three girls sit at a table playing and learning

Little Bears are On the Rise!

Discover the people, programs, and traditions that make our school unique.

About Us

three girls sit at a table playing and learning

Little Bears are On the Rise!

Discover the people, programs, and traditions that make our school unique.

About Us

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photon collage of school kids smiling

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Building Opportunities for Every Student

Our Mission

J. H. Blackwell Preschool is committed to preparing children for a lifetime of learning through purposeful play, hands-on exploration, and nurturing relationships among teachers, children, and families. Through the Blackwell PAWSitive Behavior Pledge—Practice Safety, Always Try, Work Hard, and Show Kindness—we help children develop the social, emotional, and academic skills needed to thrive.

Learn More About Us

We partner with families, educators, and the community to create a safe, inclusive, and language-rich environment where every student is supported and inspired to succeed. Guided by our Blackwell PAWSitive Behavior Pledge, we encourage all students to practice safety, always try, work hard, and show kindness.

Latest News

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RPS Direct: Monday, September 14, 2026

September 14, 2026

RPS Direct: Monday, September 14, 2026

Hispanic Heritage Month begins tomorrow, September 15, and runs through October 15. This is a time to celebrate the many vital contributions of Hispanic Americans to Richmond, the Commonwealth, and...

RPS Direct: Friday, September 11, 2026

September 14, 2026

RPS Direct: Friday, September 11, 2026

When We Raise the Bar, Students RiseWith strong support and high expectations, RPS multilingual learners are making big gains! In Richmond, 39.2% of multilingual learners passed, compared to only 3...

Den News 9/13/26

September 13, 2026

Den News 9/13/26

Den News Blackwell Preschool September 13, 2026 Happy Sunday Little Bear Families, 🐻 Blackwell Family Sunday Update Happy Sunday, Blackwell Families! Today is National Grandparents Day! 👵🏾👴🏾💛 We ar...

RPS Direct: Tuesday, September 8, 2026

September 8, 2026

RPS Direct: Tuesday, September 8, 2026

I hope you all had a restful and joyful holiday weekend! Last Monday, I noted that we were up again – for the 3rd year in a row! — on all four SOLs. I also alluded to the fact that we had additiona...

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Blackwell Preschool at a Glance

J.H. Blackwell Preschool is home of the Bears!

17

Full-time teachers

176

Students enrolled in grade K-5th

10:1

Student to teacher ratio