Leaders from Chesterfield County Public Schools and Chesterfield County government cut a red ribbon Aug. 5 to officially open the new Bensley Elementary School. After the brief ceremony, families and community members explored the new building.
When it opens Aug. 24 at the start of the 2026-27 school year, the new Bensley Elementary will accommodate up to 1,000 students in kindergarten through fifth grade; the old building’s program capacity was 575 students.
The new school is built on the site of the old Bensley Elementary, and Principal Patrice Wilson spoke about the excitement of a new learning environment. "What a joyous moment to finally return to 6600 Strathmore Road," Dr. Wilson said. "As leaders and as learners, we’re going Back to the Future — bringing our best from the past to build an even stronger future for every child. This year, we step into a new building — but not a new mission. We carry forward the legacy of resilience, excellence and leadership that defines our school."
The new Bensley Elementary is part of a community facilities bond plan approved by Chesterfield County voters in 2022. Virginia Public School Authority bonds covered the building’s $52 million budget.
Ann Coker, who represents the Bermuda District on the Chesterfield County School Board, thanked the community for supporting public education and school construction. "The happiest part of today’s gathering will be when we get to throw open the doors and welcome students, families, and teachers and the entire community into this brand-new school for the very first time," she said. "Those first steps across the threshold mark the opening of new opportunities for our children and for our community."
Dr. John T. Murray, superintendent of Chesterfield County Public Schools, thanked everyone who worked to make the new Bensley Elementary a reality and predicted a great start to the school year. "Bensley students and teachers will be buzzing with excitement and potential as they get to know their new classrooms and other learning spaces. Aug. 24 will indeed be an especially memorable first day of school for the Tigers!" he said.
The largest school system in central Virginia, Chesterfield County Public Schools enrolls 64,000 students who attend 69 schools.