In this episode of HCS Talks, Dr. Raymond Haynes speaks with Kristin Jennings, pharmacy manager, and Misha Hack, wellness coach, about the Hampton City Schools Employee Pharmacy and Health and Wellness Center. They share how these resources save employees money on prescriptions, provide affordable over-the-counter items, and offer vaccines on site. Heck discusses her work with stress management, nutrition, and wellness coaching to help staff build healthy, sustainable habits. Together, the pharmacy and wellness center highlight HCS’s commitment to supporting employees’ health and well-being year-round.

In this episode of HCS Talks, Dr. Raymond Haynes speaks with Betsy McAllister, STEM Teacher Specialist for Hampton City Schools and Educator-in-Residence at the National Institute of Aerospace. McAllister shares how she connects classrooms with real-world science and technology through partnerships with NASA, environmental projects, and hands-on learning opportunities. She reflects on building a STEM ecosystem that supports teachers, excites students, and aligns with the Portrait of a Hampton Graduate. This conversation highlights how STEM education empowers young learners to see themselves as future innovators and problem-solvers.

In this episode of HCS Talks, Superintendent Dr. Raymond Haynes sits down with Andre Griffin, a Hampton native and graduate of Phoebus High School who has returned home to teach at Machen Elementary School. Griffin shares his unique journey from working in professional sports with the Houston Rockets to finding his passion in education. He reflects on the teachers and experiences that shaped him, the importance of building relationships with students, and his excitement about making a positive impact in his community. This inspiring conversation highlights the value of giving back and the power of education to transform lives.

In this episode of HCS Talks, Superintendent Dr. Raymond Haynes is joined by Carrie Battista, director of student health services, and Carla Mahn, director of student development and counseling, to discuss strategies for a healthy and successful return to school. They share practical tips on managing stress, building routines, and balancing academics with self-care. The conversation highlights the importance of sleep, nutrition, exercise, and strong support systems to help students thrive both academically and emotionally. Families and students alike will find useful advice for navigating the challenges of a new school year with confidence.

In this episode of HCS Talks, Superintendent Dr. Raymond Haynes sits down with high school seniors as they reflect on their “last first day” of school. The students share their mix of emotions—from excitement and pride to a bit of nervousness—as they step into their final year. They talk about their goals for senior year, memories from their time in Hampton City Schools, and what they’re looking forward to after graduation. This conversation captures the unique perspective of seniors standing on the threshold of their future.

In this episode of HCS Talks, Superintendent Dr. Raymond Haynes kicks off season 3 by visiting with elementary and middle school students on their very first day of school. The students share their excitement, nerves, and what they’re most looking forward to this year. From meeting new teachers to making friends and exploring new classes, their voices capture the joy and anticipation of a fresh start. This uplifting conversation highlights the energy and spirit of Hampton City Schools on day one of the new school year.

In this final episode of Season 2 of HCS Talks, Superintendent Raymond Haynes reconnects with Dr. Brittny Gainey, Hampton City Schools social worker and licensed clinical social worker, for a thoughtful wrap-up to the school year. Dr. Gainey shares insights on the emotions students and staff may be feeling as summer begins, offers practical tips for decompressing, and discusses ways families can create structure and emotional balance during the break. From setting boundaries to avoiding the comparison trap, this conversation emphasizes the importance of self-care, rest, and reflection. It's a meaningful close to the season, filled with encouragement for both educators and families to recharge and reset.

In this episode of HCS Talks, Superintendent Raymond Haynes speaks with Nirmani and Nishtha Brahmbhatt, twin sisters and co-valedictorians of the Hampton High School Class of 2025. They reflect on their academic journey, from elementary school through the IB Academy, and share what motivated them to succeed. The sisters discuss their sibling dynamic, the importance of staying focused, and their future plans to attend Old Dominion University. This heartfelt conversation highlights their humility, determination, and what it truly means to be Portrait of a Hampton Graduate.