In this episode of HCS Talks, Superintendent Dr. Raymond Haynes sits down with Col. Steven Dillenburger, Deputy Commander at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, to discuss the strong partnership between the military and Hampton City Schools. They explore how the division supports military-connected students and families, the importance of adaptability and resilience, and the shared commitment to student success. The conversation highlights how collaboration with JBLE helps create supportive, responsive school environments for a highly mobile military community.

In this episode of HCS Talks, Superintendent Dr. Raymond Haynes speaks with Hampton High School freshmen Sheldon Wallace and Khyler Synaker about their student-led initiative, Cuts and Conversations. What started as a simple idea has grown into a powerful program that provides free haircuts alongside meaningful conversations to support student confidence, mental health, and a sense of belonging. Through partnerships with local barbers and community members, these students are creating safe spaces for their peers to open up, build connections, and grow as leader while demonstrating the impact of student voice and service in action.

In this episode of HCS Talks, Superintendent Dr. Raymond Haynes sits down with Dr. Dan Bowling, Chief Operations Officer, to discuss the many capital improvement projects happening across Hampton City Schools. They explore how renovations, upgrades, and long-term planning are transforming school facilities into modern, safe, and engaging learning environments. From infrastructure updates to future-ready design, the conversation highlights how these investments directly support student success and strengthen the entire school community.

In this episode of HCS Talks, Superintendent Dr. Raymond Haynes speaks with Shawn Battle and Ava Tanner, students in Bethel High School’s Academy of Law & Public Safety (ALPS), about their experiences exploring careers in law, public safety, and leadership. They share how the program provides hands-on learning, real-world connections, and opportunities to build critical thinking and communication skills. The conversation highlights how ALPS is preparing students for future careers while helping them grow as confident, service-minded leaders.

In this episode of HCS Talks, Superintendent Dr. Raymond Haynes is interviewed by Sa'Mayah O’Neal, an eighth-grade student at Syms Middle School and member of the Spartan Times student newspaper, alongside advisor and English teacher Allisa Wyche. Sa'Mayah leads the conversation with thoughtful questions about Dr. Haynes’ journey, leadership, and vision for Hampton City Schools. From favorite teachers to advice for students and the future of education, this engaging, student-driven discussion highlights the power of student voice, curiosity, and leadership in action.

In this episode of HCS Talks, Superintendent Dr. Raymond Haynes is joined by Shameka Pollard, chief of secondary school leadership, and Dr. Sean Callender, director of secondary school leadership, to discuss how Hampton City Schools is expanding access to dual enrollment and career certification opportunities. They explain how partnerships with Virginia Peninsula Community College allow students to earn college credit, industry certifications, and even associate degrees at no cost to families. The conversation highlights how these programs prepare students academically, financially, and career-wise by helping them graduate college, career, and life-ready.

In this episode of HCS Talks, Superintendent Dr. Raymond Haynes chats with Brandon Jones, senior director for school partnerships and outreach for Christopher Newport University and Dr. Veronica Hurd, director of the Academies of Hampton, about how Hampton City Schools is strengthening student leadership across grade levels. They discuss the partnership with CNU, which connects college students with HCS high school students through mentorship and leadership development. Also, the middle school ambassador program helps younger students build confidence and communication skills early on. The conversation highlights how these programs empower students to lead, serve, and positively impact their school communities.

In this episode of HCS Talks, Superintendent Dr. Raymond Haynes speaks with Dr. Bruce Copeland, Hampton City Schools’ Coordinator of Social Work Services, about the critical role social workers play in supporting students and families across the division. Dr. Copeland shares how HCS social workers address mental health needs, remove barriers to learning, and connect families with essential resources. The conversation highlights the importance of trauma-informed practices, collaboration with schools and community partners, and ensuring students receive the support they need to thrive both in and out of the classroom.