001Good evening everyone. >> Good evening. >> I now call the May 6, 2026 meeting of the Hampton City School Board to order. Miss Penny, will you please call the role? >> Miss Aja >> here. >> Miss Cherry here. >> Dr. Banks Gray >> here. Mr. Samuels >> present. >> Mr. Kilgore >> here. >> Dr. Woodhouse >> here. >> Dr. Mason >> here. Let the record reflect that all board members are present and accounted for. And at this time, I'm going to turn the meeting over to our student rep, Mr. Caleb Lucas, for our opening. >> Thank you, Dr. Mason. Uh, today with us, we have uh Aiel Mitchell, a fifth grade student at Aberdine Elementary School, uh, to lead us in the pledge. So, if you all will please stand. I pledge allegiance to the
002flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Right. >> Awesome. Thank you. And uh we know that you have a poem for us. Is that correct? >> Yeah. >> Awesome. The floor is yours. >> So cute. >> My name is Achily Mitchell and I'm here to tell you a message from nature. The mountains tell me hold your head high. Whatever be the problem, look it in the eye. The rivers tell me don't look behind. March on ahead to the your goal you find. The sea tells me have death of character. The waves call out. Don't forget your laugh. The trees tell me do good to win it all. Let go of the past like I let my
003leaves fall. The sun tells me you must go on shining. In every dark cloud be this silver lining. Have a look at nature and you will see there's so much to learn just like me. [applause] >> [applause] >> Awesome, Achily. Uh, thank you so much. So, we have a few questions for you. You ready? >> Yeah. >> All right. So, can you let us know what school and grade you are in? >> I am in Aberdine Lion. >> Awesome. >> And I am in fifth grade. >> Fantastic. And what is your favorite subject? >> Math, writing, and science. >> Awesome. And what are some things that you do outside of school? >> I play in the playground, play basketball. >> Fantastic. Uh, do you know what you want to be when you grow up? >>
004I want to be a musician. >> Awesome. [applause] [laughter] >> And one more question. Um, can you tell us who you have with you today? And uh when Achilles says your name, will you please stand to be recognized? >> All right. I have my grandma, my music teacher, Miss Royal, my principal, and then Miss Lewis, my assistant principal. [applause] Awesome. Thank you, Achily. Thank you for speaking with such strong words that I'm sure will resonate with us for the rest of the day. Thank you very much. >> You're welcome. [applause] >> Thank you very much. Any comments um from board members? I would just like to put him on the spot for one quick second. Can you tell us the Aberdine Lion Creed? >> All right. [laughter] I say a little bit something >> I
005am an Aberdian lion. Hear me roar so loud. I am determined to see. I am so very proud. My school is my kingdom and as a lion I'll lead the way. Accepting challenges and overcoming obstacles as I face each new day. I notify, listen, respect other others and obey. There is no doubt in my great mind I could conquer anything that comes my way. >> As I enter Abedine [applause] >> I had no doubt. All right. I just wanted everybody to hear what that creed is and they will understand just why you stood there to be able to do exactly what it is that you do. So, thank you for being with us tonight. I want to thank your family for having you here and thank you to your administration for being uh with us
006tonight as well. So, thank you very much. >> All right. [applause] All right. Moving along. Uh item 1.03, 03 adoption of the agenda for tonight. What's the pleasure of the board? >> Mr. Chair, move approval of the agenda as presented. >> Second. >> That's been properly moved by Mr. Kilgore and seconded by Mr. Samuels that we approve tonight's agenda as presented. Any questions? All right. Miss Penny, will you please call for the vote? >> Miss Aja, >> I. >> Miss Cherry, >> I. >> Dr. Banks Gray, >> I. >> Mr. Mr. Samuels >> I >> Mr. Kilgore >> I >> Dr. Woodhouse >> I >> Dr. Mason >> I motion carries so we'll move on to recognitions and so I will turn the meeting over to Miss Goral. >> All right. Well, thank you Chair
007Dr. Mason, Vice Chair Miss Jackson Aanja, members of our school board, Superintendent Dr. Haynes, and members of our Hampton City Schools family. We have several exciting student recognitions tonight. And I'm not going to lie to you. I've been doing recognitions now for eight years. I'm a little nervous tonight because there's a lot of important names to call. I've been practicing, but I hope I'm given some grace. Um, and I do not envy the academy principles and executive principles that have to say all of the names at graduation. So, God bless you. All right. So, here we go. At this time with Mr. Samuels, please proceed to the microphone at center stage to assist with recognitions. >> All right. So, we're first going to start by honoring students who have completed a new program for Hampton
008City Schools. It's the VPCC, Uniform Certificate of General Studies, or otherwise known as UCGS. This is actually a one-year college program designed to give students a strong academic foundation while ensuring a seamless transfer to any public 4-year institution in Virginia. All courses within the program are fully transferable and meet division general education requirements. UCGs provides students with a strategic cost-effective head start on college, reducing the time to have degree completion for a four-year degree while expanding access to higher education opportunities across Virginia. I'm going to go ahead and read the names of the students. What I asked was when I read your name, if you could come out of your seat, walk behind me at the podium, come up the stairs and use, please use the stairs over here and then come to Mr. Samuels.
009He will provide you a certificate and coin and probably a handshake or a fist bump. And then if you could just stay on stage just far left until we'll get a group picture at the end. You you all just completed a year of college. You got that right. Okay, perfect. All right, here we go. Our first student is Cameron Copus from Feebas High School. [applause] We have Jeffrey Nelson from Feebas High School. [applause] Connor Unseer from Feebas High School. [applause] Nora Unier from Feebas High School. [applause] Yan Quac from Kickotan High School [applause] and Lamb Lee from Kickotan High School. [applause] Okay, it's my [clears throat] turn. >> It is. >> Let's have a huge round of applause for these students. [applause] I'm going to turn directly to you. We are so proud of each
010of you and we wish you the very best in your future endeavors. I would like to ask all of the special guests you have brought here tonight. Your parents, family members, school administrators, teachers, student, and staff supporting you. So please I'm ask all these individual that I have mentioned to please stand to be recognized. [applause] >> And before you take your seats, if you could actually come to center stage with Mr. Samuels. We're going to take a group photo. And parents, this is your time also for photos. All right, everybody smile. Show some teeth. There you go, Mr. Samuels. I knew you could do it. Perfect. Thank you. And congratulations, everyone. [applause] So that was pretty exciting because that's the very first year for Hampton City Schools that we are participating in this program. We
011can't wait to see this continue to grow. And one program that has continued to grow over the last several years and we will be honoring tonight is we have nearly 70 students, 69 to be exact, who are members of the Virginia Peninsula Community College Academy of the College Experience. And these students will graduate with their associates degree from Virginia Peninsula Community College next week on May 14th at the Hampton Coliseum before even receiving their high school diploma. Let's give them a round of applause. [applause] So be before we call them up, I'm going to tell you a little bit about VPCC is what we call it. I know that these students here know they are very well aware of it as well as their families probably because of how much um that they've had to
012work for this. But for the listening audience and those joining us, BPCC Ace creates an opportunity for students to complete a sequence of college credit courses that also count for high school graduation and they earn up to two years of transferable college credit tuitionfree while still in high school. VPCC ACE offers a three-year academically rigorous program that allows our students to progress towards their next academic goal by compressing that timeline to obtain a college degree. In addition to the opportunity to earn a high school diploma and a college degree simultaneously, which is that's a big thing, the high school diploma and college degree simultaneously. The benefits include saving money on college tuition costs. I need to hear some whoop whoop from the parents on that one. Yeah, I was there. A seamless transition from high
013school to college and increased opportunities to earn higher wages. Students have the opportunity to earn an associate of science and social science or an associate of science in science before they graduate from high school, which increases their career opportunities and postsecary options. So, with nearly 70 students, like I said, 69 to be exact to recognize, we're going to actually um honor them in three different groups. Okay? So students, when your name is announced, again, would you please walk behind me from the podium, go up the stairs with the handrail, go ahead and get a certificate and coin from Mr. Samuels, and then stay still stay on stage so we can get that group photo at the end because I know your parents would be very sad if they didn't get that photo. All right, so
014family and friends, feel free to come forward and take pictures as your honore is recognized on stage. Are we ready? >> Am I ready? I've got all these names. Here we go. The first group of students that we are honoring tonight are those students who are earning an associate of science in science degree. We have Marina Amusa, [applause] Caitlyn Chapman, [applause] Nana Canó, [applause] Maya Cooper Wson, [applause] Demetria Credle, [applause] Tenacia Darden, [applause] Bryce Gillies, [applause] Cheyenne Gomez, [applause] Jada G, Wolf, [applause] Jaden Hardman, [applause] Darien Harley, Zayn Hollis, [applause] Rachel Hutcherson, [applause] Giovani Kelly, [applause] Kyle Moore, [applause] Asher Porter, >> [applause] >> Haley Smith, [applause] >> Robin Serell, [cheering] [applause] >> Kenneth Stton, [applause] Cameron Washington, [applause] Nicholas Watts, [applause] Aaron Worthman, [cheering] [applause] >> and Clayton Young. All right, let's give them
