Newport News Public Schools (NNPS) has announced updates to time schedules, walking distances, and bus stops for five schools for the 2025–2026 school year.
According to NNPS, these changes aim to improve transportation efficiency, reduce student commuting times, and maximize instructional time. The adjustments are part of a broader effort to streamline bus routes and ensure students arrive at school and return home more quickly, supporting the district’s focus on teaching and learning.
The updated schedules will affect Hidenwood, Kiln Creek, and Sanford elementary schools with new hours from 9:20 a.m. to 3:55 p.m.; Huntington Middle School from 7:10 a.m. to 1:55 p.m.; and Passage Middle School from 8:10 a.m. to 2:55 p.m. By adjusting start and end times, NNPS aims to shorten bus routes and reduce the total time students spend traveling while maintaining sufficient instructional hours.
Walking distances to bus stops or schools will increase slightly to allow for stop consolidation. The maximum distance will rise from 0.4 miles to 0.5 miles for preschool and elementary students and up to 0.7 miles for middle and high school students. Consolidating stops is expected to cut bus travel time, reduce the number of stops, and improve overall efficiency. Detailed bus stop locations, pick-up, and drop-off times will be available through ParentVUE, StudentVUE, and posted online later in August. NNPS emphasizes that parent and guardian support is essential for successfully implementing these changes.
NNPS serves approximately 26,000 students across 40 schools including early childhood centers, elementary, middle, high, and combination schools. Over 1,500 students speak a language other than English within the district which employs roughly 3,900 teachers, administrators, and support staff focused on preparing all students to graduate college-, career-, and citizen-ready. The district provides early learning programs along with advanced science labs and educational technology aimed at supporting student success.
The seven-member elected School Board governs the district with Dr. Michele Mitchell serving as superintendent. Board meetings are public events that include structured opportunities for citizen input.
