Principal's Message

 Welcome!

Greetings! I am so excited to serve as your Principal; my name is Ed Van Dyke.  I have been an administrator in one capacity or another for the past 7 years and taught 6th-grade history for 6 years.  In 2011 I was fortunate enough to be named Teacher of the Year for Williamsburg James City County.

 The relationships that I built during my time as a teacher and administrator were gained through laughter, trust and collegial conversations. Three of my favorite things about being an administrator are developing relationships with students, families and staff; helping teachers become better at their craft; and knowing that no day is the same as the last. Outside of school, I love spending time with my wife Jessica, of 21 years, and our four children (Will - 18, Jack - 15, Meaghan - 12 and Daniel - 10). As a family, we enjoy time at Nana and Papa’s house in Emerald Isle, NC; going to our neighborhood pool; spending time outside; and routing for any Chicago Sports team (especially the Cubs!).

I have discovered one consistent theme through the conversations I have had with families, and faculty, and staff in CCPS. I have learned that the staff of Charles City Elementary works exceptionally hard and is dedicated to providing an outstanding education for every child. I anticipate a year of academic excellence and positive school experiences for both staff and students.
The ancient Chinese stated that the journey of a thousand miles begins with one-step. We want all of the students at Charles City County Elementary to take that first step with confidence, knowing exactly what expectations are set before them for their success. We are dedicated to the education and development of each one of our children at Charles City County Elementary. Therefore, we want them and you to understand exactly what it is that they need to do to get everything out of their school experience…We want this to be a tremendous experience for everyone!

Throughout this coming school year, we invite you to be involved in your student’s life at school. Research shows that when parents and guardians are involved and offer support and partnership with a school, student achievement is at its strongest. Whether you choose to be involved with our PTA, attend an evening school activity, volunteer at the building, attend a parent/teacher conference, maintain regular checks on our PowerSchool system for your child’s assignments and grades, visit the school’s website, or simply talk to your child each night about their day at school, you are providing them, and Charles City County Elementary, with the positive support that is needed to make our learning community GREAT! Communication and partnership with you equal success for our children.

If you have any questions or concerns at any time throughout the year, do not hesitate to call, email, or contact your child's teacher, guidance counselor, or the administration and we will do our best to work with you and to assist you.