We have some incredibly exciting news to share this morning. We are thrilled to recognize an exceptional educator who truly embodies the mission and heart of Colonial Trail Elementary. Our 2025 Teacher of the Year is a phenomenal leader who creates a supportive, student-centered community where every learner feels valued, safe, and ready to take risks. In her classroom, she establishes a culture grounded in warmth, care, and trust, empowering students daily to be leaders, problem-solvers, and lifelong learners through critical thinking and collaborative goal-setting. This teacher’s dedication to excellence is rooted in continuous growth, driven by influential professional milestones like achieving her Gifted Endorsement and National Board Certification. These experiences have shaped her into a highly intentional and reflective practitioner, ensuring every lesson has a clear purpose and meets the diverse needs of our learners. As a pervasive leader within our school, she actively shapes our staff community. She has been instrumental in mentoring new teachers, ensuring our newest colleagues feel confident and connected. She also proudly chairs the Cub Hub and Welcome Ambassadors Committee, leading efforts to promote a welcoming environment for all. Perhaps most notably, her impact extends directly to building our unique "Cub Nation" community. This teacher has founded the CTES Esports Team, specifically creating a space where students can learn teamwork and resilience while forming meaningful relationships. She even wrote a grant for a Walking Club to promote movement and learning across our upper grades! This profound commitment to both academic rigor and joyful community makes her an outstanding example of the very best of CTE. She sees our school as an accepting and inclusive place where every culture and voice is valued. Please join us in giving a huge, well-deserved cheer for our 2025 Colonial Trail Elementary Teacher of the Year... Mrs. Melissa Bennett!
10 days ago, Colonial Trail Elementary School
Mrs. Bennett and the Admin Team
Mrs. Bennett; Solid as a Rock
Mrs. Bennett, Mrs. Andrews, and their fifth graders
We invite our amazing Colonial Trail and Henrico County Public Schools community to join in the fun as we foster a love of reading for all! Check out the image for ways to participate daily! #wearecubnation #thecubway
8 months ago, Colonial Trail Elementary School
a week’s descriptions of  participation opportunities
We are incredibly proud of our CTES Spelling Bee Champ, third-grader Lokitha! She was s-t-u-p-e-n-d-o-u-s! #wearecubnation
10 months ago, Colonial Trail Elementary School
adult hugging student
Happy World Occupational Therapy Day to our own Mrs. Compton and Mrs. Baldwin! You make a difference, helping our @colonialtrail cubs gain independence and participate fully every day! #ocuparionaltherapyforall
about 1 year ago, Colonial Trail Elementary School
therapist pushing child in wheelchair
The 24-25 school year is less than one month away and we hope you all are as excited as the @colonialtrail staff! Please save the date for this year's Open House on Thursday, August 15. So brush off your backpack, pack your supplies, and plan to join us in the cafeteria for a PTA meeting at 12:15 pm. Class rosters will be communicated in early August via Parent Square. #wearecubnation @henricoschools
over 1 year ago, Colonial Trail Elementary School
Scout announcing open house
It might be July, but @colonialtrail, we are already looking forward to picnicking with all rising Kg & families new to our community! Join us for popsicles, games, & tours. Come hungry, because Charles' Kitchen food truck will join us! www.charleskitchen.guru @henricoschools
over 1 year ago, Colonial Trail Elementary School
white words on a field of green; picnic icons
There’s so much we want to tell you about the last two weeks of school at Colonial Trail, but we are some tired Cubs! Check back in the next week or two to see highlights of the 23–24 school year. #wearecubnation #summercubs
over 1 year ago, Colonial Trail Elementary School
teacher and student standing behind painted rock
We are overjoyed to announce that Ms. Whitney Beck will be the new Associate Principal @colonialtrail for the 2024-2025 school year. #wearecubnation #gocubs @henricoschools
over 1 year ago, Colonial Trail Elementary School
AsP Announcement
Honoring those who gave their all for our freedom. This Memorial Day, we remember and thank the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation. @colonialtrail @henricoschools #wearecubnation
over 1 year ago, Colonial Trail Elementary School
American flag with Memorial Day wish
Join us on Thursday, May 23 for a celebration of learning at Colonial Trail. There will be student-led conferences, an innovation fair, and our annual book fair happening all at once! What a night! #wearecubnation
over 1 year ago, Colonial Trail Elementary School
Event invite with pictures of students surrounding
All @colonialtrail families! Consider the option to order your Cub's supplies for the 2024-2025 school year through EPI. Reach out to anyone at CTES or the PTA with questions. #wearecubnation
over 1 year ago, Colonial Trail Elementary School
EPI pack information
Shoutout to the amazing teachers at @colonialtrail! Your dedication and passion inspire us every day. Thank you for shaping the future! #wearecubnation @henricoschools
over 1 year ago, Colonial Trail Elementary School
Colonial Trail Staff picture with Teacher Appreciation written on a black board
There’s nothing like our @colonialtrail Lunch Ladies! They feed us well and keep us safe every day. #schoollunchheroday #wearecubnation @henricocountyschools
over 1 year ago, Colonial Trail Elementary School
cafeteria ladies in capes
lunch monitors with students
The @colonialtrail cubs invite you to celebrate the rich heritage & achievements of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders this month. From political & social influences to significant cultural impacts, AAPI have played a crucial role in American life. @henricoschools
over 1 year ago, Colonial Trail Elementary School
AAPI Month celebraton
At @colonialtrail, we love partnering with @henricogives to support our Cubs! Thanks to Faith and Daniel for consistent joy and innovation. #wearecubnation @henricoschools
over 1 year ago, Colonial Trail Elementary School
school principal accepts giant check from Henrico Education Foundation
🌙 Wishing all who celebrate Eid al-Fitr a joyous celebration filled with love, peace, and happiness! #EidMubarak #wearecubnation @henricoschools
over 1 year ago, Colonial Trail Elementary School
two children and cub in front of yellow and navy background with hanging lanterns
Make a plan to join the @colonialtrail Cubs along with @mathnasiumRVA for our Annual Math Night! There will be games, prizes, and food trucks. See you on Thursday, April 18th from 5:30 to 7:00 pm at The Trail! #wearecubnation @henricoschools
over 1 year ago, Colonial Trail Elementary School
math night written in blue on a field of green
While we are enjoying Spring Break this week, @colonialtrail Cubs cannot help but celebrate our Associate Principal, Mrs. Elizabeth Cromartie. Thank you for all you do! #wearecubnation @henricoschools
over 1 year ago, Colonial Trail Elementary School
Woman standing outside with leadership quote to the left
Happy Easter from our @colonialtrail Cubs to all who celebrate. Wishing you a season filled with peace, joy, and many blessings. #wearecubnation @henricoschools
over 1 year ago, Colonial Trail Elementary School
Easter eggs and bunny ears
We are proud to announce that @colonialtrail's health professional, Nurse Johnson, has achieved her National Nursing Certification, allowing her to demonstrate her specialty expertise for families, staff and peers. Way to go! @henricoschools #wearecubnation
over 1 year ago, Colonial Trail Elementary School
Nurse Johnson smiling