A new K–5 independent school · Richmond, Virginia
Big expectations. Deep roots. Bright futures.
A new K–5 school in Richmond where rigorous learning, cultural pride, and the strength of our community help children grow into confident thinkers.
Opening Fall 2027 · Welcoming founding families
“Your child should never have to choose between being challenged and being understood. At Village & Valor, we bring both together.”
Our approach
A school built on four promises
- 01
Challenging academics
Strong foundations in reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies. Children explain their thinking, tackle meaningful problems, and receive support when they need it.
- 02
Identity and belonging
Students encounter books, histories, discoveries, and works of art that reflect their lives and expand their understanding of others. Black history and contributions are woven throughout the year — not saved for a single month.
- 03
Learning through experience
Classroom instruction connects to experiments, field experiences, creative work, and projects with a real audience. Children remember what they build, test, and share.
- 04
A village of possibility
Local artists, engineers, entrepreneurs, historians, tradespeople, and other community leaders help children see what knowledge can make possible.
Learning comes to life
Strong instruction, carried into the real world
Examples of planned learning experiences — each one grows out of careful classroom teaching and gives students' work a real purpose and audience.
The neighborhood becomes a classroom
Students study neighborhood history, interview longtime residents, and create a community walking guide for families and visitors.
Math meets the marketplace
Students use budgeting, measurement, and persuasive writing to plan and run a small student market.
Science takes root
Students investigate soil, weather, and plant growth across the seasons with guidance from a local gardener.
Meet our founder
Dr. Nia Carter
Founder & Head of School
“Children thrive when adults expect great things from them and provide the teaching, relationships, and opportunities to get there.”
A Black educator and Richmond native, Dr. Carter has spent 18 years as an elementary teacher, literacy coach, and school leader. She founded Village & Valor to make excellent instruction, cultural affirmation, and community involvement part of daily life — not special occasions.
Read Our StoryOur village
It takes a village. We make that village part of school.
Through our planned Village Fellows program, community members — architects, chefs, entrepreneurs, artists, scientists, historians — will share their expertise through classroom visits, workshops, mentorship, and projects developed alongside our teachers.
Explore Our Village
Help us build our founding village.
Meet our team, explore our approach, and tell us what you want for your child's education.