🎃👻 What a fantastic Halloween STEM experience this morning at Deep Creek Central Elementary! 🧪

First graders had an amazing time visiting and rotating between two engaging stations:

In Ms. Snipp's room, students tackled Fear Factor math challenges - you should have seen their faces! So much excitement (and maybe a little fear 😂) as they worked through tricky problems.

Over in Ms. Lemm's haunted house, creativity took center stage! Students created their own bubbling lava lamp monsters through hands-on STEM exploration, then brought their creations to life by writing imaginative stories about them.

The enthusiasm and creativity from our teachers and students today was outstanding. So much learning, collaboration, and fun! 🧡🖤
about 1 month ago, Chesapeake Public Schools
boy dressed a spolice officer helping a gril with math
teacher presenting information
teacher helping student in fear factor challenge
little girl smiling with her cup of fizzing blue concoction
a girl dressed as a doctor
a scary little grasshopper (child dressed up)
girl reaching into fear factor box
fear factor boxes
Little girl dressed as jasmine smiling
little girl smiling and reaching into box
🎬 Family Movie Night at Oscar Smith Middle School! 🎬

Join us for a FREE evening of fun as we celebrate Family Engagement Month with The LEGO Movie!

📅 When: Monday, November 3rd
🕕 Doors Open: 5:30 PM
🎥 Movie Starts: 6:30 PM
📍 Where: Oscar Smith Middle School

What to Expect:
🍽️ Dinner - FREE!
🧱 LEGO Demonstrations - Interactive fun for the kids
📚 Community Resources - Learn about helpful local services
🎭 The LEGO Movie - A family favorite!

This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with other families in our community while enjoying quality time together. All ages welcome!

Registration Required:
https://www.cpschools.com/events?id=47815823
about 1 month ago, Chesapeake Public Schools
lego movie event graphic for November 3 at OSM

🎓 Unlock Your Potential! Apply for the 2026 Summer Residential Governor’s School! ☀️

Calling all CPS high school sophomores and juniors, the interest form and application for the Summer Residential Governor’s School are now available! 🌟

Spend up to four weeks on a Virginia college campus diving deep into your passion! Explore specialized programs like:
🎭 Visual & Performing Arts
📚 Humanities
🩺 Medicine & Health Sciences
🧪 Math, Science & Technology
🌊 Marine Science
⚙️ Engineering
🌱 Agriculture

✅ Tuition-free
✅ Hands-on research, field studies & projects
✅ Expert mentorship and college-style learning

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to learn, grow, and shine! ✨

📌 More info: https://www.cpschools.com/article/2506527

➡️ All students must submit the appropriate interest form by Friday, November 7, 2025.

about 1 month ago, Chesapeake Public Schools
apply for the summer governor's school blue and white wht VDOE and CPS logos
💚 WILDCAT PRIDE 💛

Great Bridge High School was honored this morning at the VHSL Fall Membership Meeting with the Stay in the Game Award for the 2024-2025 school year! 🏆

This award recognizes schools with zero player or coach ejections throughout each sports season, a true testament to the exceptional sportsmanship and character of Great Bridge’s student-athletes and coaching staff.

🎉 Congratulations to our Wildcats for representing Great Bridge with class and integrity!

#CPSCelebrates
about 2 months ago, Chesapeake Public Schools
GBHS wrestling coach and principal smiling with award

🎉 What an incredible turnout for our FIRST Envision Night!

Last night, we welcomed middle and high school students and their families as they explored the Academies and Special Programs available to help shape their high school journey and future careers!

Thank you to everyone who joined us in taking this exciting step toward the future! 💙

🚨 IMPORTANT: Applications open NOW through November 5! Don't miss out!

💻 Learn more & apply: https://www.cpschools.com/article/2440877

about 2 months ago, Chesapeake Public Schools
3 male SMA students smiling at guests
JROTC student smiling passing out flyers
student and parents playing with robot car
taecher preseting Major Clarity program
STEM teacher smiling at guests
JROTC Students smiling
femal student TSA speaking with guests
male stdent presenting for DECA
teacher speaking at podium and conference center
student and parent in big crow listening to presenter

🎭 Discover the Arts at gsARTS Open House! 🎨

Interested students and families are invited to tour The Governor's School for the Arts and hear directly from current students about their experiences in our beautiful facilities.

📅 Wednesday, October 29, 2025
🕕 Tours begin at 6:00 PM
⏰ Last tour begins at 7:45 PM
📍 254 Granby Street, Norfolk

This is a walking-only tour - come prepared to explore our creative spaces, from theater to visual arts, music to dance!

🅿️ Parking is best at MacArthur Center

For more information: https://www.cpschools.com/events?id=48696859

about 2 months ago, Chesapeake Public Schools
governors School for the Arts graphic with images
Today, Superintendent Dr. Jared A. Cotton announced his intention to retire, effective July 1, 2026. Since 2018, Dr. Cotton has transformed our school district through his Empower 2025 strategic plan, leading to pass rates exceeding state averages and increased graduation rates. His legacy includes expanding career and technical education programs, launching the Chesapeake Virtual Academy, and establishing strong school and community partnerships.

