Newport News School Board Backs Sales Tax to Address Facility Needs
Plus, City highlights library resources; career fairs; July events for residents
The Newport News School Board recently voted to approve a resolution supporting a 1% local sales tax dedicated to public school construction and capital improvement projects. The measure responds to a new statewide local-option sales tax referendum mechanism included in Virginia’s proposed FY 2027–2028 biennial budget, which would expand eligibility to additional localities, including Newport News.
If enacted, the proposed sales tax is projected to generate approximately $29 million annually, with revenue legally restricted to school construction, major renovations, or related debt service, and the tax could only take effect following voter approval in a general election referendum. The resolution passed 4-1, with Gary Hunter, Terri Best, Lisa Surles-Law, and Rasheena Harris voting yes and Rebecca Aman voting no. The board will now transmit the resolution to the Newport News City Council, the City Manager, and the city’s delegation to the Virginia General Assembly for further consideration.
Board Chairman Dr. Terri L. Best said in the school system’s FY26-27 proposed budget that “the amount of funding received to maintain our schools and facilities can affect the building and building systems’ life cycles,” noting that deferred maintenance issues grow larger over time and that the district’s aging buildings require increased operating funds for upkeep and equipment replacement. Under the current capital budget, Newport News Public Schools will receive $47 million for various improvements and renovations, including $32 million for renovations at Warwick High School, as The Daily Press reported earlier this year.
Newport News Public Schools’ building stock is heavily concentrated in the mid-20th century, with the 1960s standing out as the peak construction decade at 13 buildings. The 1950s and 1970s each added 7 buildings, meaning the majority of the district’s facilities—27 of 39 total—date back roughly 50 to 75 years. Construction slowed significantly after 1980, with only 2 buildings added in the 1980s, 4 in the 1990s, 2 in the 2000s, and just 1 since 2010. Only 3 buildings predate 1950. The data underscores the aging infrastructure driving current capital funding discussions, as most schools are well past the midpoint of a typical building lifespan.
Watch the July 21 special meeting where the Newport News School Board voted 4-1 to support a 1% sales tax for school construction.
In other news:
Education CNU Music Technology Program Offers Hands-On Studio Access and Professional MentorshipChristopher Newport University highlighted its distinctive approach to music education through a faculty spotlight featuring Dr. Maxwell Tfirn. The university’s Music Technology program combines practical studio experience with personalized instruction from professional musicians and educators who bring real-world industry knowledge into the classroom.
Business Virginia Peninsula Chamber to host entrepreneurship workshop August 6 The Virginia Peninsula Chamber announced registration is now open for its Pink Bag Lunch series event titled “Should I Start A Company?” The program will take place Thursday, August 6, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., featuring guest speaker Rachel Willinger, founder and consultant at IMPACTech Consulting.
Virginia Peninsula Chamber Opens LEAD Higher Applications for 2027 The Virginia Peninsula Chamber announces that applications are now open for LEAD Higher, an advanced leadership development program launching in January 2027. The application deadline is Friday, August 21, 2026, giving interested community leaders one month to submit their materials.
Community & Services Newport News Public Library Offers Free Access to Thousands of News SourcesNewport News Public Library announced that cardholders with an active All Access library card can now access America’s News, a comprehensive online database featuring thousands of newspapers, journals and news publications from across the United States. The resource includes more than 4,000 news sources, including full-color editions of publications such as the Daily Press, The Virginian-Pilot, Richmond Times-Dispatch and USA Today.
Newport News Public Library extends summer reading challenge through July 31 Newport News Public Library reports there is still time to participate in its Summer Reading Challenge before the program concludes on July 31. The initiative, themed “Unearth a Story,” invites readers of all ages to discover new books, track reading minutes and earn rewards while celebrating literacy and lifelong learning.
Newport News highlights career fairs and community senior programs NNPS-TV reported on several community events taking place in Newport News this week. The segment highlighted college and career fairs at Crittenden, Gildersleeve, and Hines schools, offering students opportunities to explore educational pathways and employment options. Additionally, the Heritage Senior Chat and Chew program continues to serve the area’s senior population with social and recreational activities. The coverage also included information about the Saunders Career Wax Museum, which provides educational exhibits related to career development and professional achievement in the Newport News area.
Recreation & Events Newport News Offers Varied Events Throughout Late July Newport News presents a full calendar of events for residents and visitors seeking entertainment and cultural activities during the final week of July. From outdoor markets to live performances, there are numerous opportunities to explore the community’s diverse offerings.
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