Carol Hamlin Retires with 45 Years of Ensuring Inclusivity in Education

Question: How did you end up working in education and specifically, Norfolk Public Schools?
Hamlin: I always knew I wanted to be an educator. Education was a significant part of my family’s legacy. My father served as a principal, and my mother was a world history teacher who became one of the first Black women to be named a finalist for Florida State Teacher of the Year. Watching their dedication to students and learning inspired me from an early age.

After earning my master’s degree in Deaf Education from The Ohio State University, a friend and I decided to explore opportunities in communities located near the water. Since my sister already moved to Norfolk, I decided to make the move as well.

Question: Tell me about what you did in your role(s) and why you stayed at NPS for so long?
Hamlin: My journey with Norfolk Public Schools began as a Teacher of the Deaf, serving students in grades K–6 at Poplar Halls Elementary. When the division implemented the middle school concept, I transitioned to Lake Taylor Middle School, where I continued teaching students who were deaf and hard of hearing.

While at Lake Taylor Middle School, I had the opportunity to serve in several leadership roles. I became the Special Education Department Chair, later served as Dean of Students, and then was appointed Assistant Principal. Each role provided new opportunities to support students, staff, and families while expanding my understanding of educational leadership.

From Lake Taylor, I transferred to Blair Middle School during its renovation and rebuilding phase, where I continued my work in school administration. Shortly thereafter, I was selected to join the Department of Student Support Services as the district Hearing Officer. Over time, that position evolved into the role of Senior Coordinator for Student Conduct and Discipline, a position I proudly held for many years.

In 2020, I was appointed Senior Director of Student Support Services, a role I will continue to serve until June 30, 2026. Throughout every position I have held from teacher to administrator to district leader have always given my very best. I have loved the work, embraced the challenges, and remained committed to serving students, families, and staff in whatever capacity was needed.

Norfolk Public Schools became more than a workplace; it became my home. When I first began my career, I thought that after 30 or perhaps 33 years, I would retire. I never imagined that my journey would extend to 45 years and 9 months. Looking back, I am grateful for every opportunity, every relationship, and every experience that allowed me to contribute to a division that has meant so much to me throughout my professional life.

Question: Why do you think your role/department is critical to NPS?
Hamlin: Due to the broad scope of responsibilities within Student Support Services, it is essential that we maintain a strong understanding of the policies, procedures, and laws that guide our work. Equally important is our ability to effectively support students, families, school administrators, and staff who are often navigating complex challenges.

Our department plays a critical role in ensuring that students receive the support they need to be successful while helping families and schools’ access to appropriate resources and guidance. This commitment is reflected in the development and implementation of key resources such as the Student Code of Conduct, Administrator’s Guide, annual trainings, and the daily support we provide through meetings, phone calls, emails, and family outreach.

We take pride in being responsive, collaborative, and solution oriented as we work to meet the needs of students, families, and schools across Norfolk Public Schools.

Question: What did you enjoy most about your role?
Hamlin: As Senior Director, I was fortunate to work alongside an outstanding team and collaborate with students, school staff, NPS Administrators, the School Board, Superintendent, City Attorney’s Office, Commonwealth Attorney’s Office, and numerous community agencies. What I valued most was the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by promoting equity and ensuring every child had access to opportunities for success. Even in the most challenging situations, we remained committed to putting children first. My guiding mantra was the Starfish Story believing that if we can make a difference for even one child, it can mean the world to that child and their family. That belief inspired my work each day and remains one of the most rewarding aspects of my service to NPS.

Question: What will you miss the most in your role?
Hamlin: What I’ll miss most are the people, especially my team. I’ll miss the daily collaboration, problem-solving, and shared commitment to finding the best outcomes for students. Working alongside so many dedicated professionals across Norfolk Public Schools has been both rewarding and inspiring, and it’s those relationships and day-to-day connections that I will cherish the most.

Question: What advice would you give to someone in your role and in general at NPS?
Hamlin: Always remember why you became an educator. We are entrusted with the responsibility of positively impacting the lives of students through thoughtful leadership and good stewardship. Listen carefully, avoid rushing to conclusions, and thoroughly consider all facts, options, and possible outcomes before making decisions. Exercise sound judgment, remain detail-oriented, and ensure that every decision is supported by accurate documentation. Document everything, so you can clearly explain and justify the decisions you make. Consistency, fairness, and diligence are essential to serving students, families, and staff effectively.