Chesterfield County Public Schools opened Aug. 24 for a new school year, welcoming students to 41 elementary schools, 13 middle schools, 11 high schools, one virtual school and one prekindergarten school. Students were greeted warmly as they arrived via bus, car, bike or foot, with teachers delighted to have young energy and voices fill their classrooms once again.
Changes made since the previous school year include a new elementary school (Deep Creek Elementary); a new building for Bensley Elementary; expanded instructional space at the Career and Technical Center @ Hull; and new principals at five schools.
In a weekend video message, Superintendent John T. Murray welcomed students and staff members to the new year. "We can't wait to welcome you back," Dr. Murray said, thanking parents and family members for "everything you are doing at home to get things off to a great start."
Noting the hard work of employees throughout the summer to make sure schools are ready, School Board Chair Lisa M. Hudgins said in the video, "Students, now all we need is you. Your ideas, talents, questions and energy are what bring our schools to life."
Aug. 24 was not the first day of school for every Chesterfield student because the school system uses a staggered start to support the youngest students and those transitioning to a new building:
Grades 1-5, 6 and 9 started class Aug. 24.
Grades 7-8 and 10-12 will start Aug. 25.
Prekindergarten and kindergarten students start on different days. Some attend Aug. 24-25, and others attend Aug. 26-27. All prekindergarten and kindergarten students attend daily starting Aug. 28.
Additional information
Chesterfield County Public Schools is a student-centered, award-winning school system where all students have meaningful opportunities to succeed. With all schools fully accredited, Chesterfield County Public Schools — which includes seven National Blue Ribbon Schools, eight National ESEA Distinguished Schools, seven Middle Schools to Watch and one AMLE School of Distinction — prepares students to be college and career ready.
Based on student enrollment, Chesterfield County Public Schools is the largest central Virginia school system, fifth largest in Virginia and among the 65 largest in the nation. Enrollment is 63,955 (as of Sept. 30, 2025).
More than 4,200 students graduate each year, and most graduates achieve a rigorous advanced diploma.
Chesterfield County Public Schools provides top-quality environments for teaching and learning. Five new schools have opened, 11 school buildings have been replaced and five others have had major renovations or expansions since 2016. A new high school is under construction, and planning is underway for additional construction.