Each year, the National Merit Scholarship Program honors students across the United States for their exceptional performance on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT). In the fall of 2023, approximately 1.5 million students participated in the PSAT, with only the top 50,000 scorers acknowledged for their academic excellence. Among this elite group, Commended Scholars are recognized for placing in the top 3-4% of test-takers nationwide.
This recognition is not merely a badge of honor; it signifies the dedication, hard work and commitment to academic excellence that these students have demonstrated throughout their education. At Hampton Roads Academy, we take immense pride in celebrating their success and eagerly anticipate their continued achievements.
Hampton Roads Academy firmly believes that education extends far beyond the classroom. Our mission is to nurture the whole student through a comprehensive academic program that emphasizes honor, integrity and personal growth. Each student is valued for their unique strengths while being part of a supportive and thriving community.
With small class sizes and a focus on personalized attention, our dedicated faculty members provide each student with the support necessary for success. This approach fosters a healthy and encouraging environment where students can flourish physically, emotionally and academically. By catering to individual needs, we empower students to explore a diverse array of academic and extracurricular experiences—ranging from competitive sports to artistic performances.
As the Peninsula’s only independent school serving Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12, Hampton Roads Academy offers a distinctive educational experience that sets us apart. We are accredited by the Virginia Association of Independent Schools and maintain membership with the National Association of Independent Schools, ensuring adherence to the highest standards of educational excellence.
Our students enjoy a wide range of opportunities beyond traditional academics. Our athletic programs promote teamwork and physical fitness, while our comprehensive arts program allows students to explore and showcase their visual and performing arts talents. Additionally, our REACH (Real-world Experience and Academic Choices) Initiative encourages students to apply their learning in real-world contexts, highlighting their commitment to community service and personal development.
At Hampton Roads Academy in Newport News, VA, we recognize that each student is unique, and we strive to create a supportive environment that caters to their individual needs. Our commitment to personalized attention ensures that every student receives the guidance necessary to excel. Whether through tailored academic assistance, emotional support, or extracurricular involvement, we are dedicated to helping each student reach their full potential.
Furthermore, we believe in making our exceptional education accessible to all families. Through tailored tuition assistance, we ensure that financial considerations do not hinder access to a quality education. We are proud to offer a range of resources and support to meet the diverse needs of our community.
At Hampton Roads Academy, we combine top-tier academics with character development to equip students for a successful future. Our curriculum fosters critical thinking, effective communication, collaboration and exploration of new opportunities. Our goal is to nurture innovative and compassionate leaders who are prepared for an ever-changing world.
We are immensely proud of Josephine, Ishan, Carl, Lily and Reece for their remarkable achievement as National Merit Commended Scholars. Their success exemplifies the values of scholarship and dedication that are central to the Hampton Roads Academy community. We look forward to celebrating their future accomplishments and those of all our students as they continue their educational journeys. Congratulations to our Commended Scholars!
At Hampton Roads Academy, we blend exceptional academics with character development to prepare students for a successful future. We emphasize critical thinking, effective communication, teamwork and the exploration of new opportunities. Our mission is to nurture innovative and compassionate leaders equipped for a dynamic world. Serving families from Newport News, Poquoson, Hampton and Williamsburg, VA, we invite you to schedule a campus tour and discover how our unique environment can foster your child’s growth and inspire them to achieve their full potential.
]]>The revitalized TowneBank Track and Field Complex is a testament to HRA’s dedication to fostering athletic excellence and community engagement. This state-of-the-art facility will serve as a premier venue for a variety of athletic events, benefitting not only HRA but also the surrounding community. With its upgraded features, the complex is set to host Middle School Cross Country meets, providing a much-needed competitive space for four local schools that currently lack high school-level facilities.
Jay Lasley, Head of School, expressed the significance of this upgrade, stating, “The upgrade to our track and field complex is about much more than enhancing our campus; it’s about fostering community spirit and expanding youth sports opportunities across the region.” This vision reflects HRA’s commitment to nurturing young athletes and encouraging a lifelong passion for sports.
The TowneBank Track and Field Complex represents more than just a physical upgrade; it symbolizes a strengthening of community ties. HRA extends its heartfelt gratitude to TowneBank, whose generous support made this transformative project possible. TowneBank has a long-standing commitment to education and community development, and this partnership showcases their dedication to creating opportunities for our youth.
