Norfolk Public Schools’ Preschool Programs Earn Top State Ratings for Quality and Excellence

Official Download

Norfolk, VA – Norfolk Public Schools' district preschool programs earned Meeting or Exceeding Expectations ratings in the 2024-2025 Virginia Quality Birth to Five (VQB5) Quality Profiles from the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE).

This recognition confirms what educators, families, and the community already know: Norfolk’s early learning programs exemplify excellence, caring, and promise. Across the division, teachers and staff nurture curiosity, confidence, and creativity building the foundation for lifelong learning in our youngest scholars.

Granby Elementary and Chesterfield Academy earned the highest designation of “Exceeds Expectations,” a distinction shared by only four schools across neighboring districts. Their achievement reflects the commitment, innovation, and dedication of our educators who bring our vision to life.

“Our early learning educators are rock stars,” said Dr. James Pohl, Interim Superintendent of Norfolk Public Schools. “They build the first bridges of learning and belonging that guide our students toward future success. This recognition reflects their care, skill, and belief in every students’ potential.”

St. Helena Elementary was also recognized for strong improvement, continuing its progress in the “Meets Expectations” category.

The VQB5 Quality Profiles assess programs statewide on teaching quality, curriculum implementation, and continuous improvement to ensure that every child, from birth to five, has access to strong, equitable early learning.

As Norfolk Public Schools continues its journey from Vision to Victory, this achievement underscores the power of teamwork, innovation, and community partnership, that drives success across our classrooms and shapes the future of our young scholars.

To view the full VQB5 Quality Profiles, visit EarlyChildhoodQuality.doe.virginia.gov.

###