Osbourn High School

Posted: December 11, 2022

Posted: December 11, 2022

I am a 1987 graduate. My experience at Osbourn was likely very different than that of students who attend today. I was not the best student by most measures, but that was of my own volition. Even with my self-imposed truancy and lack of personal responsibility, I was afforded a very quality education by this school and the Manassas City Schools in general. In essence, I was well-educated by Osbourn. It is troublesome to me when I look at the abysmal metrics associated with the school today. I'm not here to assign blame to any particular entity(ies) within the system. I don't reside in the area now and I have no grasp of the situation at hand. But I have to implore the powers that be in Manassas and Virginia at large - DO something about this - please! This should be embarrassing and unacceptable to the educators in residence there. Osbourn is better than this. You owe better to the youth of the community and the educators who undoubtedly work hard to make a difference in the minds of young people.

Posted: January 26, 2022

Posted: January 26, 2022

Posted: January 26, 2022

Posted: January 26, 2022

Posted: January 26, 2022

Posted: January 26, 2022

Posted: January 26, 2022

Posted: January 26, 2022

On November 2021 I illegally got searched no warrant and no enforcement officer and with no consent I have been out for the pass 2 months haven’t heard a word from the school.knowing what I got pulled for is useless because there are kids in this school that sell,smoke,carry pocket knifes,skip. This school hasn’t done nothing to make it better nor give students second chances in life.

Posted: August 18, 2021

Posted: August 18, 2021

Posted: August 18, 2021

Posted: August 18, 2021

Posted: August 18, 2021

Excellent high school. We are proud that they offer the CTE curriculum which is so beneficial for students who do not wish to pursue a 4 year post secondary education.

Posted: August 18, 2021

Posted: August 18, 2021

Posted: August 18, 2021

Posted: October 16, 2020

I believe homework is a necessity to reinforce what was taught within the classroom but sometimes it felt like there was no connection between homework assignments and content in class. Homework can become stressful in excess so using it to reinforce classroom learning and not just to assign extra work is crucial.

Posted: October 16, 2020

Many of the teachers at Osbourn are not only passionate about their subjects but also about their students success. You could tell that teachers only want to see you succeed and if you take it upon yourself to communicate with them they will do everything they can to work with you.

Posted: October 16, 2020

All the teachers care about helping to guide your development to not just educate in their specific subject manner but also to encourage students in becoming good humans and well-rounded citizens.

Posted: October 16, 2020

My time at Osbourn I experienced a revolving door of administration. I felt their was no consistency in leadership therefore I think the teachers had much more individual say in what went on.

Posted: October 16, 2020

Like I have stated before, teachers want nothing but the success of their students. As a former student who held a 504 plan in the school, for the most part I experienced nothing but cooperation from teachers and if I ever had an issue with compliance to my 504 plan, I always received great support from administration.

Posted: October 16, 2020

I never experienced bullying at this school so I can't say that I feel it has been managed well for me personally but I will say I do not recall seeing very much information on resources for victims of bullying or simply seeing anti-bullying initiatives at all.

Posted: October 16, 2020

I believe that Osbourn high school gets a bad rep from many others looking from the outside. As a former student now studying education to return to a school like Osbourn I think that it's important to understand that when it comes to a school, you get what you give. I believe that the diverse population at Osbourn gave me such a valuable perspective as a future educator and just as a citizen in general. I also believe that the very amazing programs within Osbourn like their Career and Technical Education courses are amazing opportunities that don't get enough credit. Students can graduate with EMT, cosmetology, and technological certifications that give them a leg up as soon as they leave Osbourn. Leadership within the school can always be improved to continue to bring attendance and graduation rates back up but Osbourn is not a bad school. I received an amazing education from Osbourn and graduated having been given some amazing opportunities that only a small school system can give. I'm grateful for all that Osbourn and Manassas City Schools has given me and I hope that others can go through the school and gain as much as I did.

Posted: November 15, 2019

A good mix of multi-cultural experiences and solid academics makes this experience an exception as compared to overly large school districts.

Posted: November 15, 2019

The teachers an administration support homework concepts for all students.

Posted: November 15, 2019

The teachers are extremely dedicated to the individual strengths and challenges of all students.

Posted: November 15, 2019

The nature of the multi-cultural environment carries through all of these principles.

Posted: November 15, 2019

The new Principal, his admin team, and all teachers work through a strong leadership process.

Posted: November 15, 2019

There are multiple layer and levels of academics for individual needs.

Posted: November 15, 2019

There is zero tolerance for bullying at Osbourn HS.

Posted: June 17, 2019

Posted: June 17, 2019

Posted: June 17, 2019

Kids run wild like they run the school. There is NO dress code in forced at all! Too much cell usage instead of learning.

