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YCSD Named School Division of Innovation

On Thursday, the state Board of Education recognized the York County School Division (YCSD) and 14 other Virginia school systems as “School Divisions of Innovation." This is the first time the state has awarded this designation authorized by the General Assembly in 2017.

Divisions are selected for designing and implementing alternatives to traditional instructional practices and school structures that improve learning and promote college and career readiness, and good citizenship. The designation is retained for three years.

YCSD earned its designation as a School Division of Innovation for developing elementary and middle school high-tech makerspaces and a high school learning commons as well as for expanding science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) programs with a particular focus on computer science and engineering.

“The School Board recognizes the need to engage and empower our students so they graduate with the skills and knowledge needed to be productive citizens,” said Dr. Victor Shandor, division superintendent. “Our Career Connections program is designed to introduce students to current and emerging industries, so they can investigate potential career paths based on their individual interests and skills.”

The Career Connections program is part of the division’s long-term strategic plan, which includes four objectives related to career readiness. This comprehensive program has also resulted in the YCSD earning a $50,000 school innovation grant from the state to expand its entrepreneurship program — currently offered in middle school — to elementary grades by providing an early introduction to entrepreneurship through innovation, real-word problem solving and product development.