About

Job Opportunities

Thank you for your interest

We believe that the process of finding qualified teachers who are seeking to make Bishop Ireton a home is a two-way street. We look to provide applicants with as much information as possible in order to ensure that our mission and educational philosophy matches your own. Our website should give you an introduction to the challenging, spiritual, and personalized education that enables Bishop Ireton students to achieve success in high school and beyond.

Be who you are and be that well

We want our students to develop to their fullest potential. Our patron, St. Francis de Sales, writes, “Be who you are and be that well.” To that end, we are facilitators in recognizing, assembling and integrating the critical components of a student’s education. We believe that finding the right teachers is paramount in giving our students the best opportunities to be successful.

Our vision is to inspire each and every student to grow in their Catholic faith through the love of God and one another. We are looking for energetic, passionate teachers who welcome the challenges of teaching and who can maintain a sense of perspective in their years here at Bishop Ireton. We are looking for teachers who demonstrate maturity, professionalism, creativity and the ability to work in a collegiate environment. Strong candidates display a consistent work ethic, pursue professional development opportunities and understand that our profession is a ministry not merely a job.
In order to carry out our mission, we are looking for teachers who are committed to:

  • Integrating a Catholic and Salesian spirit into their subject matter while keeping St. Francis de Sales’ motto of “fortiter et suaviter” (firmly and gently) as a guiding beacon
  • Giving witness to Christ the Unique Teacher, in both their lives and teaching. As Fr. Brisson, founders of the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales writes: “What greater thing in all the world…than to fashion souls. What is greater than to mold the morals of the young? More than any painter, more in genius than the greatest sculptor, is he whose art is to shape consciousness for good and form character who he can recreate in a student the image and likeness of God.”
  • Providing an environment which enables students to grow in their faith
  • Encouraging each student to attain true self-knowledge and a valid sense of self-worth as one created by God in his image
  • Providing a college preparatory curriculum that challenges and inspires each student to achieve individual excellence
Thank you for your interest in Bishop Ireton High School!

Current Job Opportunities

If you do not see a position of interest, but would like to keep your resume on file, please fill out the application inquiry form. For more information go to the Diocese of Arlington Office of Catholic Schools website.

List of 10 items.

  • Building Engineer

    Bishop Ireton High School, a Catholic, co-educational, college preparatory high school serving 950 students in Alexandria, has an immediate opening for a Building Engineer. The individual in this position utilizes advanced skills to perform preventive maintenance and corrective repair of buildings, industrial systems, equipment and grounds. Working under supervision, this position monitors building operations and performance, utilizing trade skills such as carpentry, plumbing, electrical, painting, roofing, heating and cooling. The Building Engineer is a member of the Facilities/Operations Department. This is a full-time, 12-month non-exempt position reporting to the Facility Operations Manager.

    Essential Duties and Responsibilities
    • Complies with all applicable codes, regulations, governmental agency and Bishop Ireton High School directives related to building operations and work safety.
    • Works with the Facilities team, ensuring that building systems are maintained and operational.
    • Performs assigned repairs, cleaning and emergency and preventive maintenance. Completes maintenance and repair records as required.  
    • Reviews and completes assigned work orders.
    • Performs carpentry, furniture assembly and lock tasks as needed.
    • Performs small repairs for a modern office facility, to include touch-up painting, caulking, adjustments of suspended ceilings, minor sheet rock repair.
    • Responds quickly to emergency situations, summoning additional assistance as needed.
    • Periodically maintain 24/7 “on-call” status for after hour emergencies and inclement weather.  
    • Maintains a clean and organized work area, tool and equipment storage areas. Ensures tools, shop equipment and materials are cleaned, and maintained, including the necessary records and inventories. Uses proper procedures when performing tasks and utilizing equipment. 
    • Performs other duties as assigned.
    Safety
    • Ensures that the building is safe for all occupants if any unexpected incidents arise.  
    • Takes responsibility for personal safety and the safety of those who are affected by the work. Participates in all OSHA-related programs & activities as required, including incident investigations, interviews, auditing and assessment, etc.
    • Reports any conditions which could result in an accident or injury and/or stop work if required.
    The ideal candidate will demonstrate: 
    • A commitment to maintaining the building and systems of the school at a high level.
    • An understanding of, and commitment to, safety protocols.
    • Respect for all individuals on campus and the faith-based work environment.
    Qualifications:
    • Knowledge and relevant experience with building maintenance.  Certifications/licenses as may be required by local or state jurisdictions. 
    • Uses personal computer and/or PDA for work order system and email. Basic skills with Microsoft Office.
    • Strong time management skills; demonstrates attention to detail
    • Shows resilience; Provides reliable follow-up and meets deadlines.
    • Must speak fluent English.
    • Experience working in a school environment preferred.
    Education
    • High School Diploma (or equivalent)
    • Two-year building trade school certificate preferred.
    Terms of Employment
    • Full-time, Non-Exempt, 12-month employee
    • Background check and Virtus training
    Interested candidates should submit a cover letter with contact information (phone/email) for three professional references and a current resume to Tina Becker, Manager of Administrative Services, at tina.becker@sanmingzhi.net

