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Stakeholder Input Report for

NNoorrffoollkk PPuubblliicc

SScchhoooollss

NNoorrffoollkk,, VViirrggiinniiaa

submitted by

October 2019

11725 Arbor St., Suite 220 Omaha, Nebraska 68144

Phone: 888-375-4814/402-991-7031 Fax: 402-991-7168

Email: [email protected] Website: www.macnjake.com

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Norfolk Public School

Norfolk, Virginia

District Stakeholder Input

Executive Summary

On October 21-23, 2019, consultants Dr. Ralph Ferrie, Dr. Marjorie Wallace and Dr. Barry

Carroll conducted meetings with district stakeholders representing twelve different groups

associated with the Norfolk Public Schools. The consultants received personal input from

approximately 200 plus individuals in these groups. Input was gathered regarding the selection

of a new superintendent for the Norfolk Public Schools.

Outlined on this page and the following pages is an Executive Summary of the major themes

expressed by the participants at these sessions. Following the Executive Summary is a

compilation of all the input received from these groups and individuals in response to the four

questions asked of each group and participant. The final section of this report will consist of 144

English responses and one Spanish response by individuals who completed the online survey and

responded to the same four questions:

Common Themes:

1. What are the good things about Norfolk and your community?

• Strong relationships with community businesses and partnerships with the military

• Strong emphasis on the arts, museums, and art centers

• Diversity is a strength of the community

• Ample opportunity for employment

• New and ample housing in the city with significant redevelopment in the community

• Good culture including concert venues, great selection of restaurants, and entertainment

• Transportation – Amtrak; light rail, Greyhound bus terminal, Cruise Ship terminal

• NATO Headquarters for North America

• Good weather (all the seasons)

• Great airport

• Beaches

• Great Hotels

• Colleges and universities such as Norfolk State; Old Dominion U; Virginia Wesleyan

• Great hospital system (Heart Center, Children’s Hospital, etc.)

• Military – largest Naval base in the world

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• Excellent police department works well with community and schools

• A city with a rich history

• Acceptable cost of living

• Excellent opportunity for faith-based worship

• Proximity to mountains

• “Something in the Water” Music Festival (Ferrell Williams)

• Downtown has been revitalized (Waterside district)

• A mayor that is involved with the community

• The city has a Zoo and Botanical Gardens

• USS Wisconsin

• Norfolk Southern Railroad

• City is composed of people who want to work collaboratively

• Norfolk is a BIG, small town

• Center of the Hampton Roads Region

• Rated one of the friendliest and most romantic cities in the nation

• Amazing Aquarium

2. What are the good things about the Norfolk Public Schools?

• The District is resilient despite the turnover

• Dedicated, hard-working, phenomenal teachers

• Innovative – willing to take risks, willing to change and grow; and willing to look to

others for best practices

• Teachers demonstrate the ability to meet the needs of economically disadvantaged

students

• A safe environment and school climate in buildings

• Child Nutrition Program – ensures the students are fed appropriately

• The teachers, administrators and staff have a central focus on students

• Strong Professional Development – a training ground for the 7 cities

• Athletic Program is very strong

• Award winning groups in other curricular areas in middle and high schools to include

student groups, academics, International Baccalaureate and other specialty programs,

ROTC; career and technical education; foreign languages; dual enrollment; and STEM.

• Strong Music programs

• Broad Foundation District Award Winner

• Utilize Volunteers

• Special Education students get necessary resources

• Fine Arts Festival

• Science Fair/Robotics

• Elected School Board

• YMCA has a strong program

• College courses offered through AP, dual enrollment, and AP Capstone

• Teachers are trained in data analysis

• Very dedicated principals who have been through the system and have a knowledge base

of what has occurred in the District over time

• Tight knit group of administrators who are willing to help others

• Technology is strong

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• Students are passionate about learning

• After school assistance for students – One-on-one tutoring

• Rivalries between high schools are friendly but very competitive

• Access to counseling – especially for applying to college

• School Resource Officer Program

• ESL Program

• Partnership with Medical School

• Leadership course offering

• Governor’s School for the Arts

• NPS Nurses

• Teachers who think Globally

• Teacher mentors for new teachers

• Media Centers

• Local PTA’s supported by a strong Council of PTA’s

• A program to help administrators become better leaders

• Batten foundation, other foundations and grants

• Good Media Relationships

• Slover Library is an amazing resource

• Kids are beautiful

• Safe School Focused

3. What are the most significant issues the next superintendent will face as he/she

comes into the district?

• Turnover in the superintendent position; stability is essential

• Too many personal and political agendas on the Board of Education

• The culture of the District is one of “lack of trust”

• The Board of Education doesn’t understand their role and micromanages the district

• Outdates Board policies

• Lack of Equity for students

• Hiring practices are inequitable

• Technology infrastructure, devices, and student access to technology

• Equity regarding school facilities

• Facility issues due to neglect

• Salary Schedule causes challenges regarding teacher/administrator retention

• Difficulty attracting and retaining teachers

• Budget Issues – Need more funding

• Apathy regarding leadership – It doesn’t matter

• Disconnect between C.O. and schools. The Central Office is called the Ivory Tower.

The Central office is in Oz and the schools are in Kansas

• Human Resources is a mess

• Too Data Driven

• News Media is not a friend of the system

• Racism

• Diversity in the communities does not translate to diversity in the schools

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• The school board is in a tug-of-war with each other and the public is frustrated; it sets a

bad tone in the district

• Accreditation - Some schools are not accredited

• High suspension and expulsion rate

• Absenteeism; student attendance; and student dropout rate

• Student discipline

• Lack of follow-through on policies and procedures

• Lack of positive public relations

• The Board and City Council are at odds

• No SRO’s at the elementary schools

• School cleanliness from the roofs to the floors

• Lack of visibility of the superintendent

• Drugs in schools

• Instability of leadership results in a treacherous political landscape

• Lack of understanding of the roles of school board members and the superintendent by

the public

• Poverty

• Communication

• Lip service with no action

4. What skills, qualities, or characteristics should the new superintendent possess to be

successful here?

• Strong communicator

• Visible – seen by people and talks to people

• Resilient – Thick Skin

• Have a knowledge of Norfolk

• A good listener

• Approachable

• Someone who can find a connection with people and brings them together – A TEAM

Builder

• Genuine – Someone who walks the talk

• Someone who is willing to learn

• Loyal to district and plans to stay (longevity) – Invested in Norfolk

• A great motivator

• Integrity/Honesty

• Professional

• Transparent

• Magnetic Personality

• Humble

• Caring

• Exhibits Good P.R. Skills

• Works well with the school board

• Collaborative with all stakeholders

• Someone who is Accountable and holds others accountable

• A student Advocate

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• A track record of success

• A Warrior who will fight for school funding

• Someone who will address the divide between the C.O. and the schools

• No ego

• Hires according to ability and skills – no nepotism

• Understands politics – politically astute

• Strategic

• Flexible

• Courageous

• Problem Solver

• Possesses People Skills

• Passionate

• Compassionate

• Reasonable

• Respectful

• Positive Attitude

• Forward Thinking – Visionary

• Intelligent

• Gets along with people

• Empathetic

• Focused

• Fair

• Seeks input

• A good working relationship with board and city council

• Engages the media and business community

• Instructional Leader

• Moral Compass

• Community minded

• Persistent

• A problem solver

• Change maker

• Brave

• Patient

• Kind

• Fearless

• Consistent

• Team Player

• A Champion

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Stakeholder Input

Reported as received from each Stakeholder Group

Four Questions:

1. What are the good things about your community?

2. What are the good things about your school district?

3. What are the issues the incoming superintendent should be aware of as he/she comes into

the district?

4. What characteristics the new superintendent should have to be successful?

Day 1 (Monday, October 21) B.T. Washington High School

3:30 p.m.: Group 1 – Central Office Staff Meeting (BT Washington H.S.)

1. Tell us the good things about your community.

• Strong relationships with community businesses and partnerships with the military

• Strong emphasis on the arts, museums, various community and regional arts centers

• Location near Williamsburg and other regional historical areas

• Strong partnerships with the local colleges/universities

• Diversity is a strength of the community to include diversity as related to income levels

• Opportunity for employment

• New housing development in the city and significant redevelopment in the community

• The student enrollment is stabilizing

• City is trying to bring younger families to the community

• Significant amount of recreation opportunities in the city to include entertainment

• Parks and recreation received a gold standard award to include a variety of activities

• Minor league baseball team and minor league hockey team

• Religious diversity

• The historical perspective of the city

2. Tell us the good things about your school District.

• The District is resilient despite the turnover

• Dedicated, hard-working teachers

• Innovative – willing to take risks, willing to change and grow and willing to look to

others for best practices

• Taking what the District has and making the most out of these resources.

• Teachers willing to take risks and put in the work “these teachers are the pillars of the

school district”

• Teachers demonstrate the ability to meet the needs of economically disadvantaged

students

• Teachers that provide a safe environment and school climate in the buildings

• The District ensures that the students are fed appropriately (breakfast and lunch

programs)

• A staff throughout the District that has a central focus on students

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• Strong professional development

• The District’s athletic program is very strong

• Award winning groups in other curricular areas in middle and high schools to include

student groups, academies, International Baccalaureate and specialty programs, ROTC,

career and technical education, foreign languages, dual enrollment, STEM

• Strong music program with available resources, students, instruments, etc.

3. What are the issues the next superintendent should be aware of as he/she comes into

the District?

• Turnover in the superintendent position, stability is essential

• Too many personal and political agendas on the Board of Education

• The District needs an educational leader who will get everyone in the District, to include

the Board of Education, to move in the same direction

• The culture of the District is one of a lack of trust

• The Board of Education micromanages the District

• With the turnover in leadership, there is a lack of trust from the teaching staff due to the

continual change in programs, strategies, etc.

• Updating the Board policy manual and revise where appropriate to include updated

regulations and procedures

• The allocation of funds is not equitable

• Equity for access for students

• Equitable hiring practices

• The technology infrastructure, devices, student access to technology

• Equity regarding school facilities

• Delivery of services between schools such as gifted and talented are inequitable

• Teachers tend to migrate to the higher socio-economic schools within the District

• Too many non-certified teachers in lowest economic schools as substitutes, etc.

• Salary schedule when compared with other regional districts causes challenges regarding

maintaining staff

4. What characteristics the new superintendent should have to be successful.


• Visible – “boots on the ground” talk to students and parents/guardians

• Resilient “thick skin”

• Must have an articulated vision that is clear and be passionate about following the

vision/mission

• Knowledge of Norfolk Public Schools – willing to work through the challenge that lies

ahead

• Someone who has done their research on Norfolk

• A good listener – someone who will seek information from the current staff

• A good mediator

• Someone who will help Norfolk “catch up with the rest of the world”

• “It takes a wolf to lead wolves”.

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• Open, available, good listener and good communicator

• Approachable

• Someone who will answer emails – a responder

• Relatable to all the diversity in the District to include all socio-economic groups

• Someone who can find a connection with people and brings them together

• Genuine – “some who walks the talk”

• Someone who is willing to learn

• Support and follow through – carry things out to the next step to put the plan into practice

to include monitoring and evaluating

• Loyalty – someone who plans on staying – longevity “someone willing to stick it out”

• A great motivator

5:30 p.m.: Group 2 – Elementary Teachers and School Staff Meeting (BT Washington

H.S.)


• It’s a village, we look out for one another

• Diversity; Military helps even European diversity

• Culture – Concert venues, restaurants, entertainment

• Transportation

• Possible Casino

• Attractions are a goal

• Good Weather (all the seasons), no snow

• You can find what you need here

• Excellent housing

• Great airport

• Beaches

• Cruise Ships

• Colleges – Norfolk State; Old Dominion U; Virginia Wesleyan

• Hospitals (Heart Center)

• Children’s Hospital

• Eastern Virginia Medical School


• Searching for a new superintendent

• Broad Foundation District Award Winner

• Former Motto – To Be Globally Educated

• Diversity – Had a female superintendent

• Utilize Volunteers (Life Enrichment Center)

• Mayor is education friendly

• Good Sports Teams

• Special Education students get the necessary resources

• Fine Arts Festival

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• Science Fair/Robotics

• Football and Basketball Area Championships

• Strong academic programs

• STEM

• Professional Development

3. What are the issues the incoming superintendent should be aware of as he/she comes

into the district?

• Difficulty attracting and retaining teachers

• Teachers are leaving the district due to low pay

• Not Enough Personnel

• Budget Issues

• Low funding – Lack of resources

• Apathy – It doesn’t make a difference what we do

• Downtown (C.O.) is in Oz and the schools are in Kansas

• Central office is the ivory tower

• Teacher shortage

• Human resources is a “hot mess”

• No responses from Central office specifically Human Resources

• Too Data Driven

• News Media is not a friend of the system


• Thick Skin

• Listener

• Integrity

• Professionalism

• Transparent

• Home grown connection to the community

• Invested in Norfolk

• Down to earth

• Open door leader

• Visible

• Magnetic Personality

• Sincerity

• Someone who will stay – Make Norfolk their home

• Humble

• Caring

• Exhibits Good P.R. Skills

• Good Communicator

• Works well with the school board

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7:30 p.m.: Group 3 – Community Meeting (BT Washington H.S.)


• International airport

• Fully accredited schools

• Naval base

• Excellent restaurants

• New housing for young families

• Compact city – easy to get around, excellent transportation-

• Minor league baseball

• Lovable and productive children

• Great diversity in the community with geography that has culturally diverse activities

• Outstanding Norfolk State University, Old Dominion and Virginia Wesleyan

• Great civic leagues

• Excellent hospital system (pediatric mental facility)

• Local businesses support the community

• Excellent arts facilities – the community supports the arts

• Wonderful people

• Beaches and associated recreation

• Amtrak

• Excellent police department works well with community and schools

• Higher institutions and community organizations ready to partner with the school district

in providing for the District’s needs

• Schools were closed to ensure segregation in 1958 and then reopened the next year

• A city with a rich history


• The District has great teachers that work hard and care about the students and function

under adversary conditions with the lack of resources

• Aging schools

• Excellent library system that supports the school system

• Excellent specialty programs like International Baccalaureate and other programs

throughout the District

• Various school communities have pride in their local schools

• Strong vocational and technical school campus

• Early childhood is excellent

• Elected school board

• Program to encourage students to become doctors

• Students who are eager to learn

• Outstanding athletic program

• Excellent ROTC program (award winning)

• The students are offered free breakfast for all

• YMCA has a strong program

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• School board meetings are televised, and other school information is communicated

through television

• Given the proper resources, the students succeed

• The elementary age students enjoy attending school


the District?

• Caught between the Board of Education and City Council – someone who is strong who

can work with both – understand politics

• Struggle that is going on between members of the School Board

• Ensure that the school board meetings are a communication process two ways so the

community and parents/guardians

• Lack of equity across the District

• Facilities issues – neglect for a long time

• Meeting the needs of the demographics of the community

• Racism – cultural issues

• Issues with the budget- lack of resources, state support, etc.

• Diversity in the communities does not translate to diversity in the schools

• There exists a divide between the teachers and the administration

• School Board in a tug-of-war with each other and the public is frustrated by that issue

• The segregation/desegregation of the District remains an issue today

• Equity issues throughout the District so there is opportunity for all students to access

programs

• Transitions of the superintendent’s over the past. decade

• Shortage of certificated teachers

• Equity policy not followed by the Board of Education

• High percentage of special education students with a low graduation rate

• There are many shortages throughout the District – example nurse shortage

• Booker T. Washington High School has not been equitably treated (some students have

been redistributed from the school – decreasing enrollment)

• City of Norfolk must help the school District with funding

• Asbestos in one of the elementary schools

• Schools are not accredited

• No STEM in the Southside STEM academy – be certain that when a student graduates

from a specialty academy they are college/career ready

• Miscommunication between all the stakeholders of the District

• Equitable resources for all students

• High suspension, expulsion rate


• Be visible go out to determine what the problems are throughout the District

• Transparency

• Visible

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• Collaborative with all District employees

• A leader that leads

• A leader who holds people accountable

• Listens to the students, a student advocate

• Experience with a large school District

• Excellent relationship with parents/guardians

• Urban superintendent with a track record of success

• Build relationships with students

• Tough – not run when things get tough – one who will stand up to adversity and will

remain

• “Black, White and Brown, the Battle for Progress in 1950’s Norfolk, White is the author

• Implement best practices for teachers – support teachers

• Don’t come here thinking you are going to make a lot of money

• Knowledge of curriculum development from K-12

• Warrior who can get funding for the District

• Deal effectively with the Board of Education

• Deal with the divide between the central office and the schools

• Integrity

• Honesty

• Open door policy

• Strong communication skills to effectively work with the School Board

• Good relationship skills

• Truly cares about children

• Resourceful, knowledgeable and keeps up with the 21st century

• Eradicate Racism

• Bring in a strong staff

• An advocate for student volunteerism (take care of the quiet students)

• Community builder

• No ego

• Understands the budget process

• Hiring according to ability and skills – no nepotism

• Ability to locate and secure grants (alternate funding sources)

• Get the parents/guardians involved

• Motivator

• Lobby on the part of the District (State and National level)

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Day 2 (Tuesday, October 22): Norview High School

8:00 a.m.: Group 4 - Secondary Principals Meeting (Norview H.S.)


• Passionate about the education of the students – supportive communities

• Diversity of the city – variety of cultures

• Arts district, waterfront, recreation, beaches – much to do in the area

• Sporting opportunities

• Minor league teams

• A great deal of opportunities for recreation

• Acceptable cost of living

• Housing market is good

• Colleges/universities

• Good weather

• Excellent hospital system

• Excellent opportunity for faith-based worship

• Military base is considered a positive aspect of the community


• Provide students with several opportunities and programmatic offerings, advanced

placement classes, dual enrollment

• Teachers are very well trained in data analysis – however neighboring Districts recruit

Norfolk teachers – teachers trained in the District and then move on to other local

Districts

• There are many dedicated teachers that remain in the District

• Very dedicated principals – good people – been through the system and have a

knowledge base of what has occurred in the District over time


the District?

