BayPort Foundation and Partners Fund Newport News Teacher Initiative with $500,000 Grant

Introduction

In a significant move to bolster the educational landscape, a $500,000 grant has been awarded to the Newport News Public Schools (NNPS) for the New Teacher Institute (NTI) program. This contribution comes from a collaboration of four major organizations: the BayPort Foundation, Ferguson Enterprises, Newport News Shipbuilding (a division of HII), and Virginia Natural Gas. The funding aims to enhance teacher training and development in response to the pressing needs of the local education system.

Purpose of the Grant

The Accelerating Change Together (ACT) Grant is designed to address workforce development by providing necessary resources for new first- and second-year teachers. The NTI program intends to expand its outreach and effectiveness by developing model programs, supporting credentialing efforts, and investing in crucial areas such as Career and Technical Education and English as a Second Language instruction. Thus, the grant not only aids teacher development but also seeks to build a strong educational pipeline that ensures a competent workforce for the future.

Importance of NTI Program

The NTI program is pivotal in shaping a supportive environment for novice educators. By focusing on mentorship, effective teaching strategies, and professional growth opportunities, the grant will contribute to the retention of skilled educators within the Newport News district. The funding will also enable the Newport News Education Foundation to secure ongoing support, essential amidst the decline of emergency relief funds previously allocated during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Selection Process

In a competitive field, twenty-one nonprofits submitted proposals for the ACT Grant. The Newport News Education Foundation stood out due to its impactful and sustainable project plan, addressing specific regional needs. The Contributions Committee highlighted the foundation's commitment to a significant financial investment coupled with innovative solutions, deeming them worthy recipients of the grant.

Previous Recipients

The ACT Grant was initiated in 2022, with the Virginia Beach Education Foundation being the first recipient. Their award funded the establishment of a two-year, half-day program focusing on Renewable Energy Technologies at the Advanced Technology Center, showcasing a model for educational advancements through targeted funding.

Organizations Involved

BayPort Foundation is the philanthropic branch of BayPort Credit Union, focusing on improving the lives of community members in Newport News, Virginia. The foundation aligns its mission with charitable giving, investing over half a million dollars annually in community initiatives.

Ferguson Enterprises, the largest distributor in the North American construction market, provides a wide array of products and services. Their involvement underscores the importance of preparing future professionals in construction and related fields.

Newport News Shipbuilding (HII) is a historic military shipbuilder dedicated to safeguarding national security while offering a vast array of career opportunities. Their commitment to educational funding reflects a long-standing tradition of supporting workforce development.

Virginia Natural Gas serves nearly 300,000 customers in southeastern Virginia, recognized for its reliability and customer satisfaction. Their participation in the ACT Grant initiative further demonstrates a commitment to community growth and educational support.

Conclusion

The Newport News Public Schools' NTI program stands to benefit significantly from this collaborative funding effort, marking a positive step forward in education and workforce readiness. By nurturing new talent and equipping teachers with the necessary skills and support, the involved organizations are contributing to a brighter future for students and the community as a whole. For more information about the ACT Grant and its impact, interested parties may visit actgrant.org.