Suffolk Public Schools Launch Virginia's First Elementary Lab School

SABTWES Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony Photo Gallery

Suffolk Public Schools (SPS), in partnership with Old Dominion University (ODU), officially opened the STEM Academy at Booker T. Washington Elementary School, making history as the first elementary Lab School in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

The celebration began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by leaders from SPS, ODU, and the Virginia Department of Education, along with community partners and invited guests. Superintendent Dr. John B. Gordon III joined ODU officials and state representatives in highlighting the transformative vision behind the Academy, which is part of the ODU College Partnership Lab School Network and the broader Virginia Lab School initiative.

Superintendent Dr. John B. Gordon III praised the Academy as a bold step forward in transforming elementary education. “This Academy represents the future of learning in Virginia. By providing hands-on, project-based opportunities in STEM at the elementary level, we are preparing our youngest learners for success in school, careers, and life,” he said.

Following the official ribbon-cutting, guests toured the newly designed STEM classrooms, which feature innovative learning spaces designed to inspire curiosity, problem-solving, and collaboration. The guided tours showcased how the Academy integrates science, technology, engineering, and mathematics into daily instruction, providing students with engaging, real-world learning experiences.

As part of the ODU College Partnership Lab School Network and the Virginia Lab School initiative, the STEM Academy will serve as a model for other divisions across the state. The collaborative effort highlights the importance of partnerships between higher education and K–12 schools to reimagine learning and expand opportunities for all students.

Guests concluded the morning with light refreshments and opportunities to speak with SPS and ODU representatives about the Academy’s long-term goals and impact on student achievement.

The launch of the STEM Academy not only represents an exciting advancement for Suffolk Public Schools students but also sets the stage for a new era of elementary education across Virginia!