Evergreen Elementary opened its doors to almost 800 children on Tuesday, Sept. 8, 1987. It was a dreary, rainy day but everyone was delighted to be there. Teachers, led by Jean Ridgeway, spent Labor Day Weekend preparing for their students’ arrival.

The next three years were busy ones for the PTA volunteers, whose fund raising efforts were rewarded with the installation of playground equipment. Our Fall Pumpkin Lighting and Santa Shop became annual neighborhood events for everyone.

In 1990-91 Evergreen was designated a “Lighthouse School” and became one of only seven schools in the county to form a School Council. The development of School Council and its subsequent action teams have had a positive impact on life at Evergreen. The Friendly Helpers, a program recognized by the Excellence in Education Award was also established.

The next few years saw the birth of Evergreen Community Dinners, After School Enrichment, 4th & 5th Grade Fun Night, Book & Breakfast, and the first Spring Carnival.

The 1994-1995 school year welcomed new principal, Peggy White, who encouraged the advancement of technology here at Evergreen. PTA created a successful technology fund, which funded network wiring for third – fifth grades and new computers in those classrooms.

1997 marked Evergreen’s tenth anniversary. The PTA sponsored a community reception that honored the teachers and staff who had worked at Evergreen since its opening in 1987. We saw our enrollment increase to over 1,000 students.

Evergreen moved into the 21st century under the leadership of Joyce Lanier. Technology started to play a major role in education and the teachers embraced the challenge of incorporating computers and other 21st century skills into daily instruction practices. We also celebrated many achievements, such as the 2010 Virginia Governor’s Award for Educational Excellence.

In 2011, we welcomed the arrival of our present principal Mr. Matt Maher. Evergreen parents, staff and students have truly become a family. Through the years, we have watched our children grow, mature and move onto middle school. As with any family, we have often struggled with growing pains. Yet, these struggles have strengthened our resolve to act as advocates for all students and to help provide them with a safe and enriching education.