Stafford’s newest high school has a name: Hartwood High School.
The county’s School Board voted Tuesday night to call the division’s sixth high school “Hartwood” after the area with the same name.
The school, which will open in the fall of 2026, will have as its mascot the Stallion and school colors of black, silver and gold, the School Board also decided Tuesday.
As announced earlier this year, Michael Kelly will serve as Hartwood’s inaugural principal.
“Naming our sixth high school is an exciting milestone for Stafford County,” School Board Chairwoman Maureen Siegmund said in announcing the vote. “This step makes the project feel real and tangible for our students, families and community. As our county continues to grow, this school represents our commitment to providing the space and opportunities our students need to thrive.”
Construction on Hartwood High is well underway, the announcement said, and designed with cost-effective solutions for academics, arts, athletics and career-preparation spaces. The school will provide additional capacity to serve Stafford’s rapidly-growing population and give students even more opportunities to excel, officials said.
“Naming Hartwood marks the beginning of its story,” Stafford schools Superintendent Daniel W. Smith said in the announcement. “The students who walk through the doors in 2026 will be the first to write its history, set its traditions and create the memories that will define this school for decades to come.”
Students and families can look forward to updates on the school in the coming months as its identity takes shape, including the unveiling of athletics gear, spirit wear and community events to welcome the first Stallions to their new home, officials said.
