CCS School Board
CCS School Board
The Charlottesville City School Board is made up of seven members elected to at-large seats on November ballots. School board members serve four-year staggered terms that begin the following January. The chairperson and vice-chairperson are elected by the entire board annually.
Duties of the School Board include:
- Setting policy for the school division
- Hiring and evaluating the superintendent
- Approving a budget to meet the financial needs of the school division
- Approving the annual school calendar and school operating times
- Determining school boundaries
Each Board member is assigned to a number of school or community committees. Assignments are updated each year in January.
On this Page
Thursday, November 6, 2025
Revised Closed Session Notice: On Thursday, November 6, 2025 at 4:00 p.m., the Charlottesville City School Board will convene in Closed Session, as authorized by Sections 2.2-3711 (A) (1) and (2) of the Code of Virginia, for the purpose of discussing personnel matters and student disciplinary matters. The meeting will be held in the Division Annex Exceptional Education Conference Room, 1400 Melbourne Road, Charlottesville, VA.
On Thursday, November 6, 2025 at 4:00 p.m., the Charlottesville City School Board will convene in Closed Session, as authorized by Sections 2.2-3711 (A) (1) of the Code of Virginia, for the purpose of discussing personnel matters. The meeting will be held in the Division Annex Exceptional Education Conference Room, 1400 Melbourne Road, Charlottesville, VA.
On Thursday, November 6, 2025 at 5:00 p.m., the Charlottesville City School Board will hold a regular meeting, as authorized by Section § 2.2-3707 of the Code of Virginia, in the Booker T. Reaves Media Center, located at Charlottesville High School, 1400 Melbourne Road, Charlottesville, VA.
A copy of the meeting agenda can be found on the Board's Electronic School Board site.
A Zoom connection option will be available for virtual public participation (see link below to register).
How can the public participate in a Virtual School Board Meeting?
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Address the Board on any issue involving the school division by emailing schoolboard@charlottesvilleschools.org.
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Livestream (view only) on Facebook.
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Livestream (with live comment) by joining the meeting via our Zoom webinar.
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This option is required if you wish to address the Board during opportunities on the agenda (comments from members of the community).
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Register in advance by completing this Zoom registration link.
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After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
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The webinar confirmation will include dial-in telephone numbers for those who wish to participate via phone.
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Thursday, October 23, 2025

Charlottesville City School Board Meeting Notice
Thursday, October 23, 2025
On Thursday, October 23, 2025 at 4:00 p.m., the Charlottesville City School Board will hold a work session (4:00 - 6:00 PM) and a meeting with Legislators Delegate Katrina Callsen and Senator Creigh Deeds (6:00 - 7:00 PM).
Both sessions will take place at the Charlottesville Area Technical Education Center (CATEC) Auditorium, 1000 Rio Rd. E, Charlottesville, VA, as authorized by Section § 2.2-3707 of the Code of Virginia.
A copy of the meeting agenda can be found on the Board's Electronic School Board site.
How to Participate Virtually
A Zoom connection option will be available for virtual public participation (see link below to register).
The public may participate in the School Board Meeting in the following ways:
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Written Comment: Address the Board on any issue involving the school division by emailing schoolboard@charlottesvilleschools.org.
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View Only: Livestream (view only) on Facebook.
- Live Comment (Required to Address the Board): Join the meeting via our Zoom webinar.
- This option is required if you wish to address the Board during opportunities on the agenda (Comments from Members of the Community).
- Register in advance by completing this Zoom registration link.
- After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
- The confirmation will include dial-in telephone numbers for those who wish to participate via phone.