015a big round of applause. [applause] And I know we've got a lot of family members and administrators in the group. We'll have everybody stand at the end once we go through all of the associate degrees. But what I'm going to get you all to do is act like you like each other a little bit more. Get a little closer for me. All right. Smile. Remember I said show teeth. They're all like, "Oh no." All right. Congratulations everyone. [applause] All right. Hope I did all right with those names because we're going on to the next group. So, the next group of students we are honoring tonight are earning an associate of science and social science degree. We're actually going to split this group into two different groups because it's the largest of the two associates. Again,
016when I called your name, if you would walk behind me, behind the podium up the stairs to my right using the handrail and then see Mr. Samuels for your certificate and coin. But do not escape. Stay on stage so we can get that picture perfect moment. First, we have Caitlyn Elante Lopez, [applause] Kiana Andrews, [applause] Jordan Austin, [cheering] >> [applause] >> Leila Beck Cington, [applause] Briana Buchanan, [applause] Zaniah Carter, [applause and cheering] Micah Chadam. [applause] >> Yeah. >> Cameron David >> [applause] >> Tia Ellsworth, [applause] Kyla Fennel, [applause] >> Jaylen Garland, >> [applause] >> Henry Godfrey, [cheering] [applause] [snorts] >> Sydney Goodley, [applause] Donovan Harris, [applause] Taylor Harris, [applause] Zaniah Harris, [applause] Myra Hassan, [applause] Noah Hatton, [applause] Brandon Henderson, [applause] Julia Hooks, [cheering] >> [applause] >> Avery Hunley, [applause] >> Gabriella Leiddesma, >> Katherine
017Leech, [applause] Caleb Lucas, [cheering] [applause] Valerie McEline and Elana Mclofflin [applause] Again, let's give this well-deserved group a big round of applause. [applause] All right, we Let me see. We might have to do two rows and put the the vertically challenged in the front. That's where I usually end up. >> Yes, let's do two rows. life. Make sure that you can see me because if you can't see me, I can't see you. All right. Ready? All right. There we go. Congratulations. [applause] All right, our next group. We are still honoring students who have also earned the associate of science and social science degree. And by this point, I think you all have paid attention, so I don't have to go over the directions. Correct? We good? All right. Here we go. Kaia Miner, [cheering] [applause]
018>> Josiah Moore, [applause] Antoine Panel, [applause] >> Kamaya Pierce, [applause] Satie Pingore, >> [applause] >> Shia Sharp, [applause] >> Phillip Sigler III, [applause] Aubrey Smith, [applause] Joyce Sokar, [applause] Nia Solomon, [applause] Troy Solomona, [applause] Madison Tatum Harper, [applause] Kamaya Taylor, [cheering] [applause] Havlin Walden, Brian, >> [applause] >> Kalia West, [applause] >> Devin Wilkins, [applause] Ammani Williams, [cheering] [applause] >> Kennedy Williams, [applause and cheering] Sayia Willie [applause] and Shelby Wise. [cheering and applause] All right, let's give this group another big round of applause. [applause] All right, scoot scoot together like you you know each other a little bit. I think I can get all of you. All right, ready? Smile. Smile. Smile. Smile. Perfect. All right. As these students are actually exiting the stage, I'd ask of all their parents, their administrators, their fellow students, anyone
019here supporting any of our ACE students to please stand to be recognized because it takes a village and we are very well aware. [applause] They have needed your support. [applause] [clears throat] All right, we are not finished. We still have a few extra special recognitions. We ready, Mr. Samuels? >> Yes, I am. Let me >> where I am right now. >> Page 15. >> Okay. [laughter] >> All right. We are going to go ahead. It is now our pleasure to recognize the class of 2026 saludiatorans for each of our four high schools. So when I call your name, would you actually please join me up front by the podium facing the school board? We have Ava Tanner, [applause] Angelina Christie, [applause] [cheering] Tony Den, [applause] and Caitlyn Chapman. >> [applause] >> So, you all missed
020it earlier when I was chatting with Caitlyn. I told them told her that you were going to practice your speeches on stage after you're recognized. >> I'm just kidding. [laughter] >> Ava, >> I'm sure you're still working on those. All right, we are first going to begin with Miss Ava Tanner. If you'd step forward right there. She is the saludiatoran at Bethl High School, the home of academic excellence. Let's give her a round of applause. [applause] Tonight, we are honored to recognize Ava, an exceptional student leader whose dedication to service, advocacy, and academic excellence is reflected in her outstanding 4.61 GPA. [applause] She serves as the president of Alternative World Changers Incorporated, a role that she's held for two years, and as the alternate student representative to this Hampton City School Board, where she amplifies
021student voice at the district level. Ava has also been a lead academy, a lead academy ambassador for three years, demonstrating her commitment to leadership and school engagement. Her passion for civic involvement is evident through her role as youth and government president for two years and her participation in the community anti-drug coalitions of America international conference. Additionally, she has served as a summerbridge student mentor for three years supporting and guiding our younger students. Her strong leadership and commitment to service continue to make a meaningful impact on her school and community. Ava was accepted to Virginia Commonwealth University, University of Virginia, James Madison University, William and Mary, and Old Dominion University. Am I correct in saying that you will be attending the University of Virginia? >> Yes. She she she kept going back and forth on us
022there for the last few months. So, she will be a is it a a wahoo? >> You will be a wahoo and majoring in philosophy, political thought, and law. And after college graduation, she plans to continue her education at UVA Law School or Colombia Law School. Let's give her a big round of applause. [applause] Miss AA, please join me on stage. Come back over here, Miss Ava. On behalf of our chair, Dr. Mason, which you know, vice chair, vice chair, Miss Stephanie Fanja, the Hampton School Board Superintendent, Dr. Raymond L. Haynes. I am honored to present this certificate and coin. And it reads, I'm going to give this to you first because I know this is very important to you. It says, "Certificate of achievement from the Hampton City School Board. Congratulations. proudly present to
023Ava Tanner, Bethl High School Saludiatoran 2025 2026 and it has the signature of our superintendent Raymond L. Haynes and Richard Mason [applause] and Ava, stay on stage for us if you don't mind because we're going to get a group photo at the end if you just want to stand over there by Miss Cherry. All right. All right, Mr. Samuels, we're moving on. Next we have the Hampton High School saludiatoran, Miss Angelina Christie. Would you take one step forward? [applause] This evening, we proudly recognize Angelina, a dedicated and well-rounded student who exemplifies academic excellence with a 4.55 GPA while actively contributing to her school and community. That deserves a big round of applause. [applause] She is a member of the tennis team and a standout leader in the marching concert and symphonic bands serving as hornline
024captain and section leader. Angelina is also engaged scholarly participating in tri music honor society national honor society science national honor society and mu alphatheta demonstrating strong leadership and a passion for language and culture. She also serves as a president and is in the Spanish club and is a member of the investment club. I need some advice from her. She's already she's already on her way. Beyond the classroom, Angelina gives back through volunteer work at the Virginia at the Peninsula Regional Animal Shelter and the Virginia Air and Space Science Center. Her leadership, service, and commitment to excellence make her a valued member of her comm school community. Angelina was accepted to Pennsylvania State University, the University of Pittsburgh, Millersville University, University of Oklahoma, University of Virginia, University of Delaware, and Virginia Commonwealth University. She plans to
025attend Pennsylvania State University, and major in meteorology and atmospheric science. And after college graduation, she hopes to work at the National Weather Service under Noah. Let's give her a big round of applause. [applause] >> [applause] >> So, Angeline, as you're making your way up, you know, if you are going to major in meteorology that we will have to have your cell phone um on speed dial for if we need to close for snow days. >> And I'm not quite sure if Angelina was very intentional. As you know, she's wearing a bag with the Jamaican flag. >> [applause] >> I think that's was that was intentional. Miss Angelina, on behalf of our chair, Dr. Mason, vice chair, Miss Stephanie Ager, the Hampton School Board, and Superintendent Dr. Haynes, I am honored to present this certificate and
026coin. The certificate, the coin, and I shall read Certificate of achievement from the Hampton School Board. Congratulations. Proudly presented to Angelina Christie. Hampton High School saludiatoran 2526. And it has the signature of Dr. Raymond Haynes and Dr. Richard Mason. >> Congratulations. [applause] All right, we are going to move on to Kickotan's saludiatoran for the class of 2026, Tony Den. [applause] All right, so this evening we proudly recognize Tony, a dedicated and high achieving student who maintains an impressive 4.58 GPA while actively contributing to his school community. That deserves a round of applause. >> [applause] >> He is a member of RO Kappa Math Honor Society and the Science Honor Society, demonstrating his strong commitment to academic excellence. Tony is also involved in both tennis and volleyball, showcasing teamwork and athletic dedication. In addition, he serves