“Dr. Cotton has led Chesapeake Public Schools with integrity, compassion, and a relentless focus on what matters most, our students,” said School Board Chair Angela Swygert.

Under his leadership, we became the first Virginia school division with 100% Purple Star-certified schools, earned national awards for workforce innovation and communications, and strengthened family engagement.

“Serving Chesapeake Public Schools has been the honor of my career,” said Dr. Cotton. “Together, we have achieved incredible milestones that have enriched the lives of our students, families, and community. I am deeply grateful for the support of our dedicated staff, school board, and partners who made our vision a reality.”
about 2 months ago, Chesapeake Public Schools
Dr. Cotton smiling at a podium
Dr. Cotton shaking hands with a scholarship winner
Dr. Cotton talking to high school students
Dr. Cotton posing at his alma mater, Great Bridge High
Dr. Cotton watching Career Center students install a bench
Dr. Cotton posing with elementary students
Dr. Cotton talking with elementary students
Dr. Cotton fist bumps a student
Dr. Cotton poses with the Teacher of the Year winner

🎓 College Fair at Indian River High School! 🎓

Save the date! Connect with colleges from around the state and get the information you need to plan for your future.

📅 Monday, October 27th
🕕 6:00 - 8:00 PM
📍 Indian River High School

What to expect:
✨ Meet representatives from colleges across the state ✨ Learn about the college admissions process ✨ Get information on FAFSA and scholarships ✨ Special presentation by The Access College Foundation

This is your opportunity to explore your options and get your questions answered!

Register to attend: https://www.cpschools.com/events?id=47676447

about 2 months ago, Chesapeake Public Schools
College Fair with date and site

EVENT CANCELED

Got questions about mental health? Ask the experts! 💡

Join us for an open and informative session where mental health professionals will answer your most important questions. Whether you're looking for stress management strategies, want to understand anxiety better, or need guidance supporting a loved one. This is your opportunity to get real answers in a supportive, caring environment.

📅 Wednesday, October 29, 2025
🕕 6:00 PM - Dinner 🕡 6:30 PM - Presentation
📍 Crestwood Middle School Auditorium

Register at: https://www.cpschools.com/events?id=48695791

Everyone is welcome. Come get the support and information you need!

about 2 months ago, Chesapeake Public Schools
ask the experts event canceled graphic

🍂 Parent Café: A Season of Change 🍂

Parenting is a journey, and you don't have to navigate it alone! Join us for Parent Café where we'll explore how to balance busy schedules while creating meaningful family time.

This month's focus: Two of the Five Protective Factors from Be Strong Families ✨ Knowledge of Parenting and Child Development ✨ Concrete Supports in Times of Need

📅 Tuesday, October 28, 2025
🍽️ 5:30 PM - Dinner
☕ 6:30 PM - Parent Café
📍 Lifestyle Center at Chesapeake Regional Healthcare 800 Battlefield Blvd. N., Chesapeake, VA 23320

👶 Childminding available for children 12 and under!

💻 https://www.cpschools.com/events?id=48694573

Presented by CHIP of South Hampton Roads, United Way of South Hampton Roads, FACE, and Chesapeake Regional Healthcare.

about 2 months ago, Chesapeake Public Schools
parent cafe FACE Event flyer
🎭This month we are celebrating National High School and CMSL activities month!🏑

📣Shout out to our athletic directors, coaches, and club sponsors who dedicate themselves to our students every day!

🎨🎾Whether they’re coaching on the field, directing on stage, or leading clubs, they're building champions and shaping futures. Their impact goes way beyond games and performances - they’re creating confidence that lasts a lifetime. Chesapeake is lucky to have mentors who believe in every student.

Thank you for being you! 🌟#CPSCelebrates
about 2 months ago, Chesapeake Public Schools
middle school cheerleaders in hall
3 students playing violins
girls on soccer field
two boys on computer during lego club
Image of WBM softball team
ROTC students carrying flags
marching band playing clarinets
high school dance team smiling
middle school football team
students holding up certificates
🚌 Happy National School Bus Safety Week! 🚌

October 20-24, we're celebrating our incredible bus drivers who safely transport thousands of students every single day!

THANK YOU to our dedicated drivers for their commitment to student safety! 💙🩵 #CPSCelebrates
about 2 months ago, Chesapeake Public Schools
school  bus safety week graphic with two school workers
⚠️ UPDATE: DATE CORRECTION ⚠️
The event is on WEDNESDAY, October 22nd, NOT Tuesday. We apologize for the error in our previous post!

🎓 ENVISION: College and Career Readiness Night 🎓

Join us for an evening where students can discover specialized programs and career pathways!

