About Norton City Schools

Norton is centrally located in Wise County in the mountainous area of far southwest Virginia approximately one hour from the Tri-Cities, VA/TN Metropolitan Area. The city covers an area of 7.21 square miles and is situated at the junction of highways U.S. 23 and U.S. 58A. The diverse economy includes coal mining, light industry,

retail sales, legal and medical professions, banking and schools.

Norton City Schools is comprised of two schools, both of which are continuously updated. Both schools are air conditioned, have state of the art computer labs and offer a wide curricula for all learners. Both schools are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS), and both schools have earned full accreditation status by passing the Virginia Standards of Learning tests (SOL's).

Norton Elementary School was built in 1971 and currently houses 480 students in grades Pre-K through 7. The school features a science lab, two computer labs, and several computer mini labs throughout the building. A special needs Pre-K program was instituted in 2001. The primary playground was replaced during the summer of 2003, and a new cafeteria was added during the summer of 2005. Future plans include the construction of a new main entry with relocated offices, major classroom renovations and a new gymnasium. Norton Elementary, one of only a few schools in Southwest Virginia, is in it's third year of implementing Reading First, the ambitious national initiative to help every young child in every state become a successful reader.

John I. Burton High School was constructed in 1953 and named in honor of Mr. John Ira Burton who was principal for 38 years. The school is and has always been committed to excellence in academics, athletics and personal growth for all students of all ability levels. The faculty, staff and administration provide students with a safe environment and opportunities to achieve their full potential. Our goal is to enable students to become productive, active citizens that will contribute to the future of our community, state and nation. We do this by offering a rich, expanded curriculum that includes many Dual Enrollment opportunities through cooperation with Mountain Empire Community College and the University of Virginia's College at Wise. The school facility provides a comfortable, air conditioned environment in which students can participate in a variety of educational activities and settings. The school offers three computer labs with the latest technological equipment. Recent improvements to the gym floor, locker rooms and upcoming upgrades to the stadium will be evident and appreciated by student athletes and fans. All of this has enabled J. I. Burton High School to achieve six consecutive years of being fully accredited by the Virginia Department of Education. The current enrollment is 333 students in grades 8 through 12.

We at Norton City Schools, in our commitment to excellence, seek to provide in a small school setting, an educational environment that promotes high standards, encourages cultural diversity, provides individual attention and promotes lifelong learning through challenging and rewarding school experiences. Our goal is that all students reach their full potential as healthy, successful and knowledgeable individuals dedicated to their family, school, community and nation.