Thursday, October 9, 2025

On Thursday, October 9, 2025 at 4:00 p.m., the Charlottesville City School Board will convene in Closed Session, as authorized by Sections 2.2-3711 (A) (1) (2) of the Code of Virginia, for the discussion of personnel matters and student disciplinary matters. The meeting will be held in the Division Annex Exceptional Education Conference Room, 1400 Melbourne Road, Charlottesville, VA.
On Thursday, October 9, 2025 at 5:00 p.m., the Charlottesville City School Board will hold a regular meeting, as authorized by Section § 2.2-3707 of the Code of Virginia, in the Booker T. Reaves Media Center, located at Charlottesville High School, 1400 Melbourne Road, Charlottesville, VA.
A copy of the meeting agenda can be found on the Board's Electronic School Board site.
A Zoom connection option will be available for virtual public participation (see link below to register).
How can the public participate in a Virtual School Board Meeting?
-
Address the Board on any issue involving the school division by emailing schoolboard@charlottesvilleschools.org.
-
Livestream (view only) on Facebook.
-
Livestream (with live comment) by joining the meeting via our Zoom webinar.
-
This option is required if you wish to address the Board during opportunities on the agenda (comments from members of the community).
-
Register in advance by completing this Zoom registration link.
-
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
-
The webinar confirmation will include dial-in telephone numbers for those who wish to participate via phone.
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Thursday, September 4, 2025
On Thursday, September 4, 2025 at 4:00 p.m., the Charlottesville City School Board will convene in Closed Session, as authorized by Sections 2.2-3711 (A) (1) (29) of the Code of Virginia, for the discussion of personnel matters and to discuss negotiation of a collective bargaining agreement where public funds are being expended and where negotiations in open session would adversely affect the bargaining position of the Board. The meeting will be held in the Division Annex Exceptional Education Conference Room, 1400 Melbourne Road, Charlottesville, VA. .
On Thursday, September 4, 2025 at 5:00 p.m., the Charlottesville City School Board will hold a regular meeting, as authorized by Section § 2.2-3707 of the Code of Virginia, in the Booker T. Reaves Media Center, located at Charlottesville High School, 1400 Melbourne Road, Charlottesville, VA.
A copy of the meeting agenda can be found on the Board's Electronic School Board site.
A Zoom connection option will be available for virtual public participation (see link below to register).
If you wish to address the Board during opportunities on the agenda (comments from members of the community)lease register in advance by completing this Zoom registration link.
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After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar. The webinar confirmation will include dial-in telephone numbers for those who wish to participate via phone.
"Can I Talk to You, Cville: Let’s Discuss the Draft Agreement for Returning SROs to Cville Schools Next Year" August 26, 2025
Saturday, August 23, 2025 (8:30 AM)

Charlottesville City School Board Meeting Notice
School Board Advance
Saturday, August 23, 2025 (8:30 AM)
On Saturday, August 23, 2025 at 8:30 a.m., the Charlottesville City School Board will convene for a school board advance meeting (School Board Governance Training, Self-Evaluation, and Protocols Review w/ Consultant Dr. Hutchings) as authorized by Section § 2.2-3707 of the Code of Virginia, in the Charlottesville Area Technical Education Center (CATEC) Auditorium, 1000, Rio Rd. E., Charlottesville, VA.
A copy of the meeting agenda can be found on the School Board's Electronic School Board site.
Thursday, August 7, 2025

Charlottesville City School Board Meeting Notice
Thursday, August 7, 2025
On Thursday, August 7, 2025 at 4:00 p.m., the Charlottesville City School Board will convene in Closed Session, as authorized by Section 2.2-3711 (A) (1) of the Code of Virginia, for the discussion of personnel matters. The meeting will be held in the Division Annex Exceptional Education Conference Room, 1400 Melbourne Road, Charlottesville, VA. Board members will begin arriving at 3:00 p.m. for individual headshot photos.
On Thursday, August 7, 2025 at 5:00 p.m., the Charlottesville City School Board will hold a regular meeting, as authorized by Section § 2.2-3707 of the Code of Virginia, in the Booker T. Reaves Media Center, located at Charlottesville High School, 1400 Melbourne Road, Charlottesville, VA.
A copy of the meeting agenda can be found on the Board's Electronic School Board site.
A Zoom connection option will be available for virtual public participation (see link below to register).
How can the public participate in a Virtual School Board Meeting?
-
Address the Board on any issue involving the school division by emailing Email
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Livestream (view only) on Facebook.
-
Livestream (with live comment) by joining the meeting via our Zoom webinar.
-
This option is required if you wish to address the Board during opportunities on the agenda (comments from members of the community).
-
Register in advance by completing this Zoom registration link.
-
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
-
The webinar confirmation will include dial-in telephone numbers for those who wish to participate via phone.
-
Monday, August 4, 2025

