PUBLIC SCHOOLS

The Augusta County-Staunton-Waynesboro area has many educational opportunities for its residents. There are three separate public school systems, several private elementary and secondary schools, a vocational-technical school, a community college, and a four-year liberal arts college to serve the educational needs of the area.

The Augusta County public school system consists of 12 elementary schools, 3 middle schools, and 5 high schools. The 1996-97 year-end enrollment served by these facilities was 10,776 students. The Staunton public school system consists of 1 high school, 1 middle school, 4 elementary schools, and 3 public school programs operated in State facilities.  The year-end enrollment in Staunton was 2,879 in 1996-97. The Waynesboro public school system operates 1 high school, 1 middle school, and 4 elementary schools. In 1996-97, the year-end student enrollment was 2,924 in Waynesboro. All three school systems participate in the Central Shenandoah Valley Regional Governor's School, a half-day program for high school juniors and seniors who show an aptitude and interest in science and math. The faculty members also serve as a resource for all students and teachers, providing specialized demonstrations and lessons.

The Valley Vocational-Technical School in Fishersville serves residents of all three jurisdictions, providing vocational training for high school students, adult education courses, and specialized on-the job training for local industries. A 47,000-square foot building, completed in 1991, expands and improves the facilities for these programs. Courses includes such subjects as auto mechanics, metal fabrication, cosmetology, carpentry, office skills, electronics, masonry, and health services. High school students, who can choose among more than 20 programs, spend a half-day each at the center and at one of the seven participating high schools. For adult education, approximately 50 evening courses are offered each semester.  Valley Vo-Tech also works with individual industries to design specific training.

From the Central Shenandoah Valley Planning District Commision