Newport News Public Schools students who received job offers after completing their programs at New Horizons Regional Education Centers celebrated with community partners at Good Life Solution Program Career Selection Day on May 8 at Liberty Live Church.
\r\nStudents received their offer letters and company hats on stage at the event. The newly-minted New Horizons career and technical education program graduates announced the employer team and career pathway they received an offer from.
\r\nThe following students received offers from the accompanying employer.
\r\nConstruction program
\r\nCosmetology program
\r\nDental program
\r\nElectrical program
\r\nHVAC 1 program
\r\nPharmacy program
\r\nPlumbing program
\r\nUnmanned program
\r\nWelding I program
\r\nComing into Menchville High School as a ninth grader, Aniya Agron wasn't interested in joining the school's Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps.
\r\nFour years later, she's really glad her mother so strongly suggested it.
\r\n\"It's definitely defined my high school experience,\" Agron said.
\r\nAgron will graduate in June after four years in Menchville's Air Force JROTC program. She will enlist in the Air Force and report to San Antonio, Texas, to begin basic training.
\r\nAll of this is far from the freshman whose pre-conceived notions of the program almost kept her from pursing a great opportunity. The idea of demanding instructors and grueling training with students she might not connect with swirled in her mind.
\r\nStarting off doing the bare minimum by sitting in class, Agron accepted a classmate's encouragement to stay after school one day to do drill. She enjoyed it.
\r\nAfter attaining her first rank, she thought about trying for another one.
\r\n\"Slowly I started falling down this rabbit hole to the point where I was starting to plan for years in the future wanting future positions in the corps,\" Agron said. \"Wanting to be the drill deputy in my second year, commander in my third and then be a part of top five in my fourth.
\r\n\"It's just been such a defining thing of spending so much time with these people and coming to work with each other. And it's almost like a family. After as much work and as many lessons as we've been through, it's a great experience.\"
\r\nShe reached each of the yearly goals she set. The JROTC program has been integral to improving her grades and confidence, according to Agron.
\r\n\"What ROTC helped me do was learn how to manage my time, learn how to grow and mature and also my leadership skills,\" Agron said. \"And I feel like now if I have a group assignment in class, I'm able to say this is what needs to get done, this is how we're going to organize things. And it has definitely prepped and helped me learn how to manage myself better and understand priorities in life.\"
\r\nShe stressed the importance of competing for your own personal best and not comparing or getting caught up in other people's achievements or choices.
\r\n\"Don't let anybody tell you your worth or what you should be,\" Agron said. \"Just remember 18 for 62, which is a saying that sarge used to tell us. You have 18 years to prep for the 62 that you have left.
\r\n\"Focus on that and doing what you can for yourself. Not even to set up your career, but to do what makes you happy.\"
","body2":"Visit Student Spotlights on the Newport News Public Schools website.
","publish_date":"May 07, 2025","image_1_path":"250507093359559_aniya.jpg","image_1_caption":"","image_2_path":"250507093359559_AgronAniya.jpg","image_2_caption":"","image_3_path":"","image_3_caption":"","image_4_path":"","image_4_caption":"","image_5_path":"","image_5_caption":"","url":"https://sbo.nn.k12.va.us/news/archive/2025-05-07_STUDENT-SPOTLIGHT--Menchville-High-School-12th-grader-Aniya-Agron.html","news_id":"4293"},{"headline":"Sanford principal honored with Virginia PTA Power Partners award","blurb":"","description":"Sanford principal honored with Virginia PTA Power Partners award","body":"Sanford Elementary School Principal Dr. Edward Van Dyke was chosen to receive a 2024-2025 Virginia PTA Power Partners award, the organization announced on May 2.
\r\nThe awards for partnering with the Parent Teacher Association went to two superintendents and three principals from around the state. Van Dyke represented the Newport News Council of PTA/PTSAs as part of the Tidewater Region.
\r\n\"I feel very humbled and honored to receive this award,\" Van Dyke said.
\r\nThe Power Partner is one of several Local Impact Awards the Virginia PTA awards annually. They recognize principals at the elementary and secondary levels and school division superintendents who have demonstrated that strong family-school partnerships are the key to student success, according to the Virginia PTA website.
\r\n\"Dr. Edward Van Dyke has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to fostering meaningful connections between families and our school community,\" Virginia PTA wrote in announcing the award. \"Through his leadership, he has made parent engagement a priority-not just in word, but in action. He goes above and beyond to ensure every family feels welcomed, heard, and valued, creating a school culture where collaboration and inclusivity thrive.
