Colonial Forge High School

Stafford, VA 22554

Phone: (540) 658-6115
District: Stafford County Public Schools

5

GreatSchools Rating

public • Grades 9,10,11,12 • 2129 students

Colonial Forge High School, a public school located in Stafford, VA, serves grades 9-12 in the Stafford County Public Schools.It has received a GreatSchools Rating of 5 out of 10, based on a variety of school quality measures.

Colonial Forge High School is a public school located in Stafford, VA. 2129 students attend Colonial Forge High School.

School Ratings

Category Rating Details
Test Scores 7/10 The Test Score Rating examines how students at this school performed on standardized tests compared with other schools in the state. The Test Rating was created using 2025 Virginia Standards of Learning data from Virginia Department of Education, and using 2025 Virginia Standards of Learning (SOL) End-of-Course data from Virginia Department of Education.
College Readiness 3/10 The College Readiness Rating uses this high school's graduation rates, college entrance exam participation and performance, or AP, IB, or Dual Enrollment participation to determine how well schools are preparing students for success in college and beyond. The College Readiness Rating was created using the following data from the 2021 Civil Rights Data Collection: percentage of students enrolled in IB, AP or Dual Enrollment classes in grades 9-12, using 2025 4-year high school graduation rate data from Virginia Department of Education, using 2025 demographic data from the National Center for Education Statistics, and using 2025 demographic data from Virginia Department of Education.

Posted: August 6, 2026

Best high school with standards my older daughter goes to this school

Posted: August 6, 2026

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Posted: August 7, 2025

Best high school with standards my older son goes to this school

Posted: August 7, 2025

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Posted: June 23, 2025

This school is punitive! The students have to walk in egg shells. The teachers has given me the impression that they are there for the pay check and some retirement benefits not really to help the kids. The principal and asst. school principals are awful! Not a good place for kids. They have no “mercy”.

Posted: June 23, 2025

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Posted: May 22, 2024

Amazing school one of the best high schools in stafford.

Posted: May 22, 2024

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Posted: March 7, 2024

Both of my daughters attended CFHS and both had different but successful high school careers. One enjoyed all the sports/band/ and clubs, while the other took as many dual enrollment classes offered and graduated with an associates degree as well as her diploma. The teachers are very responsive to student concerns and I never had an issue in the 6 years we dealt with them.

Posted: March 7, 2024

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Posted: May 18, 2023

This school is dysfunctional.
The representation and organization unsystematic!
Some counselors are overwhelmed, confused! No actually guidance or support for scholarships, transcripts or letter of recommendation.
The Administrative Department is unsupportive with providing documentation to support your childs’ needs. You literally have to advocate for your child!! If not, your child will slip through the cracks of pure hell.
There is no organization!! Administrative and Front Office is the absolute worse!! Be proactive as a parent when your child attends this school… bookmark everything!! Screenshot everything!! Copy emails and receipts!! This school is needs some serious adjustments!!

Posted: May 18, 2023

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Posted: July 17, 2020

Terrible (except for a few small great things). A 0/10. I advise against going here.

Posted: July 17, 2020

My former math teacher gave me tough homework for an easy class. I didn't enjoy that class or some other classes in high school.

Posted: July 17, 2020

Some have a rude/authoritative attitude and others just plain give me cringe.

Posted: July 17, 2020

No matter how effective it is, some students are verbally abusive/mentally weak, gives other students a hard time, and many students get into way too many fights (especially many huge brawls that erupted). Half the students in the building are basically not nice.

Posted: July 17, 2020

They were not responsible for handling common school/personal complaints.

Posted: May 9, 2019

There are always going to be the trouble students, but I will say that now being a senior, I have developed into a respectful young adult ready to enter the world.

Posted: May 9, 2019

If I ever had any issue, my counselor and the principle have been very willing to listen and handle the problem effectively.

Posted: May 9, 2019

There is an abundance of opportunities that will suit everyone's educational needs. The EMT Program is amazing and provides an outlet for kids who love to think critically and make decisions. There is something for everyone!

Posted: May 9, 2019

Having been bullied and know of others who have too, the administration handles these situations seriously. Rules and policies have been put into to place to limit these interactions as well.

