Nestled at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Bedford County is the fifth largest county in Virginia, covering 754 square miles. Located between the cities of Lynchburg and Roanoke, Bedford County is rapidly growing and has become known for its fabulous views, exciting parks, lakes and other recreational opportunities.

Public education has been a focus in the county since the Bedford County School Division began in August 1846.

The County Unit Act, effective for Virginia’s schools on September 1, 1922, marked the beginning of remarkable educational advances in the state and county. The first Bedford County School Board took office September 1, 1922.

This strong dedication to education has continued. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Bedford County Public Schools offer educational services to approximately 10,700 students enrolled in elementary, middle, high and alternative schools. More than 800 teachers serve children throughout the county’s 22 schools.

In 1985, the Bedford County Board of Supervisors, Bedford City Council, Bedford County School Board and Bedford City School Board signed an agreement allowing the county to serve the City’s students. Despite modifications made to the agreement over the years, the City’s students continue to be an active part of the Bedford County School Division.

Under the current agreement, the City maintains the city school buildings while the County provides all educational services for these students. One Bedford City School Board member is appointed to serve on the Bedford County School Board.

The mission of the Bedford County School System is to ensure that all children of school age in Bedford receive the highest quality education appropriate to their individual needs and abilities.

This focus has helped the County in its drive for the continued academic success of its students. The County has repeatedly shown high achievement in academics and is well on its way to receiving full accreditation for all of its schools from the State Department of Education. While academic success and growth are high priorities, Bedford County Schools also emphasize the values and skills necessary for students to become active, productive citizens.

COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES
Community Colleges
Central Virginia Community College in Lynchburg and Virginia Western Community College in Roanoke offer two-year programs in the arts and sciences as well as instruction in a variety of vocational-technical fields, including the ISO Certification Program and Total Quality Management Program.

Colleges/Universities
A number of excellent colleges are located within one hour of Bedford including Lynchburg College, Randolph-Macon Women’s College, Liberty University, Sweet Briar College, Salem College, Roanoke College, Hollins University, and

The Roanoke Higher Education Center. The University of Virginia in Charlottesville, and Virginia Tech in Blacksburg are within two hours drive.

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