\r\n\"From his attendance at PTA meetings and supporting initiatives, to offering thoughtful guidance and encouragement, he has made it clear that the PTA is not a separate entity, but a true partner in supporting our students. He listens to parent voices, welcomes feedback, and actively works to remove barriers that may keep families from engaging. Dr. Van Dyke leads with kindness, authenticity, and a genuine belief that strong family-school partnerships create stronger student outcomes.\"
","body2":"","publish_date":"May 05, 2025","image_1_path":"250505112748548_2025-vandyke.jpg","image_1_caption":"","image_2_path":"","image_2_caption":"","image_3_path":"","image_3_caption":"","image_4_path":"","image_4_caption":"","image_5_path":"","image_5_caption":"","url":"https://sbo.nn.k12.va.us/news/archive/2025-05-05_Sanford-principal-honored-with-Virginia-PTA-Power-Partners-award.html","news_id":"4292"},{"headline":"Warwick, B. T. Washington place third at State Odyssey of the Mind","blurb":"","description":"Warwick, B. T. Washington place third at State Odyssey of the Mind","body":"Booker T. Washington Middle School and Warwick High School each earned a third place finish at the 2025 Virginia State Odyssey of the Mind Tournament, which was hosted by Newport News Public Schools at Menchville High School, on April 26.
\r\nOdyssey of the Mind emphasizes teamwork, problem-solving, creativity, budgeting, time management, public speaking, performance and set design, costume design and building.
\r\nBooker T. Washington’s team consisted of Berkley Hanlon, Abigail Hughes, Catherine Park, Claire Park, Mia Migliore and Soreya Tierney.
\r\n"They competed in Problem 5: AstronOMical Odyssey!" said B.T. Washington Coach Laura Nelson-Rogers. "The astronomer narrated the story about how three constellations were discovered by ancient civilizations. The team worked well together."
\r\nWarwick's team of Angel Draughn-Woodson, Graysen Hoefflin, Derek Holliday and Kendra Thorne earned third place in the Classics...Cooking with Books category.
\r\n"Students selected a passage from "Through the Looking Glass' and created a short skit that integrated a comedic dinner party including Alice, the Red King, the Gnat and The White Queen," said Warwick Coach Aja Bradley.
\r\n"Their set and props were made of trash, thrifted items or my classroom materials and their performance was based on a selected chapter from the novel."
","body2":"","publish_date":"May 01, 2025","image_1_path":"","image_1_caption":"","image_2_path":"250501033733533_2025-stateodysseywashington.jpg","image_2_caption":"B.T. W. team (left to right) Coach Elana McCellan, Abigail Hughes, Claire Park, Catherine Park, Mia Migliore, Berkley Hanlon, Soreya Tierney, Coach Laura Nelson-Rogers","image_3_path":"250501033733533_2025-stateodysseywarwick.jpg","image_3_caption":"Warwick High School team (left to right) Coach Aja Bradley, Graysen Hoefflin, Angel Draughn-Woodson. Not pictured Derek Holliday, Kendra Thorne","image_4_path":"","image_4_caption":"","image_5_path":"","image_5_caption":"","url":"https://sbo.nn.k12.va.us/news/archive/2025-05-01_Warwick--B--T--Washington-place-third-at-State-Odyssey-of-the-Mind.html","news_id":"4291"},{"headline":"NNPS Elementary STAR Awards presented to student leaders","blurb":"","description":"NNPS Elementary STAR Awards presented to student leaders","body":"The Newport News Public Schools Youth Development Department held its annual STAR Awards recognition for elementary school students who demonstrate the characteristics of student leadership and volunteerism. The STAR-Students Taking Action and Responsibility-Awards are given each year.
\r\nStudents from each NNPS elementary school, were honored for their leadership and volunteerism at the Elementary STAR Awards Expo and Luncheon on April 30 at Newport News Marriott at City Center.
\r\nState Senator Danny Diggs, Delegate Shelly Simonds, City Councilman Rob Coleman, School Board member Rasheena Harris and former School Board Chairman Carlton Ashby were among those in attendance.
\r\nStudent speakers who provided the welcome and reflections were Jaden Alexander, a senior at An Achievable Dream High School, and Deer Park Elementary School third grader Kathryn Duck. Rida Raza, a fourth grader at Richneck Elementary School, led the Pledge of Allegiance.
\r\n\"Congratulations on your incredible achievements and for being recognized at this awards ceremony,\" Alexander said. \"We are very proud of you. This morning, I would like to talk to you about the importance of being a student leader and making a difference.\"
\r\nHe described his involvement in numerous clubs and activities at An Achievable Dream.