Posted: May 9, 2019

Over all, I would give my time as a student here a solid 8/10. High school is a place for one's character to grow and to make memories. I can say leaving this school, that I have changed as a person for the better. I am more sure of myself going out into the real world. There have definitely been some bumps in the road, but no high school is absolutely perfect. The school spirit at Forge is amazing and the dedication to the students is top notch. Definitely have memories here that will stay with my forever! Go C-Forge!

Posted: May 9, 2019

There is a variety in homework options, and usually relate to the topic.

Posted: May 9, 2019

There are teachers at this school that shouldn't be teaching. Not going to name names because they know who they are. Luckily I can count the number of those teachers on one hand. Most of my teachers are passionate about their subject and enjoy teaching. Stafford county should pay them much more!

Posted: May 18, 2018

Overall the experience has been wonderful after transferring from another state. Athletics are a different discussion!! Athletic director frowns on comments from parents, even stated this at spring sports meeting!! Nearly every sports coach only gives lip service to “best players will play!” Favoritism is rampant, as the teams records illustrate. Football is the only sport with a good track record of fielding a team where the players grow and learn.

Posted: May 18, 2018

Teachers are very involved and work with the students

Posted: May 18, 2018

Simple, the teachers care and they demonstrate it each day

Posted: May 18, 2018

Students are granted the opportunity to succeed and the expectations are high

Posted: May 18, 2018

Principal and the vice principals are active every day with the student population

Posted: May 18, 2018

CFHS provides ample variety and levels of classes

Posted: May 18, 2018

With the zero tolerance policy, infractions are not allowed to fester

Posted: June 6, 2017

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Posted: June 6, 2017

All 3 of my children went to this school and overall had a very good experience. Had to talk to a few of the teachers on how they conducted themselves as a teacher, and how it reflects on the children. One called my son out of his name repeatedly because it was an asian name. When he repeatedly tried to correct her she continued disrespectfully saying it her way with no regard to his feelings in other words she continued to tease/bully him about his name. I was shocked and had to talk to her about it. As soon as I talked to her it stopped. Another teacher had favorites in her class and tend to favor one race over another, which was uncalled for. I had to talk to her about her position as a teacher and how she appeared to her students. Still another was affecting my daughter emotionally, constantly putting her good works down, by accusing her of not doing her writings because they were so good. My daughter is a excellent writer for her age. Her vocabulary is very extensive because of our travels and the fact she loves to read books and have been doing it since she was very young it has always been her hobby. So I was surprised that the teacher was consistently rude to her in a argumentative way about her papers. My daughter was very hurt because she worked really hard in her class writing her papers. Being a Journalist has always been a career goal and it continues to be a goal for my daughter after she's graduated from the school. I'm glad her sprit of writing was not hurt by the very one rude teacher. Other then that the school was an awesome school for my children to attend. There is a lot of positive activities for the children to join. For the most part the teacher's and staff want your children to excel and they are geared up to make sure it happens. As a parent, I am very pleased with the school with a few exceptions but that is how life is, it's not always perfect.

Posted: June 4, 2015

Great School. Listed among US News top best high schools in the United States 2015.

Posted: April 2, 2015

The school is horrible. I believe there are major issues. Look at who the Principal is and look at who was the QB on the football team was last year. I have continuous problems with the administrative staff. When I asked my daughters teacher what areas does she need to focus on to get her grades up and the teacher said "I don't know". Most of the teachers appear to be unqualified. Currently online the kids talk about the "bullying" and intimidation by the teachers. I said I would talk to the teacher about a specific incident with my child my child begged me not to say anything. I heard all the schools in the County are the same. If you want to know more, you may want to google criminal issues surrounding Stafford County schools.

Posted: May 19, 2014

If you are one of the golden ones, the school is great, I'm sure. I have found it to be very elitist, not welcoming for kids with differences. If you want a good education and are willing to run the social gauntlet and just pray that your kid comes out with some self esteem left, this is your school. I find the new Principal after having a disastrous merry go round of 3 short term Principals to be uninvolved, uninspired and the leader of those kids that fit in.

Posted: September 18, 2013

As a military family, we've had the opportunity to explore various educational environments across the country. Colonial Forge High School was highly recommended by many different resources, and has a wonderful reputation / relationship with its community. For us, CFHS had a lot to live up to--we were absolutely amazed when our high expectations were not only met--but, greatly exceeded. The dedicated leadership staff is outstanding in relating to students by providing expectations, guidance, and care. They are present, visible, and accessible to the students throughout the school day. The resulting environment is one of unified commitment between the students and staff. The staff is phenomenal. The STUDENTS know that THEY are the priority, and that their future is theirs to build. We didn't know schools like this were still possible to find.