The completion of this complex will allow HRA to host not only its own varsity-level track and field events but also attract regional competitions. The facility is designed to be a hub for athletic activity, drawing families and athletes from across the region. This investment in HRA’s infrastructure emphasizes the importance of community engagement in fostering a vibrant athletic culture.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony will feature insights from HRA alumnus Mike Fisher, Class of 1986, who has been actively involved in this project. Fisher’s dedication to leadership and teamwork serves as an inspiration to current students. He will share his thoughts on the significance of caring for one another in the pursuit of athletic success: “Leaders care about people. They put the needs of others above their own. Offer to do the extra sprints with the teammate that is struggling in practice. Care enough to be honest, but also care enough to roll up their sleeves and help.”
Fisher’s involvement in this endeavor reinforces HRA’s values of leadership, teamwork and community. His message encourages current and future students to embrace their passion for sports while developing their leadership skills, much like he did during his time at HRA.
The TowneBank Track and Field Complex is set to become a cherished venue for countless athletic events and competitions. This facility will create lasting memories for student-athletes, coaches and families. From Middle School Cross Country meets to varsity competitions, the complex will play a pivotal role in shaping the athletic experiences of HRA students and the community.
As HRA continues to invest in its athletic programs, the completion of the TowneBank Track and Field Complex reaffirms our commitment to providing top-tier facilities. These upgrades not only serve our students but also enhance the overall community by promoting healthy lifestyles and athletic engagement.
As we look forward to Homecoming Weekend and the dedication of the TowneBank Track and Field Complex, we celebrate not only the physical space but the impact it will have on our community. This new facility embodies HRA’s commitment to excellence in all areas—academics, athletics and character development.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony will kick off a new era for HRA, where students are encouraged to pursue their athletic dreams and develop valuable life skills. The TowneBank Track and Field Complex stands as a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration, community support and a shared vision for a brighter future.
Hampton Roads Academy (HRA) is an independent, coeducational, college-preparatory school located in Newport News, Virginia. Committed to fostering academic excellence, leadership and character development, HRA prepares students for the challenges of college and life beyond, while encouraging lifelong learning and personal growth. The unveiling of the TowneBank Track and Field Complex is a significant step in our journey, demonstrating our dedication to enhancing the educational and athletic experiences of our students and the wider community.
Join us in celebrating this exciting addition to our campus during Homecoming Weekend—it’s an event you won’t want to miss!
Hampton Roads Academy offers students a top-tier education with a strong focus on character development, equipping them for future success. The school fosters critical thinking, effective communication, teamwork, and a passion for discovery, all geared towards nurturing innovative and compassionate leaders for a dynamic world. Serving families across Newport News, Poquoson, Hampton, and Williamsburg, VA, HRA invites you to schedule a campus tour and discover how its supportive environment can inspire your child to grow and reach their full potential.
]]>We are immensely proud of each and every one of these students who embraced new challenges, learned critical skills and built meaningful connections during their summer ventures. Their commitment to personal and professional growth exemplifies the spirit of exploration and dedication that we foster at HRA.
Congratulations to Our Outstanding Summer Interns:
These students took full advantage of their summer break, diving into internships and courses that not only enriched their knowledge but also prepared them for future success. Their experiences ranged from hands-on work in various professional settings to deepening their understanding of their chosen fields.
Their dedication and enthusiasm are truly commendable, and we look forward to seeing how these experiences will shape their future endeavors. At Hampton Roads Academy, we celebrate the achievements of our students and their commitment to exploring new opportunities. Congratulations to all our summer interns and a thank you to all of their mentors! We also want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the businesses that welcomed our students into their offices this summer, giving them this valuable and memorable experience. Your time and guidance is greatly appreciated!
At Hampton Roads Academy in Newport News, VA, the school recognizes the uniqueness of every student and is committed to creating a nurturing environment that meets individual needs. With a focus on personalized attention, HRA ensures that each student receives the academic guidance, emotional support, and opportunities for extracurricular involvement necessary to thrive. At the heart of this approach is a culture of kindness, which underpins every interaction and initiative.
