Smith Mountain Lake Schools: An Insider’s Guide (2026)

Smith Mountain Lake schools transcend traditional boundaries, encompassing diverse opportunities that cater to every stage of life. 

Whether you’re raising young children, planning for college, changing careers or simply looking to learn something new, the Smith Mountain Lake region offers more educational resources than many realize. You’ll find everything from K-12 schools and colleges to career training, workforce development and lifelong learning, organized into easy-to-use charts and quick-reference guides.

Choosing the right educational path is one of the most important decisions families make. Fortunately, the SML region offers a diverse mix of learning environments to meet the needs of students with different interests, goals and learning styles.

In Bedford, Franklin and Pittsylvania counties, public schools are recognized for providing quality education. These systems offer specialized programs for high achievers, career and technical exploration centers, STEM resources and collaborations with local community colleges to earn college credits while in high school. 

Beyond academics, you’ll find a robust extracurricular scene with accomplished sports teams, diverse clubs and a focus on performing arts.

Bedford County Public Schools

Composed of three high schools, three middle schools and 13 elementary schools, Bedford County Public Schools serves students from preschool through 12th grade in communities stretching from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the shores of Smith Mountain Lake. The division offers a traditional public school experience with a wide range of academic, athletic and extracurricular opportunities.

In addition to gifted education programs for elementary and middle school students and advanced academic offerings at the high school level, Bedford County Public Schools is home to the Susie G. Gibson Science and Technology Center. There, students can explore a variety of Career and Technical Education pathways designed to prepare them for both college and the workforce through hands-on learning and real-world experiences.

Fine arts and athletics also play an important role in student life. Opportunities in music, theatre, dance and visual arts complement a full slate of interscholastic sports, including football, volleyball, basketball, wrestling, baseball, softball, soccer, track and cross country, golf, swimming, tennis, field hockey and lacrosse.

For families living on the Bedford County side of Smith Mountain Lake, Bedford County Public Schools offers a well-rounded educational experience that combines strong academics with career preparation, artistic expression and competitive athletics.

Franklin County Public Schools

With a mission to promote lifelong learning and create productive citizens in the global community, Franklin County Public Schools educates students from preschool through 12th grade across 10 elementary schools, one middle school campus and one high school located in the heart of the county.

Along with gifted education programs for elementary and middle school students and advanced academic opportunities at the high school level, Franklin County Public Schools rounds out its offerings with visual and performing arts, athletics and a variety of extracurricular activities designed to help students discover and develop their talents.

One of the division’s most unique features is the Leonard A. Gereau Center for Applied Technology and Career Exploration, where all eighth-grade students spend part of the school year exploring hands-on, problem-based learning experiences. Located on a separate campus adjacent to Franklin County Middle School, the Gereau Center encourages students to solve real-world challenges while introducing them to a variety of career pathways.

Career and Technical Education opportunities continue at the high school level, where students can pursue hands-on electives and industry certifications in high-demand fields such as automotive technology, agriculture, masonry and emergency services.

For lake families living on the Franklin County side of Smith Mountain Lake, Franklin County Public Schools offers a traditional public school experience with a wide range of academic, artistic, athletic and career-focused opportunities.

Pittsylvania County Public Schools

Although only a small portion of Smith Mountain Lake borders Pittsylvania County, the school division provides another public education option for families living on the lake’s southern side. Serving one of Virginia’s largest geographic counties, Pittsylvania County Public Schools educates students from preschool through 12th grade across a network of elementary, middle and high schools.

The division emphasizes gifted education, Advanced Placement, dual enrollment and Career and Technical Education, preparing students for both college and the workforce. Fine arts, athletics and a variety of extracurricular activities provide opportunities for students to discover new interests and build leadership skills.

Smith Mountain Lake Christian Academy

Founded in 2008, Smith Mountain Lake Christian Academy has grown alongside the lake community into one of the area’s most recognizable educational institutions. Its main campus in Moneta includes separate facilities for preschool, elementary, middle and high school students.

The school is known for its commitment to holistic Biblical integration paired with academic rigor, with a philosophy centered on developing the whole student through four pillars: Heart, Soul, Mind and Strength. In addition to traditional classroom instruction, students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, athletic fields, gymnasiums, performing arts programs and a variety of extracurricular activities.

SMLCA draws families from across the lake region who are seeking a faith-based educational environment close to home, without the daily commute to Roanoke or Lynchburg.

