There’s something really special about the way our AJC family shows up for chapel. In the Lower School, Mr. Blain jumped right in, leading his first Chapel and asking students a simple question: What would Jesus do? What if someone sitting alone in the cafeteria looked a little sad? What if someone jumped in front of you in line for your favorite swing? Our littlest lions had answers. “I’d sit next to them so they don’t feel lonely,” Kindergartner Caleb said. Rayleonya, a 2nd grader, said, “I’d sit beside them to make them feel better.”  Mr. Blain went on to talked about the things Jesus asks us to do every day: notice, care, forgive, and welcome. Students sang, shared their thoughts and prayed together—and Mr. Blain did a wonderful job of bringing it all to life. Across the street in the Middle School, Rev. Becky McDaniel and our new student vestry

Our new Lower School library is already one of our favorite places in the building. It’s bright and inviting—big windows and little nooks to settle in.  Our librarian and IT specialist, Aaron Everic, has brought his kid-centered vision for the library to life, filling the shelves with a wide variety of books, adding comfy seating, and even choosing stationary bikes so students have the choice to move as they read. This special space was made possible by people like you, who believe our students deserve beautiful places to learn, explore and discover the joy of reading. We invite you to visit anytime—we’d love to show you around!

Just before school started, our staff had the chance to hear directly from several AJC families through our Family Panel during staff work week. It was a beautiful reminder of what this school means to the people who are part of it. One parent shared how they see our entire community working together: “I love the fact that the parents, teachers and staff are all working together to give the students what they need.”  Another mom shared what it means to watch her child grow in a place where she is truly known: “I feel like this school has given her a chance to flourish and just be herself. For my child to have a chance to come to a school where people genuinely care about her and know her and understand her means so much.” And the sense of belonging doesn’t stop at the school’s doors. One parent described

There is a lot that looks different at AJC this fall. We welcomed 61 new students and 11 new staff members, moved into a new building and, of course, welcomed a new Head of School. Our halls are bustling again, and our classrooms are full of curiosity and learning. But I’ve been struck just as much by what hasn’t changed. In these first few weeks, I’ve watched students find their footing, reconnect with old friends, make new ones and begin learning and growing together. I’ve seen classrooms, hallways and playgrounds come alive with the energy and joy of our students. And I’ve watched new staff members find their place on their teams, welcomed and supported by colleagues who know this school well. Despite all the transition, AJC feels very much like business as usual—or, more aptly, community-of-affection-as-usual. Every day reminds me that AJC is about so much more than academics;

Long before his official start date, our new Head of School Mr. Tommy Blain, began getting to know the people who make AJC so special—meeting with staff, families, and students and listening carefully to what they believe is sacred about our school and community of affection. By his first day on July 6th, Tommy was already deeply invested in AJC and ready to step into his leadership role. He helped us welcome 60 new students and 11 new staff members for our four-week summer session and quickly embraced the opportunities and challenges that come with such a remarkable period of growth. We are grateful for the care and energy Tommy has already brought to our community. The heart of AJC remains strong, and we are excited for the year ahead! A former teacher, Mr. Blain visits a Kindergarten class. Group and one-on-one family orientation meetings have been ongoing throughout the summer.

On June 30, students, families, trustees, supporters, and friends of Anna Julia Cooper School gathered to celebrate the ribbon cutting of our beautiful new Lower School building at 2000 N. 29th Street. It was a joyful day as we marked a milestone years in the making. Thanks to the incredible team at Kjellstrom + Lee Construction, we went from groundbreaking to grand opening in 13 months—just in time for our summer session, when we welcomed additional sections of both second and third grades, bringing our enrollment to 230 students. We were honored to hear remarks from Richmond City Council President Cynthia Newbille, members of our Board of Trustees, Lower School Principal Michael Crane, and Mike Maruca, who closed the celebration on the final day of his 17-year tenure as Head of School. Thank you to everyone whose generosity, partnership, and belief in our students made this day—and our continued growth—possible.

Founded in 2009 by Mike Maruca, Anna Julia Cooper School has grown from 25 students in a house to a thriving community serving 215 children across two campuses—a reflection of his vision, dedication, and belief in the students and families of Richmond’s East End. As he retires, we celebrate our leader whose impact is felt in every corner of our community. Students will remember his humor, his high expectations, and most of all, his deep love and care for them. As one student put it, he is the reason they can “laugh, sing, dance, and be together while also getting an education.” There is too much to fully capture in words, but one thing is clear: Mike Maruca’s legacy will continue to shape this school for years to come. Congratulations, Mike, and we wish you all the best in your retirement! An emotional moment as Mr. Keiper, also in his