About APS

APS is the 13th largest among Virginia’s 132 school divisions and has received national accolades for its high academic standards and programs that provide multiple pathways to success for every student. APS encompasses 40 schools and programs, serving nearly 28,000 PreK-12 students who speak 107 languages and represent 146 nations. APS employs nearly 8,000 full and part-time employees, including 3,000 teachers. APS has an excellent national reputation for academic excellence, wonderful teachers and staff, and a high level of community support.

APS is committed to ensuring all students learn, thrive and excel in high-quality, safe, and supportive schools. The school division’s work is guided by the 2024-30 Strategic Plan, which defines the APS vision, mission and values, and its core priorities.

2024-30 APS Strategic Plan

MISSION

APS provides a world-class education where every student develops the skills and knowledge to be a responsible global citizen, and graduates college- or career-ready.

VISION

APS ensures all students learn, thrive, and excel in high-quality, safe, and supportive schools.

Strategic Plan Logo

CORE VALUES

Excellence – We believe all students will receive a high-quality education through rigorous, evidence-based, and innovative instruction.
Equity & Inclusion – We believe in raising achievement for all students, eliminating gaps, providing equitable access to opportunities, and fostering intentional inclusion for our diverse community.
Relationships – We believe mutual respect and transparent communication between students, families, school and division staff, and our community builds trusting relationships.
Integrity – We build trust by acting honestly, openly, ethically, and respectfully.
Stewardship – We believe the fiscally responsible and transparent management of APS resources honors the community’s investment in our schools and provides safe, effective, and environmentally sustainable learning environments.
Whole Student – We believe that addressing the social, emotional, and physical needs of all students fosters academic excellence and an inclusive community.
Valuing Staff – We believe the engagement, satisfaction, development, and wellbeing of our staff enables the success of our students and is critical to our community.

PRIORITIES

Student Academic Growth and Success – APS will ensure each student achieves academic excellence through high-quality instruction and systems of support to eliminate opportunity and achievement gaps.
Student Well-Being – In partnership with families, staff, and students, APS will create inclusive, safe, and supportive learning environments that foster all students’ intellectual, physical, mental, social emotional growth and well-being.
Centered Workforce – APS will support and invest in a culture that attracts and retains skilled, talented, and effective staff committed to student success and well-being.
Operational Excellence – APS will plan and implement efficient, effective, and sustainable system-wide operations to support the success of our students, staff, and community.
Student, Family and Community Partnerships – APS will strengthen and develop partnerships built on trust with students, families, community members, organizations, and local government to support student learning.