School Board Meeting: Monday, May 18, 2026

The Chesapeake Public Schools Board held a meeting on May 18, 2026, which included administrative appointments, budget updates, and federal grant application discussions. The board approved several administrative appointments effective July 1, 2026, involving assistant principals and administrative specialists across various schools. The April 2026 financial report highlighted a projected state revenue shortfall of $9.5 million due to lower enrollment, with expenditure savings currently offsetting this deficit. The board is monitoring spending closely and plans to present a budget reconciliation once the final state budget is available. Additionally, the board received an overview of federal grant applications under the Every Student Succeeds Act, including Title I Part A and Title II Part A grants, with projected awards of approximately $9.5 million and just over $1 million respectively, aimed at supporting staff salaries, instructional materials, professional development, and family engagement. Public comments focused heavily on concerns about the elimination of a second band director position at Grassfield High School, with multiple speakers urging the board to reconsider this staffing cut due to its impact on the band program's quality and student support.