Posted: June 17, 2019

Posted: June 17, 2019

Posted: June 17, 2019

Posted: June 17, 2019

My daughters graduation was more like a circus. They actually had a concession stand open...SO EMBARRASSING!

Posted: August 29, 2018

Excellent. The teachers are wonderful, supportive, communicate well with parents and we could not be happier. The school's diversity makes it an excellent environment for what our children will face in the real world.

My oldest graduated a few years ago and is now completing their senior year of college. My youngest is currently a student at has excelled at Osbourn.

The changes implemented this year only created even more satisfaction. When you can pick up electronics, review schedules, meet with the guidance counselor, meet all the teachers at an open house and drop off medication at the clinic two weeks before classes start, you are well prepared for the school year.

Posted: August 29, 2018

Posted: August 29, 2018

Posted: August 29, 2018

Any school is what you make it, but when you have the support of good teachers who juggle the needs of every child, it shows through doing how we as a society should treat each other.

Posted: August 29, 2018

Posted: August 29, 2018

For the past two years, I've had nothing but respect for the teachers who gave my child understanding and respect despite some difficulties. She thrived with their support.

Posted: August 29, 2018

Have not had to deal with bullying.

Posted: April 25, 2018

Excellent teachers who work with the students to be successful. I was very impressed with there CTE and business classes. These options help guide the students to future employment opportunities.

Posted: April 25, 2018

Posted: April 25, 2018

Posted: April 25, 2018

Posted: April 25, 2018

Posted: April 25, 2018

Posted: April 25, 2018

Posted: August 1, 2017

We have had great experiences at Osbourn. 3 children have already graduated and are successful adults. One is currently attending and is challenged with higher level course work but able to maintain a 4.0. I find that this school offers motivated students exciting, challenging courses and a wide variety of activities and sports.

Posted: August 1, 2017

Posted: August 1, 2017

Posted: August 1, 2017

Posted: August 1, 2017

Posted: August 1, 2017

Posted: August 1, 2017

Posted: September 22, 2016

Outstanding school! Teachers and students work very well together and care about each other. My son will graduate this year and I have no doubt that Osbourn has set him on a path to succeed. I've seen negative reviews on here, but completely disagree, this high school is fantastic!

Posted: September 22, 2016

I think the Principal and the faculty all take great pride in ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for all of it's students. Bullying is not acceptable behavior at Osbourn and I believe it's dealt with accordingly.

Posted: September 22, 2016

YES, YES, YES! My daughter graduated 2 years ago, my son is still attending and will graduate this year. My daughter has dyslexia and the faculty and staff worked tirelessly to ensure that she developed, learned, and was ready for college. I can't thank this faculty enough for how they went out of their way to help my daughter.

Posted: September 22, 2016

The Principal is awesome and the staff is outstanding! I couldn't ask for a better team than the Osbourn faculty!

Posted: September 22, 2016

The faculty does everything they can it seems to ensure the students develop strong character, however, in my opinion this isn't just something that is instilled at school, but home also, I think some parents forget this at times. This school faculty works as a team, they are fantastic.

Posted: September 22, 2016

The teachers go out of their way to ensure that my son understands the lessons. They truly care about the students.

Posted: September 22, 2016

Posted: August 5, 2016

Posted: August 5, 2016

Posted: August 5, 2016

Posted: August 5, 2016

First of all, the classes are just terrible. From my experience, most of the classes are eased down for students that do not care about class at all. It is to make them pass to make the school look good. Most of the students do not have aspirations and just simply do not care. However, the teachers really care about the students and try their very best to do whatever they can to help them. The education is terrible and there is nothing to learn because it's just too easy. Overall, it's just a school for dumb kids to come in and play around without a care for their future. It is a school for students that have no dreams or aspirations to better themselves. Maybe like 10 percent of the students care but they can't because it's just too easy on them. If you want to know what a good school, take a good look at Woodson high school as an example. Great people there and the classes are actually challenging.

Posted: April 29, 2015

My fourth and fifth child are now attending Osbourn. Our oldest three have graduated and all are very successful in their chosen careers. Osbourn did and does a wonderful job in preparing the students for college or whatever their selected career path is. They have an incredibly dedicated core of high quality teachers. Thank you Osbourn!

Posted: April 29, 2015

I will have my second child graduate from OHS this June. I have been impressed with the level of classes, the wide range of ways our children could be involved and the care that the administration has taken with us during a few bumps in the road. My son played guitar and football and soccer and did art classes. My daughter sings, acts, loves to read and write. Math and science are not high on their lists, and if I were to give a blemish it would be to the lack of excitement put on those types of learning. I love the school board, I love the facilities, I love the dedicated teachers. I am encouraged by their ability to honor diversity and allow traditions to be carried out. I can only say that for those who make it their business to take advantage of the special opportunities, ap courses and extra circulars. Some students are culturally challenged which makes OHS look awful. I really believe that those students who want an education can achieve and go anywhere. We have friends who's children have gone to ivy league and admired schools. My children were looking for specific majors and have been able to attend the schools of their choice.