027as the morning announcements editor. I'll have to hire you. I love editors. Playing an important role in keeping the school informed and connected. His well-rounded involvement reflects a strong work ethic and commitment to success both in and out of the classroom. So Tony was accepted to William and Mary the University of Virginia and Virginia Tech. He has decided to attend the University of Virginia and major in mechanical engineering and after college graduation he would like to work for NASA. Let's give him a round of applause. [applause] >> Tony, would you join me on stage please? You ready for your speech? >> Nothing. >> On behalf of our school chair, Dr. Mason and Vice, Miss Tiffany Aanja, the Hampton School Board, and Superintendent Haynes. Come back over here. I am honored to present this certificate. And
028I gave you your coin earlier, and I'm going to read your certificate, okay? if that's okay. Certificate of achievement from the Hampton City School Board. Congratulations. Proudly present to Tony Dayne. H Kickotan High School Saludiatoran 2025 2026. And it has the signature of our superintendent, Raymond Haynes, and our chair, Richard Mason. [applause] All right, and last but not least, and she does not have to do a speech, even though I tried to get her earlier. Congratulations to Feebas High School, the home of the Phantoms, Saludiatoran, Caitlyn Chapman. [cheering] [applause] Caitlyn, an accomplished and well-rounded student who excels academically with an impressive 4.67 67 GPA while [applause] while demonstrating leadership, service, and dedication across many areas. A standout athlete, she competes in travel volleyball with the Virginia Wave Volleyball Club and serves as both captain and
029co- captain of the Theebasis High School varsity volleyball team. Caitlyn is also deeply committed to her community, volunteering at the Willow Oaks Branch Library and serving as both an advisory board member and a volunteer with the Youth Volunteer Corpse of Hampton Roads. At school, she is an academy ambassador and the secretary of the National Honor Society, reflecting her strong leadership and organizational skills. In addition, Caitlyn works as a surf rider employee, serves as a USA volleyball bookkeeper, and provides child care as a babysitter. Her diverse experiences highlight her responsibility, her work ethic, and commitment to making a positive impact both in and out of school. So, Caitlyn was accepted to 15 colleges to include, but not limited to. So, I'm not going to read all 15, but I'm going to read several uh Pennsylvania State
030University, Ruckers University, University of Alaska Fairbanks, University of Pittsburgh, Virginia Tech, and William and Mary. She has decided to attend Virginia Tech. Correct. Virginia Tech and major in environmental conservation and society. And then after graduation, she says she will seize all opportunities and see where the wind takes her. Let's give her a round of applause. [applause] That way. [applause] All right, Miss Caitlyn. On behalf of our chair, Dr. Mason, Vice Chair, Miss Jackson Aana, the Hampton School Board, and Superintendent Haynes. I am honored to present this certificate and coin. And the certificate reads, just one second, please. [clears throat] Certificate of achievement from the Hampton City School Board. Congratulations. Proudly presented to Caitlyn Chapman Feebis High School Saludiatoran 2025 2026 and it has a signature of Dr. Raymond Haynes and Dr. Richard Mason. Congratulations, [applause]
031>> Mr. Samuels. If I could get you all together to take a quick photo [clears throat] get out of the way. So, I saw lots of cameras out, so I know that there are parents, family members, special guests, administrators, and teachers in the audience tonight supporting these exceptionally um talented young people. So, please stand to be recognized. We need to hear it for the for mom and dad, grandma, grandpa, aunt, uncle. [applause] You have a lot to be proud of, but we know that you are a big support in this. So, thank you. Congratulations, everyone. And actually u Mr. Samuels before we move on to our last recognitions for valadictorians I believe there was a name that may have been missed for the associate of science in science degree. So if we have Nana Canó
032would you please come up to be recognized [applause] and I apologize I might have said your name incorrectly to begin with. Come on up this way. And you get to get your individual picture taken with Mr. Samuels. Congratulations. [applause] All right. It is now an honor to recognize our 2026 valadictorians. When I call your name, would you please come down and stand beside me at the podium? Would Drury Patel, Angela Chen, Lamb Lee, Wang Quac, and Caleb Lucas please come forward. [applause and cheering] Can you come over on this side? Stay right there. Perfect. All right. We are going to first recognize Drewi Patel of Bethl High School. Please step forward. [applause] And am I saying that correctly? Oh, got that one. All right. Drew is a dynamic and accomplished student whose leadership, service, and
033academic excellence set her apart, maintaining an impressive 4.55 GPA. Let's give her a round of applause. [applause] She serves on the Governor's School for Science and Technology student advisory board while also leading as varsity volleyball captain and varsity softball captain guiding both teams to district championships. Drewi extends her passion for service as a junior volunteer at Centroplex Hospital and as the founder of Play for a Purpose, a nonprofit supporting biomed research at Bethl High School. She is a summerbridge program leader, a high [snorts] school math tutor, and a yearbook committee coordinator, demonstrating her commitment to supporting her peers. Her involvement in model United Nations highlights her global awareness, while her role as a temple youth leader reflects her dedication to community and mentorship. In addition, she is a competitive dance performer, showcasing her dis discipline
034and creativity beyond the classroom. Drew he was accepted to seven colleges. Boston University, Michigan State University, New York University, Penn State University of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, and Virginia Tech. In addition, she was weight listed at Emory University, the University of Michigan, Princeton University, and Vanderbilt University. She has decided to attend the University of Virginia to major in biochemistry and minor in engineering discipline. And after college graduation, she plans to attend medical school and pursue a career as a physician, ideally in a surgical specialty. She also hopes to remain involved in biomedical research, continuing to explore ways to improve patient outcomes through innovation and clinical application. Let's give her a round of applause. [applause] Miss Miss Gold, >> can you restate her GPA? Was that GPA correct? I didn't think that. I could see it
035on your face like I want my credit. >> 4.55. >> Oh. Oh, it went up. [applause] >> She was like, >> I don't even know how that's possible. It wasn't like that when I went to school, but 4.66. I could see it on her face like [laughter] >> Drewi on behalf of our chair Dr. Richard Mason our vice chair Miss Jackson Alfonsa the Hampton School Board the superintendent Dr. Haynes I am honored I am honored to present this certificate and coin to you and I'm going to read your certificate. Certificate of achievement from the Hampton City School Board. Congratulation. Proudly present to Drew He Patel Bethl High School, home of academic excellence. Valley Victorian 2025 2026. And has the signature of Raymond, Dr. Raymond Haynes, and Dr. Richard Mason. >> [applause] >> All right, moving
036on to the Hampton High School. Our valad Victorian is Angela Chen. Angela is an outstanding student whose academic excellence is reflected in her impressive, and I just confirmed 4.59 GPA. Let's give her a round of applause. [applause] She serves as the chair of the Hampton Youth Commission and as president of the Science National Honor Society while also contributing as a member of the Roappa Honor Society, the National Honor Society, and the MU Alphatheta. Angela is a dedicated varsity girls soccer player and has expanded her academic interest through the Virginia Space Coast Scholars Summer Academy. Her passion for service is evident through her volunteer work with the Virginia Aeron Space Science Center, the Hampton Virginia Medical Center, Riverside Regional Medical Center, and Cat Corner, Inc. She has also participated in the Youth Leader Summit hosted by
037the Youth Leadership Consortium, and is involved in speech showcasing her strong communication skills. Angela's leadership, service, and well-rounded involvement highlight her commitment to making a meaningful impact in her school and community. Angela was accepted to Virginia Tech, the University of Virginia, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She currently plans to major in biomedical engineering at the University of Virginia. However, you've been weight listed the University of Michigan. Correct. So, you're awaiting that decision. So, right now it's it's UVA, but it may be the University of Michigan. And after she completes her undergrad, she plans to pursue a master's degree. Let's give her a round of applause. [applause] Okay. On behalf of her chair, Dr. Richard Mason, vice chair, Miss Stephanie Afana, Miss Stephanie Jackson Aana, the Hampton School Board, and Superintendent Dr. Haynes.
038I am honored to present this certificate and coin to you. >> And it reads certificate of achievement from Hampton City School Board. Congratulations. Proudly present to Angela Chen, Hampton High School, Gold Crabers, Valley Victorian 2025 2026. And it has the signature of Dr. Richard has the signature of Dr. Raymond Haynes, our superintendent, and Dr. Richard Mason, our chairman. [applause] All right. So, you may have noticed we have three more students here, but only two high schools. So, Kickotan High School actually has co- valibictorians this year for the class of 2026. Lamb Lee and Wan Quark. So this evening we're going to recognize first Lamb Lee. If you would step forward. Lamb Lee is an exceptional student whose academic achievement is reflected in an outstanding 4.64 GPA paired with a strong commitment to involvement and leadership.