• Working toward addressing issues revolving around student attendance and student

dropout rate

• Disconnect between the “Ivory Tower” (central office) and the school buildings

• Top heavy at the central office level – should be adding more support at the building

level

• School Board is not getting along – three vs four – sets a bad tone in the District

• School Board members pushing through their own agendas

• The creation of new positions based upon personnel agendas by the Board

• Many strategic plans with very little follow through

• Making policies at the Board level without involving the building administration in the

policy decisions

• Student discipline is a concern – this is a major issue – must accept decisions that other

area Districts would not accept

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• Difficulty regarding how to navigate the processes that are imposed by the central office

(local and state mandates)

• Lack of follow through on centrally developed policies and procedures

• One size fits all approach is a problem when the schools are all very different

• Title II funds must be focused on the schools and their needs

• Paying outside companies to provide staff development when much can be done using

inside expertise

• Equity is an issue within the District to include the distribution of resources to schools

that need support – talk about equity however nothing is really done about equity

• Major issue with pay and equity – lack of pay raise for teachers in mid-career years

• Problems with the teacher salary guide

• Inequity in the stipends for doctorate between teachers and administrators

• Facilities challenges – spend the funds that are allocated by the city in an effective

manner

• Special education is an issue – no support from central administration

• Disconnect in what is really happening in the public schools

• Lack of public relations regarding all the good things that are happening in the Norfolk

Public Schools


• Someone who is willing to look to the other area Districts who have “figured it out” and

would be willing to replicate what works well in those Districts.

• Someone who is willing to go outside of the “vacuum” to ascertain what works in other

Districts

• The willingness to promote from within is important regarding building level and District

level administrators

• A superintendent who has demonstrated success is addressing equity issues across the

board in the District

• Should have been a classroom teacher and experience as a building principal

• Experience working with a challenging Board of Education

• Someone who is committed and will remain in the District

• Understand politics – politically astute

• It must be the most qualified person for the position

• Approachable

• A hard worker – be visible – willing to visit the schools

• Honesty and integrity

• Someone who will successfully address the low morale

• Good experience in the area of Human Resources and the HR Department

• Understand Virginia government and how Virginia laws are developed

• School Board does not have taxing authority

• An innovative leader

• A great communicator – someone who is willing to listen to the teachers and the building

level administrators

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• Someone who understands public relations and is willing to publicize all the good things

that are happening within the District

• Tell the District’s story in a positive way instead of the message getting out to the public

and reported negatively

10:00 a.m.: Group 5 – Elementary Principals Meeting (Norview H.S.)


• Partners who contribute to schools (Military, Churches)

• Ocean/Beaches

• Proximity to mountains

• Diversity (Urban modern vibe seeking to attack families

• Festivals

• Culture, Theatres, Arts

• Proximity to other cities

• Museums

• “Something in the water” -Ferrell Williams

• Largest Naval base in the world

• Downtown is revitalized

• New development…constantly changing

• 4 seasons of weather

• Multiple Universities


• Community partnerships

• Highly qualified teachers and administrators

• Compares well to other states

• Innovative and takes risks

• Being allowed to have individual ideas

• Support of extra-curricular and academic programs

• Professional development – training ground of the 7 cities

• Investment capital for new buildings

• Tight group of administrators who are willing to help others

• Principals look out for each other

• Adapt to change

• Very resilient

• Advocates for all children to be successful

• Student Diversity

• More schools are being accredited

• Technology is strong/equipped

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into the district?

• A lot of transition…does not mean we need to be fixed

• No stability/commitment from former superintendents

• Lack of trust

• Teacher and Administrator Retention

• Facilities

• Funding Sources – Need more money

• Special Education support

• Central Administrative support

• Trauma and mental health concerns

• Lack of parent support

• C.O. positions needs to be reallocated

• Disconnect between the schools and C.O.

• Lack of Urgency from the C.O.

• Equity for all students and staffing

• Disproportionate representation in programs

• Lack of accreditation for some schools

• City and school district do not get along – Politics

• Board and City Council are at odds

• Enrollment going down in district

• Distrust

• Low tax base

• No security/SROs at the elementary schools

• Lack of response for requests for safety

• Lack of reaction for work orders – no response or follow up

• No accountability for Central Office

• School Board is embarrassing


• Open minded

• Strategic

• Flexible

• Visible

• Good Listener

• Listening and Looking

• Long term Commitment

• Negotiation Skills

• Communication Skills

• Knowledge and understanding of community and students

• Urban experience

• Model accountability and hold people accountable

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• Connection to the area

• Courageous

• Strong personality and thick skin

• Children First

• Problem Solver

• Charisma

• Honesty

• Real

• People Skills

12:00 p.m.: Group 6 – NPS Student Forum (Norview H.S.)


• The diversity of the community is a strength of Norfolk (different races and cultures)

• Variety of recreational centers and community resources

• Welcoming community as a result of military

• Volunteer opportunities

• Beaches are local

• Potential employment opportunity for students during the summer

• Local colleges/universities – availability

• Provides appropriate assistance for lower economic families

• A mayor that is involved with the community

• Many community organizations that want to be involved in supporting the schools

• Athletics (minor league baseball) high school sports

• Supportive of the arts – music festivals – performing arts – cultural arts

• Everything within walking distance – can also use the light rail - scooters

• Waterside district in the city

• Shopping malls

• The city has its own zoo

• Employment opportunities

• Young families with young students who are eager to learn

• Botanical gardens, Museums

• Major science headquarters (NOAA)

• Historical city – history of the region – neighborhoods that are marked historical – many

aspects of history, USS Wisconsin

• Headquarters for Norfolk Southern Railroad

• City revitalization – example Neon section


• Elementary school aged children who are eager to learn

• Teachers who are passionate about teaching make learning exciting

• Academies throughout the District

• Students who are passionate about their learning

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• Free breakfast for students throughout the District

• CTE classes – technical center – positive opportunities presented for students

• Waivers for access into classes and program

• Coaches treat their students like family within the athletic program

• International Baccalaureate, dual enrollment, academies, specialty programs, advanced

placement course offerings, AP Capstone

• One-on-one learning – after school extra help for students

• The first AP test taken by students is free

• Access to technology – students’ needs are met

• Access to counseling – especially for applying to college/university

• Rivalry between the high schools – friendly and at times competitive

• Diversity however Booker T. Washington High School is not very diverse

• Strength in the ESL program

• School Resource Officer program

• Opportunity for middle school students to earn high school credit

• The schools are very competitive when comparing the private schools

• Partnership with the medical school

• Leadership course offered in the District – teaches public speaking, etc.

• Governor’s School for the Arts

3. What are the issues the next superintendent should be aware of as he/she comes

into the District?

• Lack of resources – schools need resources throughout the District – distribution of

resources in an equitable manner

• Teachers are leaving to go to other Districts

• School cleanliness from the roofs to the floors

• The telephone policy – phones used appropriately for educational purposes

• Cafeteria food quality – portions are too small for athletes

• Transportation issues – no bus provided for certain students

• How the District was rezoned

• Students are late to school as a result of the bussing

• Lack of after school bussing

• Busses are crowded – at times no seats for students

• Superintendent and school board members more visible in schools

• There isn’t a good support system – lack of visibility of school superintendent

• Stress on students with the number of assessments that must be scheduled within each

quarter

• Tardy stations – check in when late – very often they are broken and don’t work

• Some teachers there to support their students – some teachers just there for a paycheck

• Administrators and teachers are needed to care about the students and their well-being

• The need for teachers to be open with the students and welcome their questions

• Many students from low socio-economics – must be understood

• Gender neutral bathrooms needed

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• Discipline – issue in-school suspension for being late

• Time change scheduled for the next school year

• Administration shuffles around students for them to pass on to the next grade level

• Discipline – student behavior is a problem

• Facilities issues – old schools

• Governor’s School for the Arts is not weighted like the AP classes

• Following road signs and safety when traveling back and forth to school

• Lack of security enforcement

• Drug control


• Task oriented

• Visible and consistent

• Understanding

• Passionate

• Compassionate

• Involved

• Reasonable

• Diligent

• Respectful

• Reliable

• Efficient

• Advocate for students

• Open minded

• Interactive with the students

• Positive

• Creative

• Forward thinking

• Responsible

• Caring

• Be up for taking on a challenge

• Strategic

• Communicator – easy to get in contact with – students and staff

• Determined

• Honest

• Good intuition

• Present

• Has taught in the classroom

• Intelligent

• Listens to the needs of the teachers and students

• Someone with a good background

• Knows how to work with children in all grade levels

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• Gets along with people

• Involved in the classroom

• Understanding the stress that high school students go through

• Empathetic

3:30 p.m.: Group 7 - Secondary Teachers and School Staff (Norview H.S.)


• Military town – a lot of diversity

• Innovative, revitalizing, refreshing

• Waterside

• Always something to do

• Culture, restaurants, music

• Central hub within the state…great places to go a day trip away

• Great Higher Education – several options

• Beaches

• Museums

• Art History, Military History

• Great selection of Food, Seafood, Restaurants

• Commutes are not bad

• Airport

• Amtrak hub

• Greyhound terminal

• Ship terminals/Cruise ships

• Light rail


• Embrace non-traditional classrooms

• Specialty Programs available to students

• Embrace new methods of education

• NPS hired nurses in 2014 – leveling the field for students with needs

• Special Education Department is awesome in each school

• Parents are comfortable dropping off their children at the schools

• Integrating special needs students with accommodations required

• Building Middle School Athletics

• Teachers are thinking globally about how to instruct students

• Veteran teachers in the district

• Teachers are loyal and willing to put in the work to get the job done

• Support system for new teachers

• Teacher mentors in buildings for new teachers

• Technology is good (Chromebooks)

• Media Centers are top notch

• Pre-K programs are growing

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into the district?

• All schools are not equal; some are not getting all the support they need.

• Make school transition decision quicker

• Many “interim” personnel in the district

• Due to past practices, there is a need to develop teacher skills

• Disconnect between downtown and the employees in the trenches

• Bad fiscal decisions

• Reorganization of district level schools (grades) that is causing inconsistency

• Need stronger programs for which all students have access

• Curriculum programs purchased then eliminated…wastes money

• School Board members abuse superintendents causing them to leave

• Former superintendents are taken to task on issues the school board members do not

understand

• Revolving door – a desire for immediate gratification; it is a slow process and needs

systematical change

• Transient district – students lose things in transition

• Lack consistency

• Professional development needs to be better thought out – Safe School training

• Need for technology training

• No long-term plan on ESL population

• Lack of translators

• Need buses drivers and they need to be paid more


• Longevity

• Loyal to Norfolk

• Knows the district, knows the heartbeat

• Seeks input from teacher and principals

• Use successful schools as a model for other schools

• Focused

• Transparent

• Uses Best Practices

• Committed to being here

• Someone to call Norfolk home

• Not a last stop on a career path

• Want their children educated here

• A working relationship with city council

• Fair

• Open minded

• Communicator

• Visible and Available

• Seeks input

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5:30 p.m.: Group 8 – PTA and Civic League Presidents (Norview H.S.)


• Norfolk is a diverse city in the region

• Manageable in size as an urban center

• Norfolk has not abandoned its public-school system

• Passion for public school education by the citizens of the city

• Pace – as fast or as slow as an individual chooses to live

• Proximity to the airport

• Access to the interstate – proximity to many amenities

• City takes the bottom up approach as individuals are involved from the grass roots

• Balance – locals who grew up in the city and people who come from other parts of the

county

• Center of the arts, entertainment, cultural center of the area

• Access to universities and colleges

• Interest in environmental issues – staying ahead of the curve

• Represented by many cultures, cultural diversity

• Partnerships with cities abroad

• Significant opportunity for individuals – access to opportunities

• Access to the beaches – the Norfolk beaches

• The zoo that has transformed itself, the botanical gardens

• Minor league baseball team, minor league hockey

• Accessibility to local government – more transparency with its citizens

• No matter your contributions or your needs – you can find assistance – a city that helps

take care of its residents

• Forward thinking, innovative

• City composed of people that are not disagreeable- people who want to work

collaboratively


• The District has representation on District committees to solicit parent/guardian and

citizen feedback

• The work that the District is doing regarding trauma and the District’s counseling

program

• PTA’s supported by a strong council

• Positive change is that there is an elected School Board

• School pride – alumni support – proud of the District’s history and building a legacy

• Bright students

• Effective teachers – hard working and dedicated

• Administrators are present and engaged

• Parents passionate about their child’s education

• We out and support early learners – as early as two years old

• Preschool programs and kindergarten have full day kindergarten

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• Service medically fragile children – the continuum of services is outstanding

• The District takes the approach of educating the “whole child”

• The schools have continued to support the arts

• Strong partnerships with local law enforcement, the fire department, etc.

3. What are the issues the next superintendent should be aware of as he/she comes

into the District?

• Challenges with the District’s infrastructure and facilities

• The is no way for individuals to bring issues forward without issues

• Instability of leadership is a result of the treacherous political landscape

• Clarify the roles of School Board members and the superintendent to the public

• Board must hear the concerns of the public when hiring the next superintendent and

permit that individual to perform the work that they have an expertise in to lead the

District in an effective manner

• The demographics of the District, specifically socio-economic status has changed, and

new superintendent must embrace all resident of the city

• Special education issues and supporting the special education program

• Teacher shortage – identifying and hiring highly qualified teachers

• Negative perception of Norfolk Public Schools by other school Districts in the region

• Major bus driver shortage

• Press is not favorable to the Norfolk School District

• Some resolve to the blatant refusal to increase salaries


• Empathy

• Transparent

• Strategic thinker

• Embrace educational equity

• Stand with the advocates – advocate for funding


• Visible in the schools

• Engage the media

• Make hard decisions

• Engage the business community

• Good negotiator, mediator, facilitator

• Understand financial goals

• Vision for the future

• Understanding the historical challenges

• Honoring the history yet preparing students for the future

• Being a leader

• Managerial, operational and supervisory control

• Motivate the individuals that are under their control

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• Equity is not an option

• Stops ignoring what is obvious, school disparity – can’t disregard poor performing

schools

• Instructional leader

• Permits consistency amongst the schools

• Agile

• Moral compass

• Planner

• Foresighted

• Community minded

• Persistent

• Collaborative

• Forward thinking

• Situationally aware

• Delegator

• A leader

• A champion

7:30 p.m.: Group 9 - Community Meeting (Norview H.S.)


• Beaches

• Center of the region

• Easily get to other cities in this region

• It is a Big Small town

• Museums, Opera, Symphony, Zoo

• Friendly – I feel more at home here than my hometown

• Public Transportation is great

• Skyline is beautiful – lights make you feel warm and welcome

• Parades, festivals

• Diversity

• Shopping opportunities

• Medical Care and facilities

• Inspirational

• Churches

• Dining/Restaurants

• Energetic Town

• Norfolk is Home; we have everything you can find in a large city

• One of the best places to live in the U.S.

• Opportunities? Resources – Places to go and things to do

• You can express yourself without being judged

• City Leaders have a focus on education

• Colleges/Universities

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• People come from all over but their unity in the communities


• Specialty programs to meet the needs of students

• Teachers are phenomenal

• Accommodate students who don’t go down a traditional path

• CTE/Vocational technical classes

• NPS is changing the perception of what school really is.

• Student - You can be yourself in NPS

• Great Leadership in the district now; committed and involved; passionate

• Vocational School

• Great collaboration and communication

• Aligned PD for the needs of the district

• Program to help administrators become better leaders

• Student - Counseling students on what is required for college and in the real world;

3. What are the issues the superintendent should be aware of when he/she comes into

the district?