HRA is also dedicated to making its top-tier education accessible to all families. Through customized tuition assistance programs, the school works to ensure that financial concerns do not hinder a student’s access to quality education. HRA takes pride in offering a wide range of resources and support, ensuring that the needs of its diverse community are met with compassion and care.
As the Peninsula’s only independent school serving Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12, Hampton Roads Academy provides a distinctive educational experience that stands out. Accredited by the Virginia Association of Independent Schools and a member of the National Association of Independent Schools, HRA meets the highest standards of academic excellence.
Beyond the classroom, HRA offers a wide range of opportunities that enhance students’ development. The athletic programs promote teamwork, physical fitness, and sportsmanship, encouraging students to compete with kindness and integrity. The robust Arts program allows students to express their creativity in both visual and performing arts. Additionally, the REACH (Real-world Experience and Academic Choices) Initiative enables students to connect their academic learning to real-world applications, fostering a commitment to personal growth, community service, and the values of kindness that transcend all backgrounds.
At Hampton Roads Academy, students receive an exceptional education paired with a strong emphasis on character development, preparing them for future success. The school cultivates critical thinking, effective communication, teamwork, and a spirit of discovery, all aimed at shaping innovative and empathetic leaders for an evolving world. Serving families in Newport News, Poquoson, Hampton, and Williamsburg, VA, HRA encourages you to schedule a campus tour to explore how its nurturing environment can help your child grow and inspire them to achieve their full potential.
]]>Thad Shelly’s connection to HRA ran deep. Throughout his life, he maintained an unwavering passion for education, leadership and athletics. As an active trustee and alumnus, Thad was instrumental in advocating for the school, especially in the revitalization of Navigator football. Whether cheering from the sidelines or working behind the scenes, his love for HRA’s athletic programs was evident in all he did. In recognition of his steadfast dedication to sports, Thad was recently inducted into the HRA Athletic Hall of Fame, an honor that stands as a tribute to his lifelong commitment to HRA’s student-athletes and athletic legacy. His contributions, both on and off the field, will continue to inspire future generations.
Born on August 29, 1953, in Memphis, Tennessee, Thad Shelly was the son of Beverly Agnew Haskins and the late Thaddeus Rubel Shelly Jr. His family later moved to Newport News, Virginia, where his journey with Hampton Roads Academy began. After graduating from HRA in 1971, Thad went on to Hampden-Sydney College, earning his BA in Economics in 1975. His passion for education continued as he pursued an MBA in Finance from the Mason School of Business at The College of William & Mary in 1984, thanks to the encouragement of his wife, Helen Totty Edwards.
Thad Shelly’s career in wealth management was nothing short of remarkable. After obtaining his MBA, he embarked on a journey that saw him take on leadership roles at prestigious institutions like Goldman Sachs, Legg Mason, Bessemer Trust, Lazard and Tiedemann Advisors. His expertise in finance earned him a distinguished reputation in the industry, but no matter where his career took him, Thad’s heart remained with HRA.
Throughout his life, Thad Shelly exemplified the qualities of leadership and mentorship. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he dedicated countless hours to various advisory boards, including those at Hampton Roads Academy, The College of William & Mary Business School, Johns Hopkins University Heart and Vascular Institute and Hampden-Sydney College. Thad’s leadership wasn’t limited to boardrooms and classrooms—he also served as a coach, guiding teams at the college, high school and youth levels, including his own sons’ football teams in Severna Park, Maryland. Through coaching, Thad imparted lessons of teamwork, discipline and perseverance, helping countless young athletes reach their potential.
Despite his professional success and leadership roles, Thad Shelly was a family man at heart. In June of 1982, Thad married Totty, and together they built a beautiful life filled with love and shared experiences. Their life took them to various locations along the East Coast, including Pennsylvania, Maryland, New York and Florida, but their favorite place was their home on the Rappahannock River in Deltaville, Virginia. Summers spent on the water with family and friends were among Thad’s most cherished moments. Whether boating, playing golf, or simply enjoying a cigar on the porch, Thad treasured these times of relaxation and connection with loved ones.
