Each hub school will have “spokes” - more limited program sites - at nearby schools. The Oak Avenue Complex will be the centerpiece of the strategy in the Varina district, but organizers hope to create similar full-service hubs in Henrico’s other four magisterial districts. We’re making schools available to community resources that already exist.” We’re not expanding what a school can do, we’re expanding what you can do in a school. “People sometimes say, ‘oh, you’re creating more public programs,’ but that’s not what this does. Taylor stresses that full-service community school hubs will function as bridges between students and services. Existing HCPS partnerships with community groups are a natural fit for the new strategy. The strategy is powered by a partnership among HCPS, the Henrico Education Foundation, nonprofit organizations and community donors. Health services would require the permission of parents or guardians. The hub will provide access to health care, mental health services and dental services classrooms where family members can take classes or pursue a GED and a food pantry. While Highland Springs students already have access to an after-school enrichment program provided by the Henrico Education Foundation through federal 21st Century Community Learning Centers funding, summer renovations at the Oak Avenue Complex will add dedicated areas for a variety of programs. “This strategy makes use of public buildings beyond the typical school day, as places for not just students, but families to thrive.” Why not use them?” said Mike Taylor, chief executive officer of the Henrico Education Foundation. The strategy behind full-service community schools is to expand the use of school facilities, creating a one-stop shop where students and families can connect with groups providing the services they need. It’s no secret that challenges students face outside of school - such as a lack of health care or nutritious food - can affect their success in the classroom.

Rechristened the Oak Avenue Complex, the facility will be a major step in a new strategy to connect students and families with community services. When the 2022-23 school year begins, the old Highland Springs High School building will be repurposed as Henrico County Public Schools’ first full-service community school hub.

Highland springs high school