• Rebuild trust with teachers…if they speak up, they will be retaliated against

• Accreditation of the schools

• Special Education students…how they are managed

• Suspension and Expulsion of students

• Medication

• Deal with every school as an individually assessed to determine what they need

• Understanding the difference between equity and equality

• Teacher retention

• Resources for teachers so they can focus on teaching

• Disconnect between the community and the district

• Funding

• Identify accreditation issue

• Walk the Talk

• Facilities are falling apart

• Transparency

• No addressing issues

• Lack of trust in the district

• School Board

• Media Bias

• Attrition

• Poverty

• Communication

• Disproportionate number of black males being suspended

• Lip service and no actions

• Not supporting PTA’s

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• Outdated Policies

• Common Core and Charter Schools

• Understands Equity and Equality are different things

• No accountability for principals who ruin their teacher’s morale

• Lack of Parent of Involvement

• Hiring Practices – Fit the communities they serve

• Principals are afraid to voice their opinions

• Overcrowding in elementary schools

• Lack of discipline – no holding students accountable for their actions

• Effective teachers quit for concerns of speaking up about issues

• Teachers have additional burdens other than teachers

• Lack of Mental Health services

• Lack of Accommodations for teaching/learning styles

• Lack of nurses in all schools

• Lack of Social Workers


• Bridge the gap between the schools and the community

• Thick Skin

• Integrity

• Communicator

• Visionary

• Personable

• Relatable

• Passionate

• Open Minded

• Empathetic

• Motivated/Yearn for change

• Resilient

• Change Maker

• Experience that has a larger population

• Faithful

• Thoughtful

• Optimistic

• Confident

• Brave

• Patient

• Decisive

• Kind

• Consistent

• Leader

• Honesty

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• Team Player

• Advocate

• Fighter

• Real

• Fearless

• Cooperative

• Humble

• Visible – Get in the community

• Love for students

• Relationship Builder/

Day 3 (Wednesday, October 23)

8:00 a.m.: Group 10 - City, Business, Community, Philanthropic, Faith Leaders (Stover

Library)


• Urban Waterfront

• 1.7 million people live in waterfront area comprised of seven cities known since the 80’s

as Hampton Roads

• Rated one of the friendliest cities in the country

• Rated third most romantic cities

• Arts centered

• Greatest festival city in America

• Thriving culinary destination

• New chefs coming to the region on an ongoing basis

• 5th most popular place for millennials

• Lots of good vibes

• Fiver higher learning institutions

• Large universities to small colleges, community colleges and trade schools

• Large town but does have problems of larger urban areas

• Strong presence of medical research

• Cost of living is very reasonable

• Weather is lovely with distinct seasons

• Wide range of educational opportunities

• Wonderful hotels

• Downtown Norfolk is very exciting

• Tremendous opportunities within 50 miles

• Many military people come back to live after living around the world

• Diversity of people, arts, lots of ethnic restaurants

• Diversity is tricky to navigate but we do it well

• Work together well as a region

• Amazing Aquarium

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• Environment healthy

• Strong military presence

• Promote Norfolk every chance we get

• Navy base is the largest in the world

• College isn’t for everyone, but we have so many opportunities

• Broadband is coming, four incredible lines will change the face of neighborhoods


• Opportunities to enhance human capital

• Medical program is amazing

• Healthy connections with higher education

• Students are amazing

• Moving a significant portion of student body forward academically

• Teachers are amazing

• Specialty programs are excellent

• Private school options are available

• Study skills are taught well

• Each high school has a specialty program

• Nationwide name in specialty programs

• Batten foundation and other foundations and grants offer opportunities

• Mentors and clinical partnerships with college students

• Good Media relationships

• School board now has good relationships forming

• Board Chair is well balanced

• School board is supportive

• Beautiful library building

• Aging schools but we have exterior resources to remedy

• Doesn’t take long to get anywhere within the school district

• Slover Library is an amazing resource

• Deep history of diversity and how we stood up to segregation

• Learn from all walks of life

• Different resources and life experiences are celebrated


into the district?

• Superintendent needs to find a way to promote work force development

• Superintendent needs to let students know that not having a college degree is not a

detriment to their economic success

• Good opportunities to excel in life with our work force development programs

• Need to build that culture

• Get parents to quit feeling ashamed if their children don’t attend college but find other

avenues to secure good jobs

• Emphasize that trades are needed

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• Wide opportunities for students who study for jobs in trades…

• Not a second sweepstakes of life

• Also support idea that all education is academic

• Political and polarizing problems

• Pockets of district are very challenging

• Stop the brain drain and get students to stay in the area after graduation

• Recognize our homeless population and how that effects student’s success

• Recognize and do something about hungry students

• Schools should not try to solve all problems and must embrace community to help solve

problems

• Norfolk wants to be a great school district but just gives lip service

• Crucial period the school district

• Massive amounts of turnover in Superintendents

• Poor condition of some of our schools

• Schools have poor rating

• Real estate agents encourage buyers not to purchase homes in our school district

• Losing good teachers because of poor pay

• Pay scale not competitive

• No strong support for Hispanic community

• Absenteeism is a huge problem

• The internet has rated us poorly


• Leadership

• Stability and make Norfolk their home

• Intention to stay here and not use as a steppingstone

• Not use this job as their swan song to education

• Put to bed controversies of the past

• Hit the ground dunning on day one

• Experience in urban districts

• Strong facility knowledge

• Someone who recognizes education has changed and knows changes are currently

working in our nation’s urban schools

• Present models for innovation in our schools

• Know what charter schools can and cannot accomplish

• Free up teachers to teach

• Recognize that he or she cannot do it all alone

• Implement new programs that benefit minority population

• Research more choice based programs

• Experience and proven track record

• Experiment and see what works

• Open minded

• Hold staff accountable

30

• Relationship builder

• Able to form strong partnerships with community and business leaders

• Visible and accessible

• School safety is made a priority

• Needs to be politically savvy

• Embraces challenges

• Retains smart capable staff


• Must engage media and community

• Transparent with media

• External and Internal good communicator

• Hold teachers and principals accountable

• Patient

• Able to see the whole picture and spectrum

• Inclusive for all students

• Work with neighboring school districts and collaborate with them to solve common

problems

• Support idea that all education is vocational, and all education is vocational

10:00 a.m.: Group 11 - City, Business, Community, Philanthropic, Faith

Leaders (Slover Library)


• We have Norfolk regional branding called 2020 (people don’t know the new Norfolk)

• City is moving in a positive direction

• Unfortunately, people are holding on to some history

• Neighborhoods not suburbs

• Diversity atmosphere inclusive and diverse

• People said to send kids to private schools

• Large part of population works in Norfolk

• Public schools are good

• Lots of parental involvement

• Strong gifted program

• Vibrant kids have opportunities

• Strong cultural arts center

• Can get as engaged as you want

• Lots of amenities of big city

• Regardless of who you are, you can be part of the next chapter

• Overcome lots of obstacles

• Head-on sea levels leader in this troubling problem

• Cost of living affordable

• Military strong presence

• Game changer and can build upon what has been done

31

• High education advantage…largest percentage of first generation very impactful

• Opportunities for a national leader to make their mark

• Potential to really lead the nation

• Norfolk is a real, true city not suburban


• Teachers are phenomenal in schools

• Kids are beautiful

• Kids are resilient and learn from peer resiliency

• Problem solvers

• Blended experiences learn from each other

• Nationally branded years ago as one of the nations best urban school districts

• Safe schools

• Been successful…need to get back there

• All kinds of diversity

• Specialty programs are excellent


into the district?

• Race problems

• Drug problems especially in affluent areas

• Not many of our schools are accredited

• Internet show our schools as poor

• Parents go to the internet and will not move to Norfolk schools

• Must get accreditation for all our schools

• Perception means reality often…not a good school system

• Real Estate agents not helpful to Norfolk

• City must support schools

• Kids are moved out of city when school age

• Private schools taking many of our students

• Entrepreneurs

• No confidence in Superintendent

• Lack of trust

• Far too insular

• Can’t expect schools to do by themselves

• Articulate and ask for community help

• Must build bridges with public and private schools

• Private schools must diversify

• Referendum rejected the light line to Virginia Beach

• Race issues extreme

• First redevelopment in nation

• Embarrassing for community that our school board won’t collaborate

32

• Good people are paralyzed

• Funding

• Tough decision but some schools need to be shut down

• Overcome inequities

• Need to make decisions quickly and communicate to all

• Communication is critical

• Teacher retention

• Not enough teacher support

• Not enough parents confident their kids can get a good education

• Bunch of business leaders from cross section of Norfolk met for ages and it went

nowhere

• Salary schedule is good on the front end and our professional development is great.

Salary schedule does not remain competitive with surrounding districts…they get grained

then leave for more money.

• Staff demoralized by our track record of so many Superintendents within the last ten

years

• Attitude of staff is to will work in a silo because Superintendent will be gone soon so

don’t bother buying into their goals and objectives.

• Phone calls are not returned in a timely manner

• TCC reached out several times and Superintendent did not support the community

college well enough


• Tell our story

• Recognize we have been in a silo far too long

• Better job of follow through

• Knows how to secure extra funding from state and foundations

• Willing to collaborate with other school districts on a regional level

• Why duplicating each other’s efforts

• Must have experience with STEM, STEAM and work force development

• Track record of good political skills, collaboration and communication skills

• Sense of Urgency

• Create a positive culture

• Get staff to embrace goals you set

• Win back some of the trust of philanthropists …these folks who can make the biggest

difference.

• Support our excellent special education program

• Entire leadership needs to be looked at and changed

• Enter community and welcome help from all sects

• Wanted to adopt a school after but after 6 months gave up

• People want to give back

• Alert to partnerships

• Top Leadership is Number One

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• Engage collaboratively

• Committed and passionate

• Revolving door of Superintendents needs to be addressed…this is critical

• Make this place home

• Be a can-do person

• Defensive posturing instead of going on offensive always

• Strategic rather than responsive

• Help our School Board to help make good decisions

• Honesty and Integrity

• Healthy to disagree sometimes

• Empowers people on his cabinet and stop the differential treatment

• Willing to hear feedback to make better decisions

• Hold staff accountable and get behind final decision

• Eliminate the inequities in the system

• Transparency collaboration and communication

• Be invested and visible

• Schooled in Evidence based programs and non-traditional programs that have proven

they work

• Think outside the box

• Understand the concept of bubble kids

• Truly supports diversity

1:00 p.m.: Group 12 - Community Meeting (Larchmont Elementary)


• Diversity in Community

• Military; grew up all over the world/country

• Diverse in ideas and perspectives

• History

• Universities; recruit

• Botanical gardens

• Excellent arts and music program

• IB Program/EBS Program/John Hopkins Program?

• Good teachers

• Great school system

• NATO Headquarters for North America

• Perfect location (beaches, mountains within 2 hours)

• Largest Navy base in the world

• Opera, Symphony, Theatre, Zoo, Aquarium

• It has everything as every other city, but the cost of living is reasonable

• Great place to live

• Museums

• Traffic is not as heavy as in other cities

34


• Dedicated teachers, but they need to feel valued

• Teachers are the brightest spot in the lives of many children

• Pride in schools

• Partnerships

• YMCA – before and after school programs

• Activities, sports,

• Youth concerts

• Museums Tours

• Broad Award District Winner

• Special Education Program


into the district?

• Facilities

• NO Capital Improvement Plan

• Budget Deficit

• Public Perception Problem

• Low Performing District

• Realtors

• Superintendent has no report with city council

• School lacking Accreditation

• City Council has $100 million dollars in debt

• Rates in bottom 8% of school districts in Virginia

• Norfolk teachers make less money

• Norfolk doesn’t have the money to support the public schools

• School board will not back them

• Perceived “Prison Pipeline”

• Schools are not as open to assistance. Organizations want to know “How can we help?”

• Norfolk schools are not important to the city council

• Teacher Retention

• Standardized Testing

• Teacher Pay

• Lack of support on disciplinary issues

• Racially divided city and school district

• History of district since 1959 – Norfolk 17

• School administration is heavily stocked at the top

• State funding formula is an issue

• Racism from administration

35


• Someone to promote the schools

• Listen to Teachers

• Good Listener

• Invest in the city long term – Longevity

• Capital Planner

• Superintendent to stand up to the city council to lobby for additional funding

• Imagination

• Be visible

• Supportive

• Establish a foundation to overcome the perception of “being a bad guy”

• Strong

• Team builder

• Good at Prioritizing

• Public Relations Awareness

36

Survey Monkey Results for Norfolk Public Schools

October, 2019

(NOTE—these responses have not been edited,

they are printed as entered by the stakeholders)

144 Responses

Administrators

Tell us the good things about your community. (This information is used to help us recruit

quality candidates.)

• A diverse urban setting

• The City of Norfolk has rich Colonial history of which stakeholders are proud.

• Variety of things to do. Improving economic opportunities.

• Our kids go to the schools because they have too. Not like the Mayor is has the good

fortunte to send his kids to Norfolk Academy, that cost over $30,000 a year. A YEAR.

Why would he care about our schools he knows that aren't good enough for his kids.

• Diverse and inclusive.

• Tight knit in times of crisis

• Family oriented looking for consistently strong schools.

• Diversity and home of the US Navy which immerses cultures from around the world.

• Norfolk has both a downtown and a lovely beach community. There are a wealth of

cultural organizations who call Norfolk home: VA Symphony, VA Opera, VA Stage

Company, VA Arts Festival. There is also a lot of affordable housing in the area for

young families.

• I live in Norfolk, I am a Norfolk Public Schools employee, and my child is a Norfolk

Public Schools student. My favorite things about our community include diversity,

safety, and a true community feeling. I believe that most people in our community want

what is best for one another, and I believe that most of us are willing to work toward that

"best." I think it is incredibly important that our Superintendent of Schools be able to

authentically relate to our community members; patronizing "relation" is incredibly

transparent, and our community will not tolerate or support it.

• Diverse population, low to moderate socio-economic status but desiring to improve their

condition. Requiring consistent support from both government and private sector to

achieve desired outcome.

• Norfolk offers great opportunities for families. We have wonderful resources within our

community. Norfolk offers something for everyone.

• We always look out for each other

Tell us the good things about your schools. (This information is used to help us recruit


• -Inclusive of all types students -Hard working admin and teachers -Caring families

• Our schools are lead by focused principals and caring teachers, who ensure a safe,

nurturing environment to our students.

• Slow but sure improvements in infrastructure. People are here becasue they want to be.

• We need someone that cares as much as our teachers. We need someone who is not going

to bow down to the Board Members and Major

37

• We have no where to go but up.

• "Levels" of staff are a pretty good family unit

• Strong PTA, committed teachers, reasonable class sizes

• The staff members have a passion for the students

• NPS students are bright, talented and thrive under great leadership and support. NPS has

many longtime faithful employees who work tirelessly for our students.

• I believe that when I am able to clearly communicate my expectations - and my

willingness to put in the work on my end to meet those expectations - to my child's

teacher(s) and administrator(s), the teachers and administration respond positively. In two

years, we have not had any major issues and have felt as if we are part of a true

partnership with the school community.

• Academically credentialed, dedicated instructors and Program Leaders with high integrity

expectations. Diverse Student population looking to start excellent training for their

chosen career path.

• All children are important and critical for our future success. Teachers strive to ensure

that each child has the opportunity to reach their goals.

• Each school is like a family and the togetherness is unlike anywhere else

What issues should the superintendent be aware of as he/she comes into the district? (This

information is shared with the final candidates.)

• The school board in our district has some potentially underlying issues that a super. needs

to be able to define, work through and surpass.

• Alignment of resources is necessary to move the following areas forward: English,

Students with Disabilities, Gifted Students, English Learners, and teacher recruitment and

retention.

• Staff is weary from constant changes in leadership.

• All Nps schools should be learning the right curriculum based on their test scores .Also

based in students accomadtioms on their iep students should be receivng martials to

better help them learn with up. Also all staff members of Nps should address all issues

that a student reports because students need someone to interact with when they are

having troble in school.

• First please ensure the current interim IS NOT given the job. Dr Byrdson is She has

already illustrated she in self serving

• The need to improve buildings. How you treat employees. School employees should

receive better compensation given the pressures for achievement and the current school

climate where working in a school is dangerous. You could start by giving more time

around holidays to spend with families. This is also a military community. Families are

often far from home and the short holidays make travel difficult. If you can't give

employees raises, you can give them time.

• Get input from ALL areas. Teachers are hands on, they go first. Then School staff,

people who get them there (bus drivers), ALL areas in CAB...including IT who are in

CAB and in the schools.

• Special education leadership, specialists in all schools for math and reading support,

reassess the number of central admin positions and consider that funding for school based

positions

38

• Everyone is looking for someone who is bold and courageous to embrace the good and

do away with the bad even if it's not popular

• NPS has had a high turnover in central office leadership. Communication and support

systems to schools are impacted by the learning curve that has to take place at that level

each time we have a new Super. The Board has also had tension that is made public by

their televised meetings and negative press coverage.

• The incumbent must be aware of the poor culture and climate within Norfolk Public

Schools. Employees share with Norfolk Public Schools - time and time again - the

betrayal they feel from the division they serve. They do not trust administration, both

school building level and central administration level, and do not feel appreciated.

Employees do not actually end up leaving because of pay or benefits, despite the fact that

this is an extremely common public complaint. What employees do not often share

publicly (my guess is for fear of retaliation) is that they are miserable with their

leadership. In my position, I am keenly aware that you must be on the bus - no matter

who is driving it or where they are driving it - or you will be let off at the next stop. How

ironic that one of our more recent leadership themes was bus-related! At times, the

leadership can feel akin to a dictatorship. If you have any feelings of disagreement - even

if it is for the good of our students and even if those feelings come with a reasonable

suggestion of a solution - it is best to keep those thoughts to yourself, keep your head

down, and wait for the next Superintendent who will, hopefully, be and do better. I think

that we all hold out hope that it will be the next leader who takes us all on a ride that we

want to go on, one that is best for students and that allows space for work/life balance and

authentic joy for all. I chose to start my career with Norfolk Public Schools, and I am

committed to the continue my career here. I bought my house in Norfolk - in the zone for

the school at which I taught - because I loved my school community and students so

much. I believe in the heart of our people, and I believe in our students. I believe we can

do better.

• Transparency does not occur to middle management ranks, especially financial aspects of

a program, for example. Senior management is not open to this topic to share. Program

leaders are told information and expected to accept even though their program is

impacted adversely by some decisions made at senior level.

• We must continue to aggressively pursue excellence in education. We cannot continue to

use excuses for low performance. We have had too many "new" superintendents over the

past years. The school board has lost credibility with NPS employees. There seems to be

a real disconnect between the office of superintendent and the school board. Support

staff salaries are too low. Teacher salaries are too low. You get what you pay for.

• The main issue is with the school board and how much they bicker with each other and if

you disagree with them you will be ousted

What skills, qualities or characteristics should the new superintendent possess to be

successful here? (This information is used as we screen potential candidates.)

• Ability to pay attentions to all stakeholders, but strive to do what’s best for students;

regardless of the politics often involved in public decision making. Knowledge about

educational institutions within urban settings.

• Our new superintendent should be able to quickly develop positive relationships with our

district's School Board (within 30 days), students (within 120 days), staff (within 30

days), and community (within 90 days). Our new superintendent should be able to

39

quickly (within the first 30 days) implement a plan to realign resources and implement

research-based best practices for both instruction and operations. Our new

superintendent should be an educational researcher, who is able to effective initiate

change. Our new superintendent should have partnerships with institutes of higher

learning to assist the district in professional development and teacher recruitment and

retention.

