Henrico County Public Schools seeks feedback on proposed boundary changes

HENRICO COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- Henrico County Public Schools is welcoming feedback from families and staff as the school board considers plans for adjusting the division's boundaries.

According to a page on the school district's website, the adjustments are being reviewed to "ensure that every student learns in a safe, welcoming and optimal school environment."

The conversation of boundary adjustments began earlier this year as the school board worked to address issues with overcrowding at certain high schools. Ultimately, the decision was made -- in a three-to-two vote -- to table those discussions for the fall due to fears of unanswered logistical issues and fears of "unintended consequences."

Now, according to the division's website, the school board is considering several factors in proposing boundary adjustments for certain neighborhoods:

• Making the best use of new and renovated school spaces.
• Balancing student enrollment at schools across the division.
• Aligning feeder patterns from elementary to middle and high schools.
• Reducing transportation challenges.
• Planning for future growth in the community.

The website includes several scenarios for changing attendance zones at different schools across all grade levels.

Elementary School Scenarios

• Jackson Davis Elementary School (with Ridge and Three Chopt elementary schools)
• Ruby F. Carver Elementary School (with Maybeury Elementary School)

Middle School Scenarios

• Quioccasin Middle School (with Tuckahoe and Pocahontas middle schools)
• Hungary Creek Middle School (with Holman Middle School)

High School Scenarios

• Douglas S. Freeman High School (with Godwin High School)
• Henrico High School (with Hermitage and Highland Springs high schools)
• J.R. Tucker High School (with Hermitage High School and Mills Godwin High School)

Traditionally, when the school board makes changes to the attendance zone of certain schools, students in grades 5, 8, 11 and 12 have the option to remain at their current school once redistricting takes effect.

"As the boundary adjustment review progresses, the school board will determine student transition plans for any approved scenarios. Should the school board approve a scenario that significantly increases or decreases student enrollment at individual schools, school leadership will carefully review the allocation of resources and staffing to ensure students have the tools and support they need to be successful," the school district said on its website.

There are three upcoming town hall meetings welcoming feedback from families and staff, including one later this week -- at J.R. Tucker High School from 7 to 9 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 18.

For more information on the boundary adjustment plans, visit the Henrico County Public Schools website.