Making a Difference
LISA SURLES-LAW for SCHOOL BOARD
K-12 education in Newport News is important to me! In my opinion, the quality of K-12 education is a key factor in the difference between our community being a good city and a GREAT city.
"Connecting students with community, for tomorrow's future."
About
Connecting Students with Community, for Tomorrow's Future
After graduating from Hampton University with a B.A. in Biology and M.A. in Community Agency Counseling, I began my career educating students and teachers. Over the 33 years that I have worked in science education and STEM Workforce Development at Jefferson Lab, I have seen the importance of the Lab’s partnership with Newport News Public Schools and the impact that K-12 education has on students and teachers.
Business Community-School partnerships work.
As a parent of a student who graduated from NNPS, I understand the value of rigorous and comprehensive education for our children and community. My extensive experience in education and my deep desire to advance education in Newport News are the reasons I am running for re-election to the Newport News School Board - Central District.
A Record of Results...
✓ 97.3% On-Time Graduation Rate
Highest in NNPS history
✓ 0.57% Dropout Rate
Lowest in NNPS history
✓ All NNPS Schools Fully Accredited
Achieved full accreditation for 2025–26
✓ Investing in Teachers & Staff
Voted to support teacher and staff raises every year
✓ Academic Achievement on the Rise
Gains across all core content areas, including double-digit
improvements in several science and history assessments
✓ 15.9% Reduction in Chronic Absenteeism
16 schools reduced chronic absenteeism by more than 20%
✓ Expanding STEM Opportunities
Consistently supported STEM initiatives for all students
✓ Learn2Swim Partnership
Initiated the YMCA–NNPS 2nd Grade Learn2Swim
partnership
Experienced Leadership It has been my honor to serve 3 years as Vice Chair and 2½ years as Chair of the Newport News School Board.
The Issues
Moving Forward
Students
The Stakes are High
Preparing students for a rapidly changing world requires an innovative approach to education. NNPS offers diverse opportunities through magnet programs, career and technical education pathways and certifications, advanced and AP courses, the arts, athletics, and extracurricular activities. Just as important is access—transportation helps ensure students across the division can participate in programs that align with their interests, talents, and future goals. My plan is to continue identifying ways to maximize our resources to support the programs and opportunities, so that access continues to be available.
• All NNPS schools are now fully accredited—a significant achievement. I will remain focused on sustaining this progress and ensuring continued improvement for every school and every student.
• Keep school safety a priority. Following one of the most difficult moments in our division’s history, I helped lead a sustained focus on strengthening safety. I will continue asking the difficult questions and supporting effective measures that protect our students and staff.
• Strengthen investment in our schools by working with the City toward stable, sustainable funding and supporting the 1% sales tax referendum to improve and modernize our school facilities.
Achievement • Safety • Opportunity
Teachers
Support-Support-Support
• Competitive Compensation. During my last four-year term, average teacher pay increased 30.5%. I will continue supporting competitive salaries that recognize the value of our educators and help NNPS attract and retain talented teachers and staff.
• Strong Student Behavior Standards. Support consistent adherence to student behavior policies so teachers can teach and students can learn in safe, respectful, and productive classrooms.
• Relevant Professional Development. Ensure teachers and staff have meaningful professional learning and resources to meet the diverse needs of NNPS students and continue growing in their profession.
Value • Support • Develop
Community
For a Better Future
• Strengthen investment in our schools. Continue working with the City toward stable, sustainable school funding and support the 1% sales tax referendum to improve and modernize our school facilities.
• Connect our schools and community. Drawing on my longstanding relationships throughout Newport News, I will continue bringing together businesses, organizations, and community partners to create opportunities and resources for our students.
• Build strong City–School relationships. Continue fostering productive dialogue between the School Board and City Council, recognizing that strong schools and a strong city go hand in hand.
Invest • Connect • Collaborate
Get Involved
You Can Help
I am so appreciative that you would like to get involved. Thank you so much to those who have already done so! There are many ways for you to help move things forward in our community -- whether you would like us to deliver a yard sign, volunteer your time or make a donation.
Contact
Thank you for your interest in OUR campaign for School Board. Let me hear from you -- questions, concerns, or if you would simply like to get in touch.
Lisa Surles-Law for School Board
757 828-5684