Notice of Meeting
Charlottesville City School Board Joint Meeting with City Council
Monday, August 4, 2025 at 4:00 p.m.
On Monday, August 4, 2025 at 4:00 p.m., the Charlottesville City School Board will hold a joint work session with Charlottesville City Council, as authorized by Section § 2.2-3707 of the Code of Virginia, in the CitySpace Large Conference Room located in the Market Street Parking Garage on the Downtown Mall, 100 Fifth St NE, Charlottesville, VA.
A copy of the meeting agenda can be found on the Board's Electronic School Board site.
A Zoom connection option will be available for virtual public participation (see link below to register).
How can the public participate in a Virtual School Board Meeting?
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Address the Board on any issue involving the school division by emailing Email the School BoardEmail
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Livestream (view only) on the City's Facebook channel.
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Livestream (with live comment) by joining the meeting via our Zoom webinar.
-
This option is required if you wish to address the Board during opportunities on the agenda (comments from members of the community).
-
Register in advance by completing this Zoom registration link.
-
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
-
The webinar confirmation will include dial-in telephone numbers for those who wish to participate via phone.
-
Board Meetings: Agendas, Minutes, Participation
Residents can contact the Board via email, by calling the Office of the School Board at (434) 245-2400, or via letter:
Charlottesville City School Board
1562 Dairy Road
Charlottesville, VA 22903
Please be aware that for records retention purposes, messages sent to the School Board will also be sent to the Clerk to the Board.
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Read Agendas & Minutes on Electronic School Board
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Regularly scheduled meetings are held the first Thursday each month, 5pm at the CHS Media Center.
- To attend in-person: The public is welcome to attend the meeting at the CHS Media Center.
- To attend virtually, visit Cville Schools Facebook page for a livestream or watch a live simulcast on Education Channel 14.
Each meeting has a public comment period at the beginning and end. Speakers are asked to limit comments to three minutes.
- To offer public comment in-person: A sign-up sheet for speakers is available on the podium prior to the meeting.
- To offer public comment virtually: Utilize the Zoom link posted in the meeting notices.
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There are three ways to watch recordings of meetings:
- Cville Schools Facebook page
- Charlottesville City Schools YouTube channel
- Meetings are simulcast live, recorded and later broadcast on Education Channel 14 on Thursday & Friday at 7 p.m. and Saturday & Sunday at 12 and 7 p.m. of the same week as the meeting
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BOARD MEETING NOTICES: Staff and Cville Schools families automatically receive notices about the Board’s upcoming meetings and links to agendas via ParentSquare. Others interested in receiving these notices can register here.
“MINI MINUTES”: Additionally, “Mini Minutes” provide a quick summary of important takeaways from meetings. Mini-Minutes will be sent out in the division’s monthly News & Highlights following the regular monthly board meetings. To receive these monthly messages, subscribe here. (Staff and Cville Schools families automatically receive these messages via ParentSquare.)
Ms. Emily Dooley, Board Chair

Joined the Board in January 2022
Reasons for Serving on the School Board:
During my time as an employee of public schools, I recognized a disconnect between those making decisions on behalf of schools and the professionals who were left to implement them. I believe that my experience in the classroom and in leading a building will help ground division decisions in the day-to-day realities of teaching and managing a building, while keeping a progressive eye to how we can make systemic change to benefit all members of our community. I believe deeply in the ideals of public education and the role our schools can play in positively impacting our community.
Personal Information:
I have called Charlottesville home since 2003 when I came to UVA as an undergraduate student studying in the School of Education. Upon graduation, I taught at Monticello High School in Albemarle County for six years before moving into administration. I served as a middle school assistant principal and then as an elementary school principal before switching to my current career in real estate.
Ms. Amanda Burns, Vice-Chair

Joined the Board in January 2024
Reasons for Serving on the School Board:
Inspired in all she does by her family and her faith, Amanda believes that enduring change is powered by the simple promise to keep showing up, meeting every child where they are and providing for their needs with an open, generous heart. She believes that every child should not only leave Charlottesville City Schools with an exceptional education but the ability to also say that they were heard, that they were seen, and that they were cared for.
Amanda looks forward to the opportunity to serve the community, work alongside Dr. Gurley and the current board members, educators and staff.
Personal Information:
Amanda J “Mandy” Burns is a healthcare industry leader and community organizer driven to empower and uplift young men and women in the Charlottesville community and beyond. As a mother to two talented young men, and an accomplished corporate administrator of more than two decades, she combines her expertise in project management, implementation, and fiscal responsibility with her deep compassion in equal measure to affect lasting change. That loving spirit informs her work on numerous boards and committees related to her twin passions of healthcare and community service.
Ms. Shymora Cooper