039Let's give him a round of applause. [applause] As a member of the track and field team, he demonstrates discipline, perseverance, and teamwork. He is also actively engaged in Key Club and Spanish club, contributing to service initiatives and cultural learning experiences. In addition, he serves as a lead ambassador representing the school and supporting initiatives that promote student leadership and engagement [snorts] through a balance of academics, athletics, and service. Lamb exemplifies dedication and a commitment to making a positive impact within the school community. Lamb was accepted to the University of Virginia, Virginia Tech, William and Mary, Old Dominion University, James Madison University, and Virginia Commonwealth University. He has decided to attend the University of Virginia and major in computer science. And he plans to become a software engineer after college and work with or develop artificial intelligence.
040Let's give him a round of applause. [applause] Ma'am, on behalf of our chair, Dr. Mason, and our vice chair, Miss Jackson Afaner, the Hampton School Board, and superintendent, Dr. Haynes, I am honored to present the certificate and coin. Certificate of ach of of achievement from the Hampton City School Board. Congratulations. Proudly presented to Lamb Lee Kikitan High School, home of the Warriors. Valley Victorian 2025 2026. Dr. Raymond Haynes and Dr. Richard Mason. >> Congratulations. [applause] All right, Mr. Samuels. Also from Kickotan High School, we have co-fallan Wian Quark, affectionately known as Y by her classmates, I was told. So Wian is an outstanding student who exemplifies academic excellence, also with a 4.64 GPA while maintaining an impressive level of involvement across school and community activities. Let's give her a round of applause. >> [applause] >>
041A dedicated athlete, she participates in track, cross country, and soccer, demonstrating perseverance and teamwork. She's also actively engaged in leadership and service through Key Club, the student council association, and as an academy ambassador. With a strong commitment to giving back, she volunteers at Riverside Regional Medical Center [snorts] and serves as a vacation bible school assistant. Additionally, involvement in roots for STEM highlights a passion for innovation and learning. Why Young's well-rounded achievements reflect a strong dedication to leadership, service, and personal growth. She was accepted to Old Dominion University, the University of Virginia, James Madison University, Virginia Commonwealth University, William and Mary, and Christopher Newport. And she will attend the University of Virginia and major in kinesiology. Her goal after graduation is to complete a physician assistant masters program to become a boardcertified physician assistant. Let's give
042her a round of applause. [applause] >> Get over here. Are you okay? [clears throat] On behalf of our chair, Dr. Richard Mason, our vice chair, Miss Jackson Alfonser, the Hampton School Board, and the s and superintendent, Dr. Dr. Raymond Haynes. I am honored to present this coin and certificate. Here's the coin. I shall read your certificate. Certificate of achievement from the Hampton School Board. Congratulations. proudly present to Wangqa. >> Yeah. Wian Hampton. No. Kickotan High School. Go Warriors. Valor Victorian 2025 2026. Has the signature of Dr. Raymond Haynes and Dr. Mason. >> Congratulations. [applause] All right. And last, but certainly not least, would be the Feebas High School valictorian for the class of 2026. And I'm not sure if you know him or not, but uh Caleb Lucas. Let's give Caleb a round of applause.
043[cheering] [applause] I might tear up a little bit here, so just give me a break. >> All right. This evening, we proudly recognize Caleb, an exceptional student leader whose academic excellence is reflected in his outstanding 4.6 69 GPA. [applause] Caleb is a member of the National Honor Society and FTHEA Kappa Honor Society at Virginia Peninsula Community College, demonstrating a strong commitment to scholarship. He serves as the student representative to this Hampton City School Board. He has for the past two years and he is a class president for the Feebas High School class of 2026, a role he has held since 2022. He also contributes as an intern adviser on the executive board of the Hampton YMCA Leaders Club, showcasing his dedication to service and youth leadership. In addition, Caleb is the drum major for the
044for the marching phantoms leading with discipline and pride and is actively involved in the Hampton Newport News Kappa League and the Virginia Youth Civics and Leadership Association model general assembly. As an academyy's of Hampton ambassador, Caleb represents his school with excellence, embodying Did I do I click on something? Embodying leadership, service, and a commitment to making a meaningful impact in his community. Caleb was accepted to over 20 colleges. I'm not going to read all 20, but I'm going to give you a good sampling of them. So he was accepted to Christopher Newport University, Fisk University, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, Hampton University, Howard University, Morehouse College, Morgan State University, North Carolina ENT State University, Tuscade University, North Carolina Central University, Virginia Wesleyan, Buane Cookman University, the University of Virginia and William and Mary. And Caleb
045has decided to attend, and I'm sorry, Dr. Mason, this is going to hurt you, but he is going to attend North Carolina ENT State University and major in political science. [cheering] >> I do. [applause] >> After college, Caleb plans to attend law school to become a civil rights attorney and work to become Virginia's first African-American in the United States Senate. Let's give him a round of applause. [applause and cheering] [sighs] >> Just like Kelly, the I may get emotional. I know uh >> Miss Cherry said you are emotional sir. >> Yeah. >> Caleb on behalf of our chair Dr. Richard Mason, our vice chair, Miss Jackson, [clears throat] the Hampton School Board, and our superintendent, Dr. Haynes. I am honored to present this coin and certificate. But before I give you the certificate, I must
046read it to you. Certificate of achievement from the Hampton School Board. Congratulations. Proudly presented to Caleb Lucas Feebas High School. Go Phantoms. Valley Victorian 2025 2026. And it has the signature of our superintendent, Dr. Raymond Haynes, and our chair, Dr. Richard Mason. >> Congratulations. [applause and cheering] And ladies and gentlemen, these are our 2026 valadictorians. Let's give them a big round of applause for their outstanding achievement. [applause and cheering] Mr. Samuels, if you could come over, we'll get a picture. All right. Any parents in the audience, administrators, special guests, family members, please stand to be recognized. [applause] So before you all leave the stage, the saludiatorans as well as the valadictorians were pre presented a special gift from the school board. There is actually a poem in that scroll. Um, I'm going to have Mr.
047Samuels read that poem real quick to the audience before you scadaddle back to your seats. >> Thank you, Miss Goro. And it reads, "Caps in the air. It's time to cheer. Your graduation day is finally here. All the late nights and hard work too have finally paid off. And we are so proud of you. You have achieved so much in just a few short years. You've reached your goals and conquered your fears. And now it's time to spread your wings to take on the world and all that it brings. So, as you pack for this journey, here's a small gift with some essential and items to give you a lift. There's cookie and crackers for a quick easy snack. Popcorn and some candy for late night attacks. A pen and some pencils with a sharpener
048tool. A notebook to jot down all you must do. Bright sticky notes and a set of highlighters. A good coffee mug for pulling allnighters. But your time spent at college won't be all work and no play. So, we've we threw in sunglasses to brighten your stay. With eyes full of wanders and a heart eager to begin, don't forget to have fun as you take it all in. Congratulation graduates. You've come this far and we know you will go further. You're an HCS Hampton City School shining star. With dreams in mind, new adventures await. The future is yours. It's yours to create. >> Congratulations. [applause] >> All right, you all can have a seat. Thank you. Well, Chair Mason, this has truly been a wonderful evening celebrating the outstanding achievements of our students. So, I sadly
049am saying that that is the end of our recognitions. So, congratulations everyone. Have a great night. [applause] All right. >> Oh, no. They're right there. >> I lost Taylor. too big. Hello What? >> Such awesome partners. Congratulations. >> Congratulations. You going to be my personal lawyer over here. >> You did it. >> Yes, sir. [laughter] >> That's good. All right, we're going to continue along. I think is everybody back here? Who miss right there? Hang, Miss Cherry. Oh, okay. All right. What a great opportunity to celebrate all of the successes of our students. Um, I'm just at a loss for words. Any comments from board members? >> Miss Cherry, >> thank you, Mr. Chair. One thing I love is the fact that, you know, sometimes when you go off to college, you can be kind
050of lonely, but we got so many people going to be walking across the lawn at UVA. >> Yes. [laughter] >> See each other. That is just so awesome. So, I'm excited about that, too. And and I will say this, I am so proud of of of Caleb. Um hurt but proud and I I know he's going to do well at North Carolina ENT. All right. Any other comments from board members before we move along. All right. Excellent job, Mr. Samuels. You had a lot of work to do tonight. You did an excellent job. So, thank you. >> And you made everybody feel special. >> Yes, you did. >> Good job. >> All right. So, now that brings us to item number three on our agenda tonight, and that's the consent agenda. 3.01, personnel report number
05126-8 and 3.02, school board consent to receipt of donations May 2026. What's the pleasure of the board? >> Mr. Chair, I make the motion to approve the consent agenda as presented. >> Second. >> It's been properly moved by Dr. Woodhouse and seconded by Miss Safa that we approve tonight's consent agenda. Any discussion? >> U Mr. Chair, only just to say and I pointed this out before, but so that the um viewing public will know that the school board has to officially accept any donations to schools or offices that are in excess of $500. So that's why that's on the agenda. >> Anything else? >> Miss Penny, will you please call for the vote? >> Miss, >> I. >> Miss Cherry, >> I. >> Dr. Banks Gray, >> I. >> Mr. Samuels >> I. >> Mr.
