Back to School in Hopewell & Prince George: What Families Need to Know.

Summer is winding down and back-to-school season is here for families in Hopewell and Prince George. Whether you're a long-time local or PCS-ing to Fort Gregg-Adams with school-age kids, knowing what to expect for the 2026-2027 school year will help everyone start the year on the right foot.

First Day of School Dates

Mark your calendars. Here are the first day of school dates for our two local school divisions:

• Hopewell City Public Schools: Wednesday, August 12, 2026. Hopewell operates on a balanced (year-round) calendar, so students get shorter breaks throughout the year and a shorter summer. This can be a great fit for military families whose schedules don't always align with a traditional calendar.
• Prince George County Public Schools: Monday, August 24, 2026. Prince George follows a more traditional calendar. Both districts provide a full calendar on their websites so you can plan ahead for early dismissals and holidays.

Local Schools Near Crescent Hills Annex

If you're looking at the Crescent Hills Annex neighborhood (home to 204 Prince George Ave), your K-12 students are served by Hopewell City Public Schools:

For families stationed at Fort Gregg-Adams, Prince George County Public Schools also operates Middle Road Elementary (K-5) and J.E.J. Moore Middle School (grades 6-7) directly on the installation, along with N.B. Clements Junior High (grades 8-9) and Prince George High School nearby.

Military Family Resources for PCSing Families

Moving with school-age kids comes with its own set of logistics. Here are the key resources I point every military family to:

• School Liaison Officer (SLO): Chaundra Taswell at Fort Gregg-Adams (804-765-3813) is your first call for school enrollment, transfers, and the Youth Sponsorship Program that connects your child with a peer before they arrive.
• Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity: Virginia is a member state, which means your child's enrollment, placement, and graduation requirements transfer smoothly — no lost credits, no delayed starts.
• Purple Star Schools: Prince George County Public Schools are recognized as Purple Star Schools, designated for their commitment to military-connected students and families.
• Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP): The SLO can help navigate special education and Early Intervention Services for families with children who have special medical or educational needs.
• Child & Youth Services: Register at MilitaryChildCare.com for school-age programs at Fort Gregg-Adams (Parent Central Registration: 804-765-3852).

After-School Activities & Family Fun Nearby

Getting involved in after-school activities is one of the best ways to help kids settle into a new community. Here are some local favorites:

• Tree Time Adventures (6680 Courthouse Rd, Prince George) — an aerial adventure park with zip lines and ropes courses for active kids ages 5 and up.
• Hopewell Community Center (100 W City Point Rd) — offers youth programs, sports leagues, and open gym time. Check the Hopewell Rec & Parks website for the seasonal activity guide.
• Petersburg National Battlefield - City Point Unit (Cedar Ln, Hopewell) — a National Park site perfect for a free family afternoon. Walk the grounds and learn local history together.
• R. Garland Dodd Park at Point of Rocks (201 Enon Church Rd, Chester) — playgrounds, sports fields, and walking trails just 15 minutes from Hopewell.
• Tenstrike Bowling Center (Fort Gregg-Adams) — on-base bowling and arcade fun for military families.

Tips for a Smooth Transition

Whether you're moving into the area or just preparing for a new school year, a few simple steps can make all the difference:

• Enroll early. Contact the school division as soon as you have a lease or purchase agreement. Both Hopewell City Public Schools and Prince George County Public Schools have online enrollment portals.
• Visit the school before the first day. Most schools offer orientation or open house events in the week before classes start. It helps kids know where their classroom is, meet their teacher, and find the lunchroom before the hallways are crowded.
• Get involved. PTA meetings, school volunteer events, and local sports leagues are wonderful ways to connect with other families and build your community network.
• Reach out. If you're new to the area and need help navigating schools, neighborhoods, or anything else, I'm here to help. Many of my clients become lifelong friends — and that's what it's all about.