    About Bishop Ireton 

    Bishop Ireton, a Catholic, co-educational, college preparatory high school in historic Alexandria, Virginia, began its proud heritage of academic excellence in 1964. The school offers a challenging environment and outstanding quality of life, both in academics and co-curricular activities, with a three-tiered focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), humanities and fine arts. The spirit of community service and giving back is central to the school’s mission. Bishop Ireton’s quality is reflected in its distinguished faculty and staff, who take great pride in seeing every graduate head to college - often to highly prestigious universities and service academies. 
  • Mathematics Teacher

    Bishop Ireton High School has an opening for a full-time Math teacher for the 2025-2026 school year at our campus in Alexandria, Virginia.  Candidates should be able to teach Algebra, Geometry and Pre-Calculus, and Statistics experience is a plus.

    Candidates will: 
    • Demonstrate professionalism in a collaborative environment.
    • Have strong communication skills.
    • Possess a bachelor's degree in Math; master's degree preferred.
    • Possess or be willing to obtain a Virginia teaching license or VCEA license.
    • Possess required citizenship, residency or work visa.
    • Promote the Catholic mission of the school 
    Interested candidates should submit a cover letter with three professional references, current resume, and written personal philosophy of education in a Catholic school environment to Tina Becker, Manager of Administrative Services, at tina.becker@sanmingzhi.net. 

    Applicants should submit a completed application to the Diocese of Arlington Office of Catholic Schools at http://arlingtondiocese.tedk12.com/hire/index.aspx.

    Candidates must be willing to undergo a background check and take required in-person Virtus training. 
     
    About Bishop Ireton

    Bishop Ireton, a Catholic, co-educational, college preparatory high school in historic Alexandria, Virginia, began its proud heritage of academic excellence in 1964. The school offers a challenging environment and outstanding quality of life, both in academics and co-curricular activities, with a three-tiered focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), humanities and fine arts. The spirit of community service and giving back is central to the school’s mission. Bishop Ireton’s quality is reflected in its distinguished faculty and staff, who take great pride in seeing every graduate head to college - often to highly prestigious universities and service academies.
  • Varsity Head Coach Field Hockey

    Bishop Ireton High School is in search of a dedicated, experienced professional to serve as the Varsity Head Coach for Bishop Ireton’s Field Hockey team beginning the 2025-26 school year. Bishop Ireton is a Catholic, co-educational college preparatory school located in Alexandria, Virginia.
     
    Bishop Ireton plays in the Washington Catholic Athletic Conference (WCAC) and participates in highly competitive conference, league and non-league schedules. The Field Hockey Head Coach directs and coordinates all aspects of the team in accordance with the school’s mission and values. The goal of the coach should be to lead this competitive program at the highest level of play by teaching and developing the players with skill and sportsmanship. Team building is essential. 
     
    The Field Hockey Head Coach is responsible for managing the coaching staff and team budget. The ability to manage the program during pre-season is required. This position receives a stipend and reports to the Athletic Director. The fall season runs from early August through mid-November. 
     
