School History
West Potomac High School is a public high school in the Alexandria area of Fairfax County, Virginia, proudly serving students in grades 9–12 as part of Fairfax County Public Schools. Founded in 1985, West Potomac was established through the consolidation of Groveton High Schooland Fort Hunt High School, bringing together two strong school communities under a new name and shared vision.
The school occupies a campus originally opened in September 1960as Bryant Intermediate School. Over time, the site evolved to meet the needs of a growing community, reopening as a high school in 1986following the merger. The former Groveton High School building now houses Bryant Alternative High School, while the Fort Hunt site became Carl Sandburg Middle School, West Potomac’s primary feeder school.
Situated near the Potomac River between George Washington’s Mount Vernon estateand the City of Alexandria, West Potomac’s location reflects its deep connection to regional history and community. Early in its history, the school adopted the motto “The Tradition Begins Now,”which later evolved into the enduring phrase “Excellence is a Tradition.”The school also embraces its Latin motto, “Ad Astra Per Aspera”— To the Stars through Struggles —reflecting perseverance, resilience, and aspiration.
A Diverse and Inclusive Community
West Potomac serves one of the most diverse student populations in Northern Virginia. Students represent more than 50 countriesand speak 35 languagesat home, with a wide range of cultural, socioeconomic, and ability backgrounds. This diversity is a defining strength of the school, enriching classroom instruction, extracurricular involvement, and community life. Staff and students alike benefit from the cross-cultural experiences that prepare learners for success in a global society.
As of 2024, West Potomac enrolls approximately 2,643 studentsand is supported by nearly 300 staff members. The school’s suburban campus fosters a welcoming environment where students are encouraged to grow academically, socially, and personally.
Academic Excellence and Innovation
West Potomac offers a rigorous and well-rounded academic program, including a broad selection of Advanced Placement courses, college preparatory pathways, and Career and Technical Educationoptions. Through the West Potomac Academy, students can pursue focused studies in health and medical sciences, communication and the arts, and human services. In 2013, the Academy earned the designation of Governor’s Health Science Academyfrom the Virginia Department of Education.
The school continues to evolve through the implementation of professional learning communities, ensuring instruction remains responsive to the demands of the 21st-century global economy while supporting equity and student success.
Tradition, Athletics, and the Arts
West Potomac is home to a proud athletic tradition, competing in VHSL Class 6, Region C, with long-standing rivalries including Mount Vernon High Schooland Alexandria City High School. The Wolverines—represented by the school’s royal blue and silvercolors and Wolverine mascot—have earned numerous district, regional, and state championships across multiple sports.
Beyond athletics, West Potomac students are deeply engaged in the arts, service, and leadership. More than half of the student body participates in over 50 extracurricular clubs, athletic teams, and music and performing arts programs, contributing hundreds of hours of community service each year and strengthening ties between the school and its surrounding community.
A Legacy of Excellence
Today, under the leadership of Principal Jessica Statz, West Potomac High School remains firmly rooted in its tradition of excellence while continually looking forward. Through strong community partnerships, innovative programs, and a commitment to inclusion and high expectations, West Potomac continues to prepare students not only for graduation—but for life beyond its doors.
Learn about the origin of our school's name in this video produced for Fairfax County Public Schools’ cable television channel Red Apple 21.
