We Are West Po Proud!

Discover What It Means To Be a Wolverine

Academic Excellence

Embracing the motto "Excellence is a Tradition," WPHS has a longstanding reputation for fostering high levels of academic and personal achievement and offers a robust academic program, including numerous Advanced Placement courses and professional technical studies. As WPHS implements small professional learning communities, it continues to adapt to the challenges of preparing students for success in the 21st-century global economy and has demonstrated remarkable progress in enhancing academic experiences for all its students. Most recently, WPHS received the prestigious 2024 Exemplar Award and the recognition of one exceptional student as a National Merit Semifinalist for 2025, highlighting the school's commitment to fostering student growth and achievement. West Potomac also earned the 2023 AP School Honor Roll Silver Distinction, with 50% or more of last year’s graduating seniors taking at least one Advanced Placement exam during their time at West Potomac, 30% of them scoring a 3 or higher on such exams and 5% taking five or more AP exams while in high school.

Access to Opportunity

One recent West Po grad won a $40,000 scholarship to George Mason University to pursue a nursing degree after seizing every opportunity during her high school years, from becoming a New Student Ambassador and a member of the Hispanic Leadership Club to participating in AVID, clinical nursing rotations, and more. Programs like AVID, JROTC (Army), and Students Helping Others United Together (SHOUT) provide students with incredible learning experiences, leadership development, and support, paving the way for success in college and beyond by equipping them with skills, confidence, and a strong sense of community.

Dedicated Staff Focused on Equity

Teachers and staff at West Potomac are celebrated and rewarded for their dedication and successes, as seen in initiatives like the West Potomac Super Snack and "La Liga" programs, where their commitment to equity, creativity, and student connection has made a tangible impact on our school community. In the spring of 2024, the West Potomac "La Liga" program was established, creating a fun and inclusive soccer league for students, particularly those who might not typically participate in after-school activities. The program made a concerted effort to engage multilingual students who may have felt disconnected from other school programs. The impact has been remarkable, with participating students demonstrating improved attendance and academic performance, while also developing a deeper sense of connection and belonging within the West Potomac community.

Connected Community

West Potomac maintains strong ties with local businesses and schools, ensuring it addresses the academic and extracurricular needs of all students. West Potomac hosts family English literacy classes every week to assist parents and guardians in supporting their child’s educational experience and offer an opportunity to connect school leadership, staff and community. Since 2018, West Potomac High School’s annual Veterans Day of Service, held in partnership with the Travis Manion Foundation, has been a powerful source of community connection and tribute. Embracing the motto “If Not Me, Then Who…,” this event gathers students, staff, veterans, first responders, and local residents to complete service projects that honor active duty and fallen heroes. Volunteers tackle campus beautification efforts—from painting to landscaping—while local businesses generously provide meals, creating a true spirit of collaboration. With inspiring speakers and a remembrance of West Potomac’s own fallen hero, Command Sergeant Major James Blankenbecler, the event unites the community in a shared commitment to legacy and service.

Core Values: Collaboration, Leadership, Accountability & Work Ethic

Students who embody our core values of Collaboration, Leadership, Accountability, and Work Ethic are recognized by staff with C.L.A.W. cards, which are then entered into a weekly prize drawing. This initiative is part of our comprehensive strategy to encourage and reward positive behavior, fostering a school culture centered around mutual respect, effort, and achievement. 

Enhanced Learning Environment

The new addition at West Potomac High School, funded by the 2017 and 2019 bonds, has had a significant positive impact on the school environment by alleviating overcrowding and enhancing learning spaces. The 71,000 square-foot expansion, which includes state-of-the-art science classrooms and an expanded cafeteria, not only addressed the substantial capacity deficit from previous years but also created a more welcoming and functional space to support the school’s growing student body.

Unparalleled Post-Secondary Preparation

Students at West Potomac High School are well-prepared for their futures through access to a wealth of resources for college, career, and military readiness, including personalized guidance from the College and Career Center, hands-on experience in JROTC, specialized Academy courses like Pharmacy Tech certification work, and CTE programs such as film production, equipping them to make informed decisions about their post-secondary opportunities.

Legacy of Successful Alumni 

West Potomac High School graduates go on to excel in diverse careers, leaving a powerful legacy across fields. Virginia Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell (Class of 1989), a proud Wolverine who played French Horn in the marching band and was on the Varsity golf team, is just one example of how West Potomac alumni make an impact. Other notable figures include actor Diedrich Bader, Olympian Tiombe Hurd, and acclaimed Broadway star Gary Beach. West Potomac provides a strong foundation for students, equipping them to succeed and make a difference in their communities and beyond. To recognize our alum, the West Potomac High School Hall of Fame honors the legacy of outstanding alumni athletes, coaches, and dedicated contributors who brought pride to our school and community. Eligible nominees include former athletes, coaches, and administrators or volunteers who have made significant impacts on our sports programs. This initiative celebrates the accomplishments and dedication of those who exemplify West Potomac’s tradition of excellence in athletics.

Exemplary Performing Arts

West Potomac High School’s Beyond the Page Theatre Company is known for its tradition of excellence, bringing top-tier high school theater to the community. The company stages three major productions each year—a fall musical, a winter play, and a spring musical—and hosts a One-Act Festival showcasing student talent. The theater department consistently garners Cappies nominations and awards, and regularly participates in prestigious festivals like the Virginia Theatre Association Conference and the Virginia High School League's One-Act Festival. Highlights include performing at the Capital Fringe Festival in 2013, the Folger Festival, and even taking "Avenue Q" to VTA, where it earned Best Ensemble. In 2015, West Potomac became one of the first high schools to produce Green Day’s *American Idiot*, further cementing its reputation as a leader in high school theater.

School Culture Celebrates Diversity, Service, & Involvement

The school serves one of the most diverse student bodies in northern Virginia, drawing from an economically, racially, and ethnically mixed community, with students hailing from over 50 countries and speaking 35 different languages at home. This rich diversity enhances the educational experience for both staff and students alike, while fostering a vibrant culture of community service and participation in over 50 extracurricular clubs, music, and sports. Celebrating culture, heritage, and diversity is a longstanding tradition at West Potomac High School. Every October, the Spanish for Careers Applications class proudly hosts the Annual Hispanic Interactive Wax Museum transforming into famous Hispanic figures, sharing inspiring stories in both Spanish and English. Through this event, students delve into the rich cultures of their home countries, deepening their appreciation of Hispanic heritage.

It's easy to see why West Potomac High School is a standout choice! From our strong academic programs to an inclusive, vibrant community, these are just a few examples what makes being a Wolverine special. Come find out for yourself why students thrive and love their school, and why talented teachers are drawn to join our dedicated team.