Danville Public Schools: Focused on Investing in Bright Futures
For Danville Public Schools, the past two years have been productive as we continue the work to improve our school division. We are focusing on creating an environment that leads to the success of all students academically, socially, and emotionally, and we are looking forward to many exciting developments for our division in the future.
In recent years, we have introduced exciting new programming, such as our I.W. Taylor Virtual Academy and our Early College Program. Earlier this year, we announced new and reimagined STEM and Career programming. This includes added career exploration at every grade level K-12, as well as the Activ8 STEM and Career Academy for grades 3-5 for a deeper dive into these concepts. Beginning in the 2023-2024 school year, this STEM-focused program will provide students with an intensive, integrated approach to science, English/language arts, mathematics, and social studies. Additionally, students will explore career opportunities and career skills through local partnerships. Through hands-on learning, students will be able to investigate the world around them in order to make connections to life outside of the school walls. Our mission is to provide the building blocks to support the development of 21st-century global citizens that are critical-thinking problem-solvers.
In addition, DPS announced reimagined career academies, which organizes new and existing Career and Technical programs into Academies and associated pathways for students to follow as they continue into middle and high school. The Innov8 STEM and Career Academy, planned for 2025 at the renovated Langston campus, will provide a state-of-the-art laboratory facility for middle school students so they can further explore STEM and career pathways.
One of the most significant and exciting achievements for our district over the past few years was the passing of the one-percent sales tax, and the accompanying bond referendum, to go towards school construction needs. The November 2021 election results showed that approximately 60 percent of Danville voters backed the sales tax.
To date, DPS has received $127 million in bonds, which will be paid back with the sales tax, to go towards construction and renovation projects, including George Washington High School (GW). Beginning in April, renovations to GW will include improvements to the Career and Technical Education building, the media center, gymnasium spaces, athletic fields, classrooms, technology infrastructure, and more.
A new elementary school will also be constructed on the same property as the current G. L. H. Johnson Elementary School, and the J. M. Langston Campus will be renovated to allow for the relocation of Galileo Magnet High School, as well as the central office.
In addition, the GW track, which has been under construction since March 2022, is expected to be complete by May 2023. This 8-lane NCAA certified track and field facility will be home to the GW, Galileo, and Averett University track programs.
As we continue this important work to transform our school division, we appreciate the community’s partnership and support. We are looking forward to even more growth and milestones to celebrate.