NEW for the 2026-27 school year,  Henrico County Public Schools will begin the year with a staggered start by grade level.

By staggering the days students start their year, students can feel more comfortable starting school by spending time with their teachers in a less crowded school setting.

At the middle and high school level, the staggered start introduces both sixth and ninth grade students to their new schools, new schedules and routines without the larger group of upperclassmen in the building. This also provides an additional day for them to navigate their schedule, the hallways and common areas when the building is less crowded. 

Staggered start will also mean there is no separate date before school starts for incoming 9th grade student orientation.

High School Staggered Start Plan:

Monday, Aug. 24: First day for students in grade 9

Tuesday, Aug. 25: All high school students attend, 9th through 12th grade.

*If you happen to have an elementary student in the household, we recommend checking that elementary school’s website to verify your school's exact schedule, as they may vary slightly between schools for our preschool and kindergarten aged students.

Additional information and helpful resources to support your First Day preparations are available at https://www.henricoschools.us/page/back-to-school.

The Henrico Schools schedule for the upcoming school year can be found here so that you can mark your calendars for school holidays. 

Please enjoy your summer! We look forward to welcoming you back to school in August!