NEWPORT NEWS, VA — Newport News Public Schools is celebrating a major academic achievement after reporting a record-high on-time graduation rate of 98.06% for the Class of 2026.
The milestone represents significant progress for the school division and highlights ongoing efforts to improve student achievement, academic support and graduation outcomes.
According to district officials, the latest results mark one of the strongest performances in the division’s history.
The graduation rate reflects the percentage of students who completed high school within the state’s standard four-year graduation timeline.
School leaders have emphasized the importance of maintaining strong academic expectations while providing students with the resources needed to remain on track toward graduation.
Programs focused on academic intervention, student engagement, career preparation and individualized learning support are among the strategies school systems use to improve graduation outcomes.
In addition to the graduation milestone, Newport News Public Schools reported that all schools maintained full accreditation for the second consecutive year.
Accreditation reflects several measures of school performance and accountability established by the Virginia Department of Education.
The achievements are particularly meaningful for families across Newport News, where public education plays an important role in preparing young people for college, employment and other opportunities.
A higher graduation rate can also benefit the surrounding community by helping more students qualify for higher education, workforce training and career advancement.
While graduation statistics represent an important measure of progress, education leaders continue to focus on ensuring that students leave school prepared for success beyond the classroom.
For Newport News Public Schools, the Class of 2026 milestone provides an opportunity to recognize students, teachers, school administrators and families who contributed to the district’s academic progress.

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