    Applicants will be evaluated on:
    • Experience coaching high school aged students.
    • Year-round field hockey programmatic experience.
    • Vision for leading a competitive high school field hockey team.
    • Commitment to the principles of our Catholic college preparatory school.
    • Interpersonal skills and record of developing strong relationships with student-athletes, colleagues, administrators, parent/guardians, and others in the school community.
    Experience and familiarity with DMV competitive high school, or equivalent youth field hockey programs is desirable. 

    Prior coaching is required and/or college playing experience is a plus.
     
    Interested coaches should submit a cover letter, resume and the names and telephone numbers of at least two professional references to Tina Becker, Manager of Administrative Services, at tina.becker@sanmingzhi.net.   
      
    About Bishop Ireton

    Bishop Ireton, a Catholic, co-educational, college preparatory high school in historic Alexandria, Virginia, began its proud heritage of academic excellence in 1964. The school offers a challenging environment and outstanding quality of life, both in academics and co-curricular activities, with a three-tiered focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), humanities and fine arts. The spirit of service and giving back is central to the school’s mission. Bishop Ireton’s quality is reflected in its distinguished faculty and staff, who take great pride in seeing every graduate head to college, often to the most prestigious universities and service academies. Bishop Ireton is a member of the Washington Catholic Athletic Conference (WCAC).
  • Communications and Digital Media Intern

    Position Overview:

    The Communications and Digital Media Intern will support Bishop Ireton High School's communication efforts by creating, analyzing and supporting digital content across various platforms. This role offers an excellent opportunity for a college student studying communications or a related field to gain hands-on experience in a professional environment while contributing to the school's mission.
    Key Responsibilities:
    • Alongside the Digital Brand Manager, develop social media content for platforms including Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.
    • Create multimedia content such as graphics, videos, and animations to support school initiatives following school brand guidelines.
    • Research and document digital engagement strategies to enhance future campaigns.
    • Collaborate with the Digital Brand Manager on summer projects, including creating promotional materials for fall events.
    • Participate in brainstorming sessions for digital marketing strategies and school-wide communications.
    Qualifications:
    • Must be a current college student, having completed one collegiate year, 30+ credits by job start), majoring in Communications, Marketing, Digital Media, or a related field.
    • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
    • Experience with social media platforms and content management tools.
    • Familiarity with design tools such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere Pro) and/or Canva.
    • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
    • Bishop Ireton alumni status preferred.
    Schedule and Compensation:
    • Two days per week (Tuesday and Thursday, 9 am - 3 pm) onsite
    • May-August internship duration (with flexibility for start and end date)
    • Stipend offered
    Application Process:

    Interested candidates should submit the following to tina.becker@sanmingzhi.net:
    1. Resume
    2. Cover letter detailing interest in the position and relevant experience
    3. Portfolio showcasing previous work (optional but encouraged)
  • Varsity Head Coach Girls Ice Hockey

    Bishop Ireton High School is in search of a dedicated, experienced professional to serve as the Varsity Head Coach for Bishop Ireton’s inaugural Girls Ice Hockey team beginning the 2025-26 school year.  Bishop Ireton is a Catholic, co-educational college preparatory school located in Alexandria, Virginia.
     
    Bishop Ireton plays in the Washington Catholic Athletic Conference (WCAC) and participates in highly competitive conference, league and non-league schedules. The Girls Hockey Head Coach directs and coordinates all aspects of the team in accordance with the school’s mission and values. The goal of the coach should be to lead this competitive program at the highest level of play by teaching and developing the players with skill and sportsmanship. Team building is essential. 
     
    The Girls Hockey Head Coach is responsible for managing the coaching staff and team budget. The ability to manage the program during pre-season is required. This position receives a stipend and reports to the Ice Hockey Program Director and Athletic Director. Winter Season runs from November through mid-February. 
     
    Applicants will be evaluated on:
    • experience coaching high school aged students
    • year-round ice hockey programmatic experience
    • vision for leading a competitive high school ice hockey team 
    • commitment to the principles of our Catholic college preparatory school
    • interpersonal skills and record of developing strong relationships with student-athletes, colleagues, administrators, parent/guardians, and others in the school community. Experience and familiarity with DMV competitive high school, or equivalent youth ice hockey programs is desirable. 
    Prior coaching is required and/or college playing experience is a plus.
     