ONE Forest School

Tucked within Deer Head Nature Preserve, ONE Forest School offers one of the most unique educational settings in the region. Rather than spending most of the day inside a traditional classroom, students learn through hands-on exploration in the woods, fields and natural areas surrounding the campus.

The school’s outdoor-focused approach has attracted families seeking a different educational experience, one that emphasizes curiosity, independence and a connection to nature. Its location overlooking Smith Mountain Lake only adds to the distinctive learning environment.

Christian Heritage Academy

For more than 45 years, Christian Heritage Academy has set the standard in Franklin County for a classical Christian education. Located a short drive from the Smith Mountain Lake area on a bucolic ten acres in Rocky Mount, it provides educational opportunities for preschoolers through 12th grade in traditional classroom settings.

Faith Christian School

Located off Buck Mountain Road in Roanoke County, Faith Christian serves students from junior kindergarten through high school and emphasizes academic achievement, leadership development and Christian character while offering athletics, fine arts and a variety of student activities.

North Cross School

Known for its strong academics and competitive athletics, North Cross School offers an independent college-preparatory experience from early childhood through 12th grade. Located in Roanoke County, the school combines rigorous academics with opportunities in athletics, performing arts, STEM and global studies. Its boarding program attracts students from around the world while maintaining a close-knit community feel.

Roanoke Catholic School

Founded in 1889, Roanoke Catholic School is one of the region’s oldest educational institutions. Located in downtown Roanoke adjacent to the city’s iconic St. Andrew’s Catholic Church, the school serves students from early learners through 12th grade. A number of SML families are drawn to its faith-based environment, strong academics, arts and athletic programs, service-oriented culture and long tradition of preparing students for college and beyond.

Roanoke Valley Christian Schools

Roanoke Valley Christian Schools has carved out a unique role in the region by serving both traditional students and homeschool families. Located in the Hollins area of Roanoke County, the campus offers educational opportunities from preschool through 12th grade, along with supplemental classes and enrichment programs that allow homeschool students to participate in academics, athletics and fine arts.

James River Day School

Tucked into a residential area of Lynchburg, James River Day School offers a distinctly personal approach to education. The independent K-8 school is known for its small classes, strong academics and close-knit community, where students are encouraged to think critically, explore their interests and develop confidence both inside and outside the classroom.

Liberty Christian Academy

Few schools in the region can match the scale of Liberty Christian Academy. Affiliated with Liberty University, the school offers students access to extensive academic, athletic and extracurricular opportunities. From championship athletic programs to STEM, performing arts and career-focused coursework, Liberty Christian has become a popular choice for families seeking a large-school experience within a Christian educational environment.

Timberlake Christian School

Located in Forest, Timberlake Christian School has been serving families in the Lynchburg region for more than 45 years. The preschool-through-12th-grade school is known for its strong academics, competitive athletic programs and wide range of extracurricular opportunities. For SML families willing to make the drive, Timberlake offers a well-established Christian school option with a reputation for preparing students for success in college and beyond.

VirState

Supported online learning for K-12 students, including homeschoolers. Offers advanced coursework, STEM opportunities and dual enrollment. virtualvirginia.org

Virginia Virtual Academy

Tuition-free online public school serving K-12 students with live instruction from Virginia-licensed teachers. vava.k12.com

Liberty Online Academy

Accredited Christian online education offering full-time and part-time instruction, dual enrollment and specialized programs. liberty.edu/online-academy

Homeschool Hub of Franklin County

Offers field trips, elective classes, social events, trades education and graduation ceremonies for homeschooling families. homeschoolhubfcva.org

Peaksview Christian Home Educators

Provides academic classes, electives, field trips and extracurricular activities for homeschool students in Bedford County. pchebedford.com

Facebook Communities

• Homeschool Hub of Franklin County, VA
• Homeschoolers of Franklin County, Virginia
• Bedford Virginia Homeschool Group
• Homeschoolers of Franklin and Bedford Counties, VA

Whether you’re pursuing a degree, exploring a new career path or planning for the future, Smith Mountain Lake residents have access to a surprising number of higher education opportunities online and within an easy drive.

Ferrum College

Ferrum College, just 40 minutes west of Smith Mountain Lake, is a four-year private liberal arts institution affiliated with the United Methodist Church. Established in 1913, it offers more than 30 undergraduate majors and minors, along with a handful of graduate programs.

Known for its scenic campus, close-knit community, accomplished athletic programs and commitment to community service, Ferrum College is an excellent option for higher education at Smith Mountain Lake.

