In addition to strengthening our team, we are continuing to build key community relationships. One of our most important priorities is developing a strong strategic partnership with Norfolk Public Schools. This collaboration will allow us to align our work with the district’s goals, ensuring our students are supported both inside and outside the classroom. From attendance to academic success, we are excited about the shared vision and the opportunities this partnership will bring.

As we close Week 5, I am filled with gratitude for the progress we’ve made and the momentum we’re building. With the right team in place and meaningful partnerships underway, the future is bright for Next Step to Success and the young people we serve.

— James P. Harris, Executive Director

What inspired you to start volunteering with Next Step to Success? I found the volunteer Hampton Roads website, and thought I could support the kids with math and science

What has been your favorite memory or moment with the youth so far? Helping kids with their mental health

What do you hope the students take away from their time with you? That life is worth living, and everything else is supplementary

What do you like to do outside of volunteering? Skipping rocks at sunsets

If you could give the students one piece of advice, what would it be? Lead life with compassion and curiosity.

This week during programming, youth engaged in a variety of activities that encouraged skill-building, creativity, and collaboration:

• Our chess program continued with youth playing against one another. Many are beginning to apply strategies they’ve learned, and the friendly competition has created a positive space for problem-solving and critical thinking.

• Youth have been enjoying their time outside, using group activities to strengthen teamwork and communication. It has been great to see them encourage one another and take leadership roles during games.

• Youth worked on vision boards and helped our new coaches decorate their rooms and personal spaces, showing creativity, initiative, and collaboration, while the new coaches focused on building strong rapport with the youth and creating a supportive environment where students feel comfortable and excited to participate.

We are proud to see our youth growing, learning, and preparing for success. This week especially reflected our pillar of community service, as youth and coaches worked together to support one another and create a stronger sense of team.

New Phone Number: 757-995-2111

Upcoming Events

• Monday, October 6, 2025 – Pre-Fire Evacuation Drill Discussion
• Monday, October 13, 2025 – (NO SCHOOL / NO PROGRAM) Norfolk Public School Parent | Teacher Conference
• Monday, October 27, 2025 – (NO SCHOOL / NO PROGRAM) Teacher Workday | Professional Development Day
• Thursday, October 30, 2025 – NSTS Family Resource Night C.H.A.T.S.
• Guests
• Peggy Johnson of Access College
• Friday, October 31, 2025 – Pumpkinfest Celebration (EARLY DISMISSAL)

Raptor Visitor Management System at NSTS

At Next Step to Success (NSTS), the safety of our youth, families, staff, and visitors is our top priority. To support this, we have implemented the Raptor Visitor Management System at our building entrance.

• How It Works:
• All visitors are required to present a valid government-issued photo ID upon entry.
• The system quickly scans IDs to verify identity and screen against national safety databases.
• Once cleared, visitors will receive a printed badge with their name, photo, and destination within the building.
• Why It Matters:
• Enhances the safety and security of everyone in the building.
• Ensures accurate tracking of all visitors during school/program hours.
• Provides an added layer of protection by limiting access to only those cleared for entry.

Emergency Contact Information Reminder

• Keeping your contact information current is vital so we can reach you promptly when needed. Please ensure all details are up to date in TraxSolutions.
• If you need assistance with updates, contact the Main Office at 757-995-2111.

Program Expectations Reminder

• Attendance Matters! Youth are expected to attend at least 3 days per week. If your child will be absent, please notify us via call, text, or email.
• School attendance is also mandatory to participate in our program. Youth must be on time and present for all classes daily.
• Weekly academic checks are conducted to review grades, homework, and test progress. Please support your youth by ensuring online platforms are accessible and updated.

Communication Reminder

• Please check your emails, calls, and notices regularly to stay informed about important updates and announcements.

Check out what’s cooking for Week 5 (October 6th–10th) – the youth are gonna love this lineup! 🔥🍴

• Monday: 🥖 Meatball Subs + Fresh Salad
• Tuesday: 🌯 Build Your Burrito (Chicken or Beef – load it up!)
• Wednesday: 🍔 Burgers & Fries (classic and crispy)
• Thursday: 🍗 Wings & Tots (can’t go wrong with this combo)
• Friday: 🥔🍖 Hearty Bowls (Mashed Potatoes, Corn & Beef with Brown Gravy – the comfort meal!)

Let’s bring the energy, the flavor, and the fun this week! Thanks for always making the kitchen vibes strong and the meals unforgettable. 💪🏽👩🏽‍🍳👨🏾‍🍳

-Coach Brittany

Be part of our history and our future! Through our Brick Fundraiser, you can honor a loved one, recognize a business, or leave a family legacy by purchasing an engraved brick. Each brick will be placed on the new St. Vincent de Paul House campus, creating a lasting tribute while supporting Next Step to Success youth programs.