Newport News is making significant strides in youth development and education, as highlighted during the State of the City address on February 14, 2025. Mayor McKinley announced the continuation of the YouThrive initiative, which has allocated over $400 million to support programs aimed at empowering young people. This summer, two flagship programs were launched: the Youth Career Program (YCP) and the Friday Night Nets basketball league.

The YCP is an eight-week summer initiative designed for youth aged 16 to 24, providing them with essential workplace skills and confidence-building experiences. This year, the program successfully matched over 100 young participants with 50 local businesses and nonprofit organizations, creating valuable pathways to future careers.

In addition to career development, the Friday Night Nets program offered a free basketball league that fostered community engagement and support for at-risk youth. The initiative provided not only sports activities but also access to on-site counselors, free meals, and community service opportunities, showcasing the power of collaboration among local businesses, faith-based organizations, and community leaders.

As the city emphasizes its commitment to youth, education remains a top priority. Newport News has fully funded the operational requests of Newport News Public Schools for the past two years, with $130 million allocated for this year alone. An additional $7.2 million is designated for essential capital projects to ensure that schools remain modern and safe learning environments.

The recent groundbreaking of the Southeast Community Resource Area (SECRA) marks a transformative step for education in the city. This project will include the new Huntington Middle School, designed to accommodate 600 students, alongside a community building that integrates the Pearl Bailey Library and the Doris Miller Community Center.

These initiatives reflect Newport News' dedication to uplifting its youth and enhancing educational opportunities, setting a strong foundation for a brighter future. The city’s collaborative efforts demonstrate a commitment to fostering a supportive environment where young people can thrive.