HCS Talks - featuring Superintendent, Dr. Raymond Haynes

HCS Talks - featuring Superintendent, Dr. Raymond Haynes

by Hampton City Schools
Education
Season 4
Meet the HCS Divisionwide Teacher of the Year, Erin Miller
In this episode of HCS Talks, Superintendent Dr. Raymond Haynes speaks with Erin Miller, the 2026–27 Hampton City Schools Teacher of the Year and the school division’s Elementary School Teacher of the Year. A Hampton native and Armstrong School for the Arts educator, Miller shares her journey from wanting to become a teacher as a child to an 18-year career in education. She discusses the relationships she builds with students, creating a classroom where students feel comfortable speaking up and collaborating, and the lessons students have taught her along the way.
S4 · E3
Sep 24, 2026
16:46
The Students Are Back and They Have a Lot to Say
In this episode of HCS Talks, Superintendent Dr. Raymond Haynes continues his conversations with students by visiting Aberdeen Elementary School and Jones Magnet Middle School. Maribel Desmond and Damarko Pannell Jr. share what they enjoy about being Aberdeen Lions, from seeing friends and meeting their teachers to being part of a strong school community. At Jones, Christian Gordon and Wisdom Armstrong talk about the start of their eighth-grade year, their favorite parts of middle school, and preparing for the transition to high school. Through their honest and fun perspectives, these younger students give listeners a glimpse into what the first weeks of school look and feel like through their eyes.
S4 · E2
Sep 10, 2026
34:20
HCS Seniors Reflect on Their Final Year
In this episode of HCS Talks, Superintendent Dr. Raymond Haynes sits down with Josiah Porter Jordan and Nadia Malone, students at Phoebus High School, to hear their perspectives and experiences as Hampton City Schools students. Through their conversation, they share their journeys, the opportunities that have shaped them, and what it means to be part of the Phoebus High School community. This student-led discussion highlights the power of student voice and the unique experiences helping prepare young people for their futures.
S4 · E1
Aug 27, 2026
29:34
Season 3
HCS’ Kara Hart Is Virginia’s Counselor of the Year
In this episode of HCS Talks, Superintendent Dr. Raymond Haynes sits down with Kara Hart, school counselor at Bryan Elementary School, who was recently named the Virginia Elementary School Counselor of the Year. Hart shares her journey into school counseling, the importance of building strong relationships with students and families, and how counseling supports the academic, social, and emotional well-being of every child. The conversation highlights the impact of student support services and celebrates the statewide recognition of Hart’s dedication, leadership, and commitment to helping students thrive.
S3 · E23
Jun 4, 2026
29:00
Serving Those Who Serve: Supporting Military Families
In this episode of HCS Talks, Superintendent Dr. Raymond Haynes sits down with Col. Steven Dillenburger, Deputy Commander at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, to discuss the strong partnership between the military and Hampton City Schools. They explore how the division supports military-connected students and families, the importance of adaptability and resilience, and the shared commitment to student success. The conversation highlights how collaboration with JBLE helps create supportive, responsive school environments for a highly mobile military community.
S3 · E22
May 21, 2026
28:52
Building Confidence One Conversation at a Time
In this episode of HCS Talks, Superintendent Dr. Raymond Haynes speaks with Hampton High School freshmen Sheldon Wallace and Khyler Synaker about their student-led initiative, Cuts and Conversations. What started as a simple idea has grown into a powerful program that provides free haircuts alongside meaningful conversations to support student confidence, mental health, and a sense of belonging. Through partnerships with local barbers and community members, these students are creating safe spaces for their peers to open up, build connections, and grow as leader while demonstrating the impact of student voice and service in action.
S3 · E21
May 7, 2026
22:08
Inside HCS Capital Improvement Projects
In this episode of HCS Talks, Superintendent Dr. Raymond Haynes sits down with Dr. Dan Bowling, Chief Operations Officer, to discuss the many capital improvement projects happening across Hampton City Schools. They explore how renovations, upgrades, and long-term planning are transforming school facilities into modern, safe, and engaging learning environments. From infrastructure updates to future-ready design, the conversation highlights how these investments directly support student success and strengthen the entire school community.
S3 · E20
Apr 23, 2026
40:51
Students Turning Passion into Purpose
In this episode of HCS Talks, Superintendent Dr. Raymond Haynes speaks with Shawn Battle and Ava Tanner, students in Bethel High School’s Academy of Law & Public Safety (ALPS), about their experiences exploring careers in law, public safety, and leadership. They share how the program provides hands-on learning, real-world connections, and opportunities to build critical thinking and communication skills. The conversation highlights how ALPS is preparing students for future careers while helping them grow as confident, service-minded leaders.
S3 · E19
Apr 9, 2026
31:44
The Spartan Times interviews Dr. Haynes
In this episode of HCS Talks, Superintendent Dr. Raymond Haynes is interviewed by Sa'Mayah O’Neal, an eighth-grade student at Syms Middle School and member of the Spartan Times student newspaper, alongside advisor and English teacher Allisa Wyche. Sa'Mayah leads the conversation with thoughtful questions about Dr. Haynes’ journey, leadership, and vision for Hampton City Schools. From favorite teachers to advice for students and the future of education, this engaging, student-driven discussion highlights the power of student voice, curiosity, and leadership in action.
S3 · E18
Mar 26, 2026
33:04
How Dual Enrollment Opens Doors for HCS Students
In this episode of HCS Talks, Superintendent Dr. Raymond Haynes is joined by Shameka Pollard, chief of secondary school leadership, and Dr. Sean Callender, director of secondary school leadership, to discuss how Hampton City Schools is expanding access to dual enrollment and career certification opportunities. They explain how partnerships with Virginia Peninsula Community College allow students to earn college credit, industry certifications, and even associate degrees at no cost to families. The conversation highlights how these programs prepare students academically, financially, and career-wise by helping them graduate college, career, and life-ready.
S3 · E17
Mar 12, 2026
23:02
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