James Bailey

The board conducted its annual organizational meeting, which included the election of the chairperson and vice chairperson. Several key appointments were made, including the clerk of the school board, deputy clerk, freedom of information officer, and a superintendent's designate. Additionally, the board approved the schedule of regular meetings for the ensuing year and held a recognition segment to celebrate the contributions of staff members.

The board meeting included student-led opening ceremonies and recognitions for middle school boys and girls volleyball champions. The board approved the consent agenda, which included a personnel report. The director of curriculum, instruction, and assessment presented the proposed school calendar for the 2026-2027 school year and a draft calendar for the 2027-2028 school year, detailing key dates such as the start and end of the school year, holiday breaks, and the introduction of a planning day for both elementary and secondary teachers.

The board meeting included a student presentation on the pledge of allegiance and a literary performance. The board received the Cognia Excellence in STEM Education Award in recognition of its division-wide commitment to STEM programming, including the Academies of Hampton model. Additionally, the board recognized over 60 educators who completed the teacher leadership professional learning series, which focuses on leadership, communication, collaboration, and professional growth.

The meeting featured a student recognition segment involving the recitation of affirmations and a student athlete award ceremony for a state track champion. Key administrative discussions included the adoption of the agenda and a detailed presentation regarding the fiscal year 2026-2027 budget recommendation, highlighting increased local contributions from the city, proposed salary scale adjustments for teachers with advanced degrees, and the impact on various grant-funded programs. The board also initiated the process to move specific deliberation items, including meeting cancellations and the final budget recommendation, to action.

The board meeting included a student presentation and performance in celebration of School Board Appreciation Month. The board also approved an agenda amendment to include an employee grievance matter. Additionally, several educators were recognized for professional achievements, including a Virginia Council on Economic Education award and a Virginia Music Educators Association outstanding administrator honor, alongside the recognition of national board certified teachers.