052Kilbour >> I. >> Dr. Woodhouse >> I. >> Dr. Mason. >> I. Motion carries. And now we'll move on to item number four, superintendent and staff reports. And I'll turn it over to our superintendent, Dr. Raymond Haynes. Thank you, Chair Mason, Vice Chair Jackson Afan, members of the board, and the Hampton community. Well, this evening's first presentation, Miss Kimberly Judge, director of special education, will provide the board with an overview of the division's 2627 special education plan in advance of its upcoming submission. As part of this presentation and at the request of the board, this judge will be joined by Miss Sherry Hildebrandt who oversees transition services for students with disabilities in Hampton City Schools. Miss Hildebrandt will share some highlights of the work our students are engaged in within the area. Miss Judge, >>
053good evening. Good evening, Chair Dr. Mason, Vice Chair, Miss Jackson Aana, school board members, Dr. H superintendent and the Hampton families. We come before you this evening to bring you an overview of the special education ann annual federal plan and also transition services. The annual plan application stands as submitted. But I did want to just highlight that this is an annual review of our federal and state law regulations that govern the work that we do for our students with disabilities here in Hampton City Schools. The goals, as outlined on the slide before you, continue to be closing the achievement gap for our students with disabilities, attracting, developing, and retaining exceptional staff, um maximizing departmental resources, and also what Miss Hildebrandt will talk about, and that's strengthening our post-secondary outcomes for our students with disabilities. Thank
054you. Just wanted to highlight for you that the number of students with disabilities in Hampton City Schools and that they represent 14% of our total population. We are requesting for federal funds in the amount of $4.9 million to help in those areas. As noted there, these are the positions and also the outliers the um individuals that will be supported in this federal grant. And now I'm going to turn it over to the wonderful Mrs. Hildebrandt, our transition specialist, to have some conversation and to highlight post-secary outcomes for our students with disabilities. You want me to click? Yep. Um, thank you for allowing me to share. I would like to briefly highlight how Hampton City Schools is intentionally building pathways that support our students with disabilities to become college, career, and life ready um through special
055education. What you'll see is not just another program. We're talking about intentional progression toward independence. So, what's working? Hampton City Schools. We offer strong pathways, partnerships, and opportunities for all students. Our focus is making sure that students with disabilities can successfully access and progress through those opportunities in meaningful ways. That means intentional building a progression from support to independence, aligning services, work-based learning, and individualized support so students can build confidence, competence, and readiness. As you can see, our work is aligned with themies. The goal is to intentionally move students from awareness and exploration toward confidence, independence, and real world readiness while defining post-secary goals. Every student deserves an accessible pathway forward. Our responsibility is to ensure there are no barriers. Build on students strengths and create meaningful opportunities that prepare students for college career and
056life regardless of their diploma tracks. One of our objectives is to build agency and community connections early. Through paths or pre-employment transition services and community partnerships, students begin exploring their strengths, their interest, and defining those post-secondary goals while families are building relationships with the supports that will continue to help them even after the school bus stops. What we have learned is that early connections and family involvement builds a higher sense of self-determination, building that confidence, that um competence and greater independence, which is why opportunities such as our resource fair and our back to transition nights are so valuable to our community. I want to add that 92% of our students on our applied studies track are connected with outside agencies by the completion of their ninth grade. Thanks to our amazing families and our educators
057that ensure all students understand the value of our community partners. Another objective and really the heart of getting students prepared for life after high school is the focus on building the foundational skills that students need for success. Communication, responsibility, teamwork, self- advocacy, and workplace readiness. Our next objective is where preparation becomes application. Students move from simulated experiences into authentic community and employment environments with supports individualized to their needs. What makes this work successful is the collaboration between families, schools, community agencies, vendors, and business partners, all working together to create those opportunities that can build the confidence, workplace readiness, and independence while gradually fading supports over time. As we reflect on our data, our student experiences, and our post-secary outcomes, we intentionally redesign and expand programming to better close gaps and increase meaningful opportunities for our
058students with disabilities. The initiatives that you see here are representative of an intentional continuum of transition services, ensuring students have opportunities aligned to their individual strengths, needs, and post-secondary goals. What makes these programs powerful is not simply their participation within them, but the intentional design behind the experiences that engage the students in a meaningful way to create those post-secondary outcomes we're looking for. So, what's behind the numbers right there? Um, this slide really captures our vision. The expectation for success remains the same. Now for the how. How does this happen? It's intentional progression over time. Starting with exploration and structured supports in the early years, then building to toward real employment, independence, and long-term career goals growth in the latter. What is important to recognize is that there is no single experience that creates the
059outcome we're looking for. >> It's the layering of supports worth within the opportunities and the learning, accessibility, genuine relationships, and intentional individualized planning continuously, repeatedly, and over time. And behind every successful transition story is a village of people working together to help students discover their strengths, build that confidence, and then prepare them for life beyond high school. Which brings us to our why. These quotes remind us of why our work matters. Transition is not about employment. It is not about graduation. It is about the confidence, the connection, the communication, the independence and helping students see their future selves. The outcome, remember that intentional how slide where it showed all of the different things someone could do between 9th, 10th, and 11th, and 12th. I would like to share with you what that intentionality meant to
060one student, Bethl High School. >> Looking back at ninth grade, I thought I was going to be a bum on the street. >> So, what are you now? >> Uh, I have a job. I work full-time. I have a car payment. Uh, managing my own bills, taking care of, uh, adult things. I'm able to do a lot of things on my own that I didn't know I think I could do, like managing my money, paying my own bills, going to work on time. When there's something wrong, I either take it to a boss or hire management. When I have a question, I ask. We need more of that. He had a village and I thank you for supporting the village that supports so many students. Two years after graduation, that young man is still employed
061full-time with benefits after two promotions and independent on Ford that started out as one of our academy partners. I am very thankful for him to give us the opportunity to take a chance on our students and then recognize that we offer the best talent in the area. >> Thank you very Oh, I have one other thing. Um, just yesterday we had over 50 students participating in a financial literacy day over at the Patriot Operation Center. I invite you guys to come out to any of our activities. the kids would love to see you. But one thing that really stood out was one of our volunteers shared how meaningful it was to her to be a part of that event. She shared, quote, "It was heartwarming for me to see that we are offering these types
062of experiences for our students to be successful in their futures." Thank you. >> Thank you very much. >> Any comments or questions from board members? Mr. Samuels. >> Thank you, Chairman Mason. Um, I just have one question. Um, but I [clears throat] would like to say great presentation. Um, this is amazing. Um, other than Winford, uh, who are some other employers that, um, employ our young people? I am thankful to say we have Cantara Hospital Carelex just uh hired one of our first students after um I think it's been eight years. We have got um Shipyard. We have a student in trial. >> We have a we have a um I can't remember the name of the agency for security. We are specifically aligning and working with ourmies >> and I have reached out to
063academy coaches to support us with our partners. Um Virginia Air and Space Science Center has been incredible. They have actually taken on the role of a class that has embedded 240 hours of workplace readiness with 120 hours being volunteer and 120 hours being paid. Um there I you got me on the spot and I can't even Fort Eustace. >> Oh, Fort Eustace employs quite a few. Yes, [clears throat] >> I appreciate that. >> Thank you, Mr. Fonta. >> Well, I I actually have a whole lot to say, but I don't want to bore people's patience on. [laughter] But I first of all just want to say wonderful presentation. And I think a few months ago, I was meeting with Miss Hilda Brand, and I really had blocked out about maybe 30 40 minutes on on
064my calendar to speak with her about specifically transition work and some of the DAR initiatives that were going away and um some of that money that we weren't no longer going to have. And I looked up and I think it was close to two hours later that we were still talking. And I'm telling you, I said, first of all, the board has to hear about all of these awesome things, but second of all, the general public needs to know because it is impressive work. And what I want to really point out is that our um we say in collaboration with our community, this is how our students achieve this success. But that collaboration just doesn't happen. It has to be extremely intentional and it's a lot of work that goes behind creating these project-based learning
065experiences um for our students which Sher you didn't even name half of them probably but there's a whole lot of opportunities for our students to have these short-term projectbased learning experiences. They can try different things and see what it is that they really like before going out into the workplace. And I think that's extremely valuable. Um, I think you know when this board says that we're committed to all students, all students being career and life or college ready, that is exactly what we mean. And what would the academy model mean if there were almost this many students that were left out of all of these exceptional opportunities? It wouldn't mean a lot if everyone could not participate and take advantage of it and receive all the benefits of our academy model. And so I'm just
