First Colonial High School
First Colonial High School, established in 1963, is a public high school located in the Princess Anne area of Virginia Beach, Virginia. It serves students in grades 9-12 and is part of the Virginia Beach City Public Schools system. The school is named for the First Colony, the earliest permanent English settlement in Virginia, reflecting a connection to the historical roots of the region. First Colonial High School has a longstanding tradition of academic and extracurricular achievement within the city.
History
First Colonial High School was constructed to accommodate the growing population of the Princess Anne County area, prior to the 1963 consolidation of Princess Anne County and the City of Virginia Beach. The original building opened its doors in September 1963 with an initial student body drawn from the former Princess Anne High School and other area schools. This consolidation created a larger, more unified school system for the newly formed city. The school’s establishment represented a significant investment in the educational infrastructure of the expanding urban area. [1]
Over the decades, First Colonial High School has undergone several expansions and renovations to meet the evolving needs of its student population. Additions were made in the 1980s and again in the early 2000s to accommodate increasing enrollment and to update facilities. These improvements included the addition of modern classrooms, science laboratories, a larger library/media center, and enhanced athletic facilities. The school has consistently strived to provide a comprehensive learning environment for its students, adapting its programs and resources to reflect current educational best practices. [2]
Geography
First Colonial High School is situated in the southern portion of Virginia Beach, specifically within the Princess Anne district. The school grounds encompass approximately 60 acres, providing ample space for athletic fields, parking, and green spaces. The surrounding area is characterized by a mix of residential neighborhoods, commercial developments, and agricultural land, reflecting the diverse character of Princess Anne. The school’s location provides relatively easy access for students from various parts of southern Virginia Beach.
The school’s physical location is advantageous in terms of accessibility to major roadways, facilitating transportation for students and staff. Proximity to Princess Anne Road and other key thoroughfares allows for efficient commutes. The landscape surrounding the school is generally flat, typical of the coastal plain region of Virginia. The school benefits from a temperate climate, allowing for outdoor activities throughout much of the year.
Culture
First Colonial High School fosters a culture of academic rigor and student involvement. The school offers a wide range of academic programs, including Advanced Placement (AP) courses, honors classes, and specialized programs designed to meet the diverse needs of its student body. Emphasis is placed on preparing students for post-secondary education and careers. Extracurricular activities play a significant role in the school’s culture, with numerous clubs, organizations, and athletic teams available to students.
The school actively promotes a sense of community through various events and initiatives. These include school-wide assemblies, pep rallies, homecoming celebrations, and volunteer opportunities. Student government plays a key role in representing student interests and organizing school activities. First Colonial High School also emphasizes the importance of character education and citizenship, encouraging students to become responsible and engaged members of society. [3]
Notable Residents
While a comprehensive list of all notable alumni is beyond the scope of this article, First Colonial High School has produced individuals who have made contributions in various fields. Many graduates have gone on to pursue higher education at prestigious universities and have achieved success in professions such as medicine, law, engineering, business, and the arts. Specific names and achievements are not detailed here due to the limitations of available sourced information.
The school’s alumni network remains active, with graduates often returning to participate in school events and to mentor current students. The First Colonial High School Alumni Association plays a role in fostering connections among alumni and in supporting the school’s programs. The school recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of its alumni, highlighting their contributions to the community and beyond. [4]
Athletics
First Colonial High School has a well-established athletic program, offering a variety of sports for both boys and girls. The school competes in the Eastern Region of the Virginia High School League (VHSL). Sports offered include football, basketball, soccer, volleyball, field hockey, cross country, track and field, swimming, wrestling, and baseball. The school’s athletic teams have consistently achieved success at the district, regional, and state levels.
The athletic facilities at First Colonial High School include a football stadium, a gymnasium, a swimming pool, baseball and softball fields, and various outdoor practice areas. The school’s athletic program emphasizes the importance of sportsmanship, teamwork, and physical fitness. Coaches and trainers work to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their chosen sports while promoting a healthy and positive athletic experience.
Getting There
First Colonial High School is accessible by various modes of transportation. Students and visitors can reach the school by car via Princess Anne Road and other major roadways. Ample parking is available on school grounds. Public transportation options, including bus routes operated by HRT (Hampton Roads Transit), also serve the school. Specific bus route numbers and schedules can be found on the HRT website.
For those traveling from outside the immediate area, the school is located within reasonable driving distance of Interstate 264 and Interstate 64. Detailed directions can be obtained using online mapping services. The school’s location is clearly marked with signage, making it easy to find for those unfamiliar with the area.