Joined the Board in January 2024
Reasons for Being on the Board:
Throughout my life, I have been someone keen on identifying gaps and recognizing opportunities for growth, particularly concerning the development of our youth. Motivated by a desire for improvement, not only for my own children but also for the broader community where I have been involved in various capacities, I felt compelled to take action. Being in a position to effect change, I aim to serve as an inspiration for community members who look up to me, encouraging them to take proactive steps as well. Recognizing that our youth are the foundation of the future, I believe that the most effective way to instigate true change is by investing in them—equipping them with the skills to excel, be better individuals, and aspire for more, both for themselves and the community they call home. Assuming this role is an honor, and I eagerly anticipate engaging in challenging conversations and undertaking the necessary hard work to transform Charlottesville City Schools into a source of inspiration and a secure environment for our children.
Personal Information:
I am a lifelong resident of Charlottesville, VA. I draw inspiration from my life experiences and career. Committed to educating, advocating, and supporting low-income families, I currently manage the Financial Opportunity Center & Housing HUB at Piedmont Housing Alliance.
Mr. Chris Meyer
Mr. Dom Morse

Joined the Board in January 2022
Reasons for Being on the School Board:
My vision is to build a school system that works for every student and to bring the community together to ensure student success. When I was a student, I experienced education trauma by being neglected, forced into overcrowded classrooms and not given a choice in my learning. Eventually, I dropped out of school. Today, I am a Charlottesville High School GED graduate and progressive educator working to ensure another generation of students don’t share my learning experience.
Personal Information:
I am the program director at Charlottesville Abundant Life Ministries and a technical education teacher for Albemarle County Public Schools. I was the Charlottesville Business Innovation Council (CBIC) 2020 Educator of the Year.
Ms. Nicole Richardson

Joined the Board in January 2024
Reasons for Serving on the School Board:
Through my experiences working with social service agencies, organizations, and nonprofits, I have seen the importance of our public schools. Having two children in Charlottesville City Schools has been another window into public education. As I considered ways to give back to the community, I realized that serving on the School Board would draw on my professional skills working with social service agencies, organizations, and nonprofits, as well as my lived experiences as a mother of two children in CCS, a CHS graduate, and longtime member of the community. Additionally, I have always been inspired by my father, who moved from working in social services into serving as a high school special education teacher.
Personal Information:
I work as a rapid rehousing specialist for veterans with SupportWorks Housing, serving clients in Charlottesville and Richmond. Prior to that, I worked with Charlottesville organizations such as The Haven, Habitat for Humanity, the STARS group home, the Cherry Avenue Boys & Girls Club, and the Albemarle County Department of Social Services. I’m the mom of two boys who attend Charlottesville City Schools, and I graduated from CHS after my family moved here during my senior year.
Ms. Lisa Torres

Joined the Board in January 2018
Reasons for Serving on the School Board:
I am grateful to serve on the School Board bringing and offering my unique perspective and experiences as a parent who has worked throughout the years to advocate for my child who has unique needs. I feel I have a great sense of how to collaborate and engage with all team members and I feel I can offer that voice as well as my experiences to our community and children who may need that extra support.
Personal Information:
I have been a resident of Charlottesville since 1999. I am a physical therapist and provide home-care services to our community. I have one daughter who has attended Charlottesville City Schools (Burnley Moran, Walker Upper Elementary, Buford Middle School, and CHS). I enjoy time with my family and daughter, good movies, outdoor sports, good music and reading in my spare time.
Student School Board Representatives
The Charlottesville School Board has three student representatives. The 2025-2026 representatives are (left to right) Solly Schwartzman (11th grade), Ginger Craghead-Way (12th grade), and Jayla Turner (Alternate - 12th grade). The two students will each serve a five-month term (August-December and January-May) one trimester. They will attend designated work sessions, collaborate with fellow student representatives, and participate in monthly board meetings. Additionally, a third student representative has been selected to serve as an alternate and mentor, stepping in as needed and supporting ongoing collaboration and student voice collection
The students are shown with the Superintendent Dr. Royal Gurley, 2025-26 School Board chair, Ms. Emily Dooley, 2025-26 vice chair, Ms. Amanda Burns.
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