066so happy um that these things are taking place. It's so much that is going on that again we couldn't we we we you can't talk two hours to the people like you talked to me [laughter] like you talked to me that night. But um but there's a lot and and I do want to participate and come out and actually see more things because the impact I happen to know about this young man from win forward through community nights. Um and so he has had a good he had an internship and which turned into um a real good career opportunity for him. So I'm so glad he was able to share that on this evening because these are the types of real life opportunities that are happening. So kudos to the special education department, Miss Judge
067to Sherry. I think this transition work surpasses what I see um on a typical basis. I've actually done this near and dear to my heart personally um and professionally and I happen to know a lot about transition work. So I I believe I know that this is a lot of effort, a lot of energy in making these connections and a lot of heart and care because I can always feel that when I talk to you Sherry that, you know, you just really care about the transition of the students and I know that trickles down from leadership um and from our um from Miss Judge and from our division leadership. And so I'm just so excited about the focus. I'm glad you got to share tonight so everybody can hear how great it is. Um, and
068I'm just excited for what's all to come continually. >> Thank you. Anyone else? >> All right. Thank you very much, >> Dr. Haynes. >> Well, the second [clears throat] presentation this evening, Miss Shemica Pard, chief of secondary school leadership, will share updates regarding dual enrollment opportunities in Hampton City Schools. She of course will be joined by Dr. Sean Calendarer, director of secondary school leadership. Miss Paula, >> thank you. >> Good evening, Chairman, Dr. Mason, Vice Chair, Miss Jackson Aanja, members of the Hampton School Board, Dr. Haynes, our superintendent, and to the Hampton community. This evening, I am super excited to provide an overview of the dual enrollment program offered at each of our four high schools and the benefits it provides to our young people and their families within our Hampton community. Tonight, we're going
069to identify the dual credit opportunities provided to Hampton City School students. review the overall dual enrollment design to include our partnership with Virginia Peninsula Community College and the dual enrollment participation requirements. We're going to share some data related to program growth and trends and discuss the associate degree pathways offered through the academy of the college experience. We won't spend a lot of time on that because Miss Goral already gave lots of information about that earlier. We will talk about the uniform certificate of general studies and then we will share a new opportunity designed to elevate student success in the academy of teaching education and learning. So just a little teaser there. So it all begins with our promise to our students, our families and our community. As you are aware, everything we do is anchored
070around the portrait of a Hampton graduate. The portrait of a Hampton graduate ensures every student is prepared for success in careers, lifelong learning, and life. In Hampton City Schools, we focus on educating the whole child to include content knowledge, career and life skills, communication, collaboration, and leadership, as well as a positive sense of self and purpose. Dual credits allow high school students to enroll in college level courses and earn credit prior to high school graduation. Students can earn dual credit by qualifying score on a culminating standardized exam in advanced placement or as we call AB AP, excuse me, and IB courses or through dual enrollment coursework. Dual enrollment courses are college courses taught at the high school by certified instructors. Specialized courses may also be taken at the Governor School for Science and Technology. So,
071why is dual enrollment a great option for your child? Why not? High school juniors and seniors can enroll in an approved college course and concurrently or simultaneously earn high school and college credit at the same time. Several courses offered through our partnership with Virginia Peninsula Community College meet the diploma requirements for graduation from high school. And don't forget the college credit. And did I mention at no cost to families? Dual enrollment courses provide more breath and depth in each content area, allowing students to dive deeper into their learning experience. The dual enrollment program also provides students with a smooth transition to the college experience. They receive encouragement, assistance, and support from professional school counselors, VPCC instructors, academy teachers, academy coaches, and administrators, as well as a close-knit coh cohort of peers striving for the same
072goals. And one of my favorite benefits, if you didn't hear me before, the incredible financial savings to families. In Hampton City Schools, we believe in equity through access and opportunity, breaking down barriers to advanced educational programs and vocational experiences. This includes introducing our students to college level curriculum and showing them how courses are not only designed for the student who strives to attend a four-year college, but also those students seeking advancement in vocational fields requiring certifications and a higher grade andor advancement in different branches of the armed forces. Tonight, we're going to highlight our strong partnership with VPCC to provide the dual enrollment program at each of our four campuses. Students who are interested in taking dual enrollment courses must meet three requirements. They must be a high school junior or senior. Parents must give
073permission and they must meet admission requirements and prerequisites set forth by Hampton City Schools and Virginia Peninsula Community College. VPCC outlines admission requirements that must be met prior to acceptance at the college and enrollment in those courses. Currently, students who are a junior or senior and have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher may be acce accepted even if they don't meet the test score requirements. Now, think back with me to May 7th, 2025. We shared our vision and next steps for the 2025 school year. I'll now turn it over to Dr. Sha Calendarer, director of secondary school leadership, who will present an overview of our current progress and key developments. Thank you, Miss Pard. Good evening, everyone. In Hampton City Schools, we are proud to offer dual enrollment courses at each of our four
074high schools. We have increased the number of credentialed teachers by 13 in one year from 38 in 2025 to 51 this year. We remain committed to expanding the capacity for dual enrollment in each of our high schools. In an effort to increase our DE courses availability, we developed an instructional stipen for teachers. We were also able to offer tuition reimbursement up to $1,500 per course to assist teachers in getting credentialed. The percentage of students in dual enrollment courses has continued to increase since 2021. In 2021, 8.13% of our 10th and through 12th graders were enrolled in DE courses. And currently, we have 22.03% taking DE courses. That's an increase of almost 14%. The first dual enrollment courses were offered in the 2014 to 2015 school year. The credits earned that school year were totaled of
075518. Over the last nine years, our commitment to provide more opportunities to our young people has strengthened along with our enrollment. Our DE programs have experienced tremendous growth. As you can see, in 2025 school year, we reached 9,919 school credits earned. This represents our credits earned each year since the 2014 school year. To date, students in Hampton City Schools have earned 52,173 dual enrollment credits, saving our families 6,712,758. Let me repeat dollars. Yes, dollars. Let me repeat that. $6.7 million. And on this slide, it represents our family savings since the 2014 school year. The V, excuse me, the Virginia Peninsula Community College Academy of the College Experience or ACE is design is designed to provide students with a rigorous academic environment that actively supports high school graduation, college preparation, and military advancement and workplace readiness
076and skills. Sorry about that. Students in ACE have the opportunity to earn associates of science degree in social science or science. The associates of social science support students interested in pursuing careers such as psychology, counseling, education, and political science. Students with a passion for science, math, or computer science would pursue the associate of science degree, which you heard about earlier. Since 2018, 226 young people in Hampton City Schools have earned their associates degree before graduating from high school. We are pleased, as you heard earlier, that we had 69 earned the the associates degree, bringing the total number of associates degrees earned to 295 since 2018. That's >> So yes, 295 295 >> since 2018. >> Wow. Great. >> Through our continued partnership with VPCC, we're are pleased to announce a new program, the Uniform Certificate
077of General Studies. This program allows students to build a strong academic foundation and supports a seamless transfer of one year of college credits to any public university in the state of Virginia. A uniform certificate of general studies includes courses from all content areas, English, math, science, history, and electives. So, this is just a sample of what they take. We are pleased to announce that currently six students have met the requirements for the uniform certificate of general studies. These students will participate in the VPCC commencement exercises. We have exciting news, Dr. Mason, we are pleased to announce the associate of science and education degree at kickotan high school. Students in the academy of teaching and learning will be prepared to for careers in education. These students will be building foundational knowledge in child development, classroom practices,
078and real world teaching experiences leading to both workforce readiness and success in post secondary programs. We are continuing to recruit students to participate in the inaugural cohort for this degree. Courses unique to the associates of science and education include the foundations of education, teaching in diverse society, the introduction of autism spectrum disorders, classroom and behavioral management, and the foundations of ex exceptional education. Our first class for the associates of science and education will be our current ninth graders, the warrior class of 2029. I'd like to invite Miss Pard back to the podium to finish our presentation. >> Thank you. So, I wanted to give you just a few additional updates. I can't top that big announcement of the associates degree at Kickotan High School. But I do want to give you some additional updates. The
079digital video career studies certificate at Feebas High School is continuing to grow and we have 12 students who will earn certificates this year. We are in our second year of implementation with a welding certificate for students in the Virginia Ship Repair Association Maritime Academy at Hampton High School. And nine of our young people will receive these certificates this year. Five of our welders were already offered jobs at Huntington Engles and two will start in June. The others have delayed their acceptance um but they will accept. This year we added an electrician certificate as well and we have nine crabbers in that inaugural group. These young people will earn their electrician one and two certificates and will also participate in the commencement exercises at Virginia Peninsula Community College. Through our partnership with VPCC, we have implemented
