School and county officials in Chesterfield County broke ground on June 18 for a new high school, marking the first such development in over two decades. The institution, temporarily referred to as the west area high school, will be the 12th high school under Chesterfield County Public Schools. The School Board plans to engage with the community to decide on a permanent name before its scheduled opening in August 2027.
The new facility is located on Duval Road within the Matoaca District, near Deep Creek Middle School, which is set to open in August 2025, and a nearby elementary school slated for an August 2026 opening.
During the groundbreaking ceremony, local leaders made brief speeches before participating in the symbolic act of breaking ground. Steven Paranto, representing Matoaca District on the School Board, expressed optimism about the project: “We stand on the threshold of a new chapter as we break ground to erect a new high school — a place that will not only serve as the center of learning but also develop and equip the generations to come. This high school already reflects our community’s unwavering support to invest in the future of our young people. It will be a space where dreams are nurtured, talents are discovered, and futures are built.”
Superintendent John Murray acknowledged collaborative efforts by local governing bodies: “It’s clear that our elected leaders agree that Chesterfield County must provide top-quality environments for teaching and learning to affirm to families that they are making their homes in the right place. … This new high school represents our belief that every student deserves a safe, modern and inspiring place to learn. It’s a place where future scientists, artists, entrepreneurs and leaders will take their first steps toward fulfilling their dreams.”
This development is part of a broader community facilities bond plan approved by voters in 2022. The $196 million project will be financed through general obligation bonds. Architecture firm Stantec has designed the building while Gulf Seaboard is responsible for construction.
The two-story structure spans over 340,000 square feet and can accommodate up to 2,400 students. Further details about this educational initiative were discussed during a School Board work session earlier this month.
Chesterfield County Public Schools serves as central Virginia’s largest educational system with over 64,000 students across 68 schools.
