10 Reasons Chantilly Stands Out
What Makes Our School Special
It's a Great Day to be a Charger!
Chantilly High School is known for its diverse student body and strong academic programs. Our school emphasizes both academic excellence and personal growth. Chantilly offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and clubs, to support well-rounded student development. Show choirs, instrumental groups, and drama groups give performances regularly throughout the year, while journalism students consistently produce nationally acclaimed publication. Our faculty and staff are dedicated to fostering a positive learning environment and preparing students for success in high school and beyond where they can LEAD THE CHARGE!
We Focus on the Whole Student
Chantilly prioritizes the well-being of its students and staff through school-wide initiatives such as Wellness Fairs, which provide a schoolwide break to participate in art, physical activities, and social connection. Four Wellness Fairs are scheduled throughout each school year. Some of the students’ favorite activities include Guide Dog Puppy Petting, Pickleball and Slime-Making. Chantilly provides a safe and supervised environment to explore interests, develop new skills, and build lasting friendships. With over 100 diverse after-school programs, there is something interest and every student in our school community. From academic clubs focused on robotics, coding, and debate to clubs for artist's like choir, band, and theater, students can grow. Sports enthusiasts have nearly unlimited options, including basketball, soccer, swimming, and track & field. For students interested in community service, volunteer clubs offer opportunities to give back to the local community. The variety of choices here ensure that every charger can make a connection with like-minded peers, engage and contribute to our school culture., Cornhole, and Board Games. Students also have the opportunity to participate in Lunch and Learn Sessions on topics ranging from Focused Note-taking, Poetry, Stress Management, and Completing the Common App. Each year, during the week before SOL and AP testing starts, we have a Stress Less, Laugh More week. Our PTSA, Our Minds Matter Club, Leadership students, and our Student Services team put together a range of fun and stress relieving activities such as visits with Therapy Animals, Games during lunches, and a school-wide Rock, Paper, Scissor tournament.
Through our academic advising process which includes student/teacher mini conferences, individual meetings with counselors, and an opportunity for parents and students to meet with counselors to review a student’s course selections, we work to provide each student with personalized and supportive growth opportunities and encourage students to take on new challenges in their coursework while maintaining wellness and balance.
Our Families Are Our Partners
Developing strong partnerships with our families is essential to ensuring student success and well-being. Results from the 2024 Family Engagement Survey results recognize the priority we place on building connections with our students and families, and ensuring that all of our Chargers thrive. View survey highlights below:
- I feel welcome at my child's school - 92%
- There is at least one caring adult at school that my child trusts - 90%
- My child enjoys going to school - 89%
- I feel regular school attendance supports my child’s academic success - 96%
- Our school recognizes and respects families’ cultural, ethnic and religious diversity - 89%
Each year, we hold a Curriculum Night for families which includes a special program for the parents of rising 9th graders. Prior to the large event, we have a special program for our Multilingual Learner families where we use translation headsets to provide them with information about our school’s academic and co-curricular programming as well as the resources and support available for students and families throughout their high school journey. We also hold an Open House each year featuring scrimmage football game, Marching band demonstration, food trucks, opportunities to join the PTSA and Boosters, learn more about CHS clubs, sports, and activities, and visit each of a student’s teachers to meet them and figure out where each class in a student’s schedule is located. It is one of our most well-attended events and we love to see our students and families after summer break!
We Welcome Military Families
Chantilly is proud to be a Purple Star School. This designation from the Virginia Department of Education and the Virginia Council on the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children recognizes our dedication to assisting military children with school transition and developing programs that value military service and civic responsibility. We host several community events each year to honor and recognize military personnel and their families including a Veterans Day Program which includes a parade where students line the hallways to honor Veterans as well as a program featuring student and faculty speakers and performances. We also host events during the Month of the Military Child including a breakfast for students and their families as well as a spirit week which commemorates the sacrifices that military connected students and their families make when a family member is on active duty. We have an Ambassador Program for newly enrolled military connected students that provides them with a peer who is also military-connected and who helps them feel connected with and to our vibrant Chantilly Community.
We Support Each Other with Peer Mentoring
At Chantilly High School, we believe that a strong sense of belonging is essential for student success. One of our most impactful programs designed to foster this sense of community and connection is our Peer Mentoring Program. This program pairs upperclassmen with incoming freshmen. Our dedicated student leaders in Grades 11 and 12 support building foundational skills necessary to help their younger peers navigate their new high school environment. These mentors then facilitate engaging activities and discussions throughout the year, creating opportunities for connection, understanding, and friendship. Through this peer-to-peer collaboration, we aim to create a welcoming and supportive environment for our newest Chargers. By providing a safe space for students to share experiences, ask questions, and simply connect with one another, we empower them to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
We Value Student Voice
Our Principal's Advisory Council, known as the Charger Cabinet, plays a vital role in representing student perspectives and fostering a positive school environment. This group provides valuable feedback on Chantilly programs, activities, and ways to better support students. As a bridge between the student body and school leadership, the Charger Cabinet strengthens student voice and advocacy, contributing to school improvements. Students are also building communication, collaboration, and problem solving skills which will be an asset to them in life beyond high school.
