Student Success

Proud of Our Barons

Preparing Boys for College

At Blue Ridge School, our boys distinguish themselves in countless ways—whether excelling in the classroom, achieving on the athletic field, or pursuing unique passions beyond campus. Each student’s story reflects the drive, character, and spirit that define our community.

David, Class of '28

Uganda

“In History class, we studied the 1500s during the Renaissance and how people wanted to bring out humanism in art and literature. We learned about the Scientific Revolution, and I did a project showcasing the most important scientific discoveries in the last 500 years. For example, Copernicus’s heliocentric theory… and also the discovery of the structure of DNA, which is very relevant to learning about diseases today. Back at home in Uganda, I knew that history was something that I really liked because I was always interested in knowing who came before and how I could carry on their legacy in my life.”  
 
David also serves as a class representative on the student council. “I have always been vocal about change, and I want to lead from the front of the bus. If I lead by example, people can learn from me, and I can learn from others. I can’t just do certain things [without thought] because I’m representing the students as a whole.”
 

Matt, Class of 2029

New Jersey

“I used to believe that school failed me. I didn’t care about grades or have any direction. But this place interested me. I liked the all-boys boarding environment, the project-based learning, and the nature. I thought it would be a refreshing change of pace from my previous schools. When I visited, I met tour guides from Canada and Saudi Arabia. I had never met so many people from so many different places. From the outside in, it looked like a community.” 
 
“Some rough patches come with being away from home, but I haven’t gone a single day without a teacher asking me how I’m doing. It’s not possible to slip through the cracks here. If you’re feeling unsupported or upset, you will be noticed immediately. Since coming here, I’ve made the High Honors list, I enjoy my classes, and I’m with my friends all the time. With the diversity, culture, and support here, the school has shaped me into a more complete human being.” 

Theo, Class of 2026

California

“I based my Baron Tank project on improving a food delivery app. I researched how these businesses generate revenue and manage their costs, then tried to create a cheaper, more cost-efficient alternative that would work at a place like Blue Ridge. I’ve always been interested in business, economics, and finance, and now I’m taking the AP class. I love the idea of creating value in an area you’re passionate about and providing that value for other people.”
 
Outside of school, Theo enjoys fishing on the pond in front of the school. “I’ve always loved fishing, but I don’t often have the opportunity to do that at home in LA. In the spring here, we take the canoe out and go bass fishing. It’s a lot of fun”

Sam, Class of 2027

New Jersey

Sam is an enjoyer of the outdoor experiences here at Blue Ridge, and one of his most impactful experiences involved a hands-on study of the local ecosystem. “One project I’ve worked on is a Forest Health Survey on a certain plot near the school. We took measurements like leaf litter, soil depth, soil type, tree conditions, types of trees, average age of the trees, and insect and animal [biodiversity], among other things, to determine if that portion of the forest is healthy. I’ve always been interested in nature and how things work. The teachers at Blue Ridge always give me the environment I need and create projects that are geared towards people’s interests.”
 
Beyond the outdoors, Sam credits the FLC for supporting him towards these successes. “The FLC basically gives me a personalized time to get my work done and helps me be extremely productive. My FLC teacher sits down with me every week to create goals to help me with my schoolwork. We go through it every week to talk about where I’m struggling and where I’m succeeding. We have a weekly organizer that helps me stay on track. The experience is very individualized, and someone is sitting right by me to help me.”