WJCC Schools Begin Redistricting Process with Focus on Elementary Overcrowding and New Preschool Centers
As a longtime Williamsburg resident and parent of two sons who attended Williamsburg-James City County (WJCC) Schools from kindergarten through high school graduation, I’ve always taken a strong interest in the quality and evolution of our local school system. My family had a great experience with WJCC Schools—spanning K through 12—and we’ve personally been through redistricting efforts in the past as the county has grown and changed. While it can be a complex and sometimes emotional process, redistricting is often necessary to maintain balance and quality across the division.
WJCC is once again entering a redistricting phase, driven by the development of two new preschool centers that are slated to open by August 2026. According to the division, consolidating current preschool programs—now spread across five elementary schools—into these new centers will help reduce overcrowding in K–5 classrooms. With enrollment reaching 11,379 students this past fall (including more than 4,900 elementary students), many schools are currently at or above capacity. The new centers will increase the system’s preschool capacity by more than 100 students, freeing up space in some—but not all—elementary schools.
The school division has contracted MGT Impact Solutions, a planning and technology consulting firm, to develop a comprehensive redistricting plan. The California-based firm, which has worked previously with other Virginia districts, was awarded a contract exceeding $150,000 to help WJCC reconfigure school zones across all grade levels. While the primary focus will be on elementary schools, redistricting at the middle school level could also be considered—particularly if it helps reduce the need for temporary classroom trailers and alleviates transportation issues.
Transportation is a key concern in this process. In January, WJCC reported over three dozen bus driver vacancies. As part of the effort to address this, the school board recently approved a bus driver pay raise. Former Superintendent Olwen Herron, who retired in December, noted that current transportation challenges may push the division to place greater emphasis on proximity to schools when adjusting attendance boundaries.
WJCC previously redistricted middle schools in 2018 with the opening of James Blair Middle School, using a model that considered both proximity and socioeconomic balance. However, in 2017, the board decided against redistricting the high schools after facing significant public opposition.
The school board is expected to review updated zoning proposals this fall, with any approved changes taking effect in the 2026–27 school year. That timeline would give families and staff about nine months to prepare for the shift.
This information was originally reported by WHRO Public Media. You can read the full article at https://www.whro.org.
As a local realtor and longtime community member, I share these updates to help families stay informed about important changes that may affect where they live and how their children are educated. Whether you’re new to the area or have been here for years, understanding the school landscape is essential when making real estate decisions.
Feel free to reach out if you have any questions about schools, neighborhoods, or upcoming real estate opportunities in the area.
John Womeldorf – Mr. Williamsburg
Phone: 757-254-8136
Email: john@mrwilliamsburg.com
Website: mrwilliamsburg.com