🌱 New Proposed School Budget + Security System Installation Delays

Hey, neighbors. It's Thursday in Newport News and I'm back in your inbox with everything you need to know about what's happening in town.

But first, today's weather:

Partly sunny and milder. High: 60 Low: 46.

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I have a limited number of sponsorships available to introduce our readers to local businesses they need to know. If that's you, then I invite you to learn more and secure your spot now.

Here are the top stories today in Newport News:

1. During Tuesday's school board meeting, Newport News parents and teachers alike shared their opinions on the new proposed budget for the coming school year. The new $381.4 million budget will have a significant portion dedicated to school safety and security, including radios, metal detectors, alarms, and more security staff. There is also an emphasis on more mental health support for students, as well as raises for teachers and school staff. This first meeting was just an introduction to a deeper conversation when the board votes on the budget on Mar. 21. (13newsnow.com WVEC)
2. Down the road in Norfolk, police responded to Granby High School on Monday afternoon after receiving a report of a student with a gun. A message sent to parents by the principal states "there was no stated threat and no one was harmed" as a Norfolk police school resource officer acted swiftly and secured the weapon. Upon further investigation, officers discovered the handgun was also stolen. The 15-year-old was taken into custody and is currently facing multiple charges. (WAVY.com)
3. Parents were informed this week that, due to delivery delays, there could be a delay in the weapon detection systems being installed in all Newport News schools. Installations began on Feb. 23 with three high schools in the district; a spokesperson reported 30 systems have been installed in high schools and middle schools up to this point. A projected date was not given for the completion of these detectors being installed but it is expected to be in the next couple of weeks. (13newsnow.com WVEC)

Coming up in Newport News:

Thursday, March 16

• Group Piano At Downing-Gross Cultural Center (5:00 PM)

Friday, March 17

• Jazz Friday At The Train Station Restaurant (6:00 PM)

Saturday, March 18

• Taste Of New Orleans Festival At Centura College - Campus Lot (3:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Newport News is going green this week in the spirit of St. Patrick's Day. Celebrate with green beer, Celtic tunes, or anything you can think of at these local establishments participating. (Newport News, VA Tourism via Instagram)
• A couple of Newport News officers visited some of New Horizons' criminal justice classes last week to teach some DUI investigations. Officers Sadler and Toch loved the opportunity to teach those interested in a future in law enforcement in these classes! (Newport News Police via Facebook)
• The Newport News Fire Department is inviting food truck vendors to join a free safety workshop to keep their employees and customers safe and sound. The workshop will be on Mar. 20 from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. (Newport News Fire Department via Facebook)

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Featured events:

• Homebuyer Blueprint Live Webinar (March 16)

Alrighty, you're all caught up for today! I'll see you around.

— Miranda Fraraccio

About me: Miranda Fraraccio is a staff writer for content creation agency Lightning Media Partners. She is a graduate of the University of Rhode Island, where she earned degrees in Writing & Rhetoric and Communication Studies. In her free time, you can find her traveling, drinking tea, or practicing film photography.