Thad Shelly’s dedication to HRA, his family and his community was matched only by his dedication to excellence in all aspects of his life. His recent induction into the HRA Athletic Hall of Fame was a fitting recognition of his many contributions to the school’s athletic programs. But his legacy goes far beyond accolades and titles. Thad’s unwavering support for Hampton Roads Academy, his tireless efforts to foster leadership and education and his boundless enthusiasm for the school’s sports programs will leave a lasting impact on HRA’s community.
As we reflect on Thad Shelly’s life, we honor the incredible legacy he leaves behind. His influence on Hampton Roads Academy extends beyond his years of service on the Board of Trustees. His passion for education, leadership and mentorship will continue to shape the future of the school, inspiring generations of students and athletes for years to come.
Our deepest sympathies go out to Thad Shelly’s family during this difficult time, especially his beloved wife, Totty. Thad’s absence will be deeply felt, but his spirit, love for HRA and dedication to others will forever remain a part of the Academy’s history. We are incredibly grateful for all that Thad Shelly gave to Hampton Roads Academy, and his memory will be cherished by all who knew him.
Thad Shelly’s life was one of service, leadership and love—a life that touched countless people both within and beyond the HRA community. Though we have lost a great leader, mentor and friend, his legacy will endure, continuing to inspire those who follow in his footsteps.
]]>Dale Earnhardt Jr., recently inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame, added an extra layer of excitement to the Hampton Heat. Known for his impressive career, which includes two Daytona 500 victories and a record four consecutive wins at Talladega, Earnhardt Jr.’s presence was a significant draw. His legendary status and connection to his father, the seven-time Cup Champion Dale Earnhardt Sr., made this event particularly special for fans and fellow racers alike.
While Earnhardt Jr. was a major attraction, the Hampton Heat was also an important platform for local talent. Connor Hall, a notable alumnus of Hampton Roads Academy, showcased his skills on this prestigious stage. At 26, Hall has been making waves in the racing world with a strong track record. His recent success includes a thrilling finish in a Cars Tour race and an impressive streak of seven wins out of his last eight Late Model races at Langley Speedway.
This year’s Hampton Heat was a chance for Hall to prove himself once again, aiming for his second victory in this prestigious event. His participation not only highlights his individual achievements but also brings recognition to the talent emerging from our local community.
The Hampton Heat featured intense competition, with local drivers like Brenden “Butterbean” Queen also making headlines. Queen, who has competed in NASCAR’s truck division, was another local favorite to watch. A victory for Queen would cement his place in the event’s history alongside C.E. Falk, the only other driver with multiple Hampton Heat wins.
The race presented an exciting challenge for Hall and Queen, who both had a lot to prove. Their rivalry and determination added to the excitement of the event, as fans watched eagerly to see how these talented drivers would perform.
For Connor Hall, participating in the Hampton Heat was a significant opportunity to demonstrate his skills and continue building his racing career. His success at Langley Speedway and in various other races underscores his dedication and talent. Hall’s journey from Hampton Roads Academy to the racing circuit is a source of pride for his alma mater and the local community.
Hall’s continued success and his ability to compete alongside racing legends reflect his hard work and perseverance. His achievements serve as an inspiration to many and highlight the quality of talent emerging from our area.
The 16th Annual Hampton Heat not only celebrated the skills of racing legends like Dale Earnhardt Jr. but also shone a spotlight on emerging local talents like Connor Hall. The event was a testament to the vibrant racing community and the dedication of both established and up-and-coming drivers.
As we reflect on this exciting event, we look forward to following Connor Hall’s future endeavors and celebrating his continued success. His achievements are a reminder of the impact of hard work and community support in reaching new heights.
Stay tuned for more updates on Connor Hall and other exciting news at Hampton Roads Academy in Newport News, VA. We are proud to support our alumni and celebrate their accomplishments both on and off the track. Hampton Roads Academy serves students in Newport News, Poquoson, Hampton and Williamsburg, VA.
To learn more about Connor Hall’s journey and the significance of his achievements in the racing world, check out 13NewsNow’s detailed article. Don’t miss out on the full story behind this rising star and the legacy he’s building both on and off the track.