Other Colleges and Universities

Students also have access to an impressive mix of public universities, private liberal arts colleges, community colleges and specialized institutions in nearby Bedford, Lynchburg, Martinsville, Danville and the Roanoke Valley.

Whether pursuing a bachelor’s degree, graduate studies, workforce credentials or a career change, educational opportunities are available within 75 minutes of Smith Mountain Lake.

View an extensive list here.

For those seeking specialized training, workforce credentials or career advancement opportunities, the SML region offers a variety of options close to home. Local institutions provide hands-on training and industry-recognized credentials in fields ranging from healthcare and information technology to skilled trades, advanced manufacturing and public safety.

Community Colleges

Community colleges such as Central Virginia Community College, Virginia Western Community College and Patrick & Henry Community College offer associate degrees, certificate programs, workforce training and transfer pathways to four-year colleges and universities.

The Franklin Center for Advanced Learning & Enterprise

Located in nearby Rocky Mount, The Franklin Center complements the community college offerings with diverse workforce development, career training, continuing education and career services that help students and working adults build new skills and advance their careers.

English courses for speakers of other languages, and certifications for CPR, first aid, and hunter safety, the center serves as a practical resource for skill enhancement.

50 Claiborne Avenue, Rocky Mount · 540-483-0179 · thefranklincenter.org

Virginia Career Works

Located in nearby Rocky Mount, The Franklin Center complements the community college offerings with diverse workforce development, career training, continuing education and career services that help students and working adults build new skills and advance their careers.

Learning doesn’t stop after graduation. Throughout the Smith Mountain Lake region, nonprofit organizations and community groups offer opportunities for residents of all ages to develop new skills, pursue hobbies, volunteer and stay connected.

Kaleidoscope – The Gathering Place

Located in Hardy, Kaleidoscope brings people together through workshops, support groups, social activities and community events for adults and families. By partnering with local nonprofits, churches and civic organizations, the center creates opportunities to build new skills, form meaningful relationships and strengthen connections. kaleidoscopetgp.org

Libraries

Public libraries in Bedford and Franklin counties offer far more than books. Technology classes, author talks, book clubs, educational workshops and children’s programming make local libraries valuable resources for lifelong learning and community connection.

• Bedford County Public Library System
• Franklin County Public Library System

Smith Mountain Arts Council

SMAC offers art classes, workshops, camps, exhibits and performances throughout the year, providing creative opportunities for children and adults to learn, create and connect through the arts. smithmountainartscouncil.com

Smith Mountain Lake Association

Protecting the lake begins with education. Through environmental workshops, water quality initiatives, shoreline stewardship programs and volunteer opportunities, the SMLA helps residents better understand the lake while encouraging responsible recreation and conservation. smlassociation.org

Virginia Cooperative Extension

With offices serving Bedford and Franklin counties, VCE provides research-based educational programs in gardening, agriculture, nutrition, financial wellness and youth development, helping residents develop practical skills while connecting with local experts. ext.vt.edu/index.htm

Virginia Master Naturalists

Nature enthusiasts can deepen their knowledge through the Smith Mountain Lake Chapter of Virginia Master Naturalists. Members receive extensive training in the region’s natural resources before volunteering in conservation, environmental education and citizen science projects throughout the lake area. virginiamasternaturalist.org

W.E. Skelton 4-H Educational Conference Center

Nestled along the shores of Smith Mountain Lake, the W.E. Skelton 4-H Educational Center offers year-round environmental education, leadership development and outdoor learning experiences. Programs serve youth and adults through conferences, retreats, STEM activities and hands-on experiences in nature.

Recognizing the importance of fostering curiosity and a love for learning from a young age, the center offers a range of youth-focused programs, workshops and camps. These tailored activities cover an array of subjects, from environmental science and outdoor education to team-building exercises and leadership development.

Moreover, the facility serves as a host for family-oriented programs with interactive workshops, outdoor adventures, and hands-on activities designed to strengthen familial bonds while imparting valuable knowledge.

Coming Soon: The SML Center

The proposed Smith Mountain Lake Center will transform Westlake Cinema into a vibrant gathering place where residents of all ages can explore new interests, build skills and connect with others.

Plans include classrooms, conference and multi-use spaces for workshops, lectures, technology training, wellness programs and other enrichment opportunities, along with a live performance venue for concerts, theater productions and cultural events, all while continuing to offer filmed entertainment.

Organizers are finalizing the purchase and will soon launch the public phase of a $3 million capital campaign to fund renovations and bring the vision to life. Once completed, the SML Center will provide lake residents and visitors with a year-round destination for education, events, creativity and community connection.