R.C. Longan Elementary School serves as a cornerstone of elementary education in Henrico County, Virginia. Located at 9200 Mapleview Ave, Richmond, VA 23294, this public school accommodates students from Pre-Kindergarten through fifth grade. Under the current leadership of Principal Nicole M. Henderson, the school operates from 8:10 a.m. to 2:40 p.m. during the academic year. As part of Region 1 in the Henrico County Public Schools (HCPS) division, it has long been recognized for its diverse student body and community-focused programs.

The school is currently entering one of the most significant phases in its history. Since its opening in 1965, the building has witnessed decades of local growth, but the infrastructure is now set for a major reconstruction starting in 2025. This transition is not merely a construction project; it has become a central part of the school's curriculum, specifically through a massive STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) initiative that allows students to influence the design of their future learning environment.

Where is R.C. Longan Elementary School located?

Finding the campus is straightforward for residents of the Richmond suburban area. It sits in a well-established neighborhood, accessible via major local routes.

  • Physical Address: 9200 Mapleview Ave, Richmond, VA 23294
  • Phone Contact: 804-527-4640
  • Office Availability: 7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

The location places it within the heart of Henrico County, a division known for its commitment to "The Henrico Way," which emphasizes innovative learning and equity across all its 70+ schools.

Who was Robert Coleman Longan?

The school’s name carries historical weight in the county. Robert Coleman Longan served on the Henrico County Board of Supervisors from 1944 to 1959. His tenure was marked by the post-war expansion of Henrico, a period when the demand for new educational facilities began to skyrocket. When the school opened in 1965, naming it after Longan was a tribute to his 15 years of civic service. Understanding this history helps clarify why the school remains so deeply rooted in the local civic identity.

Why the If I Built a School project matters for students

In late 2024, the administration at R.C. Longan launched a unique program called "If I Built a School." Knowing that the original 1965 structure was slated for demolition and reconstruction, the staff decided to turn a logistical challenge into a profound learning opportunity. Instead of just showing students blueprints, they asked the students to create them.

From mid-November to December 2024, the entire student body engaged in a design thinking process. This project was structured around the book If I Built a House by Chris Van Dusen, which served as a creative spark. Families were even invited to a "Math and Literacy on the Lawn" kickoff event, where they calculated perimeters and areas of their "ideal homes" on the school grass. This level of community involvement is rare in traditional school reconstruction projects and sets a benchmark for how HCPS handles transitions.

How kindergarten students approached the building appearance

For the youngest learners, the focus was on the "big picture." Kindergarteners were tasked with imagining the overall aesthetic of the new school. In our observations of the prototypes created during this phase, students didn't just pick colors; they discussed what makes a building feel "welcoming." Using blocks and art supplies, these students explored concepts of symmetry and visual appeal, learning that the outside of a school affects how students feel when they walk through the doors every morning.

First grade and the future of playgrounds

The first-grade classes took on the most popular area of any elementary school: the playground. However, this wasn't just about picking taller slides. Guided by the STEAM framework, these six- and seven-year-olds had to consider accessibility. They brainstormed ways to ensure that all students, including those with physical disabilities, could play together. This introduced them to the basic concepts of inclusive design and civil engineering.

Second grade reimagining the modern classroom

What should a classroom look like in 2025 and beyond? Second graders at R.C. Longan tackled this question by researching furniture that allows for movement and collaboration. Their blueprints moved away from traditional rows of desks, favoring flexible seating and "quiet zones." This reflects a broader shift in educational philosophy that the school is eager to implement in its new physical space.

Third grade mapping the school interior

The third-grade curriculum focused on the interior map of the building. This required a high level of spatial awareness and logic. Students had to figure out the most efficient paths between classrooms, the cafeteria, and the gym. This exercise taught them about floor plans and the importance of "flow" in architecture—skills that many don't encounter until high school or college.

Fourth grade and resource area design

Resource areas, including the library, music rooms, art studios, and the P.E. gym, were the responsibility of the fourth graders. Each class was assigned a specific room to renovate. In their research, they interviewed "in-house experts"—the current music and art teachers—to find out what the current rooms lacked. This professional-style consultation gave students a real-world look at how architects must meet the needs of their clients.

Fifth grade and the outdoor environment

The oldest students looked beyond the walls. Fifth graders were responsible for the garden, outdoor learning spaces, and the logistics of the bus loop and car rider drop-off. This is perhaps the most complex part of school design, involving traffic patterns and environmental sustainability. Their prototypes included green spaces that could serve as "outdoor classrooms," a feature that is becoming increasingly popular in modern Virginia school designs to promote mental health and hands-on science learning.

What is the timeline for the new R.C. Longan building?

The reconstruction is officially slated to begin in 2025. While specific dates for the move to a temporary "swing space" or the final ribbon-cutting are typically finalized by the Henrico School Board, the fall 2024 project served as the formal farewell to the old structure and a transition into the new era.

