Friday Family Update

Happy Friday CCPS! Here’s what’s happening in your Chesterfield County Public Schools.

Read this newsletter on our website and see all news from Chesterfield County Public Schools.

Important dates and events


Recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month

Sept. 15 through Oct. 15 is National Hispanic Heritage Month! 

Each year, we recognize the rich history, culture, and countless contributions of the Latin and Hispanic community.


Falling Creek Elementary named one of America’s Healthiest Schools

Falling Creek Elementary was recognized for the second consecutive year as one of America’s Healthiest Schools by the Alliance for a Healthier Generation. Among 1,376 schools nationwide, only 14 Virginia schools received the honor, with Falling Creek being the only recognized school in central Virginia. 

This award highlights the school’s commitment to whole-child health and a supportive environment for students, staff, and families. Falling Creek was honored in four areas: strengthening social-emotional health and learning, cultivating staff well-being, improving nutrition and food access, and supporting school health services.


See high-energy marching band performances Oct. 5 

Don’t miss this fall’s energetic exhibition featuring every high school marching band in Chesterfield County Public Schools! The annual event will start at 6:25 p.m. Oct. 5 in the stadium of Thomas Dale High (3626 W. Hundred Road). Everyone is invited to experience the bold sounds and precision moves of drumlines, brass and woodwinds alongside the beautiful choreography of color guards as 10 halftime shows take the field. Admission is free. Rain date is Oct. 12. 

Check out some of the highlights from last year's show!

2024 Marching Band Night


Nominate an outstanding principal for a 2027 R.E.B. Award

The Community Foundation for a greater Richmond is accepting nominations for the 2027 R.E.B. Awards for Distinguished Educational Leadership. 

The awards recognize public school principals who create exceptional educational environments beyond the day-to-day responsibilities of their roles.

Three people smiling in front of a logo.

One principal from Chesterfield County Public Schools will be selected, along with recipients from Hanover, Henrico and Richmond City public schools. Each recipient receives a $30,000 award: $10,000 for personal use and $20,000 to support school-based initiatives.

Nominations may be submitted by members of the school community or public; self-nominations are not accepted. Eligible principals must have served at their current school for at least three years. Submit nominations online by 5 p.m. Nov. 5. Review the guidelines and submit a nomination.


See how generative AI is shaping the future

Gen AI Regional Summit

Students and families are invited to the Regional GenAI Summit, taking place 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Sept. 26 at the Thomas R. Fulghum Conference Center.

Explore how generative AI is changing education, creativity and the workplace through engaging presentations, student showcases, interactive demonstrations and exhibits. You do not need any previous experience with GenAI, just bring your questions and curiosity. Registration is encouraged.


What is included in 1 For Schools?

On the ballot this fall, Chesterfield County voters will be deciding on a 1% local sales tax to go towards Chesterfield County Public Schools capital renovations.If approved by voters, revenue generated through the ballot referendum would support six proposed priority projects:

  • New Midlothian/Clover Hill Area Elementary School

  • New Dale Area Elementary School/Pre-K

  • Matoaca Middle School Replacement Completion

  • Midlothian Middle School Replacement

  • Bird High School Gym Addition

  • Thomas Dale High School Addition

1% sales tax referendum for school renovations.

​Revenue would also support capital renovations across Chesterfield County Public Schools for years to come. Learn more at Chesterfield.gov/1ForSchools.

Banner with letters 'icymi' and text 'in case you missed it'.

Registration for PSAT/SAT academies now open for fall 2026

Register now for free preparation courses for the PSAT and SAT this fall for current 9th-12th graders enrolled at CCPS. The deadline to sign up is 5 p.m. Sept. 23.

After-school food available for students at 17 schools

Chesterfield County Public Schools offers free after-school snacks and supper for students where 50% of students qualify for free or reduced-price meals.

Reminder: Chromebook care and responsibilities

Now that students have received their Chromebooks, take a moment to talk about the importance of taking care of these devices and the responsibilities that come with them.

"Programs for Families" text in bold colors.Coffee & Conversation Virtual Series

Wednesday, Sept. 23, 1 p.m. 
Virtual 

Audience: all families

Supporting Student Well-Being with Hazel Health

Learn about Hazel Health, a free virtual mental health service for middle and high school students. Discover how it works, who is eligible and how licensed professionals support students with stress, anxiety, and other emotional challenges.


Guest: Carmen Waterford, coordinator of equity


Middle Management, Surviving and Thriving Through the Middle School Years

Tuesday, Sept. 29, 6:30 p.m. p.m. 
Virtual 

Audience: middle school families

High School Opportunities: Specialty Centers and more 

Learn about high school specialty centers, the opportunities they offer and how to navigate the application process. Get an introduction to more educational pathways available through our CTE programs and centers. 

Guests: Jenny Coleman, coordinator of student engagement; Chad Maclin, director of career and technical education


Teen mental health care and suicide prevention event

Teen smiling in classroom, "More Than Sad: Teen Depression."

Sept. 22, 2026: More Than Sad 

6-8 p.m. at Brightpoint Community College, Nicholas Center (13101 U.S. 1)
Register to attend

More Than Sad is a suicide prevention education program for teens and their parents, caregivers, and other supportive adults. Learn to recognize signs of depression and other mental health concerns, understand warning signs of struggle, how to begin supportive conversations on mental health, and how to find help and resources. 

"Careers with CCPS" logo, colorful design.

Drivers wanted! Bus driver hiring event Sept. 23

Want a full-time job with optional summers off or part-time with a flexible schedule? Become a bus driver for Chesterfield County Public Schools! Interview at our hiring event Sept. 23, 2026, from 5-6 p.m. at Midlothian High School (401 Charter Colony Parkway). No experience needed. Get paid while you train for your CDL. Starting pay is $25.10/hour or higher (up to $32.84/hour) with previous CDL experience. Learn more and register to attend.


Step in to substitute teaching! Hiring event Sept. 29

Do you want a meaningful job with a flexible schedule? Become a substitute teacher! Chesterfield County Public Schools pays substitute teachers $140 on regular days and $203 on Fridays and high-demand days. 

Come to our substitute teacher hiring event Tuesday, Sept. 29, 2026, from 4-6:30 p.m. at Clover Hill High for an opportunity to learn more and interview. Registration is encouraged but not required.