Founded in 1906 by Lucy Madeira Wing, The Madeira School is an independent, college preparatory boarding and day school for girls in grades 9–12, located on a scenic 376-acre campus in McLean, Virginia, minutes from Washington, DC.
Madeira's mission is to launch women who change the world. Guided by founder Lucy Madeira's belief in personal best over competition, the school offers an ambitious, girl-centered curriculum that builds critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Learning at Madeira is active, experiential, and joyful — students learn in settings ranging from the classroom and playing field to the dormitory and congressional office.
Central to the Madeira experience is the award-winning Co-Curriculum, a five-week annual experiential learning program in which students step beyond the classroom: sophomores engage in community service, juniors work on Capitol Hill, and seniors pursue a career interest or passion. Over four years, Madeira graduates build confidence, leadership, and an impressive real-world record.
Madeira is committed to an intentionally diverse and inclusive community where every student feels seen, known, and valued. The school fosters collaboration over competition, developing young women who are intellectually curious, compassionate, and prepared to lead.
Our Mission: Launching women who change the world.
Our Vision: Leading innovation in girls' education.
What Makes Us Unique
Madeira's innovative Modular Schedule is designed around how girls learn best — focused, not overwhelmed. Rather than juggling six or seven subjects simultaneously, students take three academic classes at a time across seven five-week modules each year, with each day divided into three academic blocks and one athletics or activity block. Longer class periods allow for deep, immersive, project-based learning that connects disciplines and mirrors the rigor and independence of a college experience. Students work with their academic dean to design a personalized four-year plan, choosing from a wide range of courses and electives. The result is a program that is both ambitious and joyful — one where students have the time and space to think deeply, collaborate actively, and genuinely love learning.
100% of students graduate with 3 internships through the Co-Curriculum Program: a five-week annual experiential learning program in which students step beyond the classroom. Sophomores engage in community service, juniors work on Capitol Hill, and seniors pursue a career interest or passion. Over four years, Madeira graduates build confidence, leadership, and an impressive real-world record.