School Board Member Graham Paige Retires

By Albemarle County Public Schools 

ALBEMARLE, Va. — After 10 years of service on the Albemarle County School Board, Samuel Miller District representative Graham Paige will retire from his seat effective Dec. 31, 2025.

A lifelong resident of Esmont, Virginia, a graduate of Jackson P. Burley High School and a teacher for 25 years, Paige has brought to the board a deep knowledge of the county and of education. During his time on the board, he has championed closing the achievement gap, investing in teachers and staff, and strengthening instructional direction and supports.

“One challenge that the board faced when I was first elected and still faces today is closing the achievement gap,” Paige said. “We’ve definitely made strides toward that end, but still have work to do.”

Paige was elected to serve as the Samuel Miller District representative in 2015. In July 2020, he became chair of the board after Jonno Alcaro stepped down from the role. Paige helped guide the board through the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent recovery efforts and remained chair through the end of 2022.

During his tenure, school board members worked with Albemarle County Public Schools staff to write and adopt the division’s current strategic plan, Learning for All; expand mental health support for students by increasing school-based mental health professionals; and strengthen services for English learners by expanding staffing and supports, among other initiatives.

Also during Paige’s time on the school board, the division began construction on two new school facilities set to open for the 2026–27 school year: Mountain View Upper Elementary School and the Albemarle Career Exploration (ACE) Academy – Lambs Lane Campus, the first new buildings the division has constructed in more than 20 years.

Though Paige will be leaving an active role on the school board, he has expressed a continued commitment to advancing equity and improving outcomes for Black students. Through his involvement at New Green Mountain Baptist Church, membership in the 100 Black Men of Central Virginia, and membership in the Grand United Order of Odd Fellows, he said he plans to remain engaged in the lives of many Albemarle County students.

“Mr. Paige has led with integrity, thoughtfulness and a genuine love for Albemarle County students,” said School Board Chair Kate Acuff. “His voice, perspective and dedication to equity have strengthened this board and this division. While we will miss his leadership, we are deeply thankful for the foundation he helped build and for his continued commitment to our community.”

Paige’s decade of service leaves a lasting impact on Albemarle County Public Schools. As the school board continues its work, his example of commitment to students and belief in public education will continue to shape the path forward.