Other opportunities for student voice and leadership include our Student Services Advisory Board, where students are asked to share their recommendations around course offerings, student services programming, school-wide initiatives, and grading and scheduling at CHS. We also have a student-led group entitled Chantilly Scholars. Chantilly Scholars works to increase opportunities and understanding for students who are underrepresented in college level courses and who may need additional support and collaboration to create a meaningful post-secondary plan that includes consideration of college. Chantilly Scholars also builds partnerships and connections with Brookfield ES and Rocky Run MS Young Scholars through field trips and school visits as well as mentoring opportunities. Chantilly Scholars is funded through the FCPS Student Achievement Grant and includes monthly meetings focused on increasing access and opportunities for students through guest speakers, lectures, activities, and community building. Chantilly Scholars also sponsors a SAT boot camp each year for juniors and seniors. We also plan at least two college visits as well as opportunities to attend College Fairs that are held during the school day.
We Support Next STEPs for Students
Our amazing Secondary Transition to Employment Program offers a unique opportunity for young adults with disabilities aged 18-22 to gain valuable career and life skills. By focusing on real-world experiences, students are empowered to develop independence, confidence, and job readiness. The program's diverse curriculum, including job shadowing, internships, and community-based learning. This unique program prepares our students for successful transitions into the workforce and independent living. STEP instructors provide expert guidance and support, helping students set and achieve their goals. With a strong emphasis on practical skills and personal development, STEP is a valuable resource for young adults seeking to reach their full potential.
Our Students Explore New Interests and Find Their Passion
Chantilly provides a safe and supervised environment to explore interests, develop new skills, and build lasting friendships. With more than 100 after-school programs, there is something for every Charger! We offer academic clubs such as robotics, coding, debate and American Sign Language. For artist's we have options like choir, band, theater, creative writing and fashion. Sports enthusiasts have numerous options, including basketball, soccer, swimming, and track & field. For students interested in community service, volunteer clubs allow them a chance to give back to the local community. The incredible variety of choices ensures that every Charger can engage in an activity they care about while connecting with other Chargers and contributing to our school culture.
We Are Committed to Academic Excellence
The Chantilly High School Community is committed to a comprehensive program that stimulates academic excellence in the arts and sciences as well as in business, vocational, and extracurricular pursuits. We are committed to providing a program that encourages students not only during their high school years, but also prepares them for success beyond high school.
The College Board named Chantilly a 2024 Gold Distinction Advanced Placement (AP) School Honor Roll for our commitment to increasing college-going culture, providing opportunities for students to earn college credit, and maximizing college readiness. This Gold Distinction means that a school meets the following criteria:
- College Culture: 65% or more of the graduating cohort took at least one AP exam during high school.
- College Credit: 35% or more of the graduating cohort scored a 3 or higher on at least one AP exam during high school.
- College Optimization: 10% or more of the graduating cohort took five or more AP exams during high school.
Chantilly also provides students with a broad range of Dual Enrollment (DE) courses. Our 22 DE courses are taught by Chantilly High School teachers that have been credentialed by Northern Virginia Community College. These CHS teachers allow students to earn college credits towards an associate and/or bachelors degree either during or after high school. Many of these DE courses also allow students to qualify for industry credentials. Ten of our students were named 2025 National Merit Scholarship Semi-Finalists, and 49 students have been named National Merit Commended Scholars for 2025.
Our College & Career Center Supports Post-Secondary Success
Our College & Career Center is dedicated to empowering students as they plan for their future. College & Career specialists understand that success may look different to each student. Whether they are planning for college, joining the workforce, or exploring a vocational training program, our staff works hard to provide personalized support and resources to help each student navigate their path with confidence. Students can learn about college and career options, financial aid and scholarship resources, standardized testing preparation, military careers, apprenticeship and technical school programs, job listings, summer opportunities, and volunteer programs.
Seniors are eligible to participate in our Charging Forward experience which allows students to complete an unpaid internship or work experience for their last three weeks of classes. Students may also elect to volunteer or to complete a project or a plan for a non-profit, or to help solve a problem they have observed in their community. Students have interned at a wide range of places including law offices, Fairfax County government agencies, hospitals, auto repair shops, a cricket club for elementary age students, in schools, and at a bakery. The culminating activity is to complete a presentation at our Share Fair which includes a reflection about the experience and how it has informed their post-secondary plans or what additional skills they acquired for their post-secondary life.
We Have an Award-Winning Governor's STEM Academy
The Chantilly Governor’s STEM Academy is a program that empowers students to explore cutting-edge STEM fields through courses such as Auto Technology, Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing, Engineering Math, Pharmacy Tech, Robotics, and Veterinary science. With a strong focus on STEM education and industry-relevant skills, the Academy provides a rigorous academic environment where students develop the expertise and confidence needed to excel in today’s competitive job market.
The Academy's comprehensive programs include pathways in technology, engineering, health sciences, and trades, offering students the chance to earn industry certifications that validate their skills. This practical approach not only enhances students' learning but also provides them with a significant advantage as they pursue college degrees or enter the workforce.
In the past year, 203 students earned 601 college credits through dual enrollment, giving them a head start on their college education. Additionally, students earned 773 industry credentials, demonstrating their competence and readiness for real-world careers. The Academy also emphasizes career exploration, with opportunities for students to participate in internships, shadowing, and mentoring programs with local businesses.
At Chantilly Governor’s STEM Academy, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment where all students are empowered to reach their full potential.