HCPS News: Welcome back, upcoming surveys and calling for "Yay of the Day" nominations

Posted Date: 08/28/26 (08:30 AM)

Aug. 28, 2026 • Vol. 10, Issue 4

The Binder: News and notes from Henrico County Public Schools, with a "Welcome Back!" message.

We're so happy to see everyone!

We had a wonderful first week here in Henrico Schools. Through a new staggered start, we had the thrill of not one but two first days of school! Please take some time to enjoy our video and photo galleries that capture the excitement, smiles and genuine connections.

Amid the successes of the new school year, the division also experienced some challenges. We appreciate everyone's patience as technicians made repairs and installed temporary AC units in affected schools.

More back-to-school news in this edition: Sharing your feedback on the staggered start, updated digital wellness guidelines and a free opportunity for 9th graders to take the PSAT.

First days: Photos and videos galore!

Young students sit at desks in a classroom, engaged in an activity with coloring pages and art supplies.

A smiling boy with a backpack wears a t-shirt featuring Pokémon characters.

We welcomed thousands of kids back-to-school this week! Teachers and staff had full days of fun and learning planned, and Henrico Schools staff were able to capture some of it on camera. Click here to check out a gallery of photos, and watch the video below for some more glimpses of on-campus excitement!

Have a great year, everyone!

VIDEO SPOTLIGHT: FIRST DAYS

A teacher stands in a classroom with students seated at desks, some waving.

WELCOME BACK!: School staff and students welcomed the new year with high fives, fist bumps and lots of smiles! Watch the video above to feel the excitement!

Hands typing on a laptop next to a coffee cup and notebook, with the word SURVEY and checkboxes above.

Upcoming feedback opportunity: Staggered start implementation

Henrico Schools will soon be seeking input on the staggered start model used for the beginning of the 2026-27 school year. A survey will be sent out the week of September 7 to gather feedback from students in grades 6 and 9, families, and staff to help us learn what went well and where we can improve as we plan for future years. Students in grades 6 and 9 will have the chance to share their thoughts through the survey during advisory classes. If you would prefer for your child not to participate, please contact your school directly.

Thank you for helping us improve! We look forward to hearing your feedback.

HCPS Digital Wellness Guidelines updated for 2026-27

Infographic detailing 'Digital Wellness in Henrico County Public Schools' with sections on technology use expectations, what it looks like in practice, and learner progression.

Henrico County Public Schools is committed to empowering every learner through engaging, meaningful learning experiences that prepare students to become life-ready. Guided by the school division’s strategic plan, Journey to 2030, and the Henrico Learner Profile, every decision is centered on what is best for students. Updated guidelines on the way students use instructional technology have been announced for the 2026-27 school year.

The Digital Wellness Guidance strengthens our commitment by providing a clear, research-informed framework that will ensure daily instruction is purposeful, balanced, developmentally appropriate, and active. To learn more, visit the HCPS website at https://www.henricoschools.us/page/digital-wellness.

The text "Yay of the Day!" is displayed in colorful, playful lettering on a yellow background.

Nominate a staffer for "Yay of the Day!"

HCPS invites students, families, employees and members of the community to nominate HCPS staff members for the school division’s “Yay of the Day” honor. Recipients will be selected from nominees who:

Through actions big or small, have made someone’s day in a positive way.
Embody the core values expressed in Journey to 2030, the division's strategic plan — helping build a school community guided by student-focused decisions and an environment of belonging, collaboration, innovation and equity.

During the 2026-27 school year, 100 recipients will be recognized by Superintendent Amy Cashwell.

“Our more than 7,000 staff members do amazing things each and every day," Cashwell said. "This will be one small way to shine a light on their hard work and dedication.”

Visit henricoschools.us/yay-of-the-day to submit a nomination.

Parent Involvement Survey for special education students

The Virginia Department of Education is conducting a survey of all parents of school-aged children and youth with disabilities who receive special education services in Virginia. The annual Special Education Parent Involvement Survey is open through Dec. 11. Parents are asked to complete one survey for each of children receiving special education services.

The VDOE will use the results to improve parental involvement in the special education process and improve outcomes for all students. Responses are recorded anonymously and cannot be linked to individual children. To complete the survey in English or Spanish, click here. For questions, or to request a survey in a different language, contact Dr. Chiquita Seaborne, Family Engagement Specialist/Special Projects Coordinator, at Chiquita.Seaborne@doe.virginia.gov, or 804-418-4672.

Encourage your 9th or 11th grader to take the PSAT

Families of 9th and 11th grade students: The PSAT is more than just practice for the SAT. It is a valuable opportunity for students to better understand their academic strengths, identify areas where they can grow and prepare for future college and scholarship opportunities.

By taking the PSAT, students can:

See where they stand in reading, writing and math.
Gain experience with the format and expectations of the SAT.
Identify strengths and areas to focus on before future assessments.
Keep future college and scholarship options open.
Take advantage of this opportunity at no cost to families.

Even if your student is still deciding what comes after high school, taking the PSAT can provide useful information and experience while helping keep future options open.

We encourage families to talk with their 9th and 11th grade students about participating and making their best effort on test day.

The PSAT is free and 10th graders are automatically enrolled. Signups will be sent by schools soon. You can sign your student up with your school counselor before Sept. 18.

One test today can help students make more informed choices about tomorrow.

For an overview of the PSATs, check out their website: https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/in-school-assessments.

Henrico County Public Schools

Division of Communications

P. O. Box 23120 • 3820 Nine Mile Road, Henrico, VA 23223 • 804-652-3600

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