\r\n\"Being involved in these programs has taught me a lot about being a leader and the importance of making an impact not only in my school, but also in the community,\" Alexander said.
\r\nDavid Ellington, a senior at Menchville High School, presented the awards along with Denbigh High School senior Akayla Deloatch.
\r\n\"It is a pleasure to acknowledge all that you have done in support of your school and community,\" said Superintendent Dr. Michele Mitchell during her closing remarks. \"We are proud of your accomplishments and your determination. Congratulations on a job well done.\"
","body2":"","publish_date":"Apr 30, 2025","image_1_path":"","image_1_caption":"","image_2_path":"25043002440444_2025-elemstar1.jpg","image_2_caption":"","image_3_path":"25043002440444_2025-elemstar2.jpg","image_3_caption":"","image_4_path":"25043002440444_2025-elemstar3.jpg","image_4_caption":"","image_5_path":"25043002440444_2025-elemstar4.jpg","image_5_caption":"","url":"https://sbo.nn.k12.va.us/news/archive/2025-04-30_NNPS-Elementary-STAR-Awards-presented-to-student-leaders.html","news_id":"4290"},{"headline":"NNPS Secondary STAR Awards recognize students, organizations","blurb":"","description":"NNPS Secondary STAR Awards recognize students, organizations","body":"The Newport News Public Schools Youth Development Department held its annual recognition for students and student organizations that exemplify the characteristics of student leadership and volunteerism. The STAR-Students Taking Action and Responsibility-Awards are given each year.
\r\nDuring the Secondary STAR Awards Banquet on April 29 at the Newport News Marriott, middle and high school students representing clubs and organizations were honored for their leadership and volunteerism.
\r\nAmarion Lucas, a senior at Heritage High School, served as master of ceremonies. School Board member Maritsa Alger gave opening remarks and provided the introduction.
\r\n"Being selected as STAR honorees means that you have given your time," Alger said. "It means that you exemplified great creativity and innovation.
\r\n"It means that you displayed great collaboration to accomplish your goals. And, that you have given of yourself for a greater good."
\r\nAttendees included Delegate Chad Green, Delegate Shelly Simonds, City Councilman Rob Coleman and School Board member Gary Hunter.
\r\nFeatured students who presented the awards were Cameron Clark, an eighth grader at Passage Middle School; Erin MacLuskie, a seventh grader at Gildersleeve Middle School; Chaniya Painter, a senior at An Achievable Dream High School and Aniya Agron, a senior at Menchville High School.
\r\n"Our STAR Award honorees are shining examples of what youth development looks like in our school division," Superintendent Dr. Michele Mitchell said in her closing remarks.
","body2":"","publish_date":"Apr 29, 2025","image_1_path":"","image_1_caption":"","image_2_path":"250429034245445_2025-secstar1.jpg","image_2_caption":"","image_3_path":"250429034245445_2025-secstar2.jpg","image_3_caption":"","image_4_path":"250429034245445_2025-secstar3.jpg","image_4_caption":"","image_5_path":"250429034245445_2025-secstar4.jpg","image_5_caption":"","url":"https://sbo.nn.k12.va.us/news/archive/2025-04-29_NNPS-Secondary-STAR-Awards-recognize-students--organizations.html","news_id":"4289"},{"headline":"Students get creative with donated food at Canstructure Competition","blurb":"","description":"Students get creative with donated food at Canstructure Competition","body":"Each year, students find new and different ways to create innovative designs with canned food donations they have collected.
\r\nNewport News Public Schools students showed off their skills at the Youth Volunteer Corps of Hampton Roads Annual Canstructure Competition April 26 at Patrick Henry Mall.
\r\nCanstructure is a benefit for the Foodbank of the Virginia Peninsula where teams of students collect and find innovative ways to use hundreds of cans of food to build a unique three-dimensional work of art. This year's theme was "Oh, the Places You'll Go!"
\r\nAll 18,844 of the cans collected were donated to the Foodbank upon completion of the competition.
\r\nAn Achievable Dream Academy collected the most cans and received the most points to earn the Grand Champion overall award.
\r\nFor middle schools, Ella Fitzgerald Middle School was the winner with Gildersleeve Elementary School honored as runner-up. Richneck Elementary School was runner-up in the elementary school category.
\r\nDenbigh High School was the runner-up in the high school category.
