Princess Anne High School, located in Virginia Beach, Virginia, is one of the oldest and most prestigious schools in the Virginia Beach City Public Schools (VBCPS) system. Known for its commitment to academic excellence, leadership development, and community engagement, Princess Anne High School has built a reputation as a premier institution where students are challenged and empowered to succeed. With its strong Advanced Placement (AP) offerings and the prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) Program, the school provides students with the tools they need to excel in higher education and beyond.
In this article, we will explore Princess Anne High School’s academic offerings, extracurricular activities, school culture, and frequently asked questions.
Overview of Princess Anne High School
Founded in 1954, Princess Anne High School has a rich history of academic achievement and community involvement. Serving students in grades 9-12, the school is known for its rigorous curriculum, talented faculty, and wide range of extracurricular activities. The school’s mission is to foster a learning environment that emphasizes academic success, personal growth, and social responsibility.
Princess Anne High School is consistently ranked among the top high schools in the state, thanks to its dedicated commitment to student achievement and preparation for post-secondary education.
Mission and Vision
Mission:
Princess Anne High School’s mission is to inspire and challenge students to become responsible, ethical, and knowledgeable individuals who contribute positively to their communities.
Vision:
The school envisions a community of learners where academic excellence, leadership, and service are the foundations of student success.
Academic Programs at Princess Anne High School
Princess Anne High School offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to meet the diverse academic needs of its students. The school follows the Virginia Standards of Learning (SOL) and provides specialized programs for students seeking advanced academic opportunities.
Advanced Placement (AP) and Honors Courses
One of the hallmarks of Princess Anne High School is its robust Advanced Placement (AP) program, which offers students the chance to take college-level courses while still in high school. These courses challenge students to engage deeply with their subjects, develop critical thinking skills, and earn college credits.
Popular AP courses offered at Princess Anne High School include:
- AP English Language and Composition
- AP U.S. History
- AP Calculus AB and BC
- AP Chemistry
- AP Physics
- AP Environmental Science
In addition to AP courses, the school offers honors courses in core subjects, providing students with more rigorous and in-depth academic experiences.
International Baccalaureate (IB) Program
Princess Anne High School is home to the prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) Program, a globally recognized academic program that emphasizes intellectual rigor, international-mindedness, and community service. The IB curriculum focuses on critical thinking, research, and a holistic approach to learning.
Students enrolled in the IB Program take challenging courses across six subject areas, complete an extended essay, and engage in the Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) component, which fosters personal and social development. The IB Program is ideal for students looking to gain a competitive edge in college admissions and develop skills that will serve them in a global society.
Dual Enrollment and Career & Technical Education (CTE)
Princess Anne High School partners with local colleges to offer dual enrollment opportunities, allowing students to earn both high school and college credits simultaneously. This program gives students a valuable head start on their post-secondary education and can reduce the cost of college tuition.
The school also offers Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs that provide students with hands-on experience in fields such as business, health sciences, and technology. These programs prepare students for careers in various industries by helping them earn industry certifications and develop practical skills.
Special Education Services
Princess Anne High School is committed to creating an inclusive learning environment for all students. The school offers a range of special education services to support students with disabilities, ensuring they receive the individualized instruction and accommodations needed for academic success.
Extracurricular Activities at Princess Anne High School
At Princess Anne High School, students have access to a wide variety of extracurricular activities that encourage personal growth, teamwork, and leadership development. Whether students are interested in sports, the arts, or academic clubs, there is something for everyone at Princess Anne.
Athletics Program
Princess Anne High School has a rich tradition of athletic excellence, with competitive sports teams that participate in district and state championships. The school’s athletic program offers students the opportunity to compete in a variety of sports while developing skills such as discipline, teamwork, and leadership.
Some of the sports offered at Princess Anne High School include:
- Football
- Basketball
- Soccer
- Volleyball
- Track and Field
- Tennis
- Baseball and Softball
- Swimming
The Princess Anne Cavaliers are known for their sportsmanship and competitive edge, making athletics a central part of the school’s culture.
