In 1906, Lucy Madeira founded her school with the belief that it is our duty and privilege to help young women to understand their changing world and to have the confidence to live lives of their own making, their own passions, their own dreams.

Our Mission

Launching women who change the
world.


Our Vision

Leading innovation in girls' education.

Madeira's Community Values

  • Awareness of self and others
  • Compassion
  • Creativity
  • Intellectual curiosity
  • Integrity
  • Resilience

Madeira's History & Educational Philosophy

In 1906, Lucy Madeira Wing (1873-1960) founded a school “for the purpose of preparing girls for the leading women’s colleges.” In 1929, the school was incorporated as The Madeira School. Madeira relocated from Washington to the suburb of McLean, Virginia, in 1931.