Posted: March 3, 2015

Greatschools allows schools with incomplete profiles and terrible reviews to have ratings of 7 or better. With repeated attempts to ask for a review of our score of 2 (recently moved to 3) they continue to cite examples of average progress when our record reflects otherwise. If you are moving to Manassas, please don't look at just the number score on Greatschools before you decide where to move and where to live. Manassas is a GREAT community and OHS is a WONDERFUL school. Every Senior at that school who I know has been accepted to their first choice school for college. I wonder where you house a score for that?

Posted: February 16, 2015

Moved here from Prince William County. Could not be happier with our choice. My daughter is so happy! Her English teacher ( Stippey) is incredible and she received a tablet to use through social studies. The teachers are personable, conscientious and hard working. The school is neat as a pin. The athletic program is top notch as is the band. For us, we feel like we landed in a better spot. Don't believe what you hear or might read - Osbourn has great kids and is very safe. It has the normal drama of high school but that's it. Happy in Manassas City!

Posted: January 15, 2015

This school deserves way better than the rating Great Schools has given it. I have worked in other schools in the state. OHS has some of the same issues, but a much greater commitment and heart than many of the bigger schools in northern Virginia. I believe in these kids and their families - they are hard-working, fun-loving and KIND students who just want what all kids want - a future.... Update this site!

Posted: December 8, 2014

I think OHS is a really good school. I play sports and am involved in activities. That helps me feel like part of the school. I really believe my teachers and dean care about me. They spend a lot of extra time. Also, everyone pretty much gets along. The principal is strict but nice. Go Eagles!

Posted: December 8, 2014

Under new administration (superintendent & principal), OHS has improved greatly. My children used to attend a local Catholic school and we are pleased with our MCPS experience.

Posted: August 28, 2014

We are new to Manassas and just enrolled our son in Osbourn as a sophomore. He has been in private school his entire life and has a 4.6 GPA. We are attracted to Osbourn by the course offerings especially in Honors, AP and Governor's School. The teachers, guidance counselors, administrators and coaches we have met have all been fantastic. No weak links.

Posted: August 28, 2014

Great experience with this school. Pulled our sophomore out of private school so he could benefit from the Honors, AP and Governors School offerings. Teachers, students, administrators, coaches and guidance are fantastic.

Posted: August 27, 2014

Off to a Great start for my Freshman daughter... She is excited and optimistic. I am hopeful...

Posted: August 5, 2014

Our 5 children attended Osbourn. Four of them graduated from Virginia Tech. They received a fine education in the Manassas School system including Osbourn. After viewing some of the very low ratings on this site i am not certain that these folks are talking about the same school. As in any other school Osbourn has issues surface from time to time and the pertinent question is are they addressed in a reasonable manner, and they are. Working as a volunteer in the system I have seen considerable evidence of excellent leadership from the new Superintendent. We look forward to seeing the school continue on it's positive course.

Posted: July 18, 2014

Love, Love, Love this school. We moved to Manassas because family members told us about the "private" feel of the school for those students who truly seek a quality education. We found that and so much more. The staff is awesome. They are ready and qualified to teach to kids who want to learn. If you are a family who have a passion for learning, you will be ecstatic with OHS.

Posted: July 17, 2014

Osborn is a solid school with a good staff. I have three children, all of whom attend city schools, and our experience with OHS has been a very positive one. Students who are seeking a first-rate education will get one at OHS. Like most endeavors in life, a student will get out of their experience there what they put in. I have also personally witnessed teachers and staff who will go well above and beyond in trying to motivate underachieving students to aspire to more. In three years of having a child at OHS, I have never once (nor has my child) ever felt unsafe, nor has she ever had an incident that would lead us (or her) to believe she was unsafe. No school is perfect, but OHS has done a tremendous job with our child. We had options as to where our kids would go to school, and we chose the city of Manassas with good reason.

Posted: July 17, 2014

WOW... reading some of these responses I wonder why someone would make the statements they do, As a parent with now (2) kids attending OHS this school year I happy with the education they are receiving and the environment. This is from a parent that removed are children from Private schools to enroll in public about 4 years ago. Like all schools OHS is a reflection of our community and the students experience at OHS is a reflection of the support, guidance and leadership they receive at home. We have students that excel incredibly - attending Military academies, MIT, Johns Hopkins, etc. But rarely do these facts ever get brought to light. So I end with my rating of OSH with this... your experience in/with school is comparable with what you put into it.

