Accolades

Here’s what people are saying about our approach to instruction, faculty and staff, and the opportunities given to students while attending The Hague School.

Community

  • “I recently observed an Environmental Science class at The Hague School and witnessed firsthand the effectiveness of conference-style learning. With annotated materials and their laptops in hand, students gathered around the table with their teacher where they engaged in what quickly became an in-depth exploration of the subject of water pollution. Except for the teacher’s clarifications and directed questions, the students were front and center in the conversation. They discussed. They posed questions. They searched for answers. They shared the information their research unearthed and considered the veracity of their findings. They developed a list of relevant terms and definitions. They created a concise list of key points. Their enthusiasm was palpable. They were engaged! Best of all, they were most definitely learning.”

    -Susan Motley, M.A., Retired Secondary Teacher

  • “I am very excited and supportive of the innovative approach to learning underway at The Hague School. Students are engaged in unique critical thinking tasks that will prepare them for the challenges of the 21st Century.”

    -Dr. Stephen C. Jones, Former Norfolk Superintendent of Schools

  • “Working with students at The Hague School on the processes of doing and reporting textual research, I was very impressed to see how engaged they were and with school’s approach to education. I do not always get this level of engagement with my college students, so these ninth graders are building a strong foundation for standing out in higher education. Likewise, I was pleased to see that these students have a good working knowledge of quantitative and qualitative research, as well as how to distinguish between primary sources and secondary sources.”

    – Kevin E. DePew, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Writing Pedagogy, Old Dominion University

  • “An opportunity to change the process of existing institutions like secondary education comes along once in lifetime, but that is exactly what is happening right now at The Hague School in Ghent, Norfolk. They have introduced the Harkness Method of teaching high school students in groups of no more than 14 students sitting literally around a conference-type table with the instructors teaching as facilitators rather than lecturing. But if you doubt the Norfolk area needs another private school, put that concept out of your mind; in the case of The Hague School, seeing and hearing is believing! Make an appointment to come and sit with the students and their instructors as they learn a traditional curriculum – in fact based on that of the International Baccalaureate Programme – in a brand new way. You’ll end up confirmed that there is another way to teach high school students…that’s real learning!”

    — Alan Flanders, Ph.D, Former columnist, author, and university professor

  • “I had the pleasure of leading a program on marine debris awareness with ten wonderful 9th grade students from The Hague School. We learned about decomposition rates for different types of pollution in the water and cleaned out our three Seabins located in our Nauticus marina to remove marine debris from our Elizabeth River. I was truly impressed at the level of knowledge they shared about our environment being affected, from plastic pollution in our waters to excess CO2 in our atmosphere, as well as ways they can help resolve the issues of marine pollution. The world is definitely going to be a better place to live in because of these amazing students!”

    -Susie Hill, Nauticus Special Programs Manager

  • “I thoroughly enjoyed speaking to the students at The Hague School about the Elizabeth River watershed and the environmental challenges we are facing in South Hampton Roads. I was greatly impressed by their knowledge and the questions that they asked and I look forward to seeing them collaborate to address local issues related to climate change and sea level rise. These students are openly excited to learn and take action and will undoubtedly play a vital part in our resilience efforts.”

    – Sarah McBride​, Youth Resilience Coordinator, The Elizabeth River Project

  • “What they say about life is so true – you remember people for how they made you feel. Mr. Spencer always made me feel important and seen, which meant a lot to me as an awkward high school student. He was a no-nonsense administrator, but he had a heart of gold and a great personality. I’m excited to see that another generation of students will be benefiting from his leadership!"

    — Lucy Hundley, Marketing Project Manager, Tidewater Community College

  • “The conference method of instruction is every teacher’s dream. You’re working as one of a group. You’re not on the spot; you’re part of a team, a learning team. You’re prepared, you’re engaged, and you’re responsible. It’s not one person benefiting, everyone benefits. The conference method of instruction is particularly important in science as it teaches students how to communicate their knowledge, allowing them to move people, move policy, and influence the world.”

    – David Engel, Ph.D, Environmental Science Teacher, Fairfax County Schools

Parents

  • “Nick is happy and thriving at The Hague School, because he feels welcome, challenged, and supported every day, by the faculty, staff, and other students. He definitely has to work hard, as the classes are rigorous and the instructors have high standards, but the work is meaningful, and therefore engaging. He has gained so much confidence from participation in the Harkness method class discussions, and it shows in every area of his life.”

    – Kate Davis

  • “We just moved to Norfolk from New York City, where our daughter had visited and applied to 20 different selective high schools. After all of this, how surprising for us that the best choice of all was in Norfolk, VA, where we unexpectedly moved for my husband’s job. The Hague School has a level of personalization, rigor, and warmth that is made possible by its small size and dedication to the Harkness method of instruction. Our daughter is already becoming better at thinking, debating, and crafting ideas of her own with supporting evidence. We feel very lucky to be a part of this new education community.”

    – Jennifer Stillman

  • “We gave The Hague School a chance, and I’m so glad we did. My daughter has blossomed there academically, and we credit much of that to the conference method of teaching. The students sit at conference tables, much like in the business world, and discuss the different points of each subject while supporting their ideas with the material. This has proven to be much more effective for her than sitting at a desk and listening to a teacher lecture. She interacts with the other students and teachers, resulting in a much deeper understanding of each subject. The teachers, by the way, are fantastic – much more akin to college professors, but in a small group setting. In the months since school has started, it has become very obvious that the teachers and administrators alike genuinely care about my child’s progress and wellbeing. I can’t say enough good things about this school.”

