The mission of the Portsmouth Public School Division is to challenge the minds, challenge the bodies, and challenge the dreams of all students while focusing on excellence.

Visions:

 I.  Strong Board Leadership:

By 2017, the Portsmouth City School Board will be a leading force for
community advancement.

 II. Committed and Supportive Parents:

By 2017, all parents of the Portsmouth Public School Division students  will be excited about and claim ownership of their children’s education.

 III. High Quality Graduates:

By 2017, all graduates of the Portsmouth Public School Division will  be highly sought after by both employers and institutions of higher  learning.

IV. Value Added Programs:

 By 2017, the Portsmouth Public School Division will be recognized by  educational organizations and institutions of higher learning for its  innovative and effective programs.

V.  Exemplary Student Citizens:

 By 2017, all the Portsmouth Public School Division students will be  socially responsible and respected as lights of inspiration for future  generations.

1. The primary purpose of all disciplines is for students to apply knowledge, facts, concepts, and skills in new situations.

2. All School will promote an environment conducive to learning in which all members of the school community practice the systems established policies.

3. Individual schools will operate in feeder patterns that provide consistent, comprehensive opportunities and early intervention strategies for students to acquire the knowledge and demonstrate sound physical, mental, and emotional health.

4. Curriculum development and implementation, including staff development, will be a dynamic process, which supports student learning. A primary focus will be on reading, math, written and oral communication, science, and social studies.

5. Schools will welcome and encourage involvement of parents, community members, and businesses that directly support our educational goals. Working together, we will ensure that all students develop the skills and abilities to be contributing members of the community.

     The elementary schools of the Commonwealth of Virginia have been assigned responsibility for providing the basic instruction that will enable each child, commensurate with his/her state of maturity, to achieve the following goals:

• To read with comprehension; to write and speak with fluency and clarity; and to apply basic mathematical skills with accuracy
  
• To develop and cherish a commitment to his/her own national and spiritual heritage and the culture and history of other people
  
• To acquire and understanding of the universe and the influence of geographic features on life, with particular emphasis on the geography of his/her own country
  
• To continue to develop those qualities of character that are revealed in good moral conduct, in appreciation of noble sacrifice, and the reverence for spiritual values
  
• To develop habits of orderly and critical thinking necessary for collecting information, grasping ideas, and drawing conclusions
  
• To appreciate the beauties of nature and masterpieces of music, art, and literature
  
• To develop habits conducive of safe living and physical and mental health
  
• To develop a sense of responsibility and self discipline, and, at the same time, maintain his/her individuality

      The purpose of the secondary school is to provide thorough preparation in the academic subjects for all students, commensurate with their abilities and ambitions. The secondary school must prepare students for college or for successful employment dependent upon the individual abilities and plans of each student.

     To accomplish these purposes, the school must assist students in developing a desire for knowledge and a respect for learning; an appreciation of the importance of physical and mental health; an understanding of their cultural heritage and a respect for their country; a sense of responsibility for effective citizenship and good moral character; and an appreciation of spiritual values.