Charlottesville Public Schools

The Charlottesville Public Schools are governed by a seven-member appointed school board (979-9250). The system is a financially dependent division; there is no separate levy for the school systems. Of the total budget, 67% comes from City Council and 24% from Commonwealth of Virginia.

Organization

Administration

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Charlottesville Public Schools are administered by a superintendent and three assistant superintendents-for operations, for instruction, and for finance.

Composition

The school division is composed of six elementary (K-4), an upper elementary school (5-6), a middle school (7-8) and a high school (9-12).

Calendar and Hours

Charlottesville Schools begin each year the day after Labor Day; a school calendar is available. School hours are:

• Elementary - Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
• Middle - Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
• High School - Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Instruction

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Methods of Instruction

Handbooks are available describing programs at every age level; a full array of special programs complement the core program. Please call for more information.

Curriculum Options and Credit Requirements

After successful completion of course work in grades kindergarten through eighth, a student may choose one of three high school course options to fulfill high school graduation requirements:

1. general studies diploma (20 credits)
2. intensive studies diploma (22 credits)
3. advanced studies diploma (22 credits)

A high school student’s curriculum may focus on traditional college preparation, a fine or performing arts concentration, a business education focus, or vocational studies. Gifted and special education programs also are available. A curriculum description is available upon request.

Testing

Standardized Testing - Annual tests are administered at the following grade levels:

• Kindergarten Screening Instrument
• Oracle 1 Cognitive Abilities Test
• Grades 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8 Iowa Test of Basic Skills
• Grade 6 State Literacy Tests in Reading, Writing, and Math
• Grade 1 Tests of Achievement and Proficiency
• Elective Tests include
  • Differential Aptitude Test-career
  • Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test
  • Scholastic Aptitude Test
  • Advanced Placement ExaminationsARTS (979-6344)

Arts

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Elementary

Choral music instruction begins in the fourth grade and instrumental music in the fifth grade.

High School

At the high school level, an award-winning fine arts program offers participation in the marching and concert band, orchestra, and chorus, as well as programs in drama and visual arts.

Sports

Varsity sports include football, basketball (for both boys and girls), wrestling, baseball and lacrosse. Non-varsity sports include field hockey, golf, indoor track, girls’ volleyball and tennis. For other sports, please call the appropriate school.

Student Clubs and Organizations

At the upper elementary and middle school levels, many after-school activities are offered including interest clubs, recreational activities, tutoring, and study skills enhancement. Twenty-five such groups are available to high school students. These organizations focus on a range of interests (academic, career, language, drama, community involvement, etc.).

Services

Transportation

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Transportation is provided on bus routes throughout the city with special services for disabled students.

Food

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Charlottesville Schools have a coordinated food service program and participate in federally funded food service programs. Lunch is served in all schools and breakfast in some elementary schools.

Health

Charlottesville Schools provide full health services. A complement of full-time school nurses serve each building.

Other Services Include:

• Guidance-K-12
• Homebound instruction
• Volunteer opportunities in the classroom for parents and others
• Facilities available for public use
• Alternative School Program
• Community Education
• Adult Education