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Green Hedges School has built its educational approach around a simple idea: Children should have room to be children while developing the independence and leadership skills they will need later.

Founded in 1942, the small school occupies five acres in Vienna’s Windover Heights neighborhood and serves students from age 2 through eighth grade. With one class at each grade level, teachers can closely follow each student’s academic and personal development.

Children from age 2 through kindergarten learn through a Montessori program emphasizing hands-on activities, practical skills, independence and progress at an individual pace. Beginning in first grade, students transition to a more traditional program that remains personalized and driven by inquiry.

Mixed instructional groups allow students to work beyond a single fixed track. Across the grades, the school’s “Portrait of a Graduate” framework focuses on developing curious, interdisciplinary thinkers with strong character and a sense of responsibility to their community.

Leadership becomes a larger part of the experience in middle school. Older students take on responsibilities within the school community, giving them practice leading before they move on to high school.

The campus includes a 5,600-square-foot Science & Native Garden funded by the community over several years. Students use the space to study native plants, pollinators and ecology through outdoor observation. Arts facilities include the Biggs Art Studio and Daly Memorial Gallery, while off-campus learning includes docent-led trips to destinations such as the National Gallery. The school also operates a summer camp.

Peter A. Barrett is serving as interim head of school through the current school year. Kyle Armstrong, selected through a search involving the school community, is scheduled to become head of school on July 1, 2026.

Lisa Gibb leads the school’s philanthropic work, bringing independent-school experience and ties to local groups including the Vienna Rotary. Support from families, alumni and parents helps sustain the garden, arts programming and need-based tuition assistance.

Green Hedges is located at 415 Windover Avenue NW in Vienna. Morning and afternoon carpool service and an extended-day program are available.