\r\nElementary school teams constructed their canstructures at their respective schools and judges visited prior to Saturday to record each team's presentation. Middle and high school teams built their canstructures at the mall with their innovation and creativity on display for community members to see happening in real time.
","body2":"","publish_date":"Apr 28, 2025","image_1_path":"","image_1_caption":"","image_2_path":"250428031321421_2025-canstructureanachievabledreamacademy.jpg","image_2_caption":"An Achievable Dream Academy team","image_3_path":"250428031321421_2025-canstructureellafitzgerald.jpg","image_3_caption":"Ella Fitzgerald Middle School team","image_4_path":"","image_4_caption":"","image_5_path":"","image_5_caption":"","url":"https://sbo.nn.k12.va.us/news/archive/2025-04-28_Students-get-creative-with-donated-food-at-Canstructure-Competition.html","news_id":"4288"},{"headline":"Ella Fitzgerald Middle School celebrates 50th school year on namesake's birthday","blurb":"","description":"Ella Fitzgerald Middle School celebrates 50th school year on namesake's birthday","body":"Ella Fitzgerald Middle School celebrated its 50th birthday year as a school on namesake Ella Fitzgerald's birthday on April 25.
\r\nMusic, speeches and the reading of a commemorative proclamation issued by Newport News Public Schools were part of the morning celebration in front the school. A new outdoor seating area was opened and dedicated during the festivities, which were themed in the purple and white colors with the music notes motif that illustrates the school's Jazz mascot.
\r\nSenator Danny Diggs, School Board Vice Chair Dr. Terri Best and School Board members Rasheena Harris and Maritsa Alger joined a large number of Fitzgerald students who were in attendance.
\r\nNNPS Superintendent Dr. Michele Mitchell made welcoming remarks, Fitgerald Principal Dr. Jaraun Ransome spoke about honoring the past while embracing the future, and Best read the official proclamation.
\r\nEighth grade student and Student Council Association President Kahlan Melrose provided greetings, seventh grader and Morning Announcer Derek Perez-Rodriguez led the Pledge of Allegiance and sixth grader and Student Ambassador Isabella Norman gave a tribute to Ella Fitzgerald.
\r\n\"Ella Fitzgerald showed us that no matter where you come from or what challenges you face, you can rise above them,\" Norman said. \"She faced hard times, really hard times. But she never gave up. She used her voice not just to sing, but to inspire, to break down barriers, to bring people together. She had grace, determination and she always stayed true to herself.
\r\n\"And that's what we try to do here at Ella Fitzgerald Middle School. We work hard; we lift each other up; we celebrate who we are and where we come from, just like Ella Fitzgerald did. She reminds us to find our voice, to believe in ourselves, and to dream big.\"
\r\nRansome individually introduced numerous former EFMS principals who were in attendance, as well as several teachers and staff members who had been part of the school's family during earlier years. He also credited the former principals, teachers and staff who weren't present.
\r\n\"Today we are gathered not only to celebrate a birthday, but to lift up a legacy, to honor the name above our doors-Ella Fitzgerald-and the journey that's brought us 50 years strong as a school, a home and a heartbeat of this community,\" Ransome said.
\r\nHe went on to thank the current staff and faculty, while expressing utmost excitement for the school's future and the difference its current and future students will make in society.
\r\n\"To the students-this is all for you,\" Ransome said.
\r\nThe school's Echoes of Ella JAZZ Ensemble directed by Eleanor Johnston entertained those in attendance with their renditions of \"The Star Spangled Banner\" and \"It' a Lovely Day Today.\" Adina Harris, who attended then-Dozier Middle School as a student from 2006 to 2009 and has been Fitzgerald's chorus teacher since 2023, sang \"Hero.\"
\r\nConstruction of the new outdoor area was completed with aplomb just in time for the ceremony by Eric Johnson, an eighth grade math teacher at EFMS, and a group of dedicated students. It will be used as an outdoor classroom and gathering space in front of the school.
\r\nThe structure served as the stage for remarks and performances, and was enjoyed by students and attendees, in preparation for being part of many more memories still to be made.
