(The Center Square) – The Virginia Lottery pulled in more than $901 million for public schools in fiscal year 2025, Gov. Glenn Youngkin announced Monday.
That money, which by law goes straight to K-12 education, came from over $5.7 billion in total lottery sales last year. It’s the second-highest profit in the lottery’s 37-year history.
Youngkin said the $901 million in lottery funding shows the commonwealth’s commitment to investing in Virginia students. Every dollar supports teachers, schools and programs that help shape the next generation, and that lottery profits now make up nearly 10% of the commonwealth’s K-12 education budget, he said in a statement.
According to Virginia Lottery revenue documents, proceeds to K-12 education have grown significantly over the past decade, rising from $558 million in fiscal year 2017 to more than $900 million in 2025, with a peak of $934 million in 2024.
Virginia Lottery Executive Director Khalid Jones presented a ceremonial check to the governor and said the check reflects the dedication of lottery employees to supporting public education and called the year’s results a strong success for the commonwealth.
The lottery brought in over $5.7 billion in total sales for fiscal year 2025, which ended June 30. Every ticket sold generates some profit, whether it wins or not.
Of the $5.7 billion in sales, $4.5 billion was paid back to players in prizes, meaning about 78 cents of every dollar spent went to winners.
About one-third of the education funding goes directly to local school divisions for their own top priorities. The rest supports statewide education programs, according to Jones.
Prince William County Public Schools received over $63 million in education funding from the lottery in fiscal year 2025, the largest share of any school division, according to Virginia Lottery revenue.
Fairfax County followed with over $56 million, and Virginia Beach City Public Schools received just above $40 million.
Henrico County received more than $38 million, with Newport News City Public Schools close behind. Norfolk City Public Schools followed with over $34 million.
The lottery also gave a boost to more than 5,300 retailers who sell tickets across Virginia. Stores earned $127.9 million in commissions and bonuses, with many being small, independent shops.
Final numbers are still pending certification by the Auditor of Public Accounts later this month.
