We equip every child to understand and engage with the world around them.
Our Mission
Browne Academy is a diverse independent day school committed to developing the whole child through extraordinary teaching, exceptional academic programs, and a nurturing community. We empower students to be critical thinkers, inspired innovators, engaged peers, and ethical leaders prepared with the confidence to thrive in a dynamic world.
Philosophy
Browne Academy began as one of the first integrated schools in Virginia. Today that spirit of inclusion endures, as our core values – excellence, diversity, character, and community – are an integral part of our school’s tapestry. By encouraging all members of our community to exemplify these values every day, we are building a foundation of empathy and respect that will serve our students throughout their lives.
We believe in providing our students with experiential learning opportunities that encourage thoughtful questioning, personal engagement, use of the greater community, and a deeper understanding of the world. Through our inquiry-based approach, we strive to foster our students’ natural curiosity and develop their lifelong love of learning.
We intentionally keep our class sizes small to nurture each child’s academic, social, and emotional growth. Students feel safe and cared for in such an environment, and as a result, we see them thrive. Our graduates are equipped both academically and personally to navigate life after Browne Academy with confidence.
History
In 1941 Mrs. Marion Browne, an educator from New York City, founded Browne Academy as the first racially integrated preschool in Virginia. The basic philosophy of the school was, in Mrs. Browne’s words, “to provide a safe, caring environment in which children could learn based on their particular abilities and strengths.”
Today that spirit of inclusion endures, as our core values – excellence, diversity, character, and community – are an integral part of our school’s tapestry. By encouraging all members of our community to exemplify these values every day, we are building a foundation of empathy and respect that will serve our students throughout their lives.
Small by Design
A few things that make Browne special
220
Number of Students
59%
Students of Color
1:6
Student/Teacher Ratio
12
Average Class Size
Diversity, Equity
Inclusion, and Belonging
Our Commitment
Browne Academy embraces diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging as the foundation for fulfilling our mission. We are committed to being a community that cherishes the worth and dignity of every member. We are intentional in cultivating an inclusive community that reflects and embraces the richness and diversity of human experience. As an inquiry-based school, we seek multiple perspectives and recognize that diverse points of view are vitally important to an environment of academic excellence. We commit to civil discourse as we embrace missteps and misunderstandings as opportunities for growth.
Programs at Browne
Health & Wellness
Browne’s Health and Wellness Center incorporates a holistic approach to school health services for each student’s body and mind. Approaching physical and mental health collaboratively, with the collective goal of improving our students' learning and overall well-being, is vital as we address the challenges children are now facing.
Year-Round Auxiliary Programs
Since 1941 families have trusted Browne Academy to take care of their children. We offer childcare and enrichment programs before school, after school, and during seasonal breaks for families who juggle many responsibilities.
Integrated Fine & Performing Arts
The arts are an integral part of the Browne experience for every child in our school. Visual and performing arts begin at age 3 and continue in every grade as part of our integrated curriculum. Through the arts, our students develop creativity, cultural awareness, perseverance, as well as visual, motor, problem-solving, and public speaking skills. All of which lead to improved academics and self-confidence.
Inclusive Athletics
Browne Academy’s inclusive allows students to join our teams, regardless of their experience in a particular sport. This enables students with no prior experience to try something new, thereby gaining skills and confidence on the field or court. On the flip side, students who have previously played a particular sport have a leadership chance, acting as mentors to the less experienced players.
Joyful Student Life
Our students love school so much, it’s often hard to get them to leave at the end of the day! (We are not complaining!) The formula for happy children: our inclusive community with expert teachers, kind friends, small classes, engaging field trips, fun-filled family events, after-school activities and more.
High School Placement: The Right Fit
Browne Academy ends in 8th grade, and the high school process is critical to the overall success of each student. The arc of our preschool-8th grade model prepares students to apply to high school and to shine through the process.The benefit of our small classes is that each teacher and administrator knows the backgrounds, abilities, and interests of each student. Beginning in 7th grade, each student has personal guidance through the process of applying to and selecting the best-fit high school for them.
Our Faculty/Staff
A diverse community of educators empowering the next generation.
Careers at Browne
Have a passion for inspiring students to meet academic challenges and growing as compassionate citizens? We’d love to connect with you!
Browne Alumni
Once a Bruin, always a Bruin! If you’re a graduate or former student, we’d love to connect with you.