• A focus on school climate and relationship building is required. You cannot force

subordinates into compliance/submission/engagement. Transformative leadership is

needed to get people to want to work through the barriers that exist in our community.

• They need to come from an urban type district to under the situations. They need to be

strong will to keep the Mayor and other Board members who have there own agenda in

there place. Mayor Alexander kids do not even go to Norfolk Public School, but the City

is always taking the schools money for other adventures. Or get rid of the Board

Members and have the state run the schools for a year or two to get back on track. At

what point do you say something is wrong here in 10 years we have not be able to keep

one superintendent. That is not normal. Who are getting there money from federal

government because they are not accredited which then goes to the negated schools.

• Good listener. Support your staff. Be present. Have a plan and stick to it. We have

had a revolving door of superintendents.

• Having all levels of school experience, from a teacher, up to a Principal. Having worked

in Academics area(s) in CAB and also understand the world of IT and what the costs

(financial and employees) for Tech areas.

• Strong communication skills, strategic, visible in all schools

• Integrity, willingness to hang in for the long haul, an observing spirit, strong will,

knowledgable of the climate and culture of the community, open-minded, brilliance

without arrogance and a humble spirit.

• Successful track record as a building leader and central office administrator. Open

communication: Talks with and listens to Principals, Content leaders, and especially

Teachers about their needs. Models being a well rounded individual. They will need a

combination of intelligence, experience and healing touch to move this district forward.

The persons placed in the interim positions seem to have this balance and good decisions

have been made thus far. I hope they are considered.

• The Superintendent of Schools must be a source of positive energy and must make

subordinates feel heard and equal in both words and action. Happy employees will

facilitate making happy students. Happy students have their needs met and will be able to

perform (Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, anyone? Education 101!). We can move from

taking care of basic needs - which I think NPS does a great job of doing! - and move to

meeting psychological needs and creating an environment that allows space for self-

actualization. Our accreditation challenge will take care of itself! I should also note that I

think it is vital that our Superintendent live in the City of Norfolk. If the Superintendent

won't live in Norfolk and won't send his or her children to Norfolk Public Schools, what

message does that send?

• Open and transparent approach to all aspects of her administration. Of high integrity,

especially of establishing trustworthiness from lowest to highest employees, especially

with financial issues. Great communicator of his/her vision for the whole system and

individual program priorities. And definitely able to inspire employees to give their

optimal talent, effort, etc. to our students with clearly defined expectations related to

performance and outcomes, etc. Finally, as instructors strive to deliver content of courses,

40

be less burdened by unreasonable and sometimes unnecessary requirements or

regulations imposed by their principals or nps system.

• Calm, unwavering, compassionate, strong communication skills, strong convictions

regarding the future for our children.

• Able to deal with a childish and petty school board

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Classified Staff



• The community is willing to assist the schools meet goals and provide students with

needed items. They are also willing to work with families.

• N/A

• Some of the faith based organizations assist with the schools.

• Growth-city is growing -connecting to surrounding areas Diversity Great opportunities

in many areas Affordable housing Great public schools-producing productive citizens

Transportation above average

• We come together in any type of situation at hand. Also we as a whole know how to rally

and take a stand in special situations.

• Social Offerings, The Arts in Norfolk, and Great Police & Fire Dept.

• Our community seeks the welfare of all of its citizens. We are a local community with a

global vision.

• It's hard to tell good things about the community when I do not reside in the community.

The things I hear from the students are about the violence and drugs in their

neighborhood.

• Our community is very diverse.



• There are some caring staff members.

• N/A

• Uniforms are mandatory. There are still staff that are passionate about providing a quality

education to scholars. We have a Family engagement Specialist that cares.

• Aspiring students Engaged educators-technology enhanced learning environments Safe

Informed educators students input in decision-making Training opportunities available

for both educators and students

• They have good programs. We have events for everyone to enjoy and learn from.

• We have several devoted employees who are very loyal to the system, wanting to help

our students.

• Norfolk Public Schools seeks to provided every student a quality education to become

productive global citizens.

• The school I am in have teachers who do care about the quality of education the students

are receiving. Some of the faculty have started mentorship and afterschool programs on

their own with no pay in order to help the students with behavior and productivity.

• The staff at our school are amazing. They put their hearts and souls into educating the

most challenging youth of our time in the most delapitated buildings with the least

amount of pay.

42



• NPS has a huge staff morale issue. It’s even worse in individual buildings due to the

constant turnover rates and the district’s inability to hold parents and students

accountable!

• Hold employees accountable for not doing their jobs.

• The huge problem of mold and rats in our school. The issues of building needing

improvement with more space for the students. The fact that there is no PTA presence in

the school or active involvement from parents.The fact that all students attending the

school are 90% bused in from neighborhoods with a not-so-good quality of life (no

diversity to promote the community). There is no restraining training for staff (pt and full

time) for emergency situations with behavior.

• Elected school board the voice of community-parents and students. Transparency

Building age Transit--military English Language Learners majority Teacher retention

Equity/Equality SPECIAL ED students services Mental Health Memorandum of

Understanding-guiding principles-UNIONS

• Communication. Respect. Working with your staff on being on the same page. Not being

heard out in situations that come up.

• School Board Issues! Our board sometimes acts like a bunch of middle schoolers who

cannot get along together.

• He/she should be concerned about the poverty of our students, their emotional, social

economical home conditions.

• A large majority of the non accredited schools have major issues with student behavior

and lack of parental participation. I see the same students coming to school late on a

daily bases. What are we doing about tardiness? How are we holding the parents

accountable? It doesn't matter what principals you put in these schools, as long as

students are allowed to curse, disrespect and threaten staff nothing is going to change.

We have only been in school for a month and some teachers are already stressed out.

• School repairs and staff pay increases. People tend to forget that your paraprofessionals

help keep the classes running. They are paid an unlivable wage. 10 years of service and

not even breaking $20,000 is insane.



• He/She should have a passion for education and people. Too often this position has gone

to people who do not care about educating students and supporting staff. They haven’t

had a passion for WHO they are in position for. The person should be approachable,

KIND, welcoming and team player. Education and background counts but personality

should be weighted.

• To treat all employees with respect and respect their opinions. Do not retaliate against

employees and not to be vindictive.

• Optimistic, adapt to change, organized, passionate about the safety and education of

students.

• Open minded Team player Put KIDS first Communicator-staff, school board,

stakeholders LEADER Knowledge of the geographic- Have Courage conversations

with stakeholders/students TRANSPARENCY

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• Listening to the employees when a situation arise. Backing up people when it is very

necessary to do so. Train to handle any given thing that comes up with all the schools.

Checking up on a complaint when it comes to staff and students. Hear all sides of what

happened. Make sure people are treated fairly.

• Home grown. Knows the community. Someone who is not blind to the short comings.

Someone who has worked hard within and has not ever given up no matter what the

challenges were. A person that is not a politician plying for our vote but only have their

own agenda of a paycheck. A person who realizes that for some of these children these

school buildings ARE the only safe place they have. The only place they get a meal. The

only place they can dream for more. A person that is here first and foremost for these

children. To gather and unite the entire staff of NPS regardless of title as one with one

primary goal, To mold the dreams our children have into reality by giving them the best

education that can be provided. We need a leader who is driven. Not power hungry.

• The new superintendent must be a people person with knowledge of "our" system, and be

a good communicator. I am very hopeful that she will be selected as a permanent

superintendent for Norfolk Public Schools. She has made some excellent decisions as

interim superintendent and morale has been better than it has been in years.

• He/she should possess the ability to negotiate at all times for the right and responsibility

that comes with seeking a valuable education for every child no matter what.

• The new superintendent should be visible in the schools. He/she should visit the schools

to see what the principals, teachers and staff are dealing with especially with low

functioning schools. The person should be willing to listen to the stakeholders to what

they need in order to be successful. Also, why are we searching for a new superintendent

when Dr. Byrdsong has dedicated her career to Norfolk and know the dynamic of the

district?

• Empathetic, resourceful,

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Community Members



• Strong neighborhoods and civic leagues that are involved the schools.

• Norfolk is a city with neighbor communities that that resemble the closeness and caring

of smaller towns. It has a vibrant arts world — orchestra, opera, theater, museums, the

annual Arts Festival, waterfront activities. The botanical garden is first rate. It is within

easy driving distance of DC to the north and the mountains to the west.

• The communities work together .

• It is a lovely waterfront city with neighborhoods that have character.

• Norfolk is a diverse, military town and working class community.

• Need someone that hasn't lost touch with being a human, not a politician, but someone

innovative and youthful, no more old men and old woman.

• Norfolk is a beautiful city with diversity, opportunity for everyone and a mayor and city

council team not afraid to make tough cutting edge decisions

• Chrysler Museum. Slover Library. Town Point Park. Botanical Gardens. MacArthur

Memorial. Elizabeth River Trail. NATO HQ. Hunter House Victorian Museum. USS

Wisconsin. Admiral's Row at Norfolk Naval Base (Dillingham Blvd - Site of 1907

JamestownExhibition).

• The staff that hangs on despite all of the horrible working conditions and corrupt

behaviors and practices.

• norfolk is a vibrant, innovative community. we need good quality schools to attract and

maintain citizens to this area.

• Big city activities with small town charm.

• friendly, peaceful, diverse

• Our community is full of genuinely kind and educated people.

• Some what peaceful. Waste management and street sweepers consistent

• The community is diverse.

• There are so many cool things to do here!

• This is a very diverse and growing city with many great neighborhoods. People are

friendly and the city is the hub cultural attractions. There are many different and varied

types of industries, work environments and places to enjoy life after work. There is a

festival to celebrate many of the members of the community.

• We are a diverse community with beautiful beaches, gardens and historical places to

visit. Our city has a wide variety of places of interest.

• Our location is a big plus. We are close to many major cities and endless opportunities

for entertainment. We are ripe for a makeover.

• Exceptional ARTS community considering the size of the city...Symphony, Ballet,

Theater, and a myriad of semi-professional and community-based arts organizations.

The Chrysler Museum and the Botanical Gardens are one par with most any across the

country. The region is becoming a "foody" destination...exceptional restaurants, as well

as breweries. Our hospital systems are second to none. Recreation in our region is

superb. From beaches to easy mountain access, fishing & skiing to snow skiing are all

within a 3 hour drive.

• Norfolk is a very diverse community with diverse needs. Diversity is our strength.

45

• It is a beautiful place with its river, crape myrtles, live oaks. It has an outstanding

symphony, one of the top 20 art museums in the country and a stunning botanical garden.

Also great restaurants and theatre.

• established suburban area. Our development is about 38 years old. Churches and middle

schools/elementary schools within walking distance and/or less than 10 minute drive.

• Diverse community Home of the world's largest navy base Rich in history

• Passionate people, rich history, diverse neighborhoods, and great resources (universities,

hospitals, businesses). There are a variety of community-based partners and non-profits

in the area doing high-quality work that centers the needs of our children.

• Norfolk is a diverse community with many strengths. I think the city offers many

opportunities and supports for all the different areas in the city, however, I feel more

support is provided for certain areas of the city than others.



• Caring concerned teachers and volunteers and parents.

• Because my children graduated from NPS about 15 years ago, I am less familiar with the

current qualities. Nonetheless I know that the top rated specialty programs are highly

rated.

• The schools have excellent teachers.

• There is a great deal of community involvement.

• None.

• Unfortunately, our schools are not so good. We have not been able to attract a leader

with a vision. The current board members are not skilled enough to lead the district

forward.

• Good teachers. My wife and daughter both teach in NPS. Both my children went through

Norfolk Public Schools.

• The staff's willingness to adapt to a failing school system and put up with

disorganization, lack of funding and lack of administrative support.

• I know many teachers who give their ALL plus, for their students. we need to make sure

they have all resources they need and parental participation! Their salaries should be on

top levels.

• School performance is improving.

• good intentions, diverse

• The teachers are highly qualified and emotionally invested in the well-being of students.

There are both academic and vocational options for high-schoolers.

• The Staff actually show up for work.; in outdated Buildings. Staff take on dual task;

switching from educator to plummer ; to contractor; to exterminator; when building leaks

, falls apart; or animals take over building..or Mold.

• The schools face many issues related to SES, transient status, lack of resources, and

inadequate pay for teachers.

• We have many talented and caring teachers who do not always get the respect they

deserve

• We have had a school system that was very highly rated and I believe that the constant

stream of superintendents with different educational philosophies has had a negative

impact on the system. As a former educator, we have hard working and dedicated

46

educational staff who are interested in seeing our schools succeed. Given the diversity of

the student population we need teachers and staff to reflect this diversity.

• Our schools have highly qualified educators but are quite lacking in resources to properly

equip them to teach our students in today’s world. Many of our facilities are in poor

condition, and in adequate funding is in place to keep up with periodic maintenance is

provided.

• We have some excellent programs. We have families who are looking for someone who

will bring hope and enormous possibilities to their children. We have opportunities for

great partnerships with public and private businesses.

• Most staff and administrators are highly qualified and passionate about working with

students.

• Norfolk Public Schools has always offered the best support for teachers regarding

professional development. Good people have been driven away by terrible leadership.

Although it permeates our current board, success has come because of the commitment to

the students, families, and the communities in spite of a few inept board members.

• We have great teachers, and an exceptional music program across the district. We have

many involved, committed parent volunteers and many excellent principals and admin

staff.

• Diversity in terms of ethnicity and economic level.a variety of programs are offered at the

high schools

• Honestly, I don't think NPS schools are very good. Many citizens choose private school

for this reason.

• Dedicated teachers willing to go the extra mile, principals who understand the needs of

their staff and students, amazing and resilient children, and a location brimming with new

opportunities for growth and innovation.

• The schools do the best they can with very limited resources and funding and high

teacher/staff turnover.



• Public and internal plan Interference. Lack of support as far as logically attempting to

grasp the entire picture of "any" plan before criticism takes over. Too much micro

management internally and from "Joe Public"

• shrinking enrollement; concerns about PB Young and Tidewater Park development and

relocation of youth

• Poverty in some neighborhoods. Lack of parental support for some children at all grade

levels. Poor reputation of school system when compared to other school systems in the

area and across the nation. Graduation rates that are an embarrassment when compared to

the rest of the Hampton Roads area.

• Aging buildings, classroom size, teacher salaries.

• That the city is divided and they should come ready to change the mindset and the

behavior of the teachers, students and city officials.

• The capital needs of the school district are overwhelming; the operating budget is

underfunded; the school board is divided; many of the schools are under performing; and

City Council is focused on improving downtown to the detriment of the schools.

• Your schools are rated the worst in the state - according to the state. Your funds are

mismanaged and the schools are rodent infested ancient ruins.

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• That the School board gets rid of superintendent's faster than people change their

underwear..unworkable board ..

• They need to strive to meet technology needs, they need 1 to 1 similar to Virginia beach.

• 1. Poverty 2. School Board Leaders Discords 3. School buildings Repairs

• Low salary scale compared to neighboring cities. Rodent infestation at Sherwood ES.

Overcrowding of Blair Middle School. Disruptive (verbal, physical) students need to be

moved to correct facility.

• Disgusting working environments filled with mold, dust and rodents/roaches. Damaged

equipment. Flooding in and outside the buildings. Toxic air quality. Unqualified and

uneducated staff teaching students and being in charge of departments. Corrupt Special

Ed administrators

• all schools: need smaller class sizes/20 students per class max mandatory parental

participation

• Many repairs needed, rodent infestation, several schools not meeting state testing

standards

• antiquated goals, a bit chaotic, poor facilities, schools not connected to surrounding

community, a lot of good teachers but a lot of not good teachers too.

• Norfolk floods! The superintendent needs to know that it's okay to cancel or delay school

because of steady rain. It might "just" be rain, but that never stopped a swamp from

flooding.

• No one stays in this JOB; MAINLY because of gross neglect in the NPS SYSTEM. Most

Upper middle class students, and privileged students attend Norfolks PRIVATE

SCHOOLS. Jacox Elem. Should be condemned. BTW IS so outdated n structurally

dated..Lake Taylor looks like a Prison. Granby is architecturally beautiful, so

dated..Sherwood Forrest; RODENT INFESTED, MAURY , old musty, peeling paint..

• The candidate must be able to lead by example, embrace the diverse population, gain the

respect of all stakeholders, and increase teacher pay while decreasing class size.

• The school board is not here for students, staff or the community

• Communication is key! There isn't enough of it.

• The superintendent needs to have experiences with a large student population and large

staff. He/she needs to seen in the community and to help us understand the how he/she

intends to move this division forward. There needs to be a cohesive plan and not a lot of

lofty ideas with a huge budget. There is a lot of poverty given the number of students

who are free and reduced lunch, the person needs to be to relate to this segment of the

community as well as the well to do. The housing redevelopment going on in the St. Paul

Quadrant is going to have a major impact and parents need to know how the school

division is going to help make their children's transition easy to other schools. The

division is losing students and the person should have some plans on how to resolve this

middle class flight. We have issues with special educational disportionality as well as the

issue of trauma for many of our students.

• Morale among many faculties is very poor. Teachers in those buildings do not feel

respected by students, parents and in many instances administration at the building and

district level. Classroom discipline and lack of adequate consequences continues to

disrupt the flow of teaching in classrooms.