Posted: July 15, 2014

My son spent all 4 years at Osbourn High School and he had amazing teachers. I believe his classes helped direct him into his college major, mechanical engineering. He had an exceptional engineering and AUTO CAD instructor. He also received 12 college credits through the dual enrollment program which, by the way, the district picked up the cost. That is basically a full semester at college paid for by the school division while surrounding counties are passing that cost onto the parents. He is now a semester ahead at college and is doing wonderful. He loved his dual enrollment instructors and said that they definitely helped prepare him for college and were also a huge part in his successful first year of college.

Posted: July 15, 2014

Johns Hopkins University and William and Mary. Those are the colleges attended by my children, both Osbourn High School graduates (classes of 2010 and 2013) who spent every minute of their educations in Manassas City Public Schools. So, sort of, enough said. Clearly, a top-level, world-class, competitive education can be gained via Osbourn High School; my daughter graduated a semester early and cum laude from Johns Hopkins. My son is on a full-tuition scholarship at William & Mary. But there's more to the school than just AP classes and dedicated teachers. My children were involved in sports, robotics, service clubs, and more. They grew up in hallways and classrooms filled with a richly diverse student body, and learned that the world is made up of a multitude of types of people, all intelligent and deserving and loving. I could not have asked for more! And via my children, I myself spent seven years very involved in Osbourn High School - seven very happy years with a community of like-minded, energetic, dedicated parents, teachers, and administrators. I cannot recommend Osbourn HS and Manassas City Public Schools enough.

Posted: July 15, 2014

OHS is a good school with a good staff. The common theme is 'students first'. In my time as an OHS parent, I have seen the same truism repeat, over and over again - that a student will benefit as much as they are willing to work. Teachers and administration can only do so much. Students who work for and want a first-rate education will receive one at OHS. In three years of being an Osborn parent, I have been pleased by overall experience. Most have been quick to address issues and solve problems, though some have required more contact than others to do so. At OHS, as in life, there are some people who are easier to deal with than others. Most of our experiences have been positive and I firmly believe that speaks to the nature of the school and its staff. I do think that recent principal turnover has had an effect on the school, but to nowhere near the degree that other posts seem to suggest. It also remains a fact that my child has felt, and continues to feel perfectly safe in the school. We had options as to where our children would attend school, and we chose Manassas City deliberately.

Posted: July 14, 2014

We love and support Osbourn High School! We are grateful for the new administration both at the school and in the division - positive changes are happening!

Posted: June 22, 2014

As a former student, if you value your children at all, you will avoid the place like the plague. It's so bad that my teenage rebellion wasn't against the school administration, it was against my fellow students. If you send your children here, kiss their futures good bye. About 1 in 20 of my former classmates isn't a drug dealer as their main source of money, and farther more I've had friends that hated the place and the people there so much that they've kill themselves just to escape it. And just to put a bit of icing on the cake, sexual assault happens. Quite a bit in some of the classes under mine. The best thing to do is to remove your children from the city school system as soon as you can. There's a way to transfer them to the county with minimal hoops to jump through, I recommend you do it.

Posted: June 3, 2014

The school adminstration never answers their phones nor do they ever call back. One star is too good for this school.

Posted: February 20, 2014

I have nothing but great things to say about Osbourn. The teachers, mostly the English Dept, gave my daughter all the tools she needs to succeed. She has been accepted to The College of William & Mary for fall of 2014. We have worked hard to be apart of the family at Osbourn and it has paid off! Thanks Osbourn.

Posted: September 8, 2013

My kids have been her for the last two years and done very well! They both play sports, hold high GPAs, and are safe. The truth is you have to be present in your child's life. The school has so many resources for our kids, you just have to take advantage of them. Yes , Guidance is a mess, but the administration should take care if that.

Posted: August 29, 2013

Great teachers! I have nothing bad to say about this school. So far so good!

Posted: February 26, 2013

I just returned from a joint meeting between the Manassas City Council and the Manassas School Board. Both groups totally understand that as our schools reputation and results go, so goes our quality of life. It was great to see the level of committment and cooperation from both groups to make our schools in Manassas the best in the State. Both groups are to be applauded for the thoughtful, professional approach they brought to this session. Kenny Loveless-parent

Posted: February 9, 2013

I am currently a freshman at this school. I don't see any gang activity or hear of it. I do hear about a fight probably two time a week. Only being at this school for a few month I can tell it's not the best. I like a few teachers nd I have met quite a few good friends. They hire teachers who I don't think even like children or teaching. My geometry teacher gives us the hardest problems ever! And most of his students have under a C average. And he doesn't even try to change it. The freshman priciple does his job well. The teachers don't even show up for conferences. Even though the school might have an upside, don't send your kids hear if you want them to have grades that aren't failing.