    Interested coaches should submit a cover letter, resume and the names and telephone numbers of at least two professional references to Tina Becker, Manager of Administrative Services, at tina.becker@sanmingzhi.net.
    About Bishop Ireton

    Bishop Ireton, a Catholic, co-educational, college preparatory high school in historic Alexandria, Virginia, began its proud heritage of academic excellence in 1964. The school offers a challenging environment and outstanding quality of life, both in academics and co-curricular activities, with a three-tiered focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), humanities and fine arts. The spirit of service and giving back is central to the school’s mission. Bishop Ireton’s quality is reflected in its distinguished faculty and staff, who take great pride in seeing every graduate head to college, often to the most prestigious universities and service academies. Bishop Ireton is a member of the Washington Catholic Athletic Conference (WCAC).
  • JV Boys Lacrosse Lead Coach

    Bishop Ireton High School is in search of a dedicated experienced professional to serve as the Lead Coach for the JV Boys Lacrosse Team for the spring athletic season, which runs from February through May.
     
    Bishop Ireton is a Catholic, co-educational college preparatory school located in Alexandria, Virginia and is a member of the competitive Washington Catholic Athletic Conference (WCAC) and Virginia Independent School Athletic Association (VISAA). The school plays against some of the top programs in the country. The goal of the JV Boys Lead Coach should be to help build the program to be competitive at the highest level of league and state play by teaching and developing the JV level players with the goal of preparing athletes for varsity play.
     
    Applicants will be evaluated on:
    1. Experience coaching high school aged students (college playing experience is preferred)
    2. Vision for/ready to support building and leading a competitive high school lacrosse program;
    3. Commitment to the principles of our Catholic, college preparatory school; and
    4. Interpersonal skills and record of developing strong relationships with student-athletes,  administrators, parent/guardians, and others in the school community. Experience and familiarity with competitive high school, or equivalent youth lacrosse programs, are a plus. 
    The JV Lead Coach receives a stipend and reports to the Varsity Head Coach and Athletic Director.
     
    Applicants should submit a resume and the names and telephone numbers of at least two references to Tina Becker, Manager of Administrative Services, at tina.becker@sanmingzhi.net.
     
    This notice will close January 20, 2025. All applications must be received by that date to be considered.
    About Bishop Ireton

    Bishop Ireton, a Catholic, co-educational, college preparatory high school in historic Alexandria, Virginia, began its proud heritage of academic excellence in 1964. The school offers a challenging environment and outstanding quality of life, both in academics and co-curricular activities, with a strong focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) initiatives. The spirit of community service and giving back is part of everything the school does. Bishop Ireton’s top-tier status is reflected in its talented faculty and staff, who take great pride in seeing virtually every graduate head to college - often to the most prestigious universities and service academies.
  • Part-Time Classroom Proctor (Immediate Opening)

    Bishop Ireton has an immediate opening, to begin as early as January 2025.

    The part-time Classroom Proctor will serve as a school-based support to faculty and students by providing classroom supervision and instructional coverage for absent teachers in classes and advisories as assigned by the Facilities Services Manager/Substitute Teacher Coordinator and the Assistant Principal/Dean of Faculty. This position works every other instructional day from 7:30am to 3:15pm and reports to the Assistant Principal/Dean of Faculty.

    Position Summary:
    • Provide classroom supervision and instructional coverage for absent teachers in classes and advisories as assigned by the Facilities Services Manager/Substitute Teacher Coordinator and the Assistant Principal/Dean of Faculty.  When covering classes, it is expected that appropriate student supervision and classroom management will be provided. Attendance will be taken and submitted at the beginning of each class. Provided plans will be followed and implemented as indicated by the teacher. School/student policies and code of conduct (ie, phone, uniform, etc) will be enforced.
    • Other duties can include: 
      • Assist, as needed and when assigned, in the library, study hall, testing center, and cafeteria.
      • Assist with proctoring/monitoring of regular and make-up midterm and final exams.
      • Assist the classroom teacher when a second staff member is needed.
    This is a part-time position (15-22 hours per week).

    The candidate should have strong communication skills and be able to work collaboratively with colleagues.  This individual must promote the Catholic mission of the school. 