• Norfolk has a history of racial division and inequality, yet there are glimmers of hope that

remain. I am a product of Norfolk Public Schools from a different era. Having lived in

poverty, without even realizing the extent of it, I know the life-changing impact schools

48

can have when people of character, who possess sincere student and community

connectedness and motivation, are in administration. We are not a stepladder - a place to

settle until you can move up and on. We are in serious trouble. We have listened to many

of the same issues for years. The brightest professionals are leaving the city for

surrounding cities. Families are leaving for he same reasons, and those left behind are

floundering. Our shool buildings are crumbling. We are tired of hearing excuses. We

have to do exceptionally well with what we have; therefore, we need a person who can

produce positive results and evidence when you do not have all you need. Isn't that what

we do in our homes? TALK IS CHEAP, and we are sick of it. We need someone who

will roll up their sleeves and work and draw other educators to Norfolk with like values

... not those who smile, look pretty, delegate, and schedule meetings.

• Extra support is needed within the Special Education programs...more staff to combat a

very overloaded team of professionals in each school. They should be aware that the

Arts programs in NPS have been sorely cut back over the past decades. While the

program is still producing an exceptional product year to year, gaps are appearing in

various schools. Each high school should have a strong Drama Club within the

English/Arts departments. The STEAM focus at BTW is a very good start, but needs

additional funding and training of staff on how to integrate ARTS components in core

classes and the facility needs full funding to add ARTS/Technology related instruction,

such as audio/sound recording, lighting technicians, computer-based apps and

audio/visual components. The NPS system has had a historic tendency to shuffle

around teachers and administrators who, in other professions, would be terminated. Yes

the process for removing someone is tedious and long, but it must be done. Poorly

performing teachers who can not/do not accept constructive critique and do not make the

effort to improve have to be put on plans of action. Administrators who habitually micro-

manage, manipulate/backstab colleagues, or on occasion display highly misogynistic

behavior must also be placed on plans of action and removed...NOT moved to a different

school. Toxic situations must be addressed, not swept under the rug. The efforts to

rebuild teacher/staff/administrative payscales must continue...NPS still loses quality

teachers and administrators to other area school systems.

• The Norfolk Public Schools Board has in the past been an example of professionalism,

representing the needs of the community and most of all the with ALL students in mind.

Be aware that it is not the Board of the past. Vindictive and petty acts, misunderstanding

of the function and purpose of a local school board, bullying and poor leadership threaten

the functionality of our schools.

• The district has taken such a beating the last several years. Funding is inadequate,

turnover has created instability and most school buildings need renovation.

• there is in my thinking(based on 32 years of my teaching and a Norfolk resident and

parent of 2 former students-1 special needs public school (chose to be homeschooled

during a high school and 1 parochial school pre-k-12) a deliberate disparity of spending

and technology within the east side and west side of the city.

• That the Board was not supportive of the previous superintendent. There was turnover

with superintendents prior to the last one. There are a lot of problems with the board.

How is this going to be changed so the focus is on students? Also, the school buildings

are falling apart. What is going to be done about this/.

• Norfolk Public Schools has a complex history in our region. We desperately need a

superintendent who gives autonomy to principals, allowing schools to determine their

49

individual needs and partner with community-based and wraparound services. Our

principals need to be empowered so our students can benefit.

• The School Board is a very divisive group and should focus more reviewing and enacting

policy, advocating for the schools, and supporting the superintendent.



• Experience in managing a district similar to Norfolk. Able to stand firm on their idea of

what is best for the schools regardless of other influences

• team builder with innovative ideas

• Communication and listening skills. Problem solving skills. Be willing to work with

other school districts to learn how they overcame similar situations in the areas of test

scores and graduation rates.

• Ability to communicate with young children to teenagers, with parents from all walks of

life, with teachers and administrators without being overbearing. Ability to articulate to

parents, school board, city counsel, legislative members the strengths and needs for the

school. Being a strong advocate for the schools. Building a team feeling for the school

system.

• They should be well rounded having knowledge of finances, leadership, public relations

being able to talk to the students and lately being about to follow as well as lead.

• The ability to advocate for school division budget and capital needs; the courage to push

back against inadequate city funding in capital and operating funding; the wherewithal to

unite the school board behind his or her leadership agenda thereby overcoming political

fractures.

• Own up to the fact that your school system needs help. Stop pretending that Norfolk

schools are nothing but the worst.

• Being able to work very well with one parent family .. and being able to work school

board that is hard to work with

• Youthful and energetic. Someone that will get involved with the system, hiring the same

types of people are not working. Need a fresh start.

• 1. Big picture perspective 2. Develop a winning team (based on love for this city) 3.

Provide clear direction and guidance 4. Not afraid of bad publicity with bias news

paper(va. pilot) 5. Foster team unity throughout the district 6. Equity among all the

schools

• Have a vision! Stern. Leader. Instructor. Decisive. Keep their word. Fiscally

educated.

• Someone that is not afraid to stand up against the unethical, immoral and corrupt

practices of NPS.

• Education background is very important to me. Experience in the classroom, experience

in administration. Some business experience would be preferable. Excellent people

skills. Arbitration skills. A sixth sense?!!

• Someone who can look towards the future of education as well as the city. Someone who

values diversity. Someone who is able to work with a variety of city, non-profit and

private partners to be able to provide holistic services that go beyond education.

• genuine, bold, accountable, energetic

50

• Schools are under-funded, so the superintendent should be someone who good with

shoestring budgets, and who is good at schmoozing up to donors.

• They must know how to actually get funding for repairs , renovations, new construction.

Understand People of all backgrounds, economic status. Know how to regain trust with

Parents n students...must have ability to actually fight for the District ; not just on the

paper DEGREE. MUST BE SERIOUS ABOUT TASK; NOT THE WALLET, AS

PREVIOUS SUPERTINDENTS( BEEN MANY) HAVE..MAY THEM AWARE IN 3

PREVIOUS FOLK, ACCREDITED WAS NOT A PRIORITY..

• Mindfulness, modeling, how to use differentiated strategies to address diversity,

transparency in leadership

• Dont be scared of the school board and make them accountable

• Caring about ALL. They should not be afraid to weed out the fluff

• The superintendent should be personable, confident and visible in the community. Join in

not just the Town Point Club but the Neighborhood meetings where parents get the

feeling that you care. Review the number of persons in the School administration

building and there should be a reason for their position that connects to students as

directly as possible. The person should possess the license for the position and more than

five years experience, diverse and preferably in an urban school division.

• An effective superintendent must be willing to listen to educators and value their first

hand experience and knowledge. They must be willing to be present in schools for a

variety of occasions, and for no special event at all. Visits should not be “ photo ops”.

This person must possess integrity and communication skills that allow them to express

themselves in an understandable fashion to the news media, so NPS can be transparent to

the public.

• We need a drum major who can get everyone in line and stepping high in the same

direction. We need a servant leader - it is not the salary, but the futures entrusted to you.

We need an expert in curriculum development. We need someone who is up to a huge

challenge and has a record with the evidence to prove it. We need someone who works

just as hard as our frontline teachers - not just Monday-Friday. We recognize the night

and weekend hours teachers put in to accomplish what the system requires, yet too many

in the admin building are in their comfort zones with free weekends. We need someone

who values all of the communities in our cities - rich and poor, and demonstrate it by

showing up in the communities in collaboration with other city agencies. We need

someone who knows how to work with the mayor to connect and utilize the efforts of city

agencies - public health, public safety, social services, etc. I thought Norfolk Public

Schools was going to do that with the new wrap around services - NO EVIDENCE. We

need someone who will give just as much attention to our problems as successes. We

need immediate results. We need someone who can walk and chew at the same time.

• Attentive listening that engages the person they are talking to; whether it is a parent or

staff member. Accessible, they can not come across as condescending. NOT a

micromanager, but a team leader who works for consensus, yet still is recognized as

having the "final say". A strong interest in interacting with our staff & community, get

out of the "ivory tower". Exceptional understanding of the scheduling process and how

that impacts programs negatively or positively. They must be a "cheerleader" for the

system, not apologetic but regularly promoting the positive in our system.

• Please make every effort to learn about the the entire Norfolk community, not just those

areas that contribute to political campaigns of campaigning board members. Parents care

about their children and expect the leadership to put them first. Sense of self and ability

51

to make INFORMED decisions. Have the ability to stand up for what is right rather than

what is popular or a want for a bully board member or weak leader. Be a le detector.

Understand that the lie will be twisted to fit their truth. Be compassionate. Understand

that there is a history of the city, the school division. Both have been through a lot in the

past 15 years. Be willing to do the work. Hold yourself accountable. Inspect what you

expect.

• NPS needs a leader who will really listen to teachers, parents and students, who will be a

powerful advocate for the system with the city and state, who will strengthen the basics

by supporting good solid teaching - not the latest pedagogical fad.

• an ability to level the playing field. Look at the deteriorating physical plants of all schools

and make necessary improvements. I taught in a school for over 11 years and the leaking

roof was never fixed. Listen to the teachers and empower teachers rather than tossing

money to a chummy administrative team like that which is a chronic cancer that has eaten

at NPS since I have had affiliation which is near 40 years.

• Able to work with a board that has problems. Student oriented. Willing to listen to the

community and staff. Positive. Celebrate diversity. Have an action plan and follow it.

• We need someone who is at heart a collaborator. We need someone willing to share data

(safely, with the utmost respect for our students) and someone who opens up the ability

for non-profits and local partners to truly collaborate for the benefit of our students.

Norfolk has a wealth of community-based agencies and non-profits who have been

previously unable to jointly apply with NPS for co-funding opportunities due to a lack of

collaboration from NPS.

• Fair, transparent, does what he/she says

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Parents



• The Norfolk community are proud of its students and are willing to help children achieve

their goals and potential.

• I appreciate the sense of community in Norfolk.

• We have a great diverse community with wonderful history.

• Plenty of crossing guards

• Strong higher education supports: ODU, NSU, VA Weslyan, Medical School - EVMS,

TCC Lots of culture in our city - diversity in all aspects Military connection

Proximity to the Chesapeake Bay

• Well I live in the Norfolk community and also a Norfolk public schools student/parent.

I've enjoyed attending school here in the area. Now, my son is in attendance in the

Norfolk school system.

• Parent teacher collaboration. Engaged parents and students. Community minded

approach.

• Ghent is a very diverse community with a broad spectrum of nationalities, beliefs, and

education levels.

• We are a diverse community with very intelligent and athletic students.

• I was born and raised in Norfolk, Virginia; primarily the Estabrook Park, Green Hill

Farm, and Sherwood Forest Area. I also recently purchased my first home in this area

because of the community involvement, people within the communities, the military

dynamics of the community, and my own personal preference. Most of my family is

from and has lived in Norfolk as well. I did not want to buy a home in Virginia Beach or

Chesapeake, I wanted to stay where I am, loyal to the city I love.

• Diversity

• I feel some of the best things about my community is that we have a thriving military

community that rallies around them when needed.

• Diverse

• The arts, local area sports, small big-city feel, big small-city feel

• Strong military community, diverse activities available (cultural, arts, etc.).

• My community shows goals to bring unity for all people regardless of color. They work

together to help one another.

• I live in park place and it is up and coming thanks to old and new residents. The Civic

league is doing an awesome job of including local leaders with the residents to ensure a

balance in relationships all the while connecting one to another. Businesses are moving

into park which is an integral part of Communities long term viability.

• I was born and raised in Norfolk. I love this city because it’s one of the most diverse

cities in the country. I am from 4 generations of Norfolkians, but many people that I

know came here through the Navy. I have friends and neighbors from all over the world.

Norfolk is a city that takes chances. We are always the first in our region to take on

something new like the arts district, light rail, IKEA and the new continuous flow

intersection.

• We are a diverse community, we have lots of great resources in our area (businesses,

community partners, events)

• Neighbors who look out for each other

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• Naval Station Norfolk NATO Vibrant Arts Community Port of Virginia Virginia

Maritime Association Norfolk Sister City Association Institutions of Higher Education

Medical Complexes

• Ocean view in the area surrounding Bay View elementary is a pretty quiet neighborhood.

There are many families with children, and for the most part we feel safe allowing our

children to play outside with each other. There is adequate sidewalks, and many people

walk or ride bicycles and scooters to the school.

• Our communities value Education and we produce Scholars and Athletes.

• Plenty of places 4 kids 2 go. Rec'center YMCA granby..Zoo .. City

Park..library..Pk.Pl.garden.. Munson Park...Mo'jo thrift store kids absolutely love buy'n

toys DVD's..kids first...

• Incredible arts community for a city this size. Symphony orchestra is great, opera good,

three art museums, limited public parks, very nice live downtown. Best cycling

community I’ve ever seen in 10-12 places I’ve lived. Incredible children’s hospital!

Generally Strong doctors- sentara leigh nice new hospital. Active grassroots crisis-to-

stability groups to help local femmes, brown and black, with financial and other supports.

Two major universities. And beach if you like that.

• The ability to embrace diversity and overcome adversity.

• The people; the willingness to support a good cause. The beautiful neighborhood-

Walkable; runnable and bicycle friendly. Access to different stores and activities.

• Small town with big city amenities

• Diversity. Strong military community.

• Our community is diverse.

• Diversity. Our city is made up of people from all over the world, races, skin colors and

ethnicity. We're also socioeconomically diverse as a region.

• Quiet community

• Neighborhood feel, everyone involved

• Extremely diverse on many and different levels. Military and maritime industries tend to

make it transient, a mixed blessing. Many schools are world class, but too many practices

are pre-20th century, hence, may not meet or accept challenges required for economical

and social growth, but under progressive leadership, easily overcome. 3 universities in

Norfolk and over 30 universities within 4 hours drive, No excuses. Period.

• a lot of bright students who are eager to learn, good families who are willing to

participate in meaningful ways, great coastal environment with connections to water and

nature within an urban setting.

• It embraces a city culture and that the foundation of its economy is the Navy.

• Diversity, quaint shops/restaurants family owned, trees and plantings in public

parks/streets

• The neighborhoods are unique in Norfolk. Although we live in the same city, the

neighborhoods are distinct.

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• Our schools have some of the best teachers in the Hampton Roads area, they want the

children to succeed and they welcome parent and volunteer participation.

• I appreciate the sense of community and desire to help our youth.

• We love the teacher support and staff support at Willard Model School. The teachers go

above and beyond to help make a great learning environment for the students.

• Free morning snack for the children

• Many dedicated staff members from custodians to building principals. Unique

specialty programs Music and performing arts support Community schools -

neighborhood schools

• Our schools are diverse and provide a variety of learning opportunities.

• Taylor ES is a school with committed stakeholders— teachers, administration, and

families are all deeply committed to our students.

• The teachers love the students.

• THE TEACHERS. Without a doubt they are the backbone of our schools and they are

helping to mold my children and all the other children that depend on Norfolk Public

Schools for their educational needs. I have a 14 year old that attends Maury High School

and has thrived. He is currently a B+ honor student and attends an Engineering program

held at Norfolk Vocational School (VoTech) titled the NORSTAR Program. I believe

that Norfolk Public Schools offer a vast number of programs for gifted and talented

students as well as assistive programs for remediation needs. I also have a six year old

daughter that is in the 1st grade at Sherwood Forrest Elementary and she too is excelling.

She is easily reading on a high second grade level.

• Our teachers are very passionate about our children.

• I'm a new parent to NPS so I'm still evaluating

• Diverse

• Strong IB programs.

• They offer opportunities for students to be able to address the various needs of learning.

Students are offered opportunities to advance their academics.

• The local schools are always looking for innovative ways to teach and educate our

students. Educators are faced with a myriad of situations so I would suggest a more

diverse training avenue like modules, special conferences. Give teachers a forum to

discuss their challenges and offer solutions and suggestions to side in their success.

• I was a Norfolk Public Schools student and now my child is a student in the school

system. Just like the City of Norfolk, the school system offers a level of diversity not

found in many other places. This allows students to become friends with and learn how to

collaborate with others who are racially and culturally different from them. This will

properly prepare them for the workforce and make them better communicators no matter

where they choose to go in the world.

• Caring teachers, involved PTA members at my local school (WH Taylor)

• Not much that I’ve seen

• There is precious little. Lack of foreign language instruction; lack of field trips to

compliment classroom instruction; failure of School Board to investigate criminal

mismanagement to defunct NPS Education Foundation; obsessive focus on testing;

failure to provide support of continuing education for faculty & staff; sub-par

compensation for all save top leadership in central admin

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• Bay view elementary is very focused on the success of thier students. All the teachers

my kids have had were awesome! The principles and vice principals have show great

interest and involvement in my son's 504 for his food allergies and has made sure training

was provided by the school nurse to teachers on dangers associated with life threatening

food allergies as well as spotting symptoms and immediate treatment required. This was

not in place before our 504 to my knowledge.

• Our Schools have quality Teachers. The majority of them love their students and they

love to teach However; they dont receive the support or salary that they deserve.

• James Monroe has had 5 new principles 4 last 5yrs..New one there this yr. so she make

6..something going on sch has not been accredited im jus as many yrs.. I would label

James Monroe in parkplace the worst sch...#parent of 4 generations that hav attended

there..most of the kids from this sch have records now..should do a statistics an jus

see..lots of concern here...

• Schools are not good. I have a PhD in educational leadership, used to be a huge advocate

for Nps, and after 15 years I’ve given up hoping for change. Middle mgmt has death grip

and kills incremental change. Ex: building principals told how to subvert PBIS by not

allowing teachers to write anyone up. Great numbers! Horrible morale. Unsafe schools.

If you come in, seek big change, and don’t listen to the middle, you’ll have every teacher

behind you. SHOW you are listening to them (go see their classrooms!!! Wander and

don’t let principals choose who you talk to!) and they’ll back you 200%. Ignore teachers

and you’ll continue to lose all the best and death spiral will continue. My kids have

graduated from NPS but I would not put them there again. Teachers have been and are

being mistreated; your kids won’t be focus of our district. Focus and $ all go to getting

kids in the building and keeping them safe-ish. Hire someone without school-age kids!!

• The individual schools have many innovative efforts and many dedicated personnel that

have an investment in the betterment of NPS as a whole.

