Why Hanover
Hanover County is known for its strong and award-winning education system, benefiting businesses and families alike with high-quality public schools and easy access to a range of higher-education and workforce training opportunities.
The area is also home to a well-managed, jobs-focused community college system and an array of workforce training programs.
This outstanding and diverse education infrastructure allows students to enter the workforce and have access to nearly unlimited training and education resources. The extensive network of higher education and training opportunities provides the intellectual assets that students and business leaders need for company and career growth.
Educational Attainment
According to the most recent American Community Survey data, 91.3 percent of the Richmond MSA’s population over age 25 has at least a high school education, compared to 89 percent nationally. Greater Richmond compares favorably in higher education with many residents holding at least a Bachelor’s degree.
Public Schools
In Richmond MSA:
- Each locality in Greater Richmond has its own public school system and provides a full range of career prep, college prep, and honors/advanced placement classes.
- More than 153,000 students are enrolled in the four Greater Richmond systems.
- Various vocational/technical centers in each locality offer trade and industry classes and apprenticeship training.
In Hanover County:
Enrollment & District Size
Hanover County Public Schools (HCPS) serves about 16,000–17,000 students in Pre-K through 12th grade across 24 schools, including:
- 14 elementary schools
- 4 middle schools
- 4 high schools
- 1 trade & technology center
- 1 alternative education school
Academic Achievement
- All HCPS schools are fully accredited by the Virginia Department of Education under the state’s updated performance framework.
- On-time graduation rate continues to be very high — exceeding 95% for the Class of 2025.
- HCPS students consistently outperform state averages in reading, math, science, and history.
- The district has the highest pass rate in math among the 15 largest Virginia school divisions, and strong performance in other subjects as well.
Academic Advanced Programs & Opportunities
- All four HCPS high schools offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program plus Advanced Placement (AP) and dual-enrollment options. The district provides career and technical education (CTE) with nearly 100 different offerings, including programs at The Hanover Center for Trades and Technology and The Specialty Center at Hanover High School.
- HCPS also hosts the Hanover Regional Governor’s School for Career and Technical Advancement, a unique regional program.
Faculty & Instruction Quality
- A large number of HCPS teachers and administrators have earned National Board Certification, one of the highest professional certifications in education.
- The district maintains a strong focus on classroom instruction with a high percentage of budget dollars dedicated to teaching resources.
Recognition & Awards
- Hanover schools have earned multiple National Blue Ribbon School awards, a premier national recognition for academic excellence.
- The district’s vigorous academic performance and instructional strategies regularly place it among the top performing systems in the Richmond region.
Private & Higher Education
- Numerous private and parochial schools operate in the region, offering additional choices for early childhood through high school education. Visit the Virginia Council for Private Education (VCPE) for a listing of accredited private schools.
- Hanover’s location provides access to several colleges and universities, including Randolph-Macon College in Ashland, which contributes to local higher education and workforce development opportunities.
- Other colleges and universities in the Richmond region include:
- Community colleges and trade schools in the region include: