NNPS News

State education officials visit Newsome Park Elementary School

Dr. Jeffery Smith helps two fifth-grade boys with STEM tablets and building models at Newsome Park Elementary

Published September 3, 2026

Commonwealth of Virginia Secretary of Education Dr. Jeffery Smith, Secretary of Public Instruction Dr. Jenna Conway, and Deputy Superintendent of Instructional and Educator Excellence Jessica Proffitt visited Newsome Park Elementary School on September 3.

Students at Newsome Park, which is a Math, Science and Technology Magnet school, and the entire school community welcomed the three representatives from the Virginia Department of Education into their classrooms.

Smith, Conway and Proffitt interacted with fifth graders in a science, technology, engineering and math class as their first stop. The three then each went to a separate classroom to read a book to and visit with students in kindergarten, second grade and third grade.

“On behalf of Newport News Public Schools, we appreciate the visit and we appreciate the support,” said NNPS Superintendent Dr. Michele Mitchell.

Virginia education officials pose with NNPS leaders at the Newsome Park Elementary School sign.

A young student raises her hand as Dr. Jeffery Smith visits her classroom at Newsome Park Elementary.

Dr. Jenna Conway makes animal ears while reading a book to young students in their classroom.

A woman helps a student use a tablet during a STEM activity at Newsome Park Elementary.

Dr. Jenna Conway tries a virtual reality headset alongside students at Newsome Park Elementary.