• The quality of the teachers who have been in. The system for years and who absolutely

love what they are doing despite the lack of administrative support.

• Great kids. Great faculty

• We are at Bay View. Dr. Walton, our old principal, created the most AMAZING school

CULTURE. New principal has yet to even introduce herself to parents and students. The

culture that used to exist in our school is GONE overnight, and we want that back!!

Please balance operational goals with this socio-emotional need for students and families.

This WAS great about Bay View, please bring someone in who will establish a clear

CULTURE and values for our school system. (I have a background in psychology and

education, so this request has reasonable and empirical bases.)

• We have hard-working teachers despite the fact we have buildings in poor conditions.

• Diversity (for the most part), dedicated and exceptional teachers who care and push

through limiting infrastructure to support all children.

• Love the staff n both my kids schools

• Walkable, great teachers, parents involved

• All schools strive, but too many fail to achieve results because of funding. Having an

elected school board has had some impact, but not what was anticipated. If taxes are

increased to improve education, then every dollar allocated, especially to fully fund

educators and teaching assistants ap.o

• there are number of sharp teachers who really know how to connect with students to

bring out their best.

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• The special needs program and ISP process is very good.

• Diversity

• We have options outside of our neighborhood schools.



• Children who have special needs should have the right teachers with those qualifications

in place to assist these students. Teachers need more support in classrooms so that each

child at every level gets the attention that they need to thrive. We have some wonderful

children who are doing amazing things and we need to do a better job at giving

recognition when it is do, and celebrating our high achievers from all Norfolk districts

not just a select few.

• First, the NPS schools implement PBIS, though loosely. This evidence-based,

preventative framework is used nationally and could be greatly helpful, if fully supported.

I wonder- what do the candidates think about PBIS, and what recommendations do they

have pertaining to PBIS implementation in NPS. Second, lockdown drills have been a

controversial topic in the media and in education. What do the candidates think of

lockdown drills, and what relates recommendations do they have?

• I think Middle Schools need to be a focus. Lakewood Academy is excelling and it is a

shame only 132 students in the whole city of Norfolk get to go there for 6th grade. There

needs to be better programs and opportunity at other middle schools. I also think there

needs to be more staff educated in Mental Health present at the schools.

• No early drop off and the earliest the doors open is 0915. Making any parents job

difficult for a 8 or 9 to 5 job.

• 1. We need to retain good teachers and principals. We need someone who has been in

those shoes and understands the how upper level decisions affect the classroom

outcomes. We need someone who can work with the community but not let adult

priorities override what is best for students. Neighborhoods need to feel pride in their

schools and should be connected to their school. Vice versa. I value smaller schools

with more personal touch vs. large schools. I want the superintendent to support the

performing arts. We need someone who can advocate for what a strong and high

performing school division can do to enhance a city and attract families back. The

School Board is in the early stages of being fully elected. Some may say there is division

on the board. There are philosophical differences. Norfolk is picked on by the media

- poor urban school division. We need to tell the story better and rise above the neg

headlines. Building facilities need much needed maintenance and repair. I cannot

stand the concept of Cafeteria/Gym/Auditorium combined.

• Well with all good things comes the bad things.....well my son is enrolled in middle

school and bullying has been an issue the last 2 years at this particular school and the

principle nor the deans believe in conflict mediation. I just think that there can be steps to

reduce the amount of incidents in school.

• Some Of the academic programs are quite strong and could be built upon.

• The past superintendent made HUGE mistakes by cutting back on full time reading,

math, and gifted teachers. Why in the world would a school superintendent punish

schools she considered too “affluent” for FT staff? Children from all income brackets

deserve the full support of NPS administrations without bias. Her actions were shameful

and punish all our students— from the high achieving gifted to the struggling readers.

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• The schools do not receive the funding to give Norfolk City school age children a safe

and clean place to learn. Currently this is not happening and appears that there has been a

blind eye turned to this critical topic.

• FUNDING. Funding is and has been for over a decade a major problem and concern

within our city. Our schools are falling apart, in need of repairs, some need to be torn

down and rebuilt or at the very least remodeled. I am just recently becoming aware of all

the politics associated with funding and fixing these problems. For example, my

daughters school is being investigated and treated for a rat, cockroach, and mold

infestation. I have gone before the school board, the superintends office, and even city

council members. Please review and consider these facts: VIRGINIA BEACH

Schools Superintendent Aaron Spence on Tuesday night released a $790 million

operating budget plan for 2019-20. That's an increase of about $20 million from the

current budget. Schools Superintendent Jared Cotton on Monday released his $477

million operating budget proposal that includes money for raises and starting full-day

kindergarten at three schools.The School Board will approve a preliminary budget in

March, then a final plan in May after the City Council and General Assembly allocate

funds. I could not find budget information on the Norfolk Public School 2019-2020

school budget; however I am sure it will not come close to that of Virginia Beach or

Chesapeake. Although the demographics (both racial and income level) of Norfolk are

significantly different from other areas, I do not believe that it is right for our children to

not receive the same opportunity that students in surrounding cities have. This is the

most important and concerning issue to me.

• The schools in the poorer parts of the city are literally falling apart. Playgrounds in the

elementary schools look like the are from a 3rd world contry with paint peeling to show

metal. Parents are concerned about cleanliness and the representatives sent to discuss

these issues dance around the concerns with no genuine interest.

• One of the main issues is that our school system can’t keep bus drivers and when we do

get good ones something happens and they leave.

• 1. Aging infrastructure 2. The need to keep quality teachers 3. Urban poverty 4. The

need to change the image of NPS. I was reticent about moving to Norfolk because I

didn't want my son to attend school in the city. There are many parents like me, who are

uncertain about the quality of the schools- especially the high schools.

• Some new facilities but most in disrepair and in dire need of improvements, at a

minimum

• Schools are in horrible conditions, we desperately need renovations or replacements. Our

children should not be learning in rat infested, asbestos filled schools. If this person

would not work daily in those conditions, our students should not be learning in them.

• Special Education and at risk students need more resources to help bridge the gap. We, as

teachers, need more training to address the various needs of these students in order to

bridge that gap.

• I would like to think he or she should first an foremost should be in the position to endure

long-term improvement of the children's education in our city. She needs to be equipped

with qualities both professional and personal to be able to get her/ his hands dirty when

needed. As a city we need to back our leadership and assist them to ensure

communication lines are open. This office should have clear intent where they are are

headed as a district leader and ensure everybody has access and understanding to the

course of direction set forth while maintaining goals and time frames to accomplish such.

Further he or she needs to have adequate resources to ensure the success of all levels of

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the NPS family. It can be done with unity in the community engagement series. Full

engagement is need it promotes ownership and creates value and equity as people tend to

care more about their investments and interest.

• 1. Our schools are falling apart. I went to the schools open house a few weeks ago and

there was rain coming into the windows of the first floor classrooms. The stairwells (that

students have to use to get to classes) had flakes of ceiling falling down onto everyone.

There is also a huge problem with bugs.

• A lot of wealthier parents won’t consider NPS for their children due to perceived

problems, low standards, etc. We need to convince more wealthy parents to choose their

local NPS school.

• The administration within the downtown building has lost its way. No one wants to put

anything in writing, no one wants to speak on the phone, no one wants to respond to

emails. And they all back each other up in the nothingness that they’ve become.

• General sense of corruption and incompetence

• Many of our schools are underperforming. Bay view is one of the few that performs

well. When my children reach middle school I have every intention to move from

Norfolk or send my children to private school to keep them out of Norfolk's public

middle and high schools. Norfolk would do well to follow VA beach in setting up a

gifted only school like they have with the old donation school. Not all students are equal

in performance, and the focus of the schools should be to give each individual the highest

chance of success to thier own highest level. Though a gifted program exists that

separates students by classes sometimes, having a school where all students are

performing at a higher level would increase thier chances of success. Our schools are

already abismal at the middle and high school level, and many of the elementary are as

well. There is no reason to try to prop up the scores of all the schools with the scores of

the few high performing students by keeping them mixed in with students that may be

holding them back.

• The safety of schools in all neighborhoods should be addressed to include security,

outdoor classrooms and the cleanliness and safety of the buildings. Also spending should

be addressed. There appears to be money for everything except for paying our Teachers

and ensuring that buildings are safe and have enough inside space to educate our

children. Also positions in the schools that are Paras that require a degree should be

offered higher salaries. Bus Drivers need to be paid better as well in order to attract and

keep quality and safe drivers

• Leaders who Fit into community Leaders who can hav standing room only meet'n

bring'n parents together parents need leaders who will push them towards the importance

of their childs education

• Many teachers are incredible. They’ve been worn down and feel broken after

sometimes 40% turnover in one year. Their pay has been cut in sneaky ways. It’s awful

and unethical. Their conditions are horrible. Leaks, mold, bathrooms without soap or

mirrors, facilities needs entire overhaul. Start in EAST norfolk. Those are the kids you

need to help. Inequity and poverty within the system is your biggest problem begging

for innovative solutions. Look at VB and Chesapeake at robotics programs. Bring that

here for a trade program to feed shipyards. Public private partnerships ftw! Make

friends w mayor and former state legislator. Get to know governor. Meet our senators.

We need external funding to save our city thru school innovation and rebuilding

(literally). We need national attention- green companies to come make gold star school

with zero water use, flood remediation and creative landscape architecture. Think

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national! Win another Broad prize! If you can think big, you’ll have armies of people

behind you including EVERY teacher and principal (and the school board). If you listen

to your middle management, you will not succeed and nothing will change. They have

kept everything the same with small cheap fix-of-the-year for 15 years. Break effects of

structural poverty and crumbling buildings by finding national $, private partners, and

think BIG!

• There is an extremely low morale within the district for many years. A high political

agenda resulting in administrative selections. A lack of trust and relationship building.

High teacher turnover due to low morale and non-competitive pay. A huge

turnover/movement in administrative placements/job titles. Lack of consistency in

programming, administration, and initiatives. Lack of transparency and an inadequate

dissemination of information. Stakeholder input is disregarded in decision making. There

does not appear to be a collective or common vision/effort, as a whole there is an absence

of integrity and fidelity. An increase in stability and collective efficacy will allow for a

focus on building teacher and administrative capacity, resulting in overall student

achievement. District wide initiatives, should be prudent and not some fad reform

approach. The district should utilize the expertise and knowledge of its own, rather than

wasting time and money just to state they are "revamping instructional leadership and

team building" without buy-in and support from administrators, teachers, staff, families,

students, and community stakeholders. When all of the administrators should have the

education and knowledge to implement the same exact approach/initiative/PD/reflection.

• Morale of the teachers and staff is low. Good principals who are student and teacher -

centric is needed. Too many of the principals are beholden to an administration that is not

functioning well and fragmented. I think the parents should be an integral part of the

schools and there should be avenues for parental involvement especially high schools

where they are shut out.

• Teachers are underpaid, much less than any district in the area because the retirement pay

is taken out of the salary and that is not done in the other districts. We haven’t had

consistent leadership in over a decade. Buildings are falling apart.

• The socio-emotional needs of students MUST be met along with academic and

operational goals. There are HUGE populations of both military and low-income students

in this district. Both of these groups are both emotionally and academically vulnerable

(and there is a strong correlation between BOTH of these components and overall student

success). These needs must be both met and balanced.

• The following issues the superintendent should be aware of include: -dysfunctional

school board, particularly the board chair and vice-chair - NPS has one of the highest

numbers of racially isolated schools, which haven't been fully accredited for years. -

NPS needs a district-wide communication overhaul and modernization -We are in the

midst of ed planning projects that are examining the educational programming within our

schools and facilities.

• The district is socioeconomically and racially segregated to an extent. Many people with

the means to opt out of the school system entirely and choose private schools. We do not

have enough magnet opportunities with a wide variety of interests/focuses (unlike

Virginia Beach, for example). The schools are underfunded and lack specialists and

support (our school currently does not have a reading specialist). Many schools do not

have functioning and active PTAs. The school board is somewhat dysfunctional.

• Please bring self contained classes back in all schools

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• Fight to keep kids in public school and not lose them to private schools, finding awesome

qualified teachers, competitive teacher packages

• Norfolk students enroll in every major university with full scholarships in Va as well as

nationwide. The USNROTC program at Norview High accounted for 10 million of 23

million in 2019, yet remains underfunded and yet manages to raise funds annually to win

trophies and awards nationally. This is just one of many programs marginalized by the

NPS School Board that could further boost the academics, athletics, successes here in

Norfolk. Likewise, local media are deafeningly silent on any achievements, preferring to

"ambulance chase" and repeatedly brainwash anything of prurient or gossip. But never

student achievement, unless it grudgingly has too. This too is NPS's public affairs fault as

well. Success breeds success, true?

• From reading the newspaper, the school board has some maturity issues which will make

the superintendents job more difficult. While NPS has great teachers, many more are

needed. I suspect low teacher pay and teaching environment compared to other regional

school districts tends to draw the better professionals away.

• I believe that the academic standards need to be upheld and always improved across the

hard and soft sciences. Art, science, and civics need to be part of the process of education

to build good citizens.

• High crime rate, disrespectful attitudes towards staff from students, old and outdated

facilities, high teacher turnover rates

• A lot of families don’t send their kids to their neighborhood schools, or send them to

private schools. This means that many neighborhood schools has higher amounts of kids

from low income families where kids from more financial stable families are bussed to

“lottery” schools (Ghent, ADL,etc). Are these schools made to appease the middle class

families so they don’t go to private schools or are they really better schools?



• The new superintendent should be children-centered, which means investing in our

children and the community by providing new and innovative technology to use, newer

schools and they should invest in the teachers who are part of the foundation for the long-

term success of our children. They should be opened to suggestions from the parents and

the community, and they should have integrity, and be the voice for those who are

marginalized and are often voiceless. The new superintendent should be charismatic, with

strong leadership qualities. They should be empathetic to some of the poverty that affects

our children and their families each day and recognize the resilience they embody. We

need a leader who is going to make getting all the schools in Norfolk their accreditation a

priority, and be real and forthcoming with the community and parents to make them

understand the process and how we can get it done together. The STEM program is great

but there are other professions out there that children should be aware of too. Not every

child is interested in STEM, and not every parent understands it to the full capacity.

Those children who are interested in other careers such as non-profits, entrepreneurship,

teaching, social work, counseling should have programs tailored to their interest too. We

need a critical thinker who will be invested in our children for the long haul.

• Have background/experience successfully serving a district with similar

needs/demographics.

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• They need to have been a teacher and an administrator in the school system. It is critical

they understand what goes on within our schools on a day to day basis. They need to have

been exposed to academic and behavioral issues first hand. Without this, gaining respect

from teachers will be difficult and they are the front line.

• An open mind to not only normal but also special needs children. They need an education

just like any other child

• Strong leader and able to build capacity within division and attract a dynamite staff who

live, breath, and believe in a better NPS. I want a staff to CARE about our division - not

just get in their car and leave problems behind as they drive to there home outside of

Norfolk. Take ownership. Strong communication skills Strong data and turn around

skills Budget and finance skills. Strategic planning oriented. Have a clear focus and

plan on how to get there. Build school board capacity and trust. Support physical

education and the performing arts.

• I would say to have an sense of prioritising and listening to any issue and handling it

properly. As for my sons school. I just dont think the principle nor the dean has any

control of what goes on in the school.

• Integrity, vision, and strong advocacy skills for strong programming and teacher

resources.

• The superintendent needs to be committed to staying LONG TERM. We’ve had too

much turnover which is bad for staff morale, district reputation, and long term planning.

The selected candidate needs to work with ALL stakeholders- board, parents, teachers,

business leaders—and get projects (technical school) and building improvements moving

forward in a productive fashion. The difference in public education between Norfolk and

our neighboring cities is just embarrassing. Why can we not give each student a tablet?

Why can we not achieve full accreditation? Why can we not get positive media coverage?

Why not? We need someone who is able to handle the challenges our district faces.

• Be able to make the right decision for our children, even if it's not the popular one.

Making the right decision isn't always easy. Show us by actions that the children are

priority.

• I would like to see someone in this position that is honest, realistic, really concerned

about the well being of the children and what is truly best and safest for them. While I

really want is someone that is willing to fight for our community, school, and children. I

realize that no one single person has the authority to make major changes in the budget

and plans but I want to know that there is a superintendent that listens, acknowledges,

and that can show transparency when concerns or problems arise. I want to feel that this

person is working toward the same goals as me and the other parents within my

community and not just being a member of a board. I want someone that is accountable

and accepts the mistakes of their constituents and staff when mistakes are made.

• Show up to individual school meetings. Listen to the teachers when they express

concerns. Be transparent and able to communicate with people from all walks of life. Be

genuine.

• I think the person should have great problem solving skills, ability to deal with many

different races, also they should have great communication skills, and finally they should

be a great role model for our children.

• 1. Be approachable 2. Spend time understanding the issues 3. Work with a spirit of

collaboration

• Communication, negotiation, strong and quality leadership, business minded

• Commitment to staying on long-term should be the #1 quality.

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• Be an open, forward thinker who is willing to fight for the students and teachers in order

to help foster stronger academic relationships.

• Integrity, honesty, loyalty, problem solving skills, compassion, superior listening/

discernment skills, people person, personable, punctual and subservient. This position is

all about service however being pragmatic.

• Someone who has experience working with and turning around struggling schools. A

natural leader who will not tolerate the recent behavior of our school board.

• We need a superintendent who is not afraid to empower teachers and administrators to do

what is needed in their schools. What works in one school may not work in another, and

the people in the schools are on the ground and know what they need to get the job done.

We also need a commitment to implementing Policies based on current educational

research. And we need adequate support staff to not only help close the achievement

gap but also to support gifted learners who are sometimes overlooked in the schools

because they’re passing SOL‘s and doing fine but aren’t being challenged to their full

potential.

