On Tuesday, January 14, 2025, the Stafford County School Board voted 6-1 to approve redistricting plan F1 in preparation for the county’s sixth high school opening this Fall 2026. The plan addresses overcrowding and balances student populations across the district’s high schools.
Key Changes Under Plan F1
The approved plan prioritizes reducing capacity pressures at North Stafford High School and maximizing enrollment at Mountain View High School, which has struggled with underutilization. Board members cited geographic challenges and transportation logistics as key considerations in selecting the F1 scenario over others, such as plan E.
North Stafford High School, for instance, would see its projected capacity reduced from 97% to 93%, while Mountain View would experience increased enrollment to maximize its facilities.
Griffis-Widewater District Board member Dr. Elizabeth Warner emphasized the importance of balancing capacity and long-term planning, noting the need to initiate discussions for a seventh high school within six years of the new school’s opening.
Seniors Allowed to Stay at Current Schools
In a subsequent motion, the board unanimously approved an exemption for rising seniors (Class of 2026) affected by the redistricting. These students can remain at their current high schools rather than transfer to a new school. Transportation will be provided, though students may experience extended bus ride times.
Board members explained that this exemption reflects past redistricting practices and aims to minimize disruption during students’ final year of high school. However, the exemption does not extend to siblings of seniors.
Addressing Students with Disabilities
During discussions, concerns were raised about the impact of redistricting on students with disabilities. The board confirmed that families of students with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) or 504 plans could request a meeting to address concerns and evaluate whether remaining at their current school is in the student’s best interest. Decisions will be made on a case-by-case basis by IEP teams.
A district official clarified that while no automatic exemption exists for students with disabilities, existing policies allow for adjustments through IEP processes.
Transportation and Logistics
Transportation logistics played a significant role in the decision to adopt Plan F1. Board members and staff discussed the challenges of transporting students across key bottlenecks, such as Interstate 95 and Route 1, particularly during high-traffic periods or accidents. The approved plan seeks to minimize these disruptions by reducing cross-county transportation needs.
The district will begin notifying families of their new school assignments and providing guidance on the next steps for those eligible for exemptions. Rising seniors and families with special education concerns are encouraged to contact their schools to initiate the IEP process or confirm exemption preferences.
Stafford County is also planning for future growth, with the high school slated to open in the Fall 2026. “This is not just about today,” Dr. Warner stated. “It’s about ensuring our schools can accommodate growth while maintaining the quality of education for years to come.”
The Stafford County School Board evaluated multiple redistricting scenarios to address projected enrollment increases. Enrollment projections indicate an increase of more than 6,000 additional students by 2034. Stafford County Public Schools servees more than 31,000 students across 33 schools, including 17 elementary schools, eight middle schools, five high schools, and three specialty centers.
