News Summary
The Williamsburg-James City County Schools opened doors to approximately 11,700 students as the academic year began. With increasing enrollment and the introduction of new initiatives, schools aim to enhance the educational experience. Notably, the district added nearly 140 new teachers this year to support growth in student numbers. Superintendent Daniel Keever emphasized the importance of community involvement and strategic objectives to foster an enriching learning environment for all students.
Williamsburg, Virginia – The Williamsburg-James City County Schools welcomed approximately 11,700 students as the 2025-26 academic year commenced on Monday. This figure aligns with a regional trend across southeastern Virginia where most school divisions resumed classes, marking a lively start to the new school year.
Scattered across local neighborhoods, parents escorted their children to school as buses navigated through the area. Among the newcomers are the Ritter family, who relocated from Little Rock, Arkansas, just three months prior. Their daughter, Amelie, is a 13-year-old student at James Blair Middle School, entering her first day of classes with enthusiasm. She looks forward to making new friends and beginning her orchestra class.
Enrollment Growth and Staffing Updates
At James Blair Middle School, enrollment stands at 471 students this year, a figure attributed to extensive preparation conducted by the staff over the summer months. Principal Mike Littleton underscored the importance of this preparation for a smooth start.
Meanwhile, J. Blaine Blayton Elementary School experienced a surge in enrollment as well, welcoming 543 students. Principal Kristin Schweitzer revealed plans to enhance student engagement through various initiatives, including the establishment of before-school clubs and a unique pollinator project aimed at fostering environmental education about honeybees and monarch butterflies. This project will involve raising butterflies and maintaining a garden, allowing students to participate actively in their learning environment.
This academic year also marks a significant increase in teaching staff, with nearly 140 new teachers joining the workforce, raising the total to 1,013 teachers across the division. The influx of new educators is vital for supporting the growing student population and enhancing the overall educational experience.
Leadership and Strategic Objectives
Superintendent Daniel Keever is entering his first full year in his role after succeeding retired Superintendent Olwen Herron. He highlighted the importance of the Empower ’28 strategic plan, which focuses on improving academic achievement and promoting educational equity within the school division.
The new school year also introduces an innovative kindergarten model at three elementary schools. This model allows for a structured orientation process, ensuring that students are adequately prepared before being assigned to their respective classrooms.
Keever has urged the community to actively support the educational process, calling for diligence in school zones and increased involvement from local residents. This collaborative approach is considered essential for fostering student success and maintaining a safe learning environment.
New Teachers and Classroom Goals
Among the new teaching staff are Emma Stephens and Andrea Wirt, who have both expressed their commitment to guiding students towards fulfilling educational experiences. Stephens, now a third-grade teacher at Clara Byrd Baker Elementary, emphasizes a student-focused approach based on her recent student teaching experience at the school. She aims to create a nurturing atmosphere that encourages student engagement and personal growth.
Wirt has transitioned from working in a middle school office to becoming a special education inclusion teacher at Lafayette High School. She believes in the importance of teaching and is determined to make a positive impact in her students’ lives. Wirt has established specific goals for her classroom that prioritize individualized support and fostering self-advocacy skills among her students.
The commencement of the 2025-26 school year in Williamsburg-James City County Schools brings excitement and fresh opportunities for students, parents, and educators alike as they embark on a journey of learning and growth together.
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Additional Resources
- Daily Press: Williamsburg Area Schools Welcome Students
- Google Search: Williamsburg-James City County Schools
- Daily Press: WJCC Schools Welcomes New Teachers
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education in Virginia
- Wavy: WJCC Schools Victim of Cyberattack
- Google News: Williamsburg Schools
- Gov Tech: WJCC Schools Recovered from Cyber Attack
- Williamsburg Families: School Supplies for WJCC Public Schools
- 13 News Now: Dr. Daniel F. Keever Named New Superintendent
- Google Scholar: Williamsburg James City County Schools
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
