The Portsmouth Public Schools Youth Entrepreneurship Pilot Program just earned the Virginia School Boards Association (VSBA) Excellence in Workforce Readiness Award. According to the VSBA, the awards program highlights exemplary initiatives in Virginia’s public schools that focus on preparing the state’s future workforce.
PPS was the selected winner among all Virginia school divisions with more than 10,001 students.
The Youth Entrepreneurship Pilot Program paired 45 high school students (15 from each of the division’s three high schools) with local Minority and/or Women-owned Business Enterprises (MWBEs) for a high-quality work-based learning experience. Students completed an eight-week internship, working 25 hours a week and earning $25 per hour. The program also funded a two-week middle school entrepreneurship camp, which included guest speakers, business tours and presentations as well as hands-on activities facilitated by high school career and technical education teachers
“Receiving the Excellence in Workforce Readiness Award from the VBSA is a meaningful recognition of the division’s commitment to preparing students for life beyond the classroom,” said Portsmouth Public Schools Chief Academic Officer Dr. Nicole DeVries. “It truly highlights the dedication to equipping our young people with real-world experience and practical skills that set them up for long-term success after graduation.”
In its first year, the program received 117 student applications for the 2024 summer session, indicating strong interest from the PPS student body. This number grew to 165 for 2025, reflecting increased enthusiasm and awareness. The middle school camp received 109 applications, with 45 students accepted based on the order of application submission.
In 2024, the program partnered with 30 local businesses, and for 2025, the network expanded to 45 businesses, showcasing the program’s success in attracting strong local partnerships. Additionally, five students were hired by their employers after the program, creating ongoing job opportunities and helping students build professional relationships.
The Virginia School Boards Association is a voluntary, nonpartisan organization of Virginia school boards, promotes excellence in public education through advocacy, training and services.