Newsome Park Elementary School

As a teacher at Newsome Park, I can state without hesitation that this is a great school with hard-working and caring people. The teachers arrive early and work late to meet the ever-changing needs of a diversified class of students. The building may be old, but the ideas and teaching methods and materials are new and current for today's students. Parents are a regular presence in the building and security is on the premises to ensure a safe and orderly environment. Newsome Park is a school that is meeting the needs of the surrounding communities.
—Submitted by a teacher

I love this school and was surprised to see its Great School rating at a two. I really love this school and think that all the teachers work incredibly hard for the students. There are many resources available for students who are struggling and for parents who may need help outside the school. We were not members of this school before the current principal came on board so I have nothing to compare her to. I will say that I am surprised with it being an math and technology magnet, that they don't spend more time in the computer lab or have greater access to computers in the classroom. That said, I am still thrilled that I chose this school for my kids and love spending volunteer time in the classroom. I wish more parents would volunteer, but I do see good turn out at after school and evening activities.
—Submitted by a parent

This school has gone down hill since Dr. Teston left. Magnet school just doesn't seem to fit any longer. There are a lot of disruptive children and they aren't being dealt with.
—Submitted by a parent

My child has attended this school from K until now 4th grade. The school has gone down hill since the closing of Briarfield, with much larger classes, and should no longer be considered a 'Magnet School' as it seems a majority of teaching time is spent correcting disruptive students. My child will not attend next year.
—Submitted by a parent

I am a teacher at this school and really enjoy teaching in my classroom. I love parent involvement, but I do not agree that parents should be volunteering in their own child's classroom on a daily basis.
—Submitted by a teacher

I absolutely love this school. Always met with a smile. Any concerns are addressed and put to ease. The teachers actually *teach* the children. I volunteer in the class and have a wonderful time with the students. I just wish all the teachers welcomed parents in the class. I have two children enrolled. One teacher loves having parents interacting and helping with the class, the other barely communicates. I would definitely recommend Newsome Park.
—Submitted by Bobbie Polk, a parent

I made the right decision in choosing Newsome Park Elem. School. I can see how my 2 kids transformed into a brighter and futuristic kid. I am amazed with all the things they have learned in school. Newsome Park is a good foundation, it has a quality teacher-students and teacher-parents relationship. All the staff, most specially to the Principal, Dr. Jay Teston, are very approachable and helpful to all the students. I am very proud to be a family of Newsome Park Elementary School. By Mrs. A. Florendo
—Submitted by Amabelle Florendo, a parent

This is school is excellent. Their academic program is great. The teachers are well educated and take their time with each student.
—Submitted by Tracey Hooks, a parent

I have 2 children in this school and I am very pleased with their progress. I volunteer at the school and have really learned that the methods they use to teach the kids are very effective and rewarding. the teachers and staff are great and have always treated my concerns with respect. It is a comfort to know that no matter where I move in the city of Newport News, my kids can continue to attend Newsome Park. I was leary about the long drive for kids on bus, at first, but they seem fine with it and actually use the time to bond with others and unwind from their day. My daughter frequently does her homework and is ready to relax by the time she gets home. I visited 4 other schools before choosing Newsome Park and I would recommend it to all. D. Nicholson
—Submitted by donna nicholson, a parent

This is an amazing school! They base their teaching on the way children truly learn! It is wonderful to watch my children 'learn how to learn' and to see how much they enjoy the process! The teachers are caring and professional, the atmosphere is electric, and the result is one of the most effective learning environments I've ever seen. You must go and see for yourself!
—Submitted by C Gough, a parent

I think more parents should be involved. This is a great school the teachers and staff are caring and really are there for our children. I have two children currently at Newsome Park and it's a long drive but it is really worth the educational experience.
—Submitted by Seffron Boyle, a parent