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NNPS reports 860 preschool slots, opens online application for 2026–27; district says demand exceeds capacity
Summary
Instructional supervisor Amarie Hammer told the board that Newport News Public Schools operates 43 preschool classrooms serving 860 four-year-olds, highlighted VPI and VQB5 quality measures and announced the online application for the 2026–27 preschool year with in-person support available at NNPS sites.
Newport News Public Schools told its board on April 21 that the district's preschool program serves 860 four-year-olds across 43 classrooms and that applications for the 2026–27 preschool year are now available online.
Amarie Hammer, instructional supervisor for preschool, presented the update and described how the division uses the Virginia Preschool Initiative (VPI) and the Virginia Quality Birth to Five System (VQB5) to measure and improve classroom quality. "We strive to elevate and empower the potential of each young learner," Hammer said, outlining curriculum, social-emotional learning and dual-language immersion offerings. The district reported that about 80 preschool students participate in English-Spanish dual-language immersion classrooms.
Hammer cited midyear assessment data for students who attended NNPS preschool the prior year: 89% of that cohort scored in the low- or moderate-risk band on a fall literacy screening; 92% met the benchmark on a fall kindergarten math assessment; and 86% met the fall social-emotional development benchmark. The presentation credited twice-yearly classroom observations and targeted professional development—more than 400 hours of one-on-one coaching over five years—for supporting teacher growth.
Board members asked about capacity and expansion. Officials said there is physical space across early childhood centers but that staffing and state funding constrain the number of slots; the district is pursuing additional state funds to expand capacity. Staff emphasized that, while the application is fully online, families without devices or internet can get in-person help at any NNPS school office and at outreach events such as a STEM community day on May 30.
The district encouraged early application because slots are filling; Hammer noted families may call or email the NNPS preschool office for assistance.
Why it matters: Early preschool access and quality measures affect kindergarten readiness and long-term outcomes. The board heard that demand exceeds current capacity and that the district is seeking ways to expand services within staffing and funding limits.
