School Summary

Buckland Mills Elementary School

Buckland Mills Elementary School
10511 Wharfdale Pl.
Gainesville, VA 20155

Phone: 703-530-1560

Date Opened: September 2006
Principal: Minaxi Odedra
Assistant Principal: Elizabeth Harrison

Number of Students: 670
Number of teachers: 50
School Colors: Cranberry Red & Federal Blue
School Mascot: Wildcat

About Buckland Mills

Buckland Mills Elementary School opened in September 2006. The school is located off I-66 and Lee Hwy/U.S. 29 in the Somerset Housing Development. The school received its name from the long, rich history of the Buckland Mills community which has mirrored the expansion of the nation during the Revolutionary War, Civil War, and Reform Era. The students, parents, and faculty all had a hand in building our school history.

Teachers voted on choosing the school colors. Students voted on their choice of mascot, the "Wildcat." Parents are part of the PTO and Advisory Council.

Wildcat cheering

Special Programs

Many programs are conducted to ensure that each and every student is learning at their appropriate level and pace. Buckland Mills houses grades K-5, classes for students with Autism, Learning Disability Resources, Speech, ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages), and an on-site Gifted Education Program. We are also an International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme, which focuses on the total growth of the developing child, touching hearts as well as minds, and encompassing social, physical, emotional and cultural needs in addition to academic development. All students learn Spanish as part of IBPYP.

IB and school of excellence flags, and pinatas

Opportunities for Parent and Community Involvement

Family involvement is a vital aspect of Buckland Mills. The school enjoys a very active Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) which plans such events as Movie Night, Talent Show, and a Family Dance. Our Principal's Advisory Council (PAC) helps combine all the efforts of the community into our school decision making process. Parents are welcome to come in at any time to volunteer or observe in the classroom. Parents and community members making help out in the copy room and serve as instructional volunteers, working one-on-one with students who need a little extra attention. Parent informational evenings on various topics of interest are scheduled throughout the year.

Technology at Buckland Mills

At Buckland Mills, the use of technology on a daily basis sets us apart. Every classroom in the building contains a 72" touch screen Smart Board with a projector. The technology is put to good use by our students and teachers that are committed to learning every day. Our motto describes it best: "Every minute counts, every child matters, and everyone succeeds."