    Interested candidates should submit a cover letter with three professional references, current resume to Tina Becker, Manager of Administrative Services, at tina.becker@sanmingzhi.net 
    Candidates must be willing to undergo a background check and take required in-person Virtus training.
    About Bishop Ireton

    Bishop Ireton, a Catholic, co-educational, college preparatory high school in historic Alexandria, Virginia, began its proud heritage of academic excellence in 1964. The school offers a challenging environment and outstanding quality of life, both in academics and co-curricular activities, with a three-tiered focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), humanities and fine arts. The spirit of community service and giving back is central to the school’s mission. Bishop Ireton’s quality is reflected in its distinguished faculty and staff, who take great pride in seeing every graduate head to college - often to the most prestigious universities and service academies.
  • Certified Athletic Trainer (Immediate Opening)

    Bishop Ireton High School is currently seeking a full-time Certified Athletic Trainer beginning immediately for the 2024-2025 school year. The Certified Athletic Trainer, who will report to the Athletic Director. The Certified Athletic Trainer will provide the appropriate medical support, education, and advice to athletes and guardians, the coaching staff, and the AD regarding injuries, conditions and sports medicine-related issues in a proactive as well as reactive manner. This position is required to maintain all athletic-related medical information, including, but not limited to sports medicine policies and procedures, certified athletic physical exam records establishing fitness for physical activities, documentation of injuries, illnesses, and pre-existing conditions that may impact wellness and ability for athletes to compete safely. When appropriate, provide medical treatment, physical therapy, rehabilitative treatment for injuries and conditions related to an athlete’s ability to compete, including the appropriate time to return to normal activities. 

    Essential Functions
    • Provide athletic training services during athletic contests, practices, and other activities, as necessary.
    • Provide advice and “return to competition” decisions to players, parents, coaches & staff regarding athlete’s medical condition
    • Maintain accurate records of medical exams, injuries, and rosters of athletes; with school nurse, co-administrator for MAGNUS health system (for athlete-related functions).
    • Report to diocesan risk management those school-related injuries that may require the attention of a doctor or other fee-based health care provider
    • Assist with Bishop Ireton concussion management policy
    • Other tasks as may be assigned by the AD

    The ideal candidate will demonstrate: 
    • A commitment to a successful athletic program of education, competition, and sportsmanship that fosters the values espoused by the Catholic mission of Bishop Ireton High School
    • Confidentiality
    • A customer service orientation, a positive attitude, and overall enthusiasm for BI athletics

    Required Qualifications
    • Education: Bachelor's degree required. Master's degree preferred. Graduate from an accredited undergraduate or graduate athletic training program required.
    • Experience: Five or more years of experience preferred.
    • Licensure/certification/registration: NATA BOC certification and Virginia Athletic Training license required.
    • Additional skills required: Excellent customer service, written and oral communication, basic computer application skills, and ability to multitask. Facility with or willingness to learn school management software (Blackbaud). 
    • Additional skills preferred: Hold or ability to hold Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), Performance Enhancement Specialist (PES), Corrective Exercise Specialist (CES) certification(s).

    Terms of Employment
    • Full-time, 11-month employee with the option to work summer camps in the 12th month
    • Hours subject to responsibilities of position and frequently requires evening and weekend duty
    • Background check and Virtus training
    • Valid driver’s license 

    Start Date:       September 2024

    Salary:             Competitive and commensurate with experience

    Benefits:          We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package, including 403(b) and pension. 

    Contact:          Candidates interested in joining this dynamic, faith-centered organization are invited to submit a cover letter, current resume, and at least three (3) professional references by email to tina.becker@sanmingzhi.net.
    About Bishop Ireton

    Bishop Ireton, a Catholic, co-educational, college preparatory high school in historic Alexandria, Virginia, began its proud heritage of academic excellence in 1964. The school offers a challenging environment and outstanding quality of life, both in academics and co-curricular activities, with a strong focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) initiatives. The spirit of community service and giving back is part of everything the school does. Bishop Ireton’s top-tier status is reflected in its talented faculty and staff, who take great pride in seeing virtually every graduate head to college - often to the most prestigious universities and service academies.
  • Varsity Head Coach Girls Tennis

    Bishop Ireton High School is in search of a dedicated, experienced professional to serve as the Varsity Head Coach for the Girls Tennis team.  Bishop Ireton is a Catholic, co-educational college preparatory school located in Alexandria, Virginia.
     
