About Mary Munford Elementary
Mary Munford Elementary School is located on Westmoreland Street in Richmond, VA. It serves students in Kindergarten through Fifth Grade. The school has a population of approximately 500 students and is known for its strong academics, a dedicated staff, and an unparalleled sense of community support from its families, all working to foster a love of learning and promote kindness in all students.
Mission:
Through strong collaboration with families and the community, we are committed to building a solid foundation for success and the development of productive citizenship. Our goal is for every student to become a lifelong learner, a kind individual, and a responsible citizen.
Vision:
We envision a school where kindness is the foundation of everything we do — where every child feels valued, respected, and supported. Through a nurturing environment and a commitment to academic excellence, we will empower students to become compassionate leaders, lifelong learners, and caring members of their community.
A Brief History of Mary Munford:
Mary Munford Elementary School is proudly named in honor of Mary-Cooke Branch Munford (1865–1938), a prominent Richmond resident and one of the most important educational activists in Virginia history.
Though she was denied a college education herself—as it was not customary for women of her class at the time—she dedicated her life to fighting for improved education for all. Her work was instrumental in expanding and improving public schools across Virginia, advocating for both Black and white children.
Among her many accomplishments, Mary Munford:
- Co-founded the Richmond Education Association in 1901 to raise awareness for the need for public schools.
- Successfully lobbied for decades to secure a sister college for women at the University of Virginia (a fight that led to the admission of women to William & Mary in 1918).
- Became the first woman to serve on the Richmond School Board in 1920.
Mary Munford Elementary School was named after her in 1951, celebrating her profound and lasting impact on Virginia’s educational system and honoring her belief that every child deserves the best possible education.
Established:
September 1951
Mascot:
Monarchs
Colors:
Red and Navy
School Motto:
Monarchs Fly Together
Leadership History:
Patrick “Pat” Ely 1951 - 1971
Russel Harris 1972 - 1988
Dale Kalkofen 1988 - 1993
Barbra Grey 1993 - 1994
Greg Muzik 1994 - Present