I-66/ROUTE 29 RESIDENTS' SECTOR PLAN
SCHOOL PLAN

INTENT

The School Plan of the 1998 Comprehensive Plan is incorporated in this Plan; however, this plan includes some specific additions. The most significant addition is the recommendation that a Magnet High School focused on science and the environment be established adjacent to the undisturbed area of the park near Route 15 as shown on the Land Use Map. Magnet schools emphasize one or more specific fields of study. They have proven to be very effective and have demonstrated their value in other jurisdictions, (for example, Thomas Jefferson High School is a magnet school for math and science in Fairfax County, widely recognized for excellence). The area adjacent to the proposed magnet school has some very important wetlands and other resources of considerable significance to environmental studies. This type of magnet school would have a very broad appeal and much of its environmental focus could be accommodated at the adjacent area.

Locating schools in close proximity to neighborhoods is highly desirable as a means of defining and unifying communities. Neighborhood schools, particularly at the primary level, have been shown to have a significant positive impact on family involvement and student achievement.

Accordingly, the Carver Road elementary school site, located within the Sector area is recommended.

Tyler Elementary School also is located with within the Sector area. The P.A.C.E. West school is located primarily within the Town of Haymarket and partially within the Prince William County portion of the Sector area. Both of these schools are in use currently. Their continued operation is recommended.

ED-POLICY 1: ENSURE, THROUGH PUBLIC AND PRIVATE EXPENDITURES, THE TIMELY PROVISION OF SCHOOL SITES AND FACILITIES THAT SERVE PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY SCHOOL CHILDREN WITHIN THE SECTOR PLAN AREA, WITH AN EMPHASIS ON MINIMIZING TRANSPORTATION REQUIREMENTS FOR STUDENT TRAVEL TO AND FROM SCHOOL AS WELL AS EDUCATIONAL RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES ASSOCIATED WITH CLASSROOM ACTIVITIES.

ACTION STRATEGIES:

  1. Establish a magnet high school focused on science and the environment in the Sector at or near the area identified on the land use map.

  2. Expedite the construction of the Somerset Elementary School so that it will be available for the growing student population from Somerset and nearby neighborhoods.

Residents Plan
Virginia Places