This article reflects on the sense of belonging experienced by students at emblematic high schools in Santiago, Chile; the study analyzed students' pride in attending prestigious schools and their perceptions of the meanings of excellence, in comparison with directors' views. The data compiled from interviews with directors and focus groups, and questionnaires answered by students, led to the conclusion that students are proud to belong to an academic elite and do not restrict the conception of excellence to academic matters. This perception differs from the performative values of the Chilean school system, but is in agreement with directors' perceptions. The conclusion is that students identify with their school and conceive of excellence as personal, social, and civic development.