\r\n\"Today is a milestone anniversary to mark the contributions and history of Ella Fitzgerald Middle School to our community and to our city,\" Mitchell said. \"Thank you so much for being a part of it.\"
","body2":"","publish_date":"Apr 25, 2025","image_1_path":"","image_1_caption":"","image_2_path":"250425021038438_2025-EFMS1.jpg","image_2_caption":"","image_3_path":"250425021038438_2025-EFMS2.jpg","image_3_caption":"","image_4_path":"250425021038438_2025-EFMS3.jpg","image_4_caption":"","image_5_path":"250425021038438_2025-EFMS4.jpg","image_5_caption":"","url":"https://sbo.nn.k12.va.us/news/archive/2025-04-25_Ella-Fitzgerald-Middle-School-celebrates-50th-school-year-on-namesake-s-birthday.html","news_id":"4287"},{"headline":"NNPS hosts VSBA Regional Spring Networking Forum","blurb":"","description":"NNPS hosts VSBA Regional Spring Networking Forum","body":"Newport News Public Schools hosted the 2025 Virginia School Boards Association Tidewater Regional Spring Networking Forum on April 22 at Woodside High School.
\r\nThe event included dinner, judging of the VSBA Art Contest and a business meeting. NNPS Chairman Lisa Surles-Law gave the welcome and introductions to open the program and board member Douglas Brown provided the invocation.
\r\nRazvan Verde, student representative to the board, introduced featured speaker Jordan Moody who is a history education Honors Scholar at Norfolk State University. Musical selections were provided by the Menchville High School Guitar Ensemble and Woodside High School Jazz Ensemble.
","body2":"","publish_date":"Apr 24, 2025","image_1_path":"","image_1_caption":"","image_2_path":"250424075249449_2025-vsbalisasurles.jpg","image_2_caption":"Newport News School Board Chairman Lisa Surles-Law welcomed attendees","image_3_path":"250424075249449_2025-vsbadouglasbrown.jpg","image_3_caption":"Newport News School Board member Douglas Brown delivered the invocation","image_4_path":"250424075249449_2025-vsbajordanmoody.jpg","image_4_caption":"Jordan Moody was the featured speaker","image_5_path":"250424075249449_2025-vsbaattendees.jpg","image_5_caption":"Attendees enjoyed dinner and student-provided music","url":"https://sbo.nn.k12.va.us/news/archive/2025-04-24_NNPS-hosts-VSBA-Regional-Spring-Networking-Forum.html","news_id":"4286"},{"headline":"Newport News Council PTA honors PTA Reflections contestants","blurb":"","description":"Newport News Council PTA honors PTA Reflections contestants","body":"The Newport News Council PTA recognized the creative works of 30 students who participated in the 2024-2025 National PTA Reflections competition at an awards ceremony on April 21 at Woodside High School.
\r\nThis year’s theme was "Accepting Imperfection."
\r\nStudents participated in the appropriate division for their grade level and submitted their completed works of art in one or all of the available arts categories: dance choreography, film production, literature, music composition, photography and visual arts.
\r\nNewport News sent 14 entries to the state competition and two were honored with the Award of Excellence from the Virginia PTA: Ella Fitzgerald Middle School student Logan Galatro in the visual arts category, Middle School Division and Woodside High School students Cayden Sierra and Deisy Ruiz-Hernandez in the film production category, High School Division.
\r\nThe National PTA's Reflections program provides opportunities for recognition and access to the arts which boost student confidence and success in the arts and in life, according to the organization.
\r\nEach year, over 300,000 students in Pre-K through grade 12 create original works of art in response to a student-selected theme. This 50+ year-old program helps them explore their own thoughts, feelings and ideas, develop artistic literacy, increase confidence and find a love for learning that will help them become more successful in school and in life.
","body2":"","publish_date":"Apr 22, 2025","image_1_path":"","image_1_caption":"","image_2_path":"250422125753453_2025-ptareflections.png","image_2_caption":"","image_3_path":"","image_3_caption":"","image_4_path":"","image_4_caption":"","image_5_path":"","image_5_caption":"","url":"https://sbo.nn.k12.va.us/news/archive/2025-04-22_Newport-News-Council-PTA-honors-PTA-Reflections-contestants.html","news_id":"4285"},{"headline":"W&M and NNPS receive 2025 VACTE School-University Partnership Project Award","blurb":"","description":"W&M and NNPS receive 2025 VACTE School-University Partnership Project Award","body":"William & Mary's School of Education and Newport News Public Schools were jointly selected to receive the 2025 School-University Partnership Project Award by the Virginia Association of Colleges and Teacher Educators.
\r\nThe award is a statewide recognition honoring collaborative initiatives between Virginia's higher education institutions and K-12 school divisions that enhance student learning, well-being and teacher preparation.
\r\nThe partnership was recognized on April 3 at the VACTE Spring Conference held at Randolph-Macon College in Ashland.
