Christopher Farms Elem - Dedicated to Excellence

Christopher Farms Elementary School is an outstanding elementary school tucked into a nice suburban neighborhood in Virginia Beach, Virginia. During its decade+ in existence, the school has managed to stand out as the only Virginia Beach elementary school with a partial Spanish Immersion program. It has also won accolades for its parent involvement which is among the highest in the city.

CFES is the home of the Colts. The Colts are eager and well-mannered students who present relatively few discipline issues, which makes for a cozy, comfortably safe school environment. There is a sense of family and community at the school. Parents are welcome to join their children for lunch or volunteer in the classroom at any time. The administration, led by Dr. Amy Cashwell and Mr. Bruce Clarke, has established an excellent relationship with the faculty as well as the PTA. This sets the stage for many wonderful school events and activiities including reading and math nights, concerts, spelling and geography bees, family dances, movie nights, arts programs, carnivals, and much more.

The partial Spanish Immersion program is a big draw for those who actively seek a global education for their children. This is an entirely optional program that begins in first grade and continues into middle school for those who choose to go on. The students learn science and math entirely in Spanish from a Spanish-speaking teacher and switch to an English teacher for language arts and social studies. The success of the program is well-documented with test scores on par with or above English-only classes. The English-only classes are also very highly regarded so there is little to be lost no matter which course parents choose for their children.

A large portion of CFES families are military due to the proximity of several large bases including Oceana and Dam Neck in Virginia Beach. As such, there is some turnover as families move in and out of the area, but the school is very well-equipped to support transitioning families through programs including the Anchors Away program which includes students with a deployed parent. The Virginia Beach City Public Schools as well as the military provide additional support for military families.

The influx of new families with unique life experiences adds to the vibrancy of CFES. There is a sense of global and multicultural understanding that is not found in many schools and there is a unique bond between the non-military and military families that shows at CFES.

The school building itself is relatively new and is very well-maintained. Its location in a safe suburban area allows many students to walk or ride their bikes to school. An inner courtyard, only one portable classroom, a new playground purchased by the PTA, and large outdoor green spaces are a few of the physical highlights of the school. Recently-installed Smartboards in each classroom are also welcome additions. There is a well-equipped computer lab, music and art rooms, a clean cafeteria/kitchen, a large stage, and a nicely-equipped gym.

In short, CFES is a well-run, well-maintained school with an outstanding faculty and exemplary parent participation. The school boasts a high-quality Spanish Immersion program and has created a tight-knit community of military and civilian families. For those looking for a Virginia Beach elementary school that excels in education, is in a safe location, and has something unique to offer, CFES is the school for you.