080the legal assistant career studies certificate at Bethl High School and we look forward to having graduates with this certificate next year. This work cannot be done in isolation. There's a lot there's a lot of work. There are far too many partners to name them all. So, I will simply say thank you. I would like to highlight our partnership with Virginia Peninsula Community College and thank them for understanding our needs and working with us to see our goals through. I'd like to thank Dr. calendar, director of secondary school leadership, who is a beast at recruiting teachers to take on this great task of working with our dual enrollment students. Um, he has been aggressive in the recruitment of dual enrollment teachers and supporting kickotan and getting this associates degree off the ground. I'd like to personally
081thank our superintendent, Dr. Haynes. Thank you for your vision, your leadership, and your spirit of yes whenever we pitch a new opportunity for our students. To our outstanding school board, thank you for your leadership and your interest in all that we do to ensure academic excellence for every child, every day, whatever it takes. And if you have any questions, we would be happy to answer. All right, I'm going to ask my fellow colleagues if there are any questions or comments. Mr. Kilgore. >> Um, just real quick, excellent presentation. Very excited to hear this news every year. Um, one of the highlights for me was seeing the 51 teachers that are I actually got approached by another division asking how we did it. Mhm. >> And it it really is, you know, that that strong partnerships
082and and nothing done in isolation, but it's really, if you look at the progression of this program, it has been concentrated effort. We started out with two students, >> right? >> You know, now we're doing it 69, >> 295 total. Just incredibly impressive. But when you think about if you if you were just starting this, the challenge is getting the teachers. >> Yes. >> So the fact that we've gotten that and to the point that we're actually starting another academy, very excited about that one >> in particular, just can't say enough about how this program is so impressive. And I will point out on the finance side, those savings that 6.7 million. Yes, sir. >> Is based on the tuition rate for Virginia Peninsula Community College. >> That's correct. >> You look at the tuition
083rates for some of the stu schools that the other they go to afterwards. >> You translate that into the savings and it it really grows. >> So, thank you all very much for all you do. >> Thank you. >> Yes. >> And Mr. Samuels, >> great presentation, Miss Pard and Mr. Calendarer. Um, so as we're launching this uh the Academy of Teaching, Education, and Learning, I know there's going to be some opportunity for our young people because they will need some tutoring and uh uh hours. and to let you know that the school age programs stand with you when you need those individual to have those coursework and uh and hours that they needed to get their associates degree. We will stand with you to make sure that they get that because it's it's going
084to it's going to be it's going to pay dividends for us Dr. Haynes. >> Yes, sir. Because once they thoseu student cross that graduation, we will present them with a promising promising note that if you stay with us >> is an opportunity >> for you to be a full certified teacher. >> Absolutely. Fantastic. >> It's a win-win for all of us. So, we didn't include because this is hot off the press, but Kickotan High School this week, Mon last week, I'm sorry, did the PARP pro assessment for 20 students in the Academy of Teaching, Education, and Learning. 19 of them passed. So, we now have 19 students who are ready to be instructional assistants as well. >> That's awesome. >> That's crazy. >> That's what it's all about. That's what we've been pushing. any of
085Mr. Fe did you? >> Well, I just think it's impressive. I mean, I I you know, um what Mr. Kilgore said about the uh additional teachers, I thought was extremely impress. It just creates so many more opportunities for class slots for times and classes so that our students who want to take classes and sometimes they before they might conflict with another class or something but now this opens up the door for um this number to just grow and grow you know just um so much. So I'm very excited about that. But I'm also so excited about the certifications because I think that it just it just creates so many more opportunities for our students and we know that sometimes our students can't see themselves in a particular career or really don't know what to do
086or what to select and but the more we can say hey you could be an electrician you can do welding you can do this I mean it's just great opportunities for for them so I'm really excited about those additional or the digital media I'm just really excited about all these certifications um that students can leave school and already be able to earn >> college career and life. >> Yes, indeed. Indeed. Thank you. >> And I want to say I'm truly excited about all of this. Um the fact that we can offer dual enrollment credits at all four of our high schools actually. Um, and it's truly amazing when we look at the landscape of what we're doing here in Hampton City Schools and being on the front line of this work. It's changing the landscape
087of higher education. >> It really is. And so I think we are truly charting a pathway that has never um been taken before. And so being pioneers of this work is is truly amazing. All right, Miss Cherry. Thank you, M. Thank you, Mr. Chair. Um, it goes without saying this is just so impressive, and I'm so glad we're doing at a televised meeting because I think the public really needs to understand that this is not business as usual. >> You can't go to ABC school division and expect to get this. Now, I know there are some school divisions around the state of Virginia where they do a little something, but guess what? the students have to take their hips to the college and universities. You don't have to do that in Hampton City Schools. And
088I'm glad that you are a beast in terms of getting our teachers. I'm so glad because that's what makes the difference because if we didn't have the teachers, then we may be in that same position, which isn't bad, where our students have to go to that college or university to receive this kind of education, credit, and success. But that's not who Hampton City Schools is. So that definitely sets us apart from other school divisions. And I think it's important to know that our community know and that people who are our citizens know you've got a lot to be proud of when you talk about Hampton City Schools because this is something you're not getting anywhere else. So, I just want to say how excited I am, not as just a board member, but as a
089taxpaying citizen of Hampton, to know that this is going on in the school division I call my home. So, thank you very much. >> Thank you. >> Dr. Banks Gray. >> Thank you, Mr. Chair. I'd be remiss if I didn't say anything about this um exceptional um presentation. I just want to say thank you all. I know the hard work that that goes into this. I want to thank you for adding to the ecosystem of exceptional education. Like Miss Cherry said, you can't find this in other localities close to us. And we know the hard work that goes into this. And we know the blood, sweat, and the tears that the young people put into getting those degrees and what have you. And I just want to personally say thank you. I've had several conversations
090with um community members um some that are single parents that do know that um without these cost savings, they would not be able to send their young people to college. So, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart. Um wonderful presentation. I love the stats, the 6.7 um cost savings. Absolutely amazing. And the new um the new program that's coming to Kikatan, I cannot wait. Job well done. >> Thank you. and thank you for the opportunity. >> Anyone else? All right. Thank you, Dr. Haynes. >> For our f for our final presentation, excuse me, uh this evening, Mrs. Brittney Branch, our chief financial officer, will present a business and finance report for March 2026. >> Good evening, Chair Mason, Vice Chair Jackson Aja, school board members Dr. Hannes and the Hampton community.
091Tonight I am presenting an overview of the March 2026 board report. Um our total operating budget currently still stands at $329 million. On the revenue side, we have collected $29 million. That's about 64% of the budget received as as of the end of March. 147 million of that number is from state funds and 42 million is our local contribution. When we look at our expenditures, we have our largest spending category continuing to be instruction followed by administration, attendance, and health. We've spent approximately $223 million as the end of at the end of March, and that's about 68% of the budget, and the payroll costs represent about 77% of total spending. I'm also happy to report tonight that we did submit our spring membership port to VDOE and we are reporting a average daily membership from
092March 31st of 18,481 and that is an increase of 128 when we compare that to our budgeted ADM of 18,353. We used the most recent direct aid template to give us an estimate of what that increase might um how it might impact our budget. And we are estimating an increase of about $3.5 million in state funds. Um we're going to continue to monitor all other revenue sources, but we plan to bring back approval for the additional revenue and any other changes at the next scheduled board meeting. And once we do have um school board approval, we will submit the additional revenue to city council as well. And as always, you do have a list of transfers to and from the technology classification for the month of March as well. And that completes tonight's report. >>
093All right. Thank you very much. Any questions or comments from board members? >> All right. Thank you, Mr. Chair. That concludes superintendent and staff reports. >> All right. Thank you very much. Moving along, we're going to move on to item number five, items for deliberation. We have 5.01, Virginia School Board Association VSBA Excellence in Workforce Readiness Award. 5.02, Review of School Board Policy, JHC, Student Health Services and Requirements. 5.03, Review of Schoolboard Policy, JHG-R, Reporting and Investigation of Suspected Child Abuse and Neglect. 5.04, 04 review of schoolboard policy JHG-E suspected child abuse referral and 5.05 schoolboard policy JHG child abuse and neglect reporting and the let me start with the school board uh the BSBA workforce readiness award >> Mr. Chair. >> Yes sir. Hampton City Schools plans to submit an entry for the 2026
094VSBA Excellence and Workforce Readiness Award highlighting the Academy of Digital Video Production at Feebas High School. For submission requirements, schoolboard approval is needed. As you all are aware, this [snorts] item is on the deliberation agenda for tonight's meeting and we are requesting it to be moved to the action agenda for the May 20th meeting. Okay. All right. Any questions, comments from board members? All right. And so moving along to the remaining items. Oh, there she is. Miss Hatcher, those items rest with you. You want to >> Good evening. >> Um yes, we had talked about these at first read policies. These are all related to our um child abuse referral and the reports that we do and just some updates for the board that um we have a duplicate policy for policy JHG um on
095our adult side um of how any staff member is required to report that. And so we're recommending the deletion of that. The other two policies, um there are still parts of those that our process uses. We do still have a form that um schools and folks use, but um just asking that that not be part of the policy. Is that those are our practices and procedures in the schools. >> All right. Thank you. Any questions or comments from board members? >> All right. Thank you. All right. That takes us to item number six on our agenda tonight. Items for action. We have 6.01, minutes of the school board meeting of April 1st, 2026. 6.02, school board policy JGAA, student makeup work procedures on the secondary school level. 6.03 School Board Policy JFC, search and seizure.
