HCPS celebrates new strategy, expanded programs with grand opening of ‘The Oak’

The Oak has taken root. The former Highland Springs High School has been reimagined as The Oak Avenue Complex, a multipurpose center that will connect Henrico County Public Schools students and families with community services, and expand academic and career-readiness options.

The center — nicknamed “The Oak” — hosted a grand opening January 17th. HCPS leaders dedicated the space in a short ceremony. The building has been divided to house a variety of functions.

The center is the school division’s first full-service community school hub, a major step in a new strategy to connect students and families with community services. The approach will expand the use of school facilities, creating a one-stop shop where students and families can connect with organizations providing the services they need. Challenges such as a lack of health care or nutritious food can affect students’ success in the classroom — something the new strategy aims to rectify. The strategy is powered by a partnership among HCPS’ Division of Family and Community Engagement, the Henrico Education Foundation, nonprofit organizations and community donors.

The Oak Avenue Complex will be the centerpiece of the strategy in the Varina District, and organizers hope to create similar full-service hubs in Henrico’s other four magisterial districts. Each hub school will have “spokes” — more limited program sites — at nearby schools.

Families who want more information about services at The Oak Avenue Complex should contact the Division of Family and Community Engagement at 804-226-5231.

It also houses the middle school campus of An Achievable Dream Certified Academy. An Achievable Dream Certified Academy at The Oak Avenue Complex provides a dedicated space for students in grades 6-8 to continue the Achievable Dream program beyond elementary school. The public program is a partnership between HCPS and An Achievable Dream Inc., a nonprofit. The organization works with school divisions to teach social skills and promote “anytime, anywhere” learning, including additional field trips and crosscurricular activities. Support from donors is an important part of helping HCPS offer students more opportunities and access to tools for success. The program also offers extended school days and a summer intersession.

Finally, it’s a temporary home to the Advanced Career Education Center at Highland Springs, while the center’s permanent home is undergoing a major renovation. The renovated ACE Center is expected to open in the fall.