]]>As summer draws to a close and the excitement of a new academic year begins, Hampton Roads Academy (HRA) is thrilled to welcome back its students and their families for the 2024-2025 school year. Nestled in Newport News, Virginia, HRA is more than just a school—it’s a vibrant community dedicated to developing exceptional character, fostering creativity and nurturing curiosity. This year is particularly special as it marks our “Year of Kindness,” a school-wide theme that embodies HRA’s core values. Kindness will serve as our guiding north star, reminding us daily how we interact as a healthy, vibrant and supportive community.
At Hampton Roads Academy, the philosophy is rooted in the belief that education extends beyond the classroom. The school is committed to nurturing the whole student through a rigorous and comprehensive academic program. This year, the “Year of Kindness” theme will permeate every aspect of the school, emphasizing the importance of kindness in all interactions. The curriculum continues to emphasize honor, integrity and personal growth, ensuring that each student is valued for their unique strengths while being part of a supportive and thriving community.
With small class sizes and a focus on personalized attention, the dedicated faculty members are able to provide each student with the support they need to succeed. HRA prioritizes creating a healthy, supportive environment where students can flourish physically, emotionally and academically. This approach allows the school to cater to the individual needs of each student, encouraging them to explore a variety of academic and extracurricular experiences—from the playing fields to the stage, all while practicing kindness as a fundamental value.
As the Peninsula’s only independent school for Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12, Hampton Roads Academy offers a unique educational experience that sets it apart. The school is accredited by the Virginia Association of Independent Schools and holds membership with the National Association of Independent Schools. This recognition ensures that HRA adheres to the highest standards of educational excellence.
Students benefit from a broad range of opportunities that go beyond traditional academics. Athletic programs allow students to engage in competitive sports, fostering teamwork, physical fitness and the spirit of kindness in competition. The comprehensive Arts program provides avenues for students to explore and showcase their visual and performing arts talents. Furthermore, the REACH (Real-world Experience and Academic Choices) Initiative encourages students to apply their learning in real-world contexts, demonstrating their commitment to community service, personal development and the kindness that transcends all backgrounds.
At Hampton Roads Academy in Newport News, VA, each student is unique, and the school strives to provide a supportive environment that caters to individual needs. The commitment to personalized attention ensures that every student receives the guidance and support necessary to excel. Whether it’s through tailored academic assistance, emotional support, or extracurricular involvement, HRA is dedicated to helping each student reach their full potential, with kindness as a common denominator.
HRA also believes in making its exceptional education accessible to all families. Through tailored tuition assistance, the school strives to ensure that financial considerations do not stand in the way of a quality education. HRA is proud to offer a range of resources and support to meet the diverse needs of its community, always guided by the spirit of kindness.
As students are welcomed back for the new school year, HRA is excited to see the familiar faces of returning students and to introduce new families to the HRA community. The school is more than just a place of learning—it’s a family where students, parents and faculty come together to support, inspire and practice kindness towards one another.
HRA invites you to explore how its vibrant community in Newport News, VA, can support your child’s growth and development. Discover the admissions information and take the first step toward becoming part of this supportive and kind community. Experience firsthand how HRA’s commitment to academic excellence, character development and community engagement makes it a special place for learning and personal growth.
As HRA kicks off the 2024-2025 school year, there is anticipation and excitement for the opportunities and experiences that lie ahead. The school looks forward to a year filled with academic achievements, personal growth and memorable moments for every student at Hampton Roads Academy in Newport News, VA, all under the guiding theme of kindness.
To all returning families, welcome back! And to new families, HRA extends a warm welcome to the community. Together, let’s make this school year one of the best yet, filled with success, growth and a shared commitment to excellence and kindness.
Schedule Your Tour in Newport News, VA Today!
At Hampton Roads Academy, top-tier academics are combined with character development to equip students for a successful future. The school fosters critical thinking, effective communication, collaboration and exploration of new opportunities. The goal is to nurture innovative and compassionate leaders ready for an ever-changing world. Serving students from Newport News, Poquoson, Hampton and Williamsburg, VA, HRA invites you to schedule a campus tour to discover how its unique environment can support your child’s growth and inspire them to reach their full potential.
Here’s to a fantastic year ahead at Hampton Roads Academy—where every student is encouraged to explore, achieve, thrive and practice kindness!