Posted: June 24, 2013

My school is very overpopulated. The academics are great but the people in the school are not as good. I just completed my freshman year and i learned a lot. Bad things- there were around 9 to 10 fights I new about, we had a drug raid that had about 10 students arrested, some days you can smell smoke in the restroom, we has hazing on the cross country bus, and we still do not have a principal, and I see a lot of bullying everyday. Goods thing- mostly great teachers, great athletics, the assistant principals are fantastic, the opportunities and options they provide you with are awesome. If you can afford a private school, go there.

Posted: April 11, 2013

Colonial Forge has not had a principal in a full-time capacity since the beginning of 2013 when the principal resigned. The principal who replaced her has been on medical leave for most of the 2013-2014 school year. Without a captain at the helm, even a good school suffers.

Posted: December 20, 2012

I am now in my third year at Forge and I love it!! The staff is always there to help and give support. They have a great athletics programs and electives that help you discover what you would like to do in the future. I definitely recommend going to this school.

Posted: November 29, 2012

I have gone to Forge for the last 3 years and am in my senior year! I love CFHS. We have great teachers (students so/so). There are really no fights, which is good because it does not interrupt the learning environment. If you want to go to a great school, this is one to consider. You'll love it there and it will be a great four years!

Posted: December 7, 2011

Excellent Teachers, Strong Leadership, Challenging Academic Programs, Practically every extra-ciricular activity know to mankind, Excellent Athletics Programs and Significant support internally as well as externally. The day for these children starts at 7:20 and on many many occasions, goes well into the night with activities or sports. As a parent,my Sophmore student is being recruited by major colleges including Ivy. Thank you to everyone engaged in the educational processes in Stafford County Virginia, your dedication and commitment is special.

Posted: September 19, 2010

Colonial Forge High prepares students for college and prepares them for employment. I am very happy with the Commonwealth Governor's School program.

Reviews provided by GreatSchools

# Name Type City State Overall Rating Distance
1 Austin Ridge Neighborhood/Subdivision Stafford VA 1.3 mi
2 Autumn Ridge Neighborhood/Subdivision Stafford VA 1.4 mi
3 Augustine Neighborhood/Subdivision Stafford VA 1.6 mi
4 Park Ridge - The Manors Neighborhood/Subdivision Stafford VA 1.9 mi
5 Hampton Oaks Neighborhood/Subdivision Stafford VA 2.1 mi
6 Park Ridge The Towns Neighborhood/Subdivision Stafford VA 2.3 mi
7 Embrey Mills Neighborhood/Subdivision Stafford VA 2.5 mi
8 Eastern View Neighborhood/Subdivision Stafford VA 2.6 mi
9 Amber Hill Neighborhood/Subdivision Stafford VA 2.6 mi
10 Vista Woods Neighborhood/Subdivision Stafford VA 2.9 mi
11 Hunter's Pond Neighborhood/Subdivision Stafford VA 3.2 mi
12 Manors of Greenridge Neighborhood/Subdivision Stafford VA 3.3 mi
13 St. George's Estates Neighborhood/Subdivision Stafford VA 3.7 mi
14 Woodstream Neighborhood/Subdivision Stafford VA 3.9 mi
15 Aquia Harbour Neighborhood/Subdivision Aquia Harbour VA 3.9 mi
16 Apple Grove Neighborhood/Subdivision Stafford VA 3.9 mi
17 Aquia Harbour Neighborhood/Subdivision Stafford VA 5.2 mi
18 Leeland Station Neighborhood/Subdivision Fredericksburg VA 6.6 mi
19 Stafford Lakes Village Neighborhood/Subdivision Fredericksburg VA 7.1 mi
# Name City State Overall Rating Distance
1 Stafford Stafford VA 2.4 mi
2 Public Quarry at Government Island Stafford VA 3.4 mi
3 Leeland Station Area Fredericksburg VA 5.8 mi
4 Aquia Landing Park Stafford VA 7.9 mi
5 Downtown Fredericksburg Fredericksburg VA 9.1 mi
6 Ferry Farm Area Fredericksburg VA 9.8 mi
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