0966.04, 4 schoolboard policy JFA student disciplinary due process rights 6.05 schoolboard policy JEC school admissions 6.06 schoolboard policy EBB accident and serious illness reports 6.07 schoolboard policy JHFD student automobile use skateboard use and bike helmet safety 6.08 08 schoolboard policy JHCCA communicable bloodborne diseases and what's the pleasure of the board. >> Mr. Chair, I move that we approve action item 6.01, minutes of the school board meeting of April 1st, 2026. >> Second. >> It's been properly moved by Mr. AJ and seconded by Mr. Kilgore that we approve item number 6.01, minutes of the school board meeting of April 1st, 2026. Any discussion? >> Miss Penny, will you please call for the vote? >> Miss Afan, >> I. >> Miss Cherry, >> I. >> Dr. Banks Gray, >> I. >> Mr. Samuels, >> I. >> Mr.
097Kilboard, >> I. >> Dr. Woodhouse, >> abstain. >> Dr. Mason, >> I. Motion carries. Right. That takes us to the remaining items on um item number six. So, we have 6.02 through 6.08. And what's the pleasure of the board? >> Mr. Chair, move approval of action item 6.02 through 6.08 as a block. >> Second. >> It's been promptly moved by Mr. Kilgore and seconded by Dr. Woodhouse that we approve item 6.02 through 6.08 as a block. Any discussion? >> Miss Penny, will you please call for the vote? >> Miss >> I. >> Miss Cherry, >> I. >> Dr. Banks Gray, >> I. >> Mr. Samuels >> I >> Mr. Kilgore >> I >> Dr. Woodhouse >> I >> Dr. Mason. >> I motion carries. That takes us to item number seven, hearing of any delegations
098or presentation of any written communication or petitions. And we do have one. So, Miss Penny, will you please read the protocol? >> Citizens are invited to address the school board. Citizens are invited to address the school board on matters of public concern about the school division. Speaker forms are available prior to the start of the meeting. If you wish to address the school board, please complete the form and give it to the clerk by 6:45 p.m. on the day of the meeting. Each individual will have three minutes to speak. At the end of your time, you will hear a buzzer. All comments shall be directed to the school board. Speakers may not yield their time to another. Speakers should address the school board with decorum on policy issues. Comments shall relate to agenda items or
099matters gerine to the business or duties of the school board. Speakers comment on individuals at their own risk of violating confidentiality laws andor defaming the subjects of their comments. Neither the school board, the superintendent, nor the school administration will respond publicly to any comments by speakers about individuals. Presentations of resolutions, declarations, pro proclamations, manifestos, awards, or other similar documents not originated under the auspicious of the school board or administration is prohibited during the public comment period. The audience is asked to be respectful of all speakers. Public comment is the school board's opportunity to listen to the speaker. Once our purpose is since our purpose is to hear from you, the board will not engage in dialogue with the audience or whomever is at the podium. Matters requiring a response will be directed to the superintendent
100for research and response. The superintendent may report back on such matters at a subsequent business meeting session as appropriate. The school board carefully considers your comments as we decide matters that are brought before us. We appreciate your attendance and your input. >> Thank you very much. And I do have one request tonight and that's from Tana Drew. It's true. You go ahead and approach the podium and you can state your name and address for the viewing public as per policy and protocol. Thank you. How you doing? My name is Tana Drew. I live at 120 Tburn Court, Hampton, Virginia 23669. Okay. My daughter, she's attend Caesar Torant um middle school, secondary school in Hampton public schools. Um upon attaining enrolling in her school, she been in McKenney Vento program where she received transportation and during
101the whole time she the whole time attending the school she did not utilize the transportation system. And also um first let me um experience inform you that my child um do have a PE class. Um Miss Carla McGomery is the principal. Um she employed two principles with no bachelorette um diploma to you know have you know um to teach health and also um my daughter has been stranded at the bus stop from numerous times um several times um the latest times was today um for 30 40 minutes and the first time that I addressed this I addressed it to the board I remember and I also addressed it to uh Mr. Kongo and also Shemica Pard. Um there were no resolution to resolve this situation. Um I communicate with her. There's been numerous of times
102where she did not communicate back. Um she do communicate well when it comes to education. I can say that. Um, but it's been a problem with the transportation, leaving my daughter abandoned and stranded at the bus stop um, numerous amount of times while I'm at work. And I have a problem with that. She's missed school days from education and she also missed the field trip to go to um, Feebas High School to experience um, that with the other children as well. And also um, I talked to Mr. Blackwell. he's never available in his office to respond to any type of diretory um direction and um try to make it easier for my child to be able to, you know, get back and forth to school being that I have not utilized it in 2025, but
103I have used utilized it in 2026 only because I had got into a car accident and um I have yet to, you know, acquire transportation. So um basically I have been utilizing it but last year when I um wanted I signed up for it um it was been you know I used it certain times but as I resumed it um it's been a lot of problem with connecting with um the supervisors connecting with um the people that's in in control of the transportation situation to able to get my daughter back and forth to school. Um it's it's been a lot a lot of ne negligence and a lot of um duties that your leadership should provide that hasn't been um resoluted res resolved in any type of form or fashion. My daughter is still utilizing
104the transportation. >> Okay, >> that's that's a signal for time, Miss TR. Okay, >> thank you very much. And someone will get back to you will address that. So, if you want to stick around for a minute. >> Thank you. >> All right. That takes us to item number eight. Items for information 8.01. Next meetings. The ne next work session will be held at 6:30 p.m. on May the 20th right here at Jones Magnet Middle School. And the next regular meeting will be held at 6:30 on June the 3. Once again, right here at Jones. All right. Other items for information. I'll start with you, uh, Mr. Superintendent. Thank you, Chair Mason. As we observe teacher appreciation week, I want to take a moment to recognize the incredible work of our teachers. Each day, our
105teachers inspire learning, build relationships, and create opportunities that shape the future of our young people. Their dedication and passion truly make a difference. This week also includes National School Nurse Day, and we are grateful for our school nurses who care for the health and well-being of our students with compassion and expertise. While this week highlights teachers, we know it takes a strong team working together to support student success. To all of our HCS team, thank you for the role you play in making Hampton City Schools a place where young people can learn and thrive. The 11th annual Run for the Stage 5K will take place this Saturday, May 9th, at Sandy Bottom Nature Park in Hampton. Packet pickup begins at 8:00 a.m. and the race kicks off at 900 a.m. This exciting event supports ontime
106graduation by providing scholarships for young people who are attending a community college. On Thursday, May 14th, at 2 p.m., we will celebrate nearly 100 of our students, many who were recognized this evening as they earned their associate degree, welding, or electrician or electrical certification, digital video career studies certificate, or uniform certificate of general studies during the Virginia Peninsula Community College commencement ceremony at the Hampton Coliseum. Lastly, our annual academic excellence banquet will be held on Tuesday, May 19th at the Virginia Air and Space Center. The program begins begins at 6 p.m. sharp. During this event, we will recognize 14 outstanding young people from each high school, including top GPA at each grade level and seniors with the highest SAT and ACT scores. family, staff, schoolboard members, and community partners will join us as we celebrate
107these young people's achievements and their journey toward becoming the portrait of a Hampton graduate. That concludesformational items from the superintendent. >> All right. Anything else from other board members? All right. Dr. Kaja, did you say you and Dr. Haynes will be running in the run for the stage? >> Oh, he's going to walk. I was prepared, but I had an injury to my leg. I was ready to defeat him. [laughter] >> Anything for my student rep? >> Uh yes, sir. I want to thank the school board, our division leadership team um for everything that they do for our students. Uh it's very um encouraging and uh it's great to see that everything that is being provided for our students and everything that our students and families are taking um advantage of. Um on behalf of
108uh my academy uh at Feebas High School, Academy of the College Experience, there's a lot of students who are very excited to be receiving their associates degrees and um their certificates of general studies being able to um go into these four-year institutions um as first year juniors, which is major. Um and as we talked about the the financial burden kind of being taken away from these families, I think that's a fantastic thing. So just thank you on behalf um of the students and families. >> All right. Thank you. All right. With no further business to be brought before this board, I declare this meeting adjourned. Thank you.