Chesapeake students return to class as Southeastern Elementary unveils new STEM space

CHESAPEAKE, Va. — Students across Chesapeake headed back to the classroom Tuesday as Chesapeake City Public Schools kicked off the new academic year, bringing excitement for families, educators and district leaders. At Southeastern Elementary School, the first day of school also marked the debut of a newly expanded learning space designed to give students more opportunities to collaborate and explore STEM subjects. More in Local Principal Dr. Tracy Cioppa said staff members were eager to welcome students back for another year. "They entrust their kids to us every day, and that is reason enough to get up every morning," Cioppa said. The school's new wing, located on the left side of the building, was under construction throughout the previous school year. The addition includes flexible learning areas with new seating options intended to encourage collaboration among students. "It's going to offer so many opportunities for students to have new seating options, for students to learn collaboratively," Cioppa said. School leaders also transformed a former bus ramp area into a dedicated STEM and makerspace environment where students can participate in hands-on science and engineering activities. The first day of school also provided families with an opportunity to meet Chesapeake City Public Schools' new superintendent, Dr. Doug Brubaker, who officially stepped into the role this year. Brubaker said he was impressed with the district's organization as students returned to school. "We've gotten off to a great start here. Everything has been so well-organized. It's always great to celebrate a new building as we are today," Brubaker said. Last month, Brubaker announced that his top priority during his first 100 days will be listening and learning from students, parents, staff and community members. He said gathering feedback will help shape the district's future plans while maintaining Chesapeake's tradition of academic excellence. "We're going to get through this first year with an entry plan that provides a lot of listening and learning, and when that plan is complete, we'll have a great foundation," Brubaker said. As students settled into classrooms, district leaders said the new learning spaces and leadership transition represent another step forward as Chesapeake schools prepare students for success in the years ahead. Isle of Wight County Schools and Accomack County Public Schools also welcomed students back to class Tuesday, marking the final Hampton Roads divisions to begin the 2026-27 school year.