📅 WEDNESDAY, October 22nd | 6:00-8:00 PM
📍 Chesapeake Conference Center

Featured Programs:
✅ Chesapeake Career Center*
✅ EVMS Academy
✅ Governor's STEM Academy*
✅ International Baccalaureate*
✅ Major Clarity
✅ ROTC Programs
✅ Science and Medicine Academy*
✅ SmithTech*
✅ TCC Dual Enrollment
✅ Work-Based Learning
✅ And MORE!

🚨 Programs marked with * have applications open from October 15 - November 5!

Talk with program reps, learn about applications, and discover opportunities that match your interests.
There's something for everyone!

💻 More info: https://www.cpschools.com/article/2440877
about 2 months ago, Chesapeake Public Schools
envision college readiness night graphic wiht academy logos
🎓 ENVISION: College and Career Readiness Night 🎓

Join us for an evening where students can discover specialized programs and career pathways!

📅 Tuesday, October 22nd | 6:00-8:00 PM 📍 Chesapeake Conference Center

Featured Programs: ✅ Chesapeake Career Center* ✅ EVMS Academy
✅ Governor's STEM Academy* ✅ International Baccalaureate* ✅ Major Clarity ✅ ROTC Programs ✅ Science and Medicine Academy* ✅ SmithTech* ✅ TCC Dual Enrollment ✅ Work-Based Learning ✅ And MORE!

🚨 Programs marked with * have applications open from October 15 - November 5!

Talk with program reps, learn about applications, and discover opportunities that match your interests.There's something for everyone!

💻 More info: https://www.cpschools.com/article/2440877
about 2 months ago, Chesapeake Public Schools
envision college readiness night graphic wiht academy logos
✨ Cook, Learn, and Grow! ✨

We had such a great time teaming up with one of our benefits providers, Marathon Health and Registered Dietitian Lydia Slottke for a beginner-friendly cooking demo! Our Culinary Arts students led stations on:
🔪 Knife skills
🥩 Meat preparation
🥗 Food safety

Together, they created a fresh Mediterranean Pasta Salad and learned simple, healthy kitchen skills. We’re so proud of our students for showing their talents and inspiring healthier living!
#EmpowerCPS #CPSCelebrates
about 2 months ago, Chesapeake Public Schools
3 students workign together on meal prep
3 chefs one smiling for camera
male student helping adult prep food
student presenting to adults
student smiling while prepping
male student smiling and prepping
ingredients
teacher demo
🍽️ It's School Lunch Week and our schools are celebrating BIG! Yesterday at Great Bridge Primary, we got a taste of China as part of their amazing global food journey.

Each day this week features a different country's cuisine, and one lucky staff member becomes the official taste-tester in front of the whole lunchroom! 🌍

Huge shoutout to Mrs. Coryn Moore for this brilliant idea. You can really see the heart and dedication she put into making this week special for our students! #CPSCelebrates #SchoolLunchWeek

For more information about our School Nutrition Services, visit: https://www.cpschools.com/school-nutrition-services/
about 2 months ago, Chesapeake Public Schools
Kids in line at lunch wildcat cafe sign
Lunch worker handing over  passport
teacher trying new food
lunch worker talking to kids
Lunch worker smiling and clapping
Lunch worker smiling
lunch worker smiling
girl in lunch line
girl at lunch counter
little passport book cover
🚨 APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN! 🚨

Ready to take your education to the next level? Applications are NOW LIVE for our Specialized Programs and Academies!

✨ Application Window: October 15 - November 5 ✨

🎯 Choose Your Path:
Governor's STEM Academy
Science & Medicine Academy
International Baccalaureate
Chesapeake Career Center
StemTech

📋 Get all the details: https://www.cpschools.com/events?id=47478730

Don't wait - these competitive programs fill up fast! Start your application today and take the first step toward your future.
about 2 months ago, Chesapeake Public Schools
Academy and Specialized program APPLY NOW graphic
🎉 The Chesapeake Public Schools Benefits Fair was a success! Thank you to all employees who attended to ask questions and complete biometrics screenings on site. Visit https://www.cpschools.com/benefits to explore our health insurance & more!
about 2 months ago, Chesapeake Public Schools
two women discussing
guests reaching for swag
man talking to employee
door to open enrollment fair
woman talking at desk
two female vendors smilling
woman talking to vendor
man listening
woman smiling at guest
woman talking to vendor

📢We want your input on the school calendar options for the 2026-2027 and 2027-2028 school years. Your feedback helps us make decisions that best meet the needs of our community. Please take a few moments to complete this survey: https://cpschools.com/surveys

2 months ago, Chesapeake Public Schools
calendar feedback graphic

✈️ CALLING ALL LUNCHTIME EXPLORERS! 🌍

🍽️ This week the cafeteria becomes your passport to adventure during School Lunch Week! Our food service crew are your tour guides on this culinary adventure.

🍎 Prepare to taste the world in the cafeteria with flavors that will energize you for your next mission - heading back to the classroom ready to learn!

👉 For info on our School Nutrition Services visit: https://www.cpschools.com/page/school-nutrition-services/

#CPSCelebrates

2 months ago, Chesapeake Public Schools
National School Lunch  Week taste th world in the cafeteria with graphics for travel