\r\nThe award celebrates the STEAM Camp program, a summer initiative co-designed in 2021 that has demonstrated significant growth over the past four years, according to Tami Byron, NNPS STEM instructional supervisor.
\r\nThis innovative program delivers interdisciplinary STEM experiences to NNPS students while supporting social-emotional development and real-world problem solving. At the same time, it provides pre-service teachers from William & Mary with structured, high-impact field experiences that connect graduate coursework with hands-on teaching.
\r\nByron and NNPS STEM Instructional Specialists Jennifer Barker and Kevin Nelhuebel collaborate with W&M faculty members Dr. Meredith Kier and Dr. Lindy Johnson on the project.
\r\n"This partnership exemplifies the power of collaboration between K-12 and higher education to create scalable, meaningful learning opportunities," Byron said. "It benefits students, educators and future teachers alike, advancing both academic outcomes and professional preparation."
\r\nIn 2023, the STEAM Camps were recognized as a 2023 "Program that Works" by the Virginia Mathematics and Science Coalition.
","body2":"","publish_date":"Apr 21, 2025","image_1_path":"","image_1_caption":"","image_2_path":"25042109020646_2025-vacteaward.jpg","image_2_caption":"","image_3_path":"","image_3_caption":"","image_4_path":"","image_4_caption":"","image_5_path":"","image_5_caption":"","url":"https://sbo.nn.k12.va.us/news/archive/2025-04-21_W&M-and-NNPS-receive-2025-VACTE-School-University-Partnership-Project-Award.html","news_id":"4284"},{"headline":"Katherine Johnson Elementary receives Christine Darden STEM Community Partnerships Award","blurb":"","description":"Katherine Johnson Elementary School was honored with the prestigious Christine Darden STEM Community Partnerships Award given by the Family and Community Engagement Learning Network and Successful Innovations Inc.","body":"Katherine Johnson Elementary School was honored with the prestigious Christine Darden STEM Community Partnerships Award given by the Family and Community Engagement Learning Network and Successful Innovations Inc.
\r\nThe award was presented on April 17 at the Innovations in Family Engagement Symposium in Raleigh, North Carolina.
\r\nA cross-departmental collaboration between NNPS Family and Community Engagement specialists, STEM leads and Instructional Technology coaches worked together on the STEM Night event that was recognized.
\r\nThe Darden award recognizes individuals and schools that have made significant contributions to enhancing STEM education and impacting family engagement in these vital fields, according to the FACE Learning Network's website. The award celebrates innovative initiatives that empower families to engage with science, technology, engineering and math, creating a supportive environment for students to strive.
\r\nThe award honors the legacy of Dr. Christine Darden, who was a NASA aeronautical engineer and one of its iconic Hidden Figures.
\r\n\"Congratulations to Katherine G. Johnson Elementary School on being honored with the prestigious Christine Darden STEM Community Partnership Award,\" said Tiffany Jones, NNPS coordinator of Family and Community Engagement. \"This recognition celebrates the school's continued commitment to fostering strong STEM connections and impactful community engagement.\"
\r\n\"We also commend Ella Fitzgerald Middle School and Saunders Elementary School on their well-earned nominations - your dedication to excellence does not go unnoticed.\"
\r\nSTEM is the integration of science, technology, engineering and mathematics, combined with meaningful problem-solving and real-world application, according to Tami Byron, NNPS STEM instructional supervisor.
\r\n\"In NNPS, this work is supported by a division-wide effort that connects school staff, STEM leads, instructional technology coaches and family engagement specialists to create engaging, hands-on STEM experiences for students and families,\" Byron said. \"This year, we launched a strategic initiative to bring high-quality STEM Nights to every elementary and middle school, an effort made possible through strong partnerships and shared commitment across the division.\"
\r\nTeamwork was integral to this award-winning community outreach initiative.
\r\n\"I would like to express my sincere appreciation for this incredible partnership,\" Jones said. \"The STEM leads, ITCs and FACE specialists worked in close collaboration to design and deliver meaningful, engaging STEM experiences for our families.