    Bishop Ireton plays in the Washington Catholic Athletic Conference (WCAC) and participates in highly competitive girls tennis conference, league and non-league schedules. The Varsity Head Coach directs and coordinates all aspects of the girls tennis program in accordance with the school’s mission and values. The goal of the coach should be to lead this competitive program at the highest level of play by teaching and developing the players with skill and sportsmanship. Team building is essential. 
     
    The Varsity Head Coach is responsible for managing the coaching staff and team budget. The ability to manage the program during pre-season is required. This position receives a stipend and reports to the Athletic Director. Fall Season runs from mid August through mid November. 
     
    Applicants will be evaluated on:
    • experience coaching high school aged students
    • year-round tennis programmatic experience
    • vision for leading a competitive high school girls tennis program 
    • commitment to the principles of our Catholic, college preparatory school; and
    • interpersonal skills and record of developing strong relationships with student-athletes, colleagues, administrators, parent/guardians, and others in the school community. Experience and familiarity with DMV competitive high school, or equivalent youth tennis programs is desirable. 
     
    Prior coaching is required and/or college playing experience is a plus.
     
    Interested coaches should submit a cover letter, resume and the names and telephone numbers of at least two references to Tina Becker, Manager of Administrative Services, at tina.becker@sanmingzhi.net.   
      
    About Bishop Ireton
    Bishop Ireton, a Catholic, co-educational, college preparatory high school in historic Alexandria, Virginia, began its proud heritage of academic excellence in 1964. The school offers a challenging environment and outstanding quality of life, both in academics and co-curricular activities, with a three-tiered focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), humanities and fine arts. The spirit of service and giving back is central to the school’s mission. Bishop Ireton’s quality is reflected in its distinguished faculty and staff, who take great pride in seeing every graduate head to college, often to the most prestigious universities and service academies. Bishop Ireton is a member of the Washington Catholic Athletic Conference (WCAC).
     
    Full Time or Part Time:   Part-Time/Seasonal
    Start Time: 2024-2025 School Year
  • JV Lead Coach Girls Tennis

    Bishop Ireton High School is in search of a dedicated experienced professional to serve as the Lead Coach for the JV Girls Tennis team.  

    Bishop Ireton plays in the ultra-competitive Washington Catholic Athletic Conference (WCAC) and Virginia Independent School Athletic Association (VISAA) against some of the top programs in the country. The goal of the JV Lead Coach should be to help build the program to be competitive at the highest level of league and state play by teaching and developing the JV level players with the goal of preparing athletes for varsity play. 

    Fall Season goes from early August to mid November with practice times from 4:00-6:00pm. Game times are usually 4:00pm.  Prior coaching and/or college playing experience is preferred.

    Bishop Ireton is a Catholic, co-educational college preparatory school located in Alexandria, Virginia. Applicants will be evaluated on:

    1) their experience coaching high school aged students; 
    2) their vision for building and leading a competitive high school tennis program;  
    3) their commitment to the principles of our Catholic, college preparatory school; and
    4) their interpersonal skills and record of developing strong relationships with student-athletes,  administrators, parent/guardians, and others in the school community. Experience and  familiarity with competitive high school, or equivalent youth tennis programs, are desirable.  

    The JV Lead Coach receives a stipend and reports to the Varsity Head Coach and Athletic Director. 

    Applicants should submit a resume and the names and telephone numbers of at least two references to Tina Becker, Manager of Administrative Services, at tina.becker@sanmingzhi.net.
    About Bishop Ireton

    Bishop Ireton, a Catholic, co-educational, college preparatory high school in historic Alexandria, Virginia, began its proud heritage of academic excellence in 1964. The school offers a challenging environment and outstanding quality of life, both in academics and co-curricular activities, with a three-tiered focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), humanities and fine arts. The spirit of community service and giving back is central to the school’s mission. Bishop Ireton’s quality is reflected in its distinguished faculty and staff, who take great pride in seeing every graduate head to college - often to the most prestigious universities and service academies.