NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) – Students in Norfolk are headed back to school on Aug. 19. It’s the earliest date the school division has started school.
The new school year is bringing some changes across the district.
Teachers will receive an 8% pay raise, bringing teacher salaries more in line with other area districts.
NPS also stated there are over 400 new full-time teachers throughout the district.
For the 2024-25 school year, all Norfolk Public School (NPS) students will get free breakfast and lunch through a federal program from the USDA called the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP). No application is needed for the program.
10 On Your Side’s KaMaria Braye spoke with some students headed back at Crossroads Elementary School, and they say they are ready for the new school year.
“I’m feeling very excited you know I’m taking all honors classes,” said Tristen Begley, a 6th grader. “I think it’s going to be a lot harder but I think I can get it done and pass.”
His sister, Deona, is in 2nd grade.
“I’m excited to do science because math is pretty hard for me,” she said.
Their mother Dacia looks forward to seeing her kids accomplish their goals.
“It’s going to be a great year. He couldn’t sleep last night and he’s excited to do his honor classes. It’s going to be great,” she said.
Faculty, staff and volunteers clapped and cheered for students as they entered school. There was even a balloon arch, and a sign that said “Welcome Back Dolphins.”
“We’re here for them. We want to make sure that they succeed at everything that they do,” said Ernesto Hofilena, Dean of Students.
Most other school districts, including Virginia Beach, Newport News, Poquoson, Portsmouth and Suffolk will start back next week, Aug. 26. Chesapeake, Accomack and Isle of Wight schools are set to return on Sept. 3, after Labor Day.
Check out WAVY’s Back-to-School Guide here.