Virginia Beach School Board reviews Tri Campus reconfiguration and honors legacy of Betty Williams

The Virginia Beach City Public Schools held a workshop on February 25, 2025, to discuss the reconfiguration of the Tri Campus and gather direction from the school board. The meeting focused on two primary options for restructuring the schools, with an emphasis on the educational benefits of a pre-kindergarten through fifth-grade model.

The discussion began with a presentation outlining the need for direction from the school board to initiate the reconfiguration process. Key elements included an analysis of costs for building additions at Diamond Springs and Newtown Elementary Schools, as well as recommendations for attendance zones. A significant point of discussion was the desire to honor the legacy of Betty F. Williams, with suggestions for how to incorporate her name into the new school structure.

Several board members expressed their support for the pre-k through fifth-grade model, citing research that indicates fewer transitions between schools can benefit students' educational experiences. Member Melnick emphasized the importance of relying on professional staff for guidance in decision-making, while others raised concerns about projected student headcounts and staffing needs.

The timeline for implementation was also a topic of interest, with the possibility of the new configuration being ready for the 2027 school year if the board provides direction promptly. However, delays could extend the timeline further.

As the meeting progressed, board members voiced their opinions on the options presented. Many favored the first option, which would reduce transitions for students and allow staff to remain at their designated schools, thereby fostering stronger relationships with students. The importance of maintaining the Betty F. Williams name was reiterated, with suggestions for forming a committee to ensure her legacy is honored in the new school structure.

The workshop concluded with a transition to the second budget workshop presentation, where updates on the state budget and potential additional funding considerations were to be discussed. Overall, the meeting highlighted the board's commitment to making informed decisions that prioritize the educational needs of students while honoring community history.