Lion Portal

Welcome, Lions!

Dear Families,

We are delighted to welcome you to another exciting year at Anna Julia Cooper School! It is truly a privilege to serve as your lower and middle school principals, and we are continually inspired by the dedication and talent of our students, staff, families, and community partners. We believe deeply in each of our students and staff members—and we feel blessed to work alongside such passionate individuals every day.

At Anna Julia Cooper, our mission is rooted in love, education, and upliftment. Together, we nurture a warm, inclusive environment where students are encouraged to embrace challenges, knowing they can face hard things with resilience and perseverance. Our core values of respect, integrity, and excellence guide us as we strive to support growth not only academically but also personally.

What sets our school apart is our passionate staff, who are truly called to this work. When people love what they do, they bring enthusiasm and dedication to every day. Our shared commitment to be intentional allows us to close gaps, accelerate achievement, and empower each student on their learning journey.

We invite you to explore our website or visit the school anytime—you are always welcome here! We are confident that, together, we will make this year one of growth, success, and meaningful impact.

Thank you for your dedication, talent, and support. Your involvement is what makes our school community so special.

Here’s to a wonderful year ahead!

With gratitude,

Mr. Micheal Crane Jr., M.Ed.
Lower School Principal

Ms. Yolanda Gilliam
Principal

Headshot of Micheal Crane
Headshot of Yolanda Gilliam

AJC Resources

6

Contact Staff ➙

5

2025-2026 School Calendar ➙

7

Parent-Student Handbook ➙

1

Request school records ➙

3

Refer your child for support services ➙

4

Volunteer ➙

Upcoming Events

Events

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RVA Resources

Locate local emergency food

 

804-237-8617 (English), 804-822-4111 (Spanish)

Mon-Fri: 9am-4pm

Multiple community locations with free access to groceries & toiletries

 

rvacommunityfridges.com

Help navigating housing needs

 

804-422-5061

Mon-Fri: 8:30am-4:30pm

Provides 24-hour emergency services, information, referral, and triage for outpatient services

 

804-819-4100 (24/7 crisis line)

Peer recovery-led resource line for mental health and substance use support

 

866-400-6428

8am-Midnight, 7 days a week

Legal assistance for low-income individuals in civil cases

 

800-868-1012

Online database of local resources by zip code

 

help1rva.org

Get help with housing, food, healthcare, and other community resources anywhere in Virginia

 

Call 211 (or text CONNECT to 247211) anytime

Get help with housing, food, healthcare, and other community resources anywhere in Virginia

 

Call (804)-643-0888 anytime

Grief programs and resources available for adults as well as children of all ages.

Visit https://fullcirclegc.org/ to learn more.