News Summary
The Williamsburg-James City County Schools division commenced the new academic year, greeting approximately 11,700 students across its schools. With a fresh focus on innovative educational projects and staffing, school leaders are excited about the opportunities for growth and learning. Several new initiatives, including a revamped kindergarten model and diverse programs at various schools, aim to enrich the students’ educational experience this year. Community support and engagement will play a critical role in these efforts.
Williamsburg, Virginia – The Williamsburg-James City County Schools division kicked off the new academic year on Monday, welcoming approximately 11,700 students across its schools. This marks a significant start to the school year as families and buses were observed lining up in various locations to send children off to classes.
Among the students, James Blair Middle School had an enrollment of 471 students for the current year. The principal, Mike Littleton, spent the summer preparing the staff for an enriching educational experience in the new term. One student, Amelie Ritter, who recently moved to Williamsburg from Little Rock, Arkansas, expressed excitement about starting middle school and participating in the orchestra after seven years of cello playing.
Beyond middle school, J. Blaine Blayton Elementary welcomed 543 students from pre-kindergarten to high school. Principal Kristin Schweitzer emphasized the school’s mission to engage students through various clubs and innovative projects. One notable initiative includes a pollinator project focused on environments for honeybees and butterflies, as well as managing a garden that supports these efforts.
Superintendent Daniel Keever announced that nearly 140 new teachers have joined the school division this year, bringing the total number of educators to 1,013. This achievement comes close to filling all staffing needs within the district. Keever also discussed the goals outlined in the strategic plan known as “Elevate ’28.” These goals address key areas such as academic achievement, career readiness, and educational equity.
This year, the district introduced a new kindergarten model at three elementary schools—D.J. Montague, Laurel Lane, and Norge. This initiative allows for an orientation period before students are placed in their respective classrooms, aimed at better acclimating young learners. Keever highlighted the vital role of community support in the education of students and urged drivers to exercise caution in school zones.
Incoming teachers include Emma Stephens, who is teaching third grade at Clara Byrd Baker Elementary, returning to the same school where she had completed her student teaching. Another new educator, Andrea Wirt, has taken on the role of a special education inclusion teacher at Lafayette High School, transitioning from administrative duties at Hornsby Middle School. Wirt was additionally motivated to enter the field of special education due to personal connections with her nephew, who is on the autism spectrum.
The recent changes regarding staff and curriculum come after the School Board appointed Dr. Daniel F. Keever as the new superintendent, following a thorough national search that considered over 40 candidates. After serving as Deputy Superintendent, Keever began his role as acting superintendent on February 1, 2025, succeeding Olwen Herron. With 30 years of experience in public education, Keever is poised to advance the school division’s strategic initiatives and support the educational community as a whole.
The first day of school not only marks an important milestone for students and staff alike but also sets the tone for a year of growth and learning within the Williamsburg-James City County Schools division. As the community rallies to support its educators and students, the launch of various projects and programs aims to ensure an enriching environment for every student.
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Additional Resources
- Daily Press: WJCC Schools Welcomes New Teachers
- Wikipedia: Williamsburg, Virginia
- Government Technology: WJCC Schools Recovered from Cyber Attack
- Google Search: Williamsburg James City County Schools
- WAVY: WJCC Public Schools Victim of Cyberattack
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Williamsburg
- WY Daily: Efforts to Fund WJCC Schools
- Google News: WJCC Schools
- Daily Press: Class in Session at WJCC 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.
