Education

Virginia Beach, Virginia offers a robust and multifaceted education system that includes public, private, and religiously affiliated schools, as well as specialized academies and magnet programs. Virginia Beach City Public Schools (VBCPS) is one of the largest school districts in the state, serving over 65,000 students across more than 80 schools. The district is known for its academic excellence and offers a wide range of programs, including gifted education, STEM, International Baccalaureate (IB), and visual and performing arts.
In addition to public schools, Virginia Beach is home to a variety of private and parochial schools that serve diverse educational needs and values. The area also includes several charter-style academies and military-connected schools due to the city’s strong naval presence.
Higher education in Virginia Beach is supported by institutions like Regent University, a private Christian university, and Tidewater Community College, which offers a range of associate degree and transfer programs. Nearby, students also have access to larger universities such as Old Dominion University in Norfolk and Christopher Newport University in Newport News.
While Virginia Beach’s education system is widely respected for its innovation and quality, it faces challenges similar to many urban districts, including teacher shortages, equity in access to advanced programs, and the need to continuously adapt to the needs of a growing and diverse student population.

Public Schools
- Ocean Lakes High School
- Princess Anne High School
- Kemps Landing/Old Donation School

Colleges/Universities
- Regent University
- Tidewater Community College (TCC) – Virginia Beach Campus
- ECPI University – Virginia Beach Campus

Public Library
Virginia Beach Public Library (VBPL)
The Virginia Beach Public Library system includes 10 neighborhood branches and a Law Library, serving residents with free access to books, digital resources, educational programs, and community services.
The system’s Central Library, located on Virginia Beach Boulevard, offers the largest collection, extensive study areas, public meeting rooms, free Wi-Fi, and computer access. VBPL also provides access to eBooks, audiobooks, research databases, and career resources through its digital platforms.
In addition to traditional services, VBPL offers:
Early literacy programs
STEM workshops
Job search and résumé help
Public events and lectures
The library system plays an important role in supporting lifelong learning and civic engagement in the Virginia Beach community.
EDUCATION NEWS
Virginia Beach Schools Face Huge Healthcare Premium Increases and Legal Action
News Summary Virginia Beach City Public Schools employees and retirees are confronting significant health insurance premium hikes set for January 2026. The increases, varying from $2.04 to $210.97 per pay...
Virginia Beach Hosts National Surf Competition in Wave Pool
News Summary Virginia Beach hosted the US National Rip Curl GromSearch Final, showcasing top young surfers in a state-of-the-art wave pool. The event attracted 64 under-16 athletes, emphasizing the area’s...
Smartmouth Brewing to Close Norfolk Location Amid Market Changes
News Summary Smartmouth Brewing announced the upcoming closure of its Norfolk site in the Chelsea district after 13 years due to evolving market conditions and shifting consumer preferences. The brewery...
Community Crime Line Enhances Public Safety and Crime Solving
News Summary The Isle of Wight/Smithfield/Windsor Crime Line is a vital tool for local law enforcement, enabling anonymous crime reporting via phone, app, or website. It operates 24/7, maintaining confidentiality...
Virginia and D.C. Restaurants Celebrate Recognitions in Resy’s Top Eateries
News Summary Four restaurants from Virginia and Washington, D.C. have been honored in Resy’s “The Resy 100,” highlighting their excellence in community impact and dining. Lutèce, Tapori, St. James, and...
Virginia Beach House Race: Feggans vs. Anderson in Key Election
News Summary Virginia Beach’s upcoming election features incumbent Democrat Del. Michael Feggans and Republican challenger Tim Anderson competing for the vital House District 97 seat. With significant fundraising and contrasting...
Community Honors at Henry E. Bennett Achievement Foundation Luncheon
News Summary The Henry E. Bennett Achievement Foundation hosted a distinguished luncheon at Marquette Park Pavilion, recognizing individuals across Sports, Business, Legal, Medical, Education, Government, Civic, and Entertainment sectors. Honorees...
Starbucks to Close Over 100 Locations in North America
News Summary Starbucks plans to shut over 100 coffeehouse locations across North America, impacting diverse regions including California, D.C., and New York. The closures, affecting approximately 900 non-retail employees, are...
Virginia Beach Hosts Free Workshops for Veterans and Their Families
News Summary Virginia