History
Byrd Elementary School, one of three public elementary schools serving Goochland County (Virginia), offers a complete preK-5 instructional program to approximately 334 pupils. Nestled in a rural setting and located in the western part of Goochland, Byrd Elementary serves a diverse population representing all socioeconomic groups.
The current location of Byrd Elementary School was opened in 1959. At that time, it represented a consolidation of three formerly segregated schools: Backbone, Chapel Hill, and Second Union. The new school was named Second Union Elementary School and consisted of grades one through seven.
In the fall of 1969, all of the Goochland County Public Schools were integrated. At this time, Second Union Elementary School was renamed Byrd Primary School and housed grades 1-3.
Kindergarten was added to Byrd in 1973, fourth grade was added in 1975, fifth grade in 1986,and sixth grade was added for the 1987-88 school year.
In 1986, Byrd Primary School’s name officially changed to Byrd Elementary School.
To accommodate the ever-changing population at Byrd, building has undergone three renovations/additions. In addition to these changes, adjustments have been made to the academic programs in order to meet the needs of the students.
Currently, students enjoy a full elementary curriculum, including art, vocal music, physical education, and library media. There are numerous other services available to the students, such as guidance, Title 1, speech, numerous after school clubs and activities, and an array of special education services. Students have access to computers and the Internet throughout the school campus. Students in kindergarten through fifth grades participate in a 1:1 program in which all students have an iPad to use at school, grades three through five take their iPads home.
The professional staff is dedicated to the principle of life-long learning and to continuous improvement. The instructional emphasis is mastery of the Virginia Standards of Learning and meeting the criteria as outlined by the No Child Left Behind Act. Much emphasis is placed on professional development to assist teachers in expanding their repertoire to meet the needs of the varying student groups. All staff members work in a technology rich environment. Technology workshops, conferences, and classes are available monthly for faculty and staff.