Topping-off ceremony celebrates progress on $52 million school scheduled to open in 2026
Chesterfield County Public Schools marked a major milestone in the construction of the new Bensley Elementary School today with a topping-off ceremony, a time-honored tradition in the construction industry that celebrates the placement of the final structural beam.
“As we watch that final beam lifted into place, it will be a community vision becoming real,” said School Board Chair Ann Coker. “It’s the result of collaboration, careful planning and shared commitment to providing the best for our children. Modern schools like this one are more than just educational spaces. They’re symbols of hope, opportunity and progress.”
Signed by Bensley students and staff as well as county and school leaders, the beam was hoisted into place atop the two-story building during the event. The beam was adorned with symbols including an evergreen tree to symbolize good luck, safe completion, and a wish for continued growth, a broom to represent a "clean sweep," signifying no loss of life during the construction process. The American flag signifies patriotism and the hard work of the construction crew.
“Today is a celebration not just of construction progress, but of community investment,” said Superintendent Dr. John Murray. “We are topping off a state-of-the-art school building that will serve our students and educators well for decades to come. We can’t wait to welcome students back here in 2026 to a building that honors the legacy of Bensley and provides even greater opportunities for the future.”
The new Bensley Elementary School is part of a larger community facilities plan made possible by the 2022 bond referendum approved by Chesterfield County voters. Funded through Virginia Public School Authority bonds, the $52 million project will nearly double the school’s capacity — from 575 to 1,000 students — and provide a modern learning environment tailored to 21st-century education.
Bensley’s design is based on Chesterfield’s elementary school prototype, with input from school staff and families influencing key features, including the building’s exterior colors. Construction is on track for completion in time for the start of the 2026-27 school year.
The largest school system in central Virginia, Chesterfield County Public Schools enrolls more than 64,000 students who attend 67 schools. Click here for more information about Chesterfield County Public Schools.