]]>Hampton Roads Academy in Newport News, VA is more than just an educational institution; it’s a place where character, creativity and curiosity are nurtured every day. Our updated website provides an in-depth look at our school’s philosophy, history and mission. It’s designed to give you a comprehensive understanding of how we foster well-rounded students who are prepared to excel both in and out of the classroom. We hope you will discover how our unique approach to education helps students grow into innovative and compassionate leaders.
Our admissions section has been revamped to better highlight how we support and develop each student. Hampton Roads Academy emphasizes honor, integrity and personal growth through a rigorous academic program. With small class sizes and a supportive environment, we ensure that every student receives personalized attention. Our approach allows students to explore a wide range of academic and extracurricular experiences, from sports and arts to leadership opportunities. Explore our admissions page to see how HRA can be the ideal environment for your child’s development, learn about the application process, upcoming admissions events and how to apply!
Hampton Roads Academy is dedicated to providing an exceptional academic experience that prepares students for the future. Our new Academics section details how our comprehensive curriculum fosters creativity, critical thinking and lifelong learning. From our Lower School to our Upper School, we offer a curriculum designed to challenge and inspire students, equipping them with the skills needed for success in college and beyond. Learn more about our academic offerings and discover how we support each student’s unique journey.
Athletics play a vital role in our school community, and our website now highlights the breadth and depth of our sports programs. At Hampton Roads Academy in Newport News, VA, sportsmanship, teamwork and dedication are at the heart of our athletics program. With opportunities from Middle School through Varsity levels, we cater to every athlete’s passion and skill level. Our athletes have achieved recognition at various levels, and many continue their careers at prestigious institutions. Discover how our athletics program helps students build resilience, leadership skills and a lifelong love for sports.
Student life at Hampton Roads Academy is vibrant and engaging, and our new website showcases the wide range of activities and programs available. From fine arts to after-school programs and summer camps, there are countless opportunities for students to explore their interests and develop new skills. Our dining services also play a crucial role in promoting student well-being with nutritious and delicious meals. Learn more about how HRA’s student life programs contribute to a well-rounded and fulfilling school experience.
Our “In the News” section keeps you connected with the latest updates and achievements from the HRA community. Whether it’s celebrating academic successes, athletic victories, or other significant milestones, this section is your go-to source for staying informed about the exciting happenings at our school. Come and be a part of the celebration as we honor the remarkable achievements of our students, faculty and alumni.
Interested in becoming part of the HRA family? Our new website makes it easy to apply and schedule a campus tour. Hampton Roads Academy serves students in Newport News, Poquoson, Hampton and Williamsburg, VA. We encourage prospective families to visit and experience firsthand the dynamic and supportive environment that makes HRA unique. Taking a tour is the perfect way to see how our school can support your child’s growth and help them reach their full potential.
We are thrilled to share our new website with you and hope it enhances your experience with Hampton Roads Academy. Whether you are exploring our school for the first time or are a valued member of our community, we invite you to explore the many features of our updated online presence. Here’s to a new school year filled with opportunities, growth and success!
Visit Hampton Roads Academy today to learn more and see how our new website reflects the excellence and spirit of our school.
]]>Hampton Roads Academy’s Callie Poole was featured on 13 News Now to share with our community her exciting role as Head Varsity Field Hockey Coach and Program Coordinator.
A graduate of Norfolk Academy, Callie helped the hockey team win two state championships. She continued her academic and athletic endeavors at the University of Mary Washington, where she played field hockey and earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a minor in Digital Studies.
Callie comes to HRA most recently from St. Margaret’s School in Tappahannock, VA, where she made significant contributions as a teacher, coach and dorm parent. There, she taught four courses, including AP Psychology, U.S. History, Digital Multimedia and American Studies to students in Grades 8-12. Callie also served as the Head Field Hockey Coach and Assistant Soccer Coach, demonstrating her leadership and coaching skills.
In addition to enhancing the school’s field hockey program, Callie will serve as an Advancement Associate, focusing on furthering the mission of HRA and fostering community engagement. Her experience and enthusiasm are sure to bring a new level of excellence to HRA’s athletic and academic programs.