• We need someone COMPLETELY new to the district. Someone that doesn’t have friends

here, or a history here. Now that we have an elected school board, things can really start

changing for the better, not just continue circling the drain among friends. As a former

employee, I now have children getting ready to transition from daycare to the schools,

and I’m afraid for them. I left because of the utter disrespect I felt and laziness within the

district administration. We need a MAJOR change.

• Superior character (are candidates past or present Rotarians?); value of their staff; ability

to be involved in the broader community

• They should be someone that has experience with bringing up the performance of

underperforming schools. They should also be open minded to different forms of non-

traditional education systems like charter schools and Montessori, vocational high

schools, and try to implement class sharing with local community colleges for some high

school class credits.

• The ideal Candidate should be a Natibe of Norfolk. Someone who has interest, respect

and ties to the community. They should be an Independent thinker an take time to speak

to Students, Parents and Teachers and not just Administrators. They should have

experience in the classroom as a Teacher and not just an Administrator or Principal. Its

hard for someone to follow you when you don't have their experience.

• Integrity number #1 Morals standards Believes in God.

• INNOVATOR! Creative problem solver. Independent thinker who will be willing to

direct middle mgmt instead of listening to middle mgmt. SMART! Bring us a true PhD

grad from a premier urban education program who wrote a dissertation on a topic of

value to us. We need a smart confident person who understands the latest research and

has made a personal contribution. They should present at AERA most years- check

resumes! An active researcher will bring in new fresh research-based ideas for

innovation. This does not mean a local two-bit program or online degree in seat time.

Think Harvard, U Wisconsin, Columbia, Hopkins. Someone who is on track to make it

big. Spend 6ish years here and move up to sec of education or something. Former

political involvement. We need someone to stand on floor of congress and in front of

CEOs (Fortune 500 board rooms) to help achieve structural change. No school age kids

Strong personality with good stage presence. Connections to norfolk southern, norfolk

naval shipyard, defense contractors etc.

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• Transformative, open-minded, determined, relational, supportive, inclusive, transparent,

communicative, ability to understand bias and diversity, lacking a prior political

affiliation, focus on improving instructional quality, consistency, innovative, ability to

improve morale and build honest relationships through human agency, a strong

background in organizational behavior.

• I would like to see someone who sincerely wants to do something; has goals outside of

getting accredited and who is personable and able to talk to constituents.

• Lead and lead by example. Have been a teacher for more than 5 years.

• Experience with diversity, a range of socio-economic student, and a background in

education are a MUST. Our family would love to see someone who has a background in

psychology, too.

• Needs to be able to work and bring together difficult boards so that board members stayin

their lane The Super needs to have previous experience as a Superintendent in an urban

school system our size The Superintendent needs to be an effective communicator and

collaborator. Innovative and a systems thinker- strong vision

• Solutions-focused, fair, determined to embrace diversity and inclusion, financially savvy

and tough. Highest values toward the whole child and every child. Willingness to think

outside the box and do whatever it takes to effect change.

• Friendly, outgoing, n great with children in all the schools..

• A leader, persuasive, visionary

• Certainly one vested in education and proven ability to inspire, motivate, discipline,

supportive of the mission of education of students, and in doing so, fair and adequate

compensation for those trusted with the future of the students of Norfolk. Typically a

terminal degree is preferred for the "headhunters", but a minimum degree and younger

enthusiastic, energetic, educational professional that can grow with us may be the person

of best choice, not to denigrate advanced accomplishments. There has been too many

turnovers that are intrusive, disruptive, inconsistent. Looking for someone not just to

work, but actually physically reside in the very city that employs them. With the

continuing uncertainties of the economy, a steady hand at the helm is needed. Just as

Norfolk has an international airport, why not a world class educational system in the

same city? Peace

• qualities: visionary, progressive, ability to raise money from City and State, patience,

physical presence, discipline, open to change, not distracted by political noise or fads,

ability to energize staff, ability to attract good educators and principals, bring separate

population groups together.

• A good superintendent should appreciate and understand the value across all academic

disciplines in building a community of well educated citizens.

• Firm but tolerant, higher standards of learning and behavior, modern and current

techniques with class discipline and behavior, mental and emotional health issues

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Students

No Responses

Teachers



• Involved parents, supportive partners in education, partnerships with ODU and Norfolk

State

• Norfolk is a very friendly place. People are welcomed from all walks of life. Lots of

diversity and lots of cool events to attend!

• We have a diverse school district, full of brilliant people who genuinely care about the

success and the futures of their children.

• Stable Neighborhoods - Historical Value Diverse neighborhoods Strong Civic Leagues

and engaged citizens

• There are people who are hard working and who want to see the community and schools

prosper.

• The kids like stability. They are more likely to trust a person/teacher when they see them

showing up all the time.

• Norfolk is diverse and adaptable. There is an overall hope for forward progress.

• Many residents have been in Norfolk for generations. Neighbors can talk about their

children and grandchildren going to the same schools that they themselves attended. The

USN, which has had a presence in Norfolk for over 100 years, serves the same function

as family with long-standing ties because Norfolk and the USN have a partnership that

makes each one familiar to the other.

• Norfolk is a diverse, vibrant city.

• Wine fest.

• Norfolk is a very diverse city.

• Great people.

• It’s a fun, small city. There’s lots to do and it’s centrally located.

• Melting pot

• Our community wants to be involved and do what is best for their children.

• Very diverse.

• The community in which I live is very diverse. There is a plethora of cultures that

neighbor very appropriately. Additionally, the children in my specific neighborhood are

mostly respectful and appropriate, and they co-exist with each other very well.

• My community is filled with great families who send the best scholars they have to

school.

• Our resilience.

• Norfolk VA is a community of diversity. As a teacher and as a parent in NPS, I value the

diverse opportunities my children have in meeting new people, having new experiences

and educational opportunities.

• Virginia has it all. Great eateries, beaches, and mountains. Norfolk is small, but with a

big town feel.

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• Our community has been changing over the last several years and will continue to

change. Housing will be demolished and newer housing will bring new life to the

impoverished area with hopes that NPS schools can reach the accreditation they deserve.

• Many in our community are deeply loyal to their families and loved ones. They support

one another and seek honor and respect for those they care about.

• Performing arts are well supported through venues and artists local and nationwide,

improving water quality in waterways and environmental response to sea level rise are

evidenced, most of Norfolk's footprint is dedicated to institutes of learning, EVMS, NSU,

ODU, ECPI, and others as well as military.

• Norfolk is the most recognize city in this area. We are full culture activity and a diverse

population. We have a world renowned military base here.

• Norfolk has a big military presence and is headquarters or big offices for several well-

known companies.

• WE love our community. We love our students and we are family oriented.

Communication is a must.

• diversity, knowing our neighbors, encouraging ALL to succeed regardless of background

• Concerned citizens are always willing to show up and speak out for what they believe

will improve and enhance the community.

• Ours is a diverse community: many nationalities & races, and the employment is

various-- from military to private industry. We support the arts & are in part a beach

town.

• Diversity of population. Varied entertainment and cultural options, higher educational

opportunities.

• Diversity with military and a few large businesses. The higher educational centers- like

ODU, EVMS, and NSU pull people and families to Norfolk.

• Strong faith base. Belief in the future. Will to survive.

• Diverse, proud, and hard working people who deserve praise and empathetic guidance.

• We want all kids to be able to get the same education no matter their economic

background. Some schools are doing project based learning but not all schools.

• small town feel, but larger city

• Parents want to best for their students. We have lots of community support.

• The community strongly desires and supports strong schools. They help advocate for

more funding to support the students and teachers.

• Diverse, open, accepting

• Community has a broad economic base; employing across multiple sectors including

medical, industrial, maritime, military, and service sectors. Norfolk engages the world

with it's world class port and transportation infrastructure including the second largest

railroad company in the United States. Norfolk is a leader in marine ecology programs in

the private and public sectors. Norfolk is the home of two major Universities; one a

historically black university that is the home to a nationally recognized theater program.

Norfolk supports multiple arts organizations including a globally recognized Symphony,

a regional theater frequently seen as a step stone to Broadway, an opera company and a

yearly Arts Festival that, in addition to hundreds of world class artists, hosts the largest

military tattoo outside of Edinburgh.

• History Character Multicultural Artistic Experimental A place where varying

ethnicities walk hand in hand.

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• We have a very diverse community that comes together for the best interest of the

children.

• I live in Norfolk and my children attend NPS. I wouldn’t live in the district if I didn’t

feel that the district tries to do right by the students. They do many outreach programs,

and community events.



• Great administration, proactive teachers and staff members

• Committed staff- lots of opportunities to take AP and IB classes. Great technology and

foreign language offerings! A real commitment to arts!

• The teachers in this district are passionate professionals who go above and beyond their

stated job requirements to bring meaningful experiences to the classroom each day. The

students, for the most part, have a genuine interest in learning, and show resilience even

in the face of disruption.

• The teachers and staff are dedicated. Students like coming to school. The school

leadership and staff are creative in accomplishing goals. They work hard to still meet

rigorous requirements and expectations.

• There are teachers who genuinely care and who are there for the students.

• Staff is able to get along with students. They are able to learn but have fun also.

• NPS offers a wide variety of programs for students, several of which promote a global

mindset. Many principals and teachers want the best for our students. They devote much

of their own time and resources to helping students.

• The students are friendly to each other even though they many come from different

neighborhoods. I think this stems from the combination of long-standing residents and

the Navy presence - we can all find common ground, meaning a student can find a friend

because their families know each other or because he or she knows what it's like to be the

new friend for the recently stationed Navy kid.

• The teachers are supportive of each other. Our administration at my school seems

supportive.

• Rodents and roaches are the largest around!

• We serve a large population of military families. As we see an influx of ESL students, we

are better preparing ourselves to support those students and parents. We are also

embracing technology, and focusing on implementation at all grade levels.

• Great teachers.

• The teachers, administration, and staff work hard.

• Passionate staff .

• Our school has dedicated and professional teachers.

• Teachers.

• I do not have many good things to say about our schools. Sherwood Forest Elementary

School, along with several others, is an unsafe teaching and learning environment, in that

there is an infestation of rats and pests, and the presence of mold and asbestos in the

building. Not much is being done about the issue, and the administrators refuse to close

the building to protect the health of staff and students.

• *Students are involved in hands-on learning experiences. *A fun learning

environment. *Great partnerships with the community.

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• Right now there's not too many good things to write about our schools-or at least about

my school. A great deal has to do with the top down structure that has been unsupportive

of the measures necessary to teach our students, ie more teaching staff, more security,

better/different ways to handle the discipline issues that are becoming more and more out

of control.

• Many of the teachers in NPS have stayed with the district because they are committed to

the students. The district has undergone many, many changes, and the staff has stuck with

it because they value the system.

• Caring compassionate teachers who give their all.

• Teacher morale, everyone gets along and is willing to go the extra mile to help where

needed. Although the students can sometimes be "rough around the edges," they see that

the staff care about them and want the best possible education for them to succeed in life.

• We have many committed teachers who are skilled in working with our students and have

remained loyal to the district after many years.

• THis is a district of schools where each school has an instructional focus that may be

different from neighboring schools but that targets the needs of this particular school and

the stakeholders represented.

• Because of our low income families, our teachers work harder than most to provide

meaningful lessons, and often supplement their classrooms with basic supplies, etc. Our

students are getting their primary education in school with minimal support outside of the

classroom.

• Our schools are improving every year.

• We try to meet the needs of all our students and help support the home environment.

• Teachers work hard to engage and teach all students.

• Dedicated professionals remain committed to seeing NPS succeed despite daily

challenges.

• We have a commitment to teaching and learning for all.

• Diverse student body. School system has its finger on the pulse of closing the learning

gap. Teachers want to make a difference.

• Friendly and inviting.

• Faith in each other. Strong leadership. Will to survive. Belief that we can make a

difference in some way for every child that enters our doors.

• Truly great teachers and appreciative students!!

• We are focusing more on our special education population and minority population

making academic growth.

• variety of students from all walks of life

• Our situation is doable.

• There is an amazing, committed staff and leadership at Maury HS. The community

created within the school clearly flows into the neighborhoods and community.

• Diverse, open, understanding, accessible, accepting

• The single most diverse school division in the Tidewater area. Norfolk Public Schools

does a good job balancing the demands of educating the economically disadvantaged and

privileged in the same facilities. Norfolk Public Schools has invested tremendous

resources in building new schools and repairing older facilities.

• Die hard teachers who are products of the NPSchools and want ALL children to leave

school happy, enriched, and loved each day.

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• My school has very supportive administration. The administration, and staff, come

together to help each child succeed.

• I believe most of the school try exceedingly hard to help all students. Their intentions are

good. The parent send us their best, but our district has to make some changes with

knowing that our kids may deal with multiple issues in their lives that may affect their

educational performance.



• school building ages, teacher opportunity for furthering education

• We have students from all economic backgrounds, but we do have a lot who suffer from

poverty. We are also affected by climate change here.

• That NPS ranks in the bottom 10% of all school districts in Virginia; that several schools

will not be accredited, unless the NPS cheats on scores again; that several schools,

especially Maury High School and Booker T. Washington High School, need to be

replaced to the tune of $100-150Million each; Norfolk has a present deficient of

$1Billion and cannot afford new construction; NPS can only provide operation costs; and

our schools are still segregated. I would not want to wish this on anyone!

• The teachers are overworked and underpaid, and Norfolk for years has not done well to

remain competitive to other schools in the region. Staff morale is a serious issue.

Administrators are often reactionary; preferring to respond to crises, rather than seeking

out solutions that might anticipate more productive systems. The culture in many of the

schools is plagued with deficit-model groupthink, and thus students and staff members

often find themselves in a toxic march from one calamity to another, as the people who

are paid good money to find solutions fail to imagine how to implement meaningful and

effective change.

• High level capital improvement needs for all old school facilities in NPS. Inconsistent

leadership from the past (Norfolk School Board and the NPS Administration) High

turnover of administrators teachers and staff in the last 5 years - losing teachers to

Chesapeake and VA Beach, and Portsmouth Community Voices should be considered

in making all decisions School District needs strong leadership to make the best

decisions to help the students and support the staff who teach them. The district needs

higher funding from the local, state, and federal level to help all schools. The district

needs more leaders who will advocate to fix the schools. School Board City Council

and Administration must work better to accomplish common goals.

• Who and what clientele they serve. Understanding the historical prevalence of the area

and what it means as well as addressing the underlying issues head on without being

hesitant. This person has to be willing to make people progressively uncomfortable in

order to make NPS the outstanding place to learn that it can and in sense already is set out

to be.

• The schools are extremely old and dirty. I have been in many but I would say Lake

Taylor High School specifically. The floors are absolutely filthy in the classrooms and

need to be mopped. Many principals are unaware of issues when staff is assaulted, etc.

Staff statements are not being investigated. I don’t even think they are being read. A

department chair should not be able to go on leave for 3 weeks at a time because she is

“sick”... especially when there are 2 other long term substitutes in the department. The

department chair should also e-mail and correspond with her department while she is out

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for 3 weeks so as far as lessons plans, they know what they are doing with the children.

The biggest thing going on in this city is with the staff. They are more worried able it

covering their behinds so therefore the children are left in the dark.

• The people of Norfolk and those employed within the schools have a strong desire for a

better future. Someone genuine and loyal could have a lot of influence in the district. Due

to past practices, there is a need to build professional capacity within many buildings.

Finally, not all schools are on the same page. Mandates may be necessary in some (not

all) cases, but they do not fix the root cause of issues.

• I believe the superintendent should be aware of the fact that neighboring districts are

often thought to recruit the "smarter and better" teachers. I would say to the

superintendent that he or should be intentional in the rigor of professional development,

so we are smarter and better off because of the investment in our teaching skills.

• Underfunding of schools, large class sizes in the home schools, old and outdated

buildings, high rates of teacher turnover.

• If teachers and students don't have pride in their school (building/administration), it will

be difficult to maintain proper motivation and morale for effective teaching and learning

to occur. In other words, going to work/school everyday in a dilapidated, rodent/roach

infested building does NOT help with motivation and morale. It's also disgraceful to go

to work where there are more trailers than a trailer park. Respect your teachers and

students by giving them a safe and clean environment and then maybe your precious test

scores will go up.

• There is a huge turnover in the district every year because discipline is not handle

appropriately in our buildings. Manyvteachers do not make it until the end of the year.

Teachers cannot teach because of the disruption, and there have not been any alternative

support options implemented for difficult students. Scores are reflective of the amount of

teaching taking place. Teachers that have been with the district for a while, more than 2

years, are not on their appropriate step and therefore are underpaid (which is bad

considering the fact that teachers are not paid well in general). There is a shortage of

teacher specialists, whuch puts support at a greater deficit. And teacher specialists on

teacher contracts are expected to work more hours than their 7.33 contracted hours,

without compensation. The new superintendent needs to be someone that cares about

teachers. He/she needs to be in the buildings, talking to teachers, paraprofessionals, and

other staff. He/she needs to get HR together, and come up with a REAL plan to get

people paid appropriately, working their contracted time unless there is a plan to

compensate the overtime. And please take a look at the state of the older buildings. They

are all infested with bugs and rodents at some level! They just haven't notified the news

yet.

• Pay for teachers is stagnant. Teachers are attracted by good pay. New schools need to be

built.

• The lack of diversity in the some of the schools and how this affects the SOL scores

• Years ago, NPS shifted our retirement into a deduction in outlet paychecks, so it may

LOOK like the pay is equitable to surrounding districts, it is not. That is why teachers

keep leaving. We can go to a district 20 minutes away and take home several hundred

dollars a month more. You will continue to lose teachers until this is rectified. Also most

of the buildings were not maintained properly for years and are now unsafe and

unsanitary.

