Coleman Place Elementary celebrates 100 years with nostalgic event and student performances

Norfolk Public Schools celebrated significant milestones and achievements during their recent school board meeting, highlighting the community's commitment to education and student engagement.

A standout moment was the centennial celebration of Coleman Place Elementary School, which brought together former teachers, staff, and students to honor its rich history. The event featured nostalgic displays of old photos and yearbooks, alongside a program that showcased student performances. The school has seen remarkable moments over its 100 years, including a visit from former President Bill Clinton, making the celebration a heartfelt reminder of its legacy.

In another noteworthy initiative, students from the Norfolk Technical Center's carpentry program demonstrated their skills by constructing nine weather shelters for schools in Hampton. This project, a collaboration with the National Institute of Aerospace, not only provided practical experience for the students but also aimed to expand their capabilities in construction and teamwork.

The meeting also highlighted community engagement through events like the math and literacy night at Mary Calcutta Elementary. This event allowed families to participate in educational activities, reinforcing the importance of parental involvement in children's learning. Parents received resources to support their children's education at home, fostering a collaborative learning environment.

Attendance was a key focus, with Norfolk Public Schools launching a friendly competition to combat chronic absenteeism. The initiative emphasizes the critical impact of consistent attendance on student learning. Schools across the division are actively promoting the message that "attendance counts," with recognition for those achieving the best and most improved attendance rates.

Additionally, the meeting celebrated the achievements of the Norview Marksmanship team, which excelled at the Area 5 Air Rifle Championship, and acknowledged student athletes from Lake Taylor High and Morey who signed letters of intent to continue their sports careers at the collegiate level.

These discussions and initiatives reflect Norfolk Public Schools' dedication to fostering a supportive and engaging educational environment, ensuring that students are not only present but actively participating in their learning journey. The board's commitment to celebrating achievements and addressing challenges sets a positive tone for the future of education in the community.