    – Parke Brinkley

  • “Our family is so grateful to THS for all the wonderful, positive changes we have seen in our son. He is happy and he is thriving! The Hague School is a very special place where young people are honored and valued. Never just a number or just another tuition check, each student is seen and known and encouraged to grow in whatever directions they explore. And there are so many opportunities! I am overwhelmed to witness the joy and excitement I see when students jump on stage, pick up the mic, show up to volunteer or try a new sport. I see teens sharing their personal poems, artwork, stories, and films publicly and with pride. They cheer each other on, celebrate classmates' successes, and enjoy being at school in their community. Because of the positive climate, students are doing things they never imagined for themselves. The students are growing. They are thriving. Coming from a very different environment, I can tell you wholeheartedly that students don't do those things when they feel unsafe, unseen, and unappreciated.”

    – Karen Grow

  • “We were searching for a better education for our son; we found that and so much more at The Hague School. From Model UN to the Mexico school trip to local volunteer events, THS has provided — and continues to provide — an incredibly unique and fulfilling educational experience. The staff is helpful and caring, and the instructors are devoted to their craft and the students. The Hague School is a wonderful learning environment, and we are so thankful that our son is part of it.”

    – Heather Rutheford

  • "As a first-year parent at THS, I cannot say enough about the importance of 'fit' for your child. The growth we’ve witnessed in our daughter’s perspective and her thought evaluation this school year confirmed that this is where she should be. The curriculum, deliberate learning style and committed teachers stretch the students and provoke observable, critical thinking. The Hague School inspires, in its students, a new kind of leader. This impressive option in our community allows for rare exposures, unique opportunities and offers a special school community. "

    — Rolanda Fleming

  • "'Transformational' is the first word that comes to mind when we think about The Hague School. Prior to enrolling at THS, our son was disengaged and bored at a large public high school. He joined THS in the school's inaugural year, and immediately experienced an intellectual awakening at the Harkness table with a diverse group of earnest, respectful, curious learners and incredibly committed faculty…. Both our kids have thrived at THS in ways they hadn't previously. Knowing what we know now, we feel as if we've found independent education's most obvious open secret: the Harkness method builds incredibly adept and independent critical thinkers, and THS is the singular leader for the application of Harkness in the Hampton Roads area. We can't imagine sending our kids anywhere else."

    - Dorsey Wisotzki

  • “ The Hague School has been amazing for our daughter. She has completed her freshman year with the same enthusiasm she had going into the school year. The environment is accepting, challenging and fun. The set up and style of teaching promotes ownership of their education and develops each students individual strengths. I find the students celebrate each others accomplishments and they truly value each other. I only wish my oldest daughter could have had this experience but am thrilled my youngest is a part of this learning opportunity.”

    Denise Lex

Students

  • “The most impactful aspect of The Hague school is all of the experiences and opportunities that are afforded to you. Within two years of my enrollment, I have attended six Model UN conferences and a foreign exchange trip to Mexico. THS places a strong emphasis on developing a global perspective and interacting with like minded individuals from all over the world. This is reflected in the positive interactions that occur within the school environment. The Harkness method inherently forges insightful conversations around the table. This leads to lasting retention of class materials and stronger friendships outside of the classroom."

    – Jayden, Class of 2025

  • “The Harkness way of learning has helped me build confidence and improve my public speaking skills. I feel like I can get my point across and prove my points with evidence … this has been such a good experience because I now fully understand all the topics and everything makes sense to me.”

    – Addie, Class of 2023

  • "This was my first year at The Hague School. I enjoyed many aspects from my first year at The Hague School. One thing that I really enjoyed was the fact that you sat at a round table and had Harkness discussions instead of boring lectures. Another thing that I enjoyed was that you could go outside during breaks. Lastly, I enjoyed the fact that school started at 8:45 and not at 8:10."

    — Avyay, Class of 2026

  • “This school pushes you to work harder and be the best version of yourself. I feel like I can really say what I want to without thinking that I’m going to be judged.”

    – Cam, Class of 2023

  • “Though a small school, it might seem like you are less likely to make friends because there are less people you have a chance in relating to, but it’s actually the opposite and we are a very close knit community. Academically, I’ve improved in being able to write structured essays. In both English Literature and Research & Composition, writing those structured essays has given me the ability to do so with ease. I’ve learned to deepen my understanding through discussion, not just reading.”

    – Charlotte, Class of 2023

  • "I enjoy going to the Hague School so much because of its interesting teaching method. Instead of sitting at desks and having lectures, we sit at round Harkness tables, where the teacher sits among the students. This allows learners to apprehend for themselves."

    -Rowan, Class of 2026

  • “This school is fun and helps you learn in a way other schools don’t use. The students treat others with respect and there are no cliques.”

    – Justina, Class of 2024

  • “I am learning more and having fun. We have fantastic teachers! I have most enjoyed our trips to the Chrysler Museum and Botanical Gardens.”

    – Nick, Class of 2024

  • “I feel I’ve grown the most in Algebra and Geometry, which I didn’t enjoy before, but now I thoroughly enjoy math.”

    – Conner, Class of 2023

  • "The Hague School is the first school I’ve gone to that had made me enjoy education. Since enrolling here, I have broken out of my shell a lot, made many new friends, and found new passions."

    Conner, Class of 2024

  • "As someone who spent most of their education in traditional schooling, THS has been a serious game-changer. Not only am I given the opportunity to interact with my peers in a fun, unique way, but I feel more connected to the material, and I have improved vital life skills like public speaking, leadership, and teamwork in my time here. The student-based learning truly does serve the student, and I couldn’t be happier to have joined the Hague School."

    Sammy, Class of 2024