Our Homework Hub continues to be a standout success. Thanks to the dedicated volunteers from Old Dominion University and the committed tutors from Norfolk Public Schools, our students are receiving consistent academic guidance and encouragement. This partnership has transformed the Homework Hub into a vibrant space where learning is active, personalized, and empowering.

The combined efforts of our team, volunteers, and school partners are fueling noticeable academic and personal growth in our youth; proof that when a community comes together with purpose, great things happen.

— James P. Harris, Executive Director

What has been your favorite memory or moment with the youth so far? The multiple experiences I’ve had with the kids asking about their grades. They have been cooperative, respectful, and willing to listen. They are open and engaging.

What do you hope the students take away from their time with you? I think sometimes it’s just helpful to ensure they feel seen. I hope they feel seen and accepted with me.

What do you like to do outside of volunteering? I love to hike, read, and spend time with friends. And eat good food!

If you could give the students one piece of advice, what would it be? Everybody has a purpose and a place in the world, and you are important!

This week, our coaches helped the youth focus on:

• How to try new foods during our How To Tuesday, building confidence and teamwork.

• We welcomed the General Manager and Assistant Manager from the Old Navy Outlet, who shared valuable interview tips, tricks, and guidance on how to apply for a first job as a high school student.

• Our chess sessions continued this week, and the youth are showing impressive growth in strategy and focus with each game.

We are proud to see our youth growing, learning, and preparing for success. I can’t wait to see what they accomplish in the future and continue to enjoy watching their creativity flow every day.

New Phone Number: 757-995-2111

Upcoming Events

• 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
• Family Forum – Review of Program Expectations in the first 30 days of Program
• Friday, October 31, 2025 – Pumpkinfest Celebration (EARLY DISMISSAL)

Dismissal Options

• Walk-Home Waiver (within 1.0 miles): If you’d like your child to walk home, we must have a signed waiver on file before they can leave without an adult. Request a copy from the front desk or email – mgarcia@nextsteptosuccess.org.
• Pick-up reminders: Please bring ID if someone new is picking up. Only adults (Over the age of 21 years old) listed on your child’s release form may sign out.

Transportation

• Seatbelts are required at all times. Youth must remain seated, keep aisles clear, and follow driver/staff directions. No eating, throwing objects, or disruptive behavior in vehicles.
• If your child misses the van or needs a same-day change, please call the office as early as possible. Changes after routes are dispatched may not be possible.
• Consequences for unsafe behavior (transportation privileges):

1. 1st incident: Verbal reminder and parent/guardian notification.
2. 2nd incident: Written notice and 1 day suspension from transportation (family provides pickup/drop-off).
3. 3rd incident: 3–5 program days suspension from transportation and a behavior plan before returning to the route.
4. Immediate suspension may occur for serious violations (e.g., unbuckling while moving, fighting, throwing objects, interfering with the driver/doors/windows).

• Missed pickups/no-shows: Drivers can wait briefly and must continue the route to stay on schedule. Repeated no-shows without notice may result in temporary removal from the route until a family check-in is completed.

Health & wellness

• If your child is feeling unwell, please keep them at home for their safety and the safety of others.

Youth Allergies and Medical Conditions Update

We’re refreshing our health records to keep every child safe. Please take a moment this week to review your child’s allergies, medical conditions, and medications with us.

What we need from you:

• Tell us about any allergies, asthma, seizures, diabetes, dietary restrictions, or new diagnoses, even if nothing has changed.
• Action Plans: If applicable, provide current doctor-signed plans (e.g., Asthma Action Plan, Anaphylaxis/Epinephrine Plan, Seizure Plan, Diabetes Plan).
• Medications on site (important): At this time, NSTS is not equipped to store or administer medications (e.g., EpiPens, inhalers, insulin/glucose supplies). If your child may need medication during program hours, please contact us to discussion further detail. In an emergency, staff will call 911 immediately.
• Self-Carry (if allowed by the prescriber): For inhalers/EpiPens, include written permission from the physician and parent.

Food & Snack Notes

• We are allergen aware. Please avoid sending foods that contain common severe allergens to shared spaces and always label ingredients if sending snacks for a group as we are peanut free program.
• Remind your child not to share food. We’ll mirror that expectation in program.

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

The kitchen lineup is 🔥 this week! Here’s what’s on the table for Week 6 (October 13th–17th):

• Monday: 🍕 Pizza (Cheese or Pepperoni)
• Tuesday: 🌮 Walking Tacos (build it your way!)
• Wednesday: 🍲 Chicken Sausage Gumbo (comfort in a bowl!)
• Thursday: 🍗 “Danielle’s Island Vibes” Jerk Chicken with Rice & Peas 🌴✨
• Friday: 🍳🥪 French Toast Sandwiches (breakfast for lunch!)

Shoutout to Danielle for inspiring Thursday’s flavor trip to the islands! 🌊🏝️

Thanks team for keeping the energy strong and the meals unforgettable every week. 🙌🏽💛

Much love,

Brittany M. Brown

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.