One of the most common questions families and businesses ask when relocating is:
What are the schools like?

In Montgomery County, Virginia, the answer is simple: You’ve got options—and good ones.

From public K–12 education and private academies to nationally recognized universities and workforce training, Montgomery County offers a wide range of educational pathways for students of all ages.

Whether you’re a parent, an employer seeking skilled workers, or a resident curious about local resources, the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce is here to help you explore the educational landscape.

1. Public K–12 Education

Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS)
Serving over 9,000 students, MCPS includes 19 schools:

• 4 high schools

• 4 middle schools

• 11 elementary schools

With schools located in Blacksburg, Christiansburg, Elliston, and Riner, MCPS offers a strong academic foundation with programs in:

• STEM and career & technical education

• Advanced Placement and dual enrollment

• Special education and gifted programs

• Arts, athletics, and extracurricular activities

Explore more at:
https://www.mcps.org

2. Private and Independent Schools

Montgomery County is also home to a number of private and faith-based schools that provide smaller class sizes, personalized instruction, and alternative learning models.

Blacksburg New School 
A parent-run cooperative offering progressive, child-centered education for grades K–8.

St. John Neumann Academy (Christiansburg)
A Catholic school serving grades Pre-K through 8th, offering classical academics in a faith-based environment.

Tall Oaks Montessori School 
Located in Blacksburg, this AMI-accredited Montessori program serves children ages 18 months through sixth grade.

Pathway Christian Academy
Based in Christiansburg, Pathway Christian offers a traditional curriculum with an emphasis on Biblical principles.

These schools offer alternatives for families seeking specific academic philosophies or faith-aligned learning environments.

3. Higher Education

Montgomery County is part of one of the most dynamic higher education corridors in Virginia. With three institutions within 30 minutes, the region offers everything from technical certifications to doctoral degrees.

Virginia Tech (Blacksburg)

One of the nation’s top public research universities, Virginia Tech offers:

• Over 280 undergraduate and graduate degree programs

• World-class research facilities

• Renowned programs in engineering, business, science, agriculture, and architecture

• Public events, lectures, and community resources

Beyond academics, the university plays a major role in regional innovation and workforce development.

More at: https://vt.edu

Radford University (Radford, just across the county line)

Radford is a public university known for its strengths in:

• Education, nursing, business, and the arts

• Graduate programs including health sciences and counseling

• A student-centered learning environment

• Community partnerships across Southwest Virginia

The university also hosts public performances and cultural events through the College of Visual & Performing Arts.

More at: https://www.radford.edu

New River Community College (NRCC)

Located just 20 minutes from Christiansburg, NRCC offers:

• Two-year degrees and workforce certificates

• Transfer pathways to Virginia Tech, Radford, and other four-year institutions

• Dual enrollment for high school students

• Apprenticeships and industry-specific training programs

NRCC is a key partner in building a skilled, job-ready local workforce.

More at: https://www.nr.edu

4. Workforce Development and Continuing Education

Education doesn’t stop after graduation. Montgomery County supports lifelong learning through:

• Adult education programs offered by MCPS and NRCC

• Business training and certification workshops through the Chamber and community partners

• Leadership development opportunities like Leadership New River Valley (hosted by the Chamber)

• Community education events at Virginia Tech and Radford

For employers, this means a pipeline of qualified candidates—and opportunities to upskill existing staff with local partners.

5. Homeschooling and Hybrid Learning

Virginia is a homeschool-friendly state, and Montgomery County families have access to:

• Homeschool co-ops and enrichment groups

• Dual enrollment through NRCC and Virginia Tech

• Online learning platforms supported by MCPS and private programs

• Library systems and local nonprofits that offer academic resources and community programs

For those seeking flexible or personalized learning, hybrid models and support systems are available throughout the county.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to education, Montgomery County delivers—with public schools that consistently rank well statewide, private schools that offer distinct learning environments, and a higher ed system that powers the region’s economy.

Whether you’re raising a family, hiring talent, or pursuing your own education, the resources are here.

Have questions about relocating to Montgomery County or connecting with education partners?
We’re happy to help.

• Contact the Chamber at: marketing@montgomerycc.org

• Explore member schools and services at: https://business.montgomerycc.org/list

• Learn more about the region at: https://www.montgomerycc.org