Two K-8 schools in Alexandria are set to become dedicated middle and elementary schools, respectively, according to the just-passed budget for Alexandria City Public Schools 10-year capital improvement program.
The budget, which would cover capital improvements (such as building renovations and construction) from 2026 to 2035 includes, converting Jefferson-Houston PreK-8 IB School into a middle school and turning Patrick Henry K-8 School into an elementary school.
The decisions are still not absolutely final, but they are being based in part on enrollment projections. There are currently 8,295 elementary and 3,247 middle school students in ACPS. Right now, just 233 middle school students are at Patrick Henry and 161 are at Jefferson Houston, and this model would affect the fewest families in total. It would also reduce crowding at Francis C. Hammond and George Washington Middle Schools.
However, many members of the community are displeased with the change, including parents at Jefferson Houston and Patrick Henry schools who fully support the academic basis around having a K-8 option for students. In a survey earlier this year, keeping both Patrick Henry and Jefferson Houston as K-8 schools was by far the most popular option.
Converting Jefferson-Houston to a middle school would cost about $30 million. Patrick Henry, which is much newer, would cost about $9.5 million to convert. The conversions would occur between 2030 and 2032. Without the conversion, according to ACPS, both schools will be overcrowded by at least 10 percent in the coming years.
The 10-year CIP budget is approximately $346 million. Other major projects include the complete renovation of the Cora Kelly School for Math, Science and Technology (approximately $105 million), a Charles Barrett Kitchen and Cafeteria Renovation, the replacement of smart boards and audio-visual systems at 5 schools and significant maintenance and technology improvements.
“The collaborative efforts of our School Board have been instrumental in advancing our shared vision for academic excellence and student success," said Superintendent Dr. Melanie Kay-Wyatt. "This approved budget reflects our commitment to prioritizing equitable opportunities, fostering supportive learning environments, and aligning our initiatives with the district’s strategic goals.”
