In the heart of coastal Virginia, Newport News Public Schools (NNPS) stands as a shining example of innovation, inclusion, and student success. With a mission to ensure every student graduates college, career, and citizen-ready, NNPS has earned a reputation as one of the most admired school districts in the nation. Rooted in a long history and driven by a bold vision for the future, this district continues to evolve to meet the needs of its diverse and growing student population.
A Rich History and Evolving Mission
The story of Newport News Public Schools dates back to 1896, when the Newport News (Va.) The Board of School Trustees was established soon after the city’s incorporation. This foundational body paved the way for the School Board in 1921. A pivotal moment arrived in 1958 with the consolidation of Newport News and Warwick cities, forming the Newport News City Public Schools District we know today.
Over the decades, NNPS has grown in step with the expanding population of Newport News. Today, the division proudly educates approximately 26,000 students across 40 schools, guided by a seven-member school board and a dedicated division superintendent. The core mission of NNPS is clear and compelling: to ensure that all students graduate college, career, and citizen-ready.
With a dedicated, proactive School Board and staff, the school division’s commitment to all students is upheld through a comprehensive approach, from early learning literacy and math programs to state-of-the-art science labs and advanced educational technology.
A National Leader in Innovation
NNPS has consistently garnered national recognition for its innovative and effective programs. The division boasts an impressive 12 Magna awards from the National School Boards Association (NSBA), a prestigious program that celebrates exemplary school district initiatives. Most recently, NNPS received the 2024 Silver Magna Award for its Youth Development Program, highlighting its commitment to fostering well-rounded students beyond academics.
Academic Excellence: Options and Opportunities for All
NNPS offers a robust continuum of academic programs designed to engage students at every level, from elementary to high school. Complementing its comprehensive core curriculum, the division provides a diverse array of magnet and specialty program options, allowing students to explore areas of interest such as:
- Environmental Science
- Arts and Communication
- Aviation
- Global Studies
- Health Sciences
- International Baccalaureate
- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM)
- Maritime Engineering and Environmental Studies
Beyond these specialized pathways, NNPS also offers a variety of other impactful programs, including Dual Language Immersion, Early College, Advanced Placement (AP), Early Career, and Career and Technical Education (CTE). These offerings ensure students have multiple avenues to pursue their passions and prepare for future endeavors.
Demographics and Dedicated Support: Embracing Diversity
Newport News Public Schools is a vibrant tapestry of diverse learners. While enrollment has remained steady at around 26,000 students, the demographic makeup continues to evolve. Significantly, over 2,500 students speak a language other than English, highlighting the division’s commitment to supporting a multicultural student body.
To cater to this rich diversity and ensure every student thrives, NNPS embraces an equity-centered instructional design. Teachers utilize differentiated instruction, culturally responsive teaching practices, and data-informed small group support to address individual learning styles and needs. The division’s strategic action agenda prioritizes high-quality core instruction, evidence-based literacy practices, and fostering a strong culture and climate in every school.
Community-Centered Services
NNPS extends its commitment to student well-being beyond the classroom through a range of community services. The school-based Student Support Services and Mental Health Therapy Program provides direct access to Student Support Specialists and Licensed Mental Health Professionals within school buildings. These services are crucial for promoting emotional well-being, reducing barriers to learning, and fostering student success.
Beyond these in-house services, NNPS actively engages with the wider community through initiatives like its annual STEM Community Day, partnerships with local organizations for major public events, and a robust Adult Education program that enables adults to earn their GED.
Enriching Experiences: Extracurriculars and Beyond
NNPS firmly believes in the power of extracurricular activities to foster holistic student development. The Youth Development Department works diligently to ensure that every student has the opportunity to participate in at least one club, sport, or activity. In the 2024-2025 school year alone, NNPS offered an impressive 1,225 opportunities representing 331 unique clubs, sports, and activities across grades K-12 – a 13% increase over the previous year. More than 20,000 students participated in at least one extracurricular activity, demonstrating the widespread engagement.
From diverse club offerings to robust middle and high school athletic programs including track, volleyball, basketball, and a broader range of sports at the high school level, NNPS provides ample avenues for students to explore their interests, develop new skills, and build character. Additionally, Outdoor Education programs emphasize skill development, safety, and teamwork through various outdoor activities.
Collaborative Leadership for Seamless Operations
The smooth operation of NNPS is a testament to its collaborative leadership model. Central departments provide strategic support and oversight, ensuring all schools are aligned and responsive to student and family needs.
Each department is led by experienced professionals who partner closely with schools to implement division-wide initiatives, monitor performance data, and deliver crucial professional learning. This networked approach ensures every school is well-equipped to serve its students and families.
Fostering a Welcoming and Inclusive Environment
NNPS is committed to cultivating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all, especially given its diverse population, including many military-connected students and English Language Learners. Targeted programs are in place to support these groups, such as a high school soccer club that engages English Learners to boost attendance, a program that recently earned a national award for attendance initiatives.
The Family and Community Engagement team is integral to this effort, with a specialist in each school, some of whom are bilingual to cater to specific school needs. These specialists provide support to students and families in various ways and host numerous family events throughout the year to ensure resources are promoted and families receive the help they need, both within and outside of school.
Comprehensive Student Support: Beyond Academics
NNPS offers a holistic suite of student support services that extend beyond academic instruction to address social-emotional well-being and career development. School counselors provide individualized college and career planning, guiding students towards their post-graduation aspirations. Career Pathways programs offer invaluable exposure to real-world industries and mentorship experiences, bridging the gap between classroom learning and future careers.
Furthermore, students benefit from mental health support, wellness programs, and strong partnerships with local businesses and higher education institutions such as William & Mary and Christopher Newport University. These partnerships provide invaluable networking opportunities and ensure students are not only academically prepared but also well-equipped to navigate life beyond graduation.
Future Forward: Accelerating Student Achievement
Looking ahead, NNPS is steadfast in its commitment to accelerating student achievement through strategic initiatives. Key goals include strengthening core instruction, streamlining the K-12 curriculum, and expanding access to advanced coursework, including the opportunity for students to earn an associate’s degree from Virginia Peninsula Community College while still in high school.
The division is also implementing a comprehensive reading action plan, enhancing professional learning for teachers, and leveraging data to provide targeted support where it’s needed most. These priorities underscore the district’s unwavering focus on its mission: ensuring every student graduates college, career, and citizen-ready.
Leadership with a Vision
At the helm of NNPS is the seven-member elected School Board and its Superintendent, Dr. Michele Mitchell, a seasoned educator with over 33 years of experience in the Newport News school system.
Having served as Superintendent since 2023, Dr. Mitchell brings a wealth of leadership from various roles, including Executive Director of Student Advancement, where she oversaw critical services like social work, psychological services, dropout prevention, special education, gifted programs, and school-based mental health initiatives.
Her extensive background as a teacher, assistant principal, middle school principal, director of special education, and interim Chief Academic Officer provides her with a deep understanding of the educational landscape.
Dr. Mitchell’s message to current and prospective students and their families is one of unwavering dedication: “Newport News Public Schools is a place where every child is seen, supported, and challenged to reach their fullest potential. We are committed to providing a rich, inclusive, and innovative educational experience that prepares our students not just for graduation, but for successful and meaningful lives as future learners, skilled professionals, and engaged citizens.”
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“Each day in Newport News Public Schools the focus is on one mission: ensuring that all students graduate college, career and citizen-ready!”
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