13 News Now highlighted our great school and Callie’s exciting journey on their evening news.
At Hampton Roads Academy (HRA) in Newport News, VA, the school recognizes the uniqueness of every student and is committed to creating a nurturing environment that meets individual needs. With a focus on personalized attention, HRA ensures that each student receives the academic guidance, emotional support, and opportunities for extracurricular involvement necessary to thrive. At the heart of this approach is a culture of kindness, which underpins every interaction and initiative.
HRA is also dedicated to making its top-tier education accessible to all families. Through customized tuition assistance programs, the school works to ensure that financial concerns do not hinder a student’s access to quality education. HRA takes pride in offering a wide range of resources and support, ensuring that the needs of its diverse community are met with compassion and care.
At Hampton Roads Academy, we believe that education goes beyond the classroom. Our commitment lies in nurturing the whole student through a rigorous and comprehensive academic program. This year’s theme, “Year of Kindness,” will guide our interactions and highlight the importance of kindness in every aspect of school life. Our curriculum emphasizes honor, integrity, and personal growth, ensuring that each student is recognized for their unique strengths within a supportive and thriving community.
With small class sizes and a focus on personalized attention, our dedicated faculty provides tailored support to help every student succeed. HRA fosters a healthy, encouraging environment where students can thrive physically, emotionally, and academically. This holistic approach allows us to meet the individual needs of each student, empowering them to explore a range of academic and extracurricular activities—from the playing fields to the stage—while embodying kindness as a core value.
As the Peninsula’s only independent school serving Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12, Hampton Roads Academy provides a distinctive educational experience that stands out. Accredited by the Virginia Association of Independent Schools and a member of the National Association of Independent Schools, HRA meets the highest standards of academic excellence.
Beyond the classroom, HRA offers a wide range of opportunities that enhance students’ development. The athletic programs promote teamwork, physical fitness, and sportsmanship, encouraging students to compete with kindness and integrity. The robust Arts program allows students to express their creativity in both visual and performing arts. Additionally, the REACH (Real-world Experience and Academic Choices) Initiative enables students to connect their academic learning to real-world applications, fostering a commitment to personal growth, community service, and the values of kindness that transcend all backgrounds.
At Hampton Roads Academy, students receive an exceptional education paired with a strong emphasis on character development, preparing them for future success. The school cultivates critical thinking, effective communication, teamwork, and a spirit of discovery, all aimed at shaping innovative and empathetic leaders for an evolving world. Serving families in Newport News, Poquoson, Hampton, and Williamsburg, VA, HRA encourages you to schedule a campus tour to explore how its nurturing environment can help your child grow and inspire them to achieve their full potential.
Hampton Roads Academy is excited to announce the recent hiring of Elizabeth Cavallari as the new Director of College Counseling. We believe that her extensive background and experience working in college counseling will be pivotal in upholding HRA’s 100% college acceptance rate and guiding our students in their future educational opportunities.
Cavallari comes to us after most recently working at William & Mary’s School of Education where she served as the Manager of Recruitment & Admissions for four years before being promoted to Associate Director. In this role, Elizabeth Cavallari led marketing and recruitment efforts, provided counsel and advising, and worked as a pre-major advisor for undergraduate students. Simultaneously, Elizabeth Cavallari fulfilled the role as a law school admission consultant for 7Sage Educational Partners where she advised law school applicants regarding admission strategy, from initial research through enrollment decisions.
For six years, Elizabeth Cavallari worked her way up through the admission department at William & Mary Law School. She initially took on the responsibility of Assistant Dean for Admissions where she reviewed over 10,000 applications. She also represented William & Mary at law school fairs, panels and information sessions.
Her career working in college admission first began though at Bucknell University as their Assistant Director of Admissions. Cavallari was accountable for territory management and student recruitment within the Western region and also supervised and coordinated dozens of student tours. It was Bucknell where she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and History before achieving her MEd in Educational Leadership–Higher Education Administration from William & Mary.
At Hampton Roads Academy in Newport News, VA, every student is recognized for their individuality. The school is dedicated to creating a nurturing environment that meets each student’s unique needs, offering personalized academic guidance, emotional support, and a wide range of extracurricular opportunities. Central to HRA’s approach is a culture of kindness that shapes all interactions and initiatives.
