About Us

The history dates back to 1878, only eight years after the General Assembly of Virginia had fostered the idea of free public schools in the state. Originally the school met in the "Ridge Meeting House" which was also used as a Baptist church, located near the intersection of Quioccasin and Three Chopt roads.

By 1883, Ridge had moved to a more permanent and independent location fronting Quioccasin Road just south of the church.This one room school house was occupied until it burned during 1903. A new two room building was then erected on the grounds.

In 1907, the school was enlarged with a two story, four room addition which was necessitated by the expanding of the school to include students through the ninth grade. By 1913, Ridge had returned to an elementary school with students only through the sixth grade.

In 1929, the school district began to look ahead at the possibility of increased enrollment, deciding that the present building would not be sufficient. Consequently, a larger plot of land was purchased a mere six hundred yards from its beginnings, but now on the north side of Three Chopt Road. A new brick school house with four classrooms, an office, library, central heat and indoor bathrooms was constructed on this site. This building has served us well with a few renovations and additions throughout the years.

In 1961, an extended wing with a new library and ten new classrooms was added. In 1979, a new office and conference room were added to physically connect the original building with the 1961 wing that had previously been connected with an open breezeway. In the eighties, a new gymnasium with spacious music, art, and resource rooms was added to complete the building.

In the fall of 2004, construction began on our latest renovation. Our auditorium, office, and existing classrooms got a face-lift. New classrooms, cafeteria, and library were added. The new school building reflects the history and character of our historic school.

Throughout the history of Ridge Elementary, it has been known as a happy, caring and nurturing institution to the students who have been educated there. We hope to continue this 130-year legacy for many years to come!