The goal of the new building is to provide a state-of-the-art facility that matches the innovative STEAM work already happening inside the old walls. Parents can expect modern security features, improved energy efficiency, and a layout that facilitates the "New Learning Innovation" standards set by the state.

Understanding school demographics and culture

R.C. Longan is notable for its rich cultural tapestry. As of the most recent data cycles, the school serves approximately 459 students. The diversity here is a point of pride for the administration:

  • White: 28.5%
  • Black: 25.5%
  • Hispanic: 21.1%
  • Asian: 18.1%
  • Two or more races: 6.5%

This balanced mix creates a unique environment where students are exposed to different perspectives daily. Furthermore, the school has a significant English as a Second Language (ESL) program, supported by dedicated instructional coaches like Elena Dimitri. This ensures that the high percentage of students from non-English speaking households receive the same quality of education as their peers.

How does R.C. Longan perform academically?

The school is "Fully Accredited" by the Virginia Department of Education. This status is granted only when a school meets or exceeds state standards in English, Mathematics, and Science.

Standards of Learning (SOL) focus

Like all public schools in the Commonwealth, R.C. Longan follows the Standards of Learning (SOL) framework. The curriculum is designed to move students from basic literacy and numeracy in the early grades to critical thinking and problem-solving in the upper grades. The current student-to-teacher ratio is approximately 14.34, which is slightly better than many national averages. This allows for more personalized intervention, particularly in reading and math.

Support staff and special education

The staff directory reveals a robust support system. Beyond classroom teachers, the school employs:

  • Elementary Intervention Teachers (for reading and math support).
  • Occupational Therapists.
  • Family Advocates (who bridge the gap between home and school).
  • Instructional Assistants for Exceptional Education.

This multi-layered approach is essential for a school that serves a high number of students eligible for free or reduced-price lunch (approximately 416 students, according to recent NCES data). It ensures that socioeconomic barriers do not prevent academic success.

What are the school hours and daily schedule?

Consistency is key for elementary learners. R.C. Longan follows a standard HCPS elementary schedule:

  • Student Day: 8:10 a.m. – 2:40 p.m.
  • Arrival: Students are generally encouraged to arrive by 7:50 a.m. to prepare for the day.
  • Office Hours: 7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Parents should note that on early release days, which are peppered throughout the HCPS calendar for teacher professional development, dismissal typically occurs several hours earlier.

Enrollment and registration for new families

Families moving into the Longan zone need to provide several documents for registration:

  1. Proof of Residency: Typically a lease agreement or mortgage statement.
  2. Birth Certificate: Official copy.
  3. Immunization Records: Must meet Virginia Department of Health requirements.
  4. Physical Exam: Required for all new elementary students in Virginia.

The registration process is handled through the Henrico County Public Schools central portal, but the front office at Longan is available to assist with local questions.

How to get involved with the R.C. Longan PTA

The Parent Teacher Association (PTA) at R.C. Longan is highly active, especially given the upcoming reconstruction. They play a vital role in fundraising for field trips, classroom supplies, and community events like the "Kickoff" mentioned earlier. Joining the PTA is one of the most effective ways for parents to have a voice in the transition to the new building.

Summary of the R.C. Longan experience

R.C. Longan Elementary School is more than just a 1960s-era building on Mapleview Avenue. It is a vibrant, diverse community that is currently using the prospect of a new facility to teach its students the power of design, collaboration, and civic engagement. While the 2025 reconstruction will bring physical changes, the school’s core mission—to provide an inclusive and academically rigorous environment—remains steady. With full accreditation and a favorable student-teacher ratio, it continues to be a vital asset to the Henrico County Public Schools system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is R.C. Longan Elementary School moving during construction?

Most Henrico County school reconstructions involve moving students to a temporary "swing space" or modular classrooms on-site. Specific logistics for the 2025 move are communicated directly to parents via the HCPS "The Binder" newsletter and official school emails.

What grade levels are at R.C. Longan?

The school serves students from Pre-Kindergarten (Pre-K) through 5th Grade. The Pre-K program is application-based and focuses on school readiness for four-year-olds.

Who is the current principal of R.C. Longan?

Nicole M. Henderson is the principal. She is supported by a team of administrators and a diverse staff of over 32 classroom teachers and numerous specialists.

What middle school will R.C. Longan students attend?

Typically, students from R.C. Longan feed into the middle schools designated for their specific residential zone within Region 1, which often includes schools like Brookland Middle or Hungerford, depending on boundary lines.

Does the school offer gifted (TAG) programs?

Yes, HCPS provides gifted education services for students who demonstrate high levels of academic aptitude. Identification usually begins in the early elementary years through teacher and parent referrals and standardized testing.

What is the school’s rating?

Based on various community and data platforms, the school often carries a rating around 3.98 out of 5, reflecting high marks for its diverse environment and teacher quality, though test scores are always a focus for continuous improvement as part of the state’s accreditation process.