Arts and Music Programs
Princess Anne High School places a strong emphasis on the arts, offering programs in music, theater, and visual arts. Students can participate in band, choir, and orchestra, as well as theater productions and art exhibitions.
Music students regularly perform in school concerts, regional competitions, and community events, while theater students showcase their talents in school plays and musicals. Visual arts students have the opportunity to display their work in local galleries and art shows, further enhancing their creative skills.
Clubs and Organizations
Princess Anne High School offers a wide variety of clubs and organizations that cater to diverse student interests. These extracurricular activities provide students with opportunities to explore their passions, develop leadership skills, and engage with their peers.
Popular clubs at Princess Anne High School include:
- National Honor Society
- Debate Team
- Model United Nations
- Key Club (community service)
- Robotics Club
- Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA)
Participation in clubs and organizations allows students to build friendships, enhance their résumés, and make meaningful contributions to the school and local community.
Student Life at Princess Anne High School
Princess Anne High School is known for its vibrant and inclusive school culture. Students are encouraged to take pride in their school and participate in various activities that promote school spirit and a sense of belonging.
School Events and Traditions
Throughout the year, Princess Anne High School hosts several events and traditions that bring students, staff, and families together. These events foster a sense of community and provide opportunities for students to celebrate their achievements.
Some of the key events at Princess Anne High School include:
- Homecoming Week: A week of school spirit activities leading up to the homecoming football game and dance.
- Pep Rallies: School-wide gatherings to celebrate the accomplishments of athletic teams and student organizations.
- Spirit Week: A themed week where students show off their school pride through fun and creative outfits.
- Graduation Ceremony: A formal event that honors the achievements of graduating seniors and marks the end of their high school journey.
These traditions help create a strong sense of unity and pride among the students at Princess Anne High School.
Community Involvement and Service
Princess Anne High School emphasizes the importance of community involvement and encourages students to give back through volunteer work and service projects. Many clubs and organizations, such as Key Club and the National Honor Society, focus on community service, providing students with opportunities to make a positive impact on their local area.
Through these activities, students develop a sense of civic responsibility and learn the value of helping others.
Table: Overview of Princess Anne High School
| Category | Details |
| Established | 1954 |
| Grades | 9-12 |
| Enrollment | Over 2,000 students |
| Specialized Programs | International Baccalaureate (IB), AP Courses, Dual Enrollment |
| Athletics | Football, Basketball, Soccer, Volleyball, Tennis, Track |
| Arts & Music | Band, Choir, Orchestra, Theater, Visual Arts |
| Clubs and Organizations | National Honor Society, Model UN, Key Club, Debate, Robotics |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program at Princess Anne High School?
The IB Program is a globally recognized academic program that emphasizes intellectual rigor, critical thinking, and community service. It prepares students for success in college and beyond by offering a comprehensive, holistic education.
2. What sports programs are available at Princess Anne High School?
Princess Anne High School offers a variety of sports, including football, basketball, soccer, volleyball, track and field, tennis, and swimming. The school’s teams compete at both district and state levels.
3. Does Princess Anne High School offer dual enrollment opportunities?
Yes, Princess Anne High School offers dual enrollment programs in partnership with local colleges, allowing students to earn both high school and college credits.
4. What extracurricular activities are offered at Princess Anne High School?
Students at Princess Anne High School can participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities, including academic clubs, performing arts, and community service organizations. Popular clubs include the National Honor Society, Model UN, and Robotics Club.
5. How can students get involved in community service at Princess Anne High School?
Students can get involved in community service through clubs like Key Club and the National Honor Society, which focus on volunteer work and service projects that benefit the local community.
Related Post:
Princess Anne High School is a top-tier educational institution that provides students with an exceptional learning experience. From its rigorous academic programs, including the IB and AP courses, to its wide range of extracurricular activities, Princess Anne High School offers students the opportunity to excel both inside and outside the classroom.
With a strong focus on leadership, community involvement, and academic excellence, Princess Anne High School prepares its students for success in college, careers, and life. The school’s commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment makes it an outstanding choice for families in Virginia Beach