• mental health concerns , pay and benefits for staff , tuition reimbursement .

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• The candidate should NOT be a current NPS employee and should not be affiliated with

NPS in any way. Also, he/she should have a very strong background in urban admin and

be willing to do the hard things...like fire those who need to go within CAB

• We have had numerous superintendents in the last decade. Some have cleaned shop

down town, others have been sexual inappropriate, and others have brought all their

friends from other districts. We need a superintendent who is not afraid to stand up for

what is right for teachers and students. A superintendent who is not going to be scared of

the Schoolboard members or unwilling to compromise either. Our district is loosing the

best students and teachers to other schools every day.

• DO NOT GIVE THE NEW SUPERINTENDENT A 3 YEAR CONTRACT. So we do

not have to pay for them after they leave the first year. If they make it that far.

• *We have a dysfunctional school board with hidden agendas. *A district with

segregated schools and no intentions of creating diversity.

• the top down structure that has been unsupportive of the measures necessary to teach our

students, ie more teaching staff, more security, better/different ways to handle the

discipline issues that are becoming more and more out of control.

• There is a tremendous staff turnover with the district, and the district does not do a great

job of including community stakeholders.

• An utter lack of cohesion. We purchase textbooks and software....over and over. Their

online components don't work. Or we buy program after program that all do exactly the

same thing...it would be nice if we settled on 2 - 3 rather than 20-30

• The School Board is difficult to work with and often ends up pushing the superintendent

out. In my 12 years in NPS, I have had 6 superintendents (including interim ones). I felt

from talking to colleagues, that Bentley and Boone were liked by the teachers. We liked

how they worked for us and got to know our schools. However, the School Board would

tie their hands when wanting to make improvements and they had to leave.

• I believe that the superintendent coming into NPS should be made aware that although

we have been through many superintendents over the past 10 years, we are still a strong

school system with dedicated teachers and supporting staff. We are a family and like to

be recognized every so often.

• Teacher pay equity--there are veteran teachers who did not receive pay step increases

several years ago. As a result, these teachers with much experience are now getting paid

the same or only slightly more than new hires. The district could be in danger of losing

these veterans to higher paying local school districts. Aging school facilities--many of

our buildings are in poor condition or in need of constant repair. There are MANY

portable units used for classrooms because the old school buildings do not provide all the

space needed. Enrollment out of area--There is a lot of movement within district. Some

students are not staying in their zoned school area, but using friends/neighbors addresses

to enroll elsewhere within the district. Information could be gathered to determine the

reasons this is happening. A lot of student movement within district makes it difficult to

ensure that buildings are properly suited to accommodate the number of students.

Additionally, it make things difficult for the students themselves, as they must quickly

readjust when moved mid-term.

• The city of NOrfolk does not place education as the first priority in city planning or

funding.

• Loyalty... we want a candidate that wants to put in the time and be immersed in the

school system. We do not need another person adding a check to their list of "to do

items" on their way to another opportunity. The "Three Year" superintendents are not

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adding any quality or consistency to our district. The school board needs to learn to work

with this person and not be so quick to throw in the towel. Choose wisely. This isn't a fast

food menu. We are all so tired of this and how much time is wasted "starting over..."

again... All the money we spend on searching for candidates could be used to sponsor

programs for hundreds of needy children. I can't believe we have to hire a company to

find a candidate. We have an entire HUMAN RESOURCE Department. Isn't this kinda

under their domain? The companies aren't really uncovering any human that couldn't just

apply for a position.

• We are tired of all of the changes at the top. We are ready for someone who will stay

long enough for us to see more positive changes. Teachers are leaving in droves because

they are afraid of always being asked to take on a new direction.

• Salary Increases,open and honest communication.Meet with everybody and discuss

issues not just the teachers.

• Frequent changes in leadership have negatively impacted staff morale. Focused Schools

concepts have been the best thing that has happened in a long time. Teachers don't want

to leave and love their schools, but the lower pay compared to surrounding districts

forces them to make a decision to put their family's finances over job satisfaction.

• That the former superintendent worked hard to achieve pay equity by re-establishing step

increases and trying to stem the flow of veteran teachers to other school districts. Another

concern is the mental health and well being of students act out their trauma in ways that

threaten the safety of themselves and others in school.

• Our management has faltered over the decades-- they have not solved many of our

problems. Financial management has been poor, and supporting the front line

employees-- the teachers-- has been neglected. This has been demoralizing and the

reason we have lost good staff.

• NPS has problems losing students to private schools from middle to upper class

neighborhoods, due to (perceived or real) behavioral and instructional issues coupled

with the focus on struggling learners. Even with differentiated instruction, teacher focus

tends to be where there is most need, leading those with the highest ability to succeed but

not reach full potential. In other nearby districts, there is the appearance that equal focus

is placed on raising the ability of average and above learners from K-12. Most in the

district would like to see more students living here choosing to be serviced by our public

schools.

• Over age students accumulating in the middle schools. Causes problems with past rates

and behavior concerns with being around younger students.

• Lack of parental involvement at the lower performing schools. Student’s lack of

RESPECT for self, peers, all staff, materials and building. How behavior of a few

students is preventing the education of all students. Not everyone but enough to cause

disruption on all levels. Very rarely do you hear someone say I don’t want to learn. We

somehow have to reach every student and staff member to keep the learning iron hot for

all. We all wish we had the magic spark but it has to be out there. We need to light it for

our future.

• Aging infrastructure, some classes have too many students.

• We need smaller classes to be more effective and collaborative classes should have

special ed teacher the entire day. The amount of issues our students come to school with

impacts our ability to teach.

• instability of our leadership

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• Teacher's pay. One of the lowest in the area. Teachers are leaving in mass numbers to go

to the beach and chesapeake where they are being payed 7 to 9000 more a year.

• Pay is low and the workload is high. Student behaviors impede learning and teachers are

burnt out because of it. We need an administrative shake up.

• 1. There is an urgent need for a meaningful commitment to infrastructure. The school

where I work (Maury) is falling down around us. It is simply extraordinary the type of

learning and achievement that takes place in such an archaic, dilapidated building. 2.

The school system administration is out of balance: too top-heavy with too much money

going to fund six figure positions. This trickles down into the schools and effect morale.

Often, directives seem out of touch with what is really happening within the schools and

community. The new late start initiative for high schools is a prime example: the

demographics of this city are not the same as neighboring cities...it seems that Norfolk

often follows trends set by VB and Chesapeake...and this is NOT the same population.

Another is the tribunal system of discipline which is simply out of touch with the day in

and day out behavioral issues schools face. There is a real need for the creation of a

meaningful alternative education setting.

• We have had a history of underachievement on our state tests

• There is no place to send students who are excessively disruptive in class. Particularly at

the secondary level, there must be a place to put the small number of students who elect

to absent themselves from assigned classes to wander the halls or are so excessively

disruptive in class that they must be removed until they are ready to return to class.

• Principals who regularly bully their teaching staff. Principals who show favoritism based

on whether or not a staff member "brown noses". Discipline Gangs Violence Bottom

line ... A good teacher is only as good as his or her work environment. You can't teach

when you have multiple behaviors who go unpunished.

• That many of our students come from homes that meet poverty standards. Some of our

students do not have the parental support as some of our neighboring cities due to the

parents working multiple jobs.

• That not all issues stem from special education. Many people have been presenting

recently that most of the schools would be accredited if not for the “low hanging fruit” of

the special education department. There are more issues with Tier 1 instruction that

people are letting on.

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• Be involved in a diverse community of employees, students, and staff. Effective and

efficient communication skills. Involved and caring about the future of Norfolk, VA

students.

• A believer that every person is valuable- good with people, intelligent, can see the big

picture, appreciates the importance of history and lit.

• Bring a large cache of money!

• We need a superintendent who will stand up for the teachers in this district. Our

teachers are forced to teach more students and more classes for less money and with

less planning time than many of the other districts in our area. Norfolk is a great city,

and we need a superintendent who will allow our schools to reflect the community at-

large. We need somebody who is not afraid to defend the staff in our schools from

parents and students who seek to selfishly disrupt that social contract upon which the

public school system hinges. Students are committing crimes in our schools, yet are

treated with relative impunity. We need a superintendent who will treat the teachers in

this district like the licensed professionals that they are, and who is not afraid to defend

our schools against the parents and students who seek to place their own selfish

agendas above the collective best interests of the community.

• High level of engagement with teachers, students, staff, families, community leaders

and community members. High level of successful experience turning urban districts

around in closing achievement gaps. Strong ability to work with and partner elected

officials, government, labor unions, advocacy groups, citizens, civic leagues

• being fair, morally strong, value innovative ideas, have the knowledge and ability to

grasp and implement nontraditional approaches that are appropriate for this district.

Know how to energize, motivate and bring people together. Understand collaboration

and effectiveness involves not only executives but those who are in the trenches.

• Energetic, patient, fair, extremely organized, DEDICATED, take the to visit the

schools and see what’s really going on

• I would like the new Superintendent to be familiar with and loyal to NPS. They should

be someone that has a desire to make NPS competitive in teacher pay/recruitment and

innovative teaching practices (without giving way to every new educational trend). The

new Superintendent should be someone who actively seeks input from teachers &

principals when it comes to decision making. They should trust their employees.

Finally, an excellent Superintendent will look at successful schools within NPS and use

that information create change.

• I believe the superintendent should be really smart. I think that the person's intelligence

should be evident in past work history as outlined in decisions and choices - what has

the candidate done - not delegated. Intelligence as a quality should be evident in the

person's reputation. An intelligent person's characteristics are revealed in his or her

choices in the day to day running of a school.

• Extensive experience in the classroom, both primary and secondary. Aware of teachers'

concerns, willing to work with and listen to teachers and NFT

• Transparency, honesty, not easily bullied, not a cheater, not a liar, not a thief. Good

luck with that.

• The ideal candidate is someone with a strong background in research, and people skills.

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Someone that is really about the teachers and building staff. Someone that will stand up

for us, and be persistent. The superintendent needs to get the school board on their side

in order to effect positive changes. They have to take a look at everything, and every

department for that matter, because the district needs real change.

• Knowledge of the class room and experience teaching in public schools. What it takes

to be a teacher. Are you children in public schools?

• The person should have knowledge of the school district, knowledge of the student

populations in the various schools.

• It seems that keeping the board happy is priority number 1, so I imagine they have to

play politics well.

• Community partner , investment with the district ,experience leading a urban school

district , dedicated to creating partnerships with the schools .

• Willing to compromise Willing to stand up for what is right no matter what Willing to

put their hands to work in our schools

• We do not need people like Sharon Birdsong, or Dr. King from Atlanta. We need a

Superintendent who will go into a school and substitute for a day. Not one who sits in

there office and does nothing.

• *Instructional Leader....put kids first!! *Integrity and honesty *Fiscally responsible

with a focus on compensating the instructional staff (direct interaction with students)

• We need a superintendent who has actually done something positive. Something we

can measure. Something we can see the data supports them being hired.

• The new superintendent should be willing to do the hard work and have the difficult

conversations. The school board is currently in the news for negative interactions and

these reflect poorly on the system. Many of the staff in NPS are good, hardworking

people, and we do not get recognized.

• What shouldn't matter is probably the only thing that will. Oh well.. We need

someone who is a proven leader is what we need. We have had amazing super's and

we have had ghosts in the room - you never saw them.... Involved in schools, visiting

them, no controversy over their former job....Someone willing to take a real stand.

And who listens.

• Be able to listen to the needs of their faculty and staff and do everything in their power

to help improve things. Be able to work with the School Board and get them to see

reason and be a voice for our students and community. Fully staff the central

administration office and our schools. Be a person that works with the faculty and not

against us. Be here more than a few years. Be a good negotiator, so we can get the

funds we need from City Council to run our schools successfully and meet the needs of

our students.

• I believe that a new superintendent should at least have been in the classroom for a

period of time. This way they can understand the many functions of the teacher, and

help support them in every aspect.

• Ability to work with the board (Diplomatic), Decisive, Ability to prioritize

appropriately

• A strong leader who communicates well and advocates for teachers. Someone who has

an understanding of educating children with chronic adverse childhood experiences.

Someone who likes being in schools and classrooms where learning takes place daily.

• Loyalty... intelligence.... good people skills.

• Have a heart for teachers and students. Yes, the community, the school board and the

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city council are stakeholders, but the students are what we are about!

• Good Communication Skills. Changemaker where needed. Ready to visit all areas

within the school district to discuss issues and make changes as needed. Evaluate what

needs to be done to get all our schools accredited.

• Growing and encouraging teacher leaders from within the district.

• Honesty, Integrity and independence are necessary for any good, effective leader.

He/she should be able to express independent views w/o fear and be an advocate for

teachers, classified staff, and students by setting policy that is beneficial to all. (like the

former superintendent.)

• We need a strong leadership with skills: the least of which is knowing how to work

with everyone and ask for solid advice rather than be driven by ego. They should

remember that they are the #1 pedagogue in the district, as well.

• HIgh expectations with a vision for long term goals. Perseverance. Need to insist

upon high behavioral and educational expectations from leaders, and allow them to

issue consequences. Willing to understand need for smaller class sizes, and

homogeneous learning environments when available to assist in smaller ranges for

differentiation.

• NO NSU graduates! Hire from outside the state and make sure they have a strong

backbone and high ethical principles. EXPERIENCE! with inner city school problems.

• Honest, strong, determined, not afraid to stand up for what they believe, and loyal.

Ability to read data and form the foundation for the future. Sorry not to read data over

and over again seeing the same results but not use the information to actually make

plans for kids not just for more paperwork. I believe he or she needs some, a

significant amount of teaching experience.They must be willing to roll their sleeves up

and join Some teaching staffs not observe but participate.

• A core curriculum teacher at one point in their career should provide good insight into

the already busy schedule of the teaching staff to help bolster retention. Hopefully

some experience in restructuring a district with a shrinking student body.

• We need someone already invested in our city. Please hire someone from Norfolk, we

don’t need another person we have to catch up to speed.

• Please hire someone from here!

• Be from Norfolk

• Experience with diversity, special education, lower income families from the inner city,

and how to work with students that deal with gangs in their neighborhoods. This are

just some of the things we see each day in our classrooms.

• determined, open, honest

• We need support. Not more hoops to jump through. We have been so concerned about

data that we have not had time to connect with our kids

• Innovative Persuasive Tenacious

• 1. The individual should excel at written and spoken communication. The

communications should be professional in tone and content. (This has not always been

the case in recent years) 2. The individual should have some experience in working

with a challenging urban setting, one with lots of diversity and related issues. 3. The

individual needs to feel comfortable setting limits, lines in the sand if you will, and

know how to negotiate the entrenched politics interfering with school management. 4.

The individual should be willing to have high visibility and should regularly be out in

the schools talking informally with students and staff.

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• Technology savvy, diplomatic, disciplined minded, teacher advocate, no nonsense,

strong minded, thick skinned, forward thinking

• Above all, the superintendent must collaborate with the school principals to build

cohesive, caring school environments. The superintendent must allow the principals to

run their respective schools.

• Patience No Personal Connection to staff, political entities, or school board. Someone

who refuses to back down to the school board and city council. Someone who isn't

afraid to call out the inequities in city government. Someone who has hardcore

experience in an urban district in which monumental gains were made.

• I believe that the new superintendent should be a person that is not far removed from

the classroom. An individual that has been out of the classroom for 20 plus years, has

no idea what it is like nowadays. Education has changed dramatically in the past 10

years. Our new superintendent needs to know firsthand the challenges that our teachers,

staff, and students face each and every day.

• Innovative, ability to listen, ability to lead, ability to think outside the box and be open

to creative ideas to improve the school district.

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Survey Monkey Results for Norfolk Public Schools

October, 2019

Spanish Version (NOTE—these responses have not been edited,

they are printed as entered by the stakeholders)

1 Response

Administrators/administrador

No Responses

Classified Staff/personal Clssificado

No Responses

Community Members/miembro de la Comunidad

No Responses

Parents/padre



Diga las cosas buenas de su comunidad. (Esta información se utiliza para ayudar a reclutar

candidatos de calidad.)

• mi comunidad es tranquila es muy Buena (my community is quiet is very good)



Diga las cosas buenas de sus escuelas. (Esta información se utiliza para ayudar a reclutar

candidatos de calidad.)

• en la middle school norview es muy buena en la bowling elementary una escuela muy

atenta dispuesto ayudar a los estudiantes e padres en la norview high school es buena

pero a la hora de buscar al estudiante es un caos ya que no le han asignado una guagua a

mi hija cuando ella esta en esa escuela por un programa de ESL de verdad que es pesimo

y no veo la hora que puedan ayudar

In the middle school Norview is very good in bowling elementary, a very attentive school

willing to help students and parents in the Norview High School is good but when

looking for the student it is a chaos since they have not assigned a bus to my daughter

when she is in that school for an ESL program that is really bad and I do not see the time

they can help

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¿De qué temas el superintendente debe estar consciente cuando él / ella entre en el distrito?

(Esta información se comparte con los candidatos finales.)

• de los estudiantes y problemas para que los pueda resolver

(of students and problems so you can solve them)


successful here? (This information is used as we screen potential candidates.) ¿Qué habilidades, cualidades o características debe poseer el nuevo superintendente para

tener éxito aquí? (Esta información se utiliza como examinamos a los posibles candidatos.)

• paciencia amabilidas y buena actitud (kind patience and good attitude)

Students/estudiante No Responses

Teachers/profesor

No Responses

Documents

NNoorrffoollkk PPuubblliicc SScchhoooollssmacnjake.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Norfolk-VA-Final-Stakeh… · Stakeholder Input Report for NNoorrffoollkk PPuubblliicc SScchhoooollss