Goochland schools report enrollment uptick and rollout of third strategic plan

Goochland County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Andy Armstrong presented enrollment, accountability and program updates to the Board of Supervisors on Oct. 9.

Armstrong reported the division’s fall enrollment increased by 47 students compared with last year, with more than half of that growth in students with special needs—an item he said could affect staffing and budget planning. The division’s preliminary account ability data indicated Randolph Elementary and Goochland High School may be designated “distinguished,” while other schools were anticipated to be “on track.” Final state accountability cut scores remain under discussion at the Virginia Department of Education, and the division will report final determinations when they are released.

On workforce and career programming, Armstrong described plans to market an additional agricultural-education position at the middle school, a proposed Academy of Logistics, Mechatronics and Robotics for phased launch in 2026, and exploration of biomanufacturing programming to align with local employer needs. The division is administering the ASVAB to 11th graders as a career-exploration tool, and it reported robust advanced-course participation: 11 AP and 23 dual‑enrollment offerings at Goochland High and many seniors on track for associate degrees through dual-enrollment pathways.

Budget and next steps: Armstrong said the division will update enrollment projections and expects to present strategic-plan materials to the school board in December with a first read before the county board in March. He also noted upcoming school-safety task-force work, a salary study presentation in November, and a three‑year calendar proposal for families.