HRA is also committed to making its high-quality education accessible to all families. Through tailored tuition assistance programs, the school ensures that financial concerns do not stand in the way of a student’s education. By offering compassionate resources and support, HRA meets the needs of its diverse community with care.
At Hampton Roads Academy, education extends beyond the classroom. This year’s theme, the “Year of Kindness,” reinforces the importance of kindness in all aspects of school life. HRA’s rigorous academic program emphasizes honor, integrity, and personal growth, supporting students in developing their unique strengths.
With small class sizes and individualized attention, HRA’s dedicated faculty ensures each student receives the support needed to succeed. This holistic approach fosters an environment where students can thrive academically, emotionally, and physically, while exploring a variety of extracurricular activities—all while embodying kindness as a core value.
As the Peninsula’s only independent school serving Pre-K through Grade 12, Hampton Roads Academy provides a standout educational experience. Accredited by the Virginia Association of Independent Schools and a member of the National Association of Independent Schools, HRA upholds the highest standards of academic excellence.
HRA offers a wide array of extracurricular opportunities. Athletic programs foster teamwork, fitness, and sportsmanship, while the Arts program allows students to express their creativity. Through the REACH Initiative, students connect academic learning to real-world applications, reinforcing the values of kindness, community service, and personal growth.
At Hampton Roads Academy, students receive an exceptional education with a strong focus on character development. By nurturing critical thinking, communication, teamwork, and a spirit of discovery, HRA shapes future leaders equipped to succeed in a rapidly changing world. Serving families in Newport News, Poquoson, Hampton, and Williamsburg, VA, HRA invites you to schedule a campus tour and explore how its nurturing environment can help your child reach their full potential.
Hampton Roads Academy is excited to announce the recent hiring of Courtney Gardner as the new Director of Advancement. We believe her strong background in fundraising, nonprofit management and undeniable ability to deliver leadership, guidance and consulting expertise will foster great success for our Navigator community.
Gardner, a Hampton Roads Academy class of 1985 alumna, is thrilled to return to her hometown to give back to the school that shaped her character, and share her love of learning with the Newport News community.
With a robust career spanning over two decades, Courtney has demonstrated a deep commitment to leading an organization’s fundraising efforts, along with building campaign strategies and maintaining strong community relations.
At Hampton Roads Academy in Newport News, VA, every student’s individuality is recognized and supported in a nurturing environment tailored to their needs. With personalized attention, HRA ensures students receive the academic guidance, emotional support, and extracurricular opportunities necessary to thrive. Central to this approach is a culture of kindness that shapes all interactions and initiatives.
HRA is also committed to making its exceptional education accessible. Through customized tuition assistance programs, the school ensures that financial concerns don’t stand in the way of a student’s education. With a wide range of resources and compassionate support, HRA meets the needs of its diverse community.
At Hampton Roads Academy, education extends beyond the classroom. This year’s theme, “Year of Kindness,” emphasizes the importance of kindness in all aspects of school life. HRA’s rigorous academic program focuses on honor, integrity, and personal growth, celebrating each student’s unique strengths within a thriving community.
With small class sizes and individualized attention, HRA’s dedicated faculty provides tailored support for student success. This holistic approach fosters an environment where students thrive academically, emotionally, and physically while exploring a variety of extracurricular activities—all rooted in kindness as a core value.
As the Peninsula’s only independent school serving Pre-K through Grade 12, Hampton Roads Academy offers a distinctive educational experience. Accredited by the Virginia Association of Independent Schools and a member of the National Association of Independent Schools, HRA upholds the highest academic standards.
HRA also offers a wealth of extracurricular opportunities. Athletic programs promote teamwork, fitness, and sportsmanship, while the Arts program encourages creative expression. Through the REACH Initiative, students connect academics to real-world experiences, fostering personal growth, community service, and values of kindness.
At Hampton Roads Academy, students receive an exceptional education grounded in character development, preparing them for future success. HRA nurtures critical thinking, communication, teamwork, and discovery, shaping innovative, empathetic leaders for an ever-changing world. Serving families in Newport News, Poquoson, Hampton, and Williamsburg, VA, HRA invites you to schedule a tour and see how its nurturing environment can help your child reach their full potential.