Raider Nation:
As we embark on another outstanding school year at Atlee High School, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on what makes our school community so special and why Atlee continues to be recognized as one of the premier high schools in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Atlee High School has always been much more than a school; it is a community united by a shared commitment to student success. Every day, our students arrive with different aspirations, talents, interests, and dreams. Some are preparing for admission to highly selective colleges and universities. Others are pursuing career pathways that will allow them to enter the workforce immediately after graduation. Still others have chosen to serve our country through military service. While their destinations may differ, our mission remains the same: to ensure that every student graduates from Atlee prepared for success in whatever path they choose.
This commitment requires the collective efforts of many people. Our administrative team, faculty, and staff invest an extraordinary amount of time, energy, and care into creating opportunities that challenge, support, and inspire our students. From classroom instruction and academic advising to extracurricular activities, athletics, fine arts, and student support services, every decision we make is guided by one fundamental question: "What is best for the students of Atlee High School?" That unwavering focus on students has been a hallmark of our school throughout its history and continues to drive our work today.
One of the greatest strengths of Raider Nation is the partnership we share with our families. We are fortunate to have parents and guardians who are deeply invested in the educational experience of their children and who consistently support our students, teachers, coaches, sponsors, and programs. The success of our students is strengthened by the strong relationship between school and home. Open communication, mutual trust, and shared expectations create an environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Whether through participation in parent organizations, attendance at school events, volunteerism, or regular communication with teachers and administrators, our families play an essential role in the continued success of Raider Nation.
Academically, Atlee High School offers students exceptional opportunities to challenge themselves and prepare for future success. Our advanced placement (AP) program continues to provide rigorous coursework that allows students to engage in college-level learning while still in high school. Our international baccalaureate (IB) program remains one of the most respected and comprehensive academic programs available, fostering critical thinking, global awareness, and intellectual curiosity. Additionally, our dual enrollment opportunities provide students with the ability to earn college credit while gaining valuable experience navigating post-secondary expectations. Together, these programs create a culture of academic excellence and ensure that students are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence necessary to succeed in college, careers, military service, and beyond.
In 2026, our band program achieved Virginia honor band status for the 15th consecutive year, our show choirs concluded the year with multiple 1st and 2nd placements as well as Best Vocal Quality, Best Crew, and Spirit of Kindness Awards. Atlee DECA sent 124 students to the Virginia DECA state leadership conference, the most in Atlee history, and had 22 students qualify for the International Career Development Conference. Additionally, senior Carl Prince was named the vice president of leadership for Virginia DECA, the second-highest-ranking student in the state, and senior Lucas Ashley was named district 23 president.
Beyond the classroom, Atlee students continue to excel in athletics, fine and performing arts, leadership organizations, and numerous extracurricular activities. Our athletics program serves as a tremendous source of pride for our school and community. During the spring of 2026, our girls soccer team captured their first VHSL state championship, bringing our total to an impressive 23 VHSL state championships. Additionally, AHS had not one, but two student-athletes named VHSL player of the year in their respective sports: Chase Blumberg in baseball and Lacey Neff in girls’ soccer. At the conclusion of the 2025–2026 school year, Atlee captured the VHSL National Guard Cup for the third consecutive year. These accomplishments are a testament to the dedication, perseverance, teamwork, and commitment to excellence demonstrated by our student-athletes and coaches. They reflect the values that define Raider Nation and serve as an example of what can be achieved through hard work and determination.
While championships and accolades are certainly worthy of celebration, the true measure of Atlee's success is found in the character, growth, and accomplishments of our students. Every year, we watch students discover new passions, overcome challenges, develop leadership skills, build meaningful relationships, and prepare themselves for the opportunities that lie ahead. Whether students are excelling in the classroom, performing on stage, competing on athletics fields, participating in service projects, earning industry certifications, or committing to military service, they represent the very best of Atlee.
As the principal of Atlee High School, I am continually inspired by the dedication of our students, the professionalism of our faculty and staff, the support of our families, and the pride demonstrated by our alumni and community members. The success of Atlee is not the result of any one individual or group; it is the product of a community that believes in the power of education and works together to provide extraordinary opportunities for young adults.
As we look toward the future, we remain committed to maintaining the high standards that have become synonymous with Atlee High School while continuing to seek new ways to support and challenge our students. Together, we will continue building upon a tradition of excellence that prepares every student to achieve success in college, careers, military service, and life.
Thank you for your continued partnership, support, and commitment to Atlee High School. It is an honor to serve as the principal of Raider Nation, and I look forward to all that we will accomplish together moving forward.
With Raider Pride,
Dr. John Wheeler
Principal
Atlee High School