Rita School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
In what neighborhood is St. Rita School located?
St. Rita School is located in the Potomac West neighborhood of Alexandria, VA. There are 4 other private schools located in Potomac West.
School Reviews
Endorse St. Rita School. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles

What Private School Alumni Say a Decade Later
Ten years after graduation, private school alumni reflect on advantages, regrets, career impact, and life lessons—unearthing truths families need to know.

Can Private School Help with College Admissions?
Explore how private schools influence college admissions—advantages, limitations, and what families should expect.

Inside the Daily Life of a Private School Student
Discover what daily life is like for private school students in 2025, from classes and athletics to dining, dorms, and extracurriculars.