\r\n\"By connecting with our valued community stakeholders and partners, we've built strong STEM pathways that not only drive deeper learning but also inspire innovation, exploration and community engagement.\"
","body2":"","publish_date":"Apr 18, 2025","image_1_path":"","image_1_caption":"","image_2_path":"250418050657457_dardenaward.jpg","image_2_caption":"","image_3_path":"","image_3_caption":"","image_4_path":"","image_4_caption":"","image_5_path":"","image_5_caption":"","url":"https://sbo.nn.k12.va.us/news/archive/2025-04-18_Katherine-Johnson-Elementary-receives-Christine-Darden-STEM-Community-Partnerships-Award.html","news_id":"4283"},{"headline":"STUDENT SPOTLIGHT: Passage Middle School 7th grader Jacob Clark","blurb":"Treats others with care and respect","description":"Jacob Clark approaches each part of his school day the same way. The seventh grader at Passage Middle School arrives on time, prepared and ready to learn.","body":"Jacob Clark approaches each part of his school day the same way. The seventh grader at Passage Middle School arrives on time, prepared and ready to learn.
\r\nWhether it's classwork, volleyball or music, Clark is disciplined and conscientious about his role in his school community. He is known as a leader who supports, cares for and respects his fellow students as well as teachers and staff members.
\r\nSeeing his friends and trying his best to learn new things every day are his favorite parts of school, according to Clark. He started playing the trumpet this year and plans to stick with it.
\r\nHis work ethic is evident in all aspects as he puts in the effort to excel in the classroom, on the volleyball court and in the music room.
\r\n\"I enjoy volleyball because I get to actually have fun and spend time with my teammates and make more friends doing that,\" Clark said. \"And the trumpet, I just have fun because my Mom did it and I'm just following in her footsteps.\"
\r\nClark keeps a positive outlook on education and voluntarily accepts criticism in order to enhance his learning across all areas, according to school leaders at Passage. He is considered to be a great example of how a Passage Panther should conduct themselves and can always be relied upon to follow the PATH - prepared, act appropriately, take responsibility and have respect.
\r\nHe has advice for constructively using negative feedback that may come our way.
\r\n\"You've just got to think about what it is, and if they're wrong or right, and just breathe,\" Clark said.
\r\nOne unique aspect of Passage that Clark said he enjoys is the many languages spoken by his classmates, who have helped him learn some Spanish.
\r\nHe actively participates in discussions, avoids distractions, and strives for academic success, showing genuine care for his grades. Describing his personality as nice and respectful, Clark said he tries his best never to be mean to other students.
\r\n\"Talk to people,\" Clark said of finding ways to enjoy school. \"Figure out how to make good friends.\"
\r\nMiddle school can be tough, but staying focused and finding activities to enjoy can make it a little easier, he said.
\r\n\"It's going to be challenging, but you've just got to try your hardest and find friends and work together with them to push through the hard times that you'll find in middle school,\" Clark said.
","body2":"Visit Student Spotlights on the Newport News Public Schools website.
","publish_date":"Apr 17, 2025","image_1_path":"250417105125425_jacob.jpg","image_1_caption":"","image_2_path":"250417105125425_ClarkJacob.jpg","image_2_caption":"","image_3_path":"","image_3_caption":"","image_4_path":"","image_4_caption":"","image_5_path":"","image_5_caption":"","url":"https://sbo.nn.k12.va.us/news/archive/2025-04-17_STUDENT-SPOTLIGHT--Passage-Middle-School-7th-grader-Jacob-Clark.html","news_id":"4281"},{"headline":"Aviation Academy students' out of this world work supplies International Space Station","blurb":"","description":"Aviation Academy students' out of this world work supplies International Space Station","body":"People learned a lot about NASA astronauts living and working in space during the recent prolonged stay of Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams aboard the International Space Station.
\r\nAttention focused heavily on their day-to-day activities until their safe return to Earth in March.
\r\nStudents at Denbigh High School's Aviation Academy are well-acquainted with the importance of the equipment used on spacecraft. In partnership with NASA, they have assembled lockers that are used on the International Space Station since 2016. Students sign the lockers and receive photos of them being used in space.
\r\nHands-on experience meets real world application as the Aviation Academy participates in NASA HUNCH-High Schools United with NASA to Create Hardware. High School students across the country work on materials for the astronauts to use on the space station.
\r\n\"It's an amazing experience to be able to build these for them to use in space,\" said Caleb White, an eleventh grader in the Aviation Academy program who provided quality check supervision for his classmates during their current project.
\r\n\"It's like our work is to be put to better use, to be used in space. And we get proof of that when we sign it and then they take pictures of it.\"
\r\nThe Aviation Academy has assembled numerous lockers over the years, working on assignments as materials arrive from NASA and returning them for storage until they're needed. In March, students were inspecting and assembling doors for lockers that will be their latest contribution.
\r\n\"These lockers are used to store everything from science materials to clothes and food,\" said Neal Witherspoon, who serves as HUNCH adviser and teaches the Aviation Maintenance Technology I course where students work on the lockers.
\r\nPrecision is of utmost importance as any tiny defect or contaminant could potentially put an astronaut in space in danger. Students wear gloves to keep any oils from their skin from transferring while working with many tiny metal parts on covered tables.
\r\nWith blueprint drawings alongside, one group of students attached fasteners onto locker doors with retaining rings using a special tool. A plastic template put on top holds the locker door while they install the fasteners onto it.
\r\nA second group inspected, counted and documented hundreds of parts for assembly. Any piece with a defect or mark was set aside for later inspection, cleaning and re-evaluation for possible elimination from use.
\r\n\"They have to be flight ready with zero defects,\" Witherspoon said. \"No indentations, scratch marks, et cetera, on the doors. This is for the safety of the astronauts-no sharp edges.
\r\n\"Everything has to be inventoried, accounted for here and then verified there.\"
\r\nLessons include learning how to read and interpret blueprints, how to used the provided tools and understanding the process for and how to perform inspections.
\r\nStudents complete the same activities as the engineers at NASA who will receive their work. This directly connects students learning the skills with potential careers using them, which uniquely fits with the Aviation Academy's focus.
\r\n\"The most important thing is how we tie it into the real word,\" Witherspoon said. \"Especially with our curriculum. Aircraft maintenance mechanics work with metal, fasteners and tools. And so everything that they're doing ties into our curriculum and that's why we're able to do that.\"
\r\nWhite went back and forth between the two teams, inspecting materials and answering questions. The room bustled with activity, machine noise and students talking about the tasks at hand.
\r\n\"All of the work that gets put forward, everything has to be precise and done the right way,\" White said. \"So you can use that going into whatever work field any of these people would want to go into. How precise and on point everything has to be can translate into the real world.\"
\r\nMentioning that something you produced was on the space station is also a unique resume addition.
\r\n\"Yeah, I think that would be pretty cool,\" White said.
\r\nLike all of the Aviation Academy's many offerings, the NASA HUNCH project gives students unique learning opportunities.
\r\n\"Everyone here loves a good challenge,\" White said. \"We love to be hands-on and that's what this program allows us to do. It gives the opportunity to be hands-on and not sit at the desk for the hour and 30 minutes that we're in class.
\r\n\"And to be up moving around and being hands-on working on whatever assignment that we have.\"
","body2":"","publish_date":"Apr 15, 2025","image_1_path":"","image_1_caption":"","image_2_path":"250415093822422_2025-nasacalebwhite.jpg","image_2_caption":"Caleb White (center) inspects work in his lead role as quality checker","image_3_path":"250415093822422_2025-nasastudentsinspected.jpg","image_3_caption":"Students inspected parts for flaws and potential safety hazards","image_4_path":"250415093822422_2025-nasalocker.jpg","image_4_caption":"A locker assembled by Denbigh High School Aviation Academy students is shown on the International Space Station","image_5_path":"250415093822422_2025-nasasignatures.jpg","image_5_caption":"Signatures are visible on a locker on the International Space Station that was assembled by Denbigh High School Aviation Academy students","url":"https://sbo.nn.k12.va.us/news/archive/2025-04-15_Aviation-Academy-students--out-of-this-world-work-supplies-International-Space-Station.html","news_id":"4278"},{"headline":"Statement Reaffirming Commitment to Public Safety, Education, and Due Process for All Residents","blurb":"","description":"Statement Reaffirming Commitment to Public Safety, Education, and Due Process for All Residents","body":"","body2":"","publish_date":"Feb 07, 2025","image_1_path":"","image_1_caption":"","image_2_path":"","image_2_caption":"","image_3_path":"","image_3_caption":"","image_4_path":"","image_4_caption":"","image_5_path":"","image_5_caption":"","url":"https://sbo.nn.k12.va.us/news/archive/2025-ice.pdf","news_id":"4241"},{"headline":"Reafirmando el compromiso con la seguridad publica, la educacion y el debido proceso para todos los residentes","blurb":"","description":"Reafirmando el compromiso con la seguridad p�ºblica, la educaci�³n y el debido proceso para todos los residentes","body":"null","body2":"","publish_date":"Feb 07, 2025","image_1_path":"","image_1_caption":"","image_2_path":"","image_2_caption":"","image_3_path":"","image_3_caption":"","image_4_path":"","image_4_caption":"","image_5_path":"","image_5_caption":"","url":"https://sbo.nn.k12.va.us/news/archive/2025-icespanish.pdf","news_id":"4240"}]);