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Students, staff and new administrators celebrated as ArtsFest and Music in Our Schools Month kick off
Summary
The board recognized student performers and district arts projects, approved two principal appointments, and heard from student entrepreneurs about the Monarch Market, supported by a $5,000 Chesterfield Education Foundation Innovation Grant.
The Chesterfield County School Board used its March 11 meeting to celebrate students and staff across the division, unveiling a new set of five permanent student art installations for the public meeting room, recognizing musical performances and naming two new principals.
Board members announced approvals of Courtney Jones as principal of Western Area Elementary School (effective July 1, 2025) and Kimberly Parnell as principal of Mosley Elementary School (effective March 5, 2025). "Please join me in congratulating these two administrators," Mr. Smith said when introducing the appointments.
The meeting included performances and remarks marking Music in Our Schools Month and ArtsFest 2025: staff described countywide art exhibitions (work from 41 elementary schools displayed at Chesterfield Public Library branches and other venues) and student leaders from five high schools each presented their district artworks and artistic rationales. Student presenter Kara Vincenti described her team's Bermuda District piece as a "tribute to the Bermuda District, framed within the borders of a postage stamp," and other students highlighted local landmarks and historical connections in their works.
Superintendent Dr. Murray introduced the Monarch Market, a student-run entrepreneurship kiosk supported by a $5,000 innovation grant from the Chesterfield Education Foundation. Students described product development, market research and pricing strategies intended to keep items affordable and inclusive. Board members praised the experience as real-world learning; Dominique Chatters said she and Dr. Murray were among the first customers and urged community members to visit.
The board also recognized National Merit finalists, an early-childhood learning academy for breakfast program excellence, exemplary food service employees and outstanding bus drivers. The meeting featured multiple staff and student recognitions that the board said underscore the division's investment in arts, music and student leadership.
Board members noted ArtsFest events on March 22–23 (secondary performing arts showcase at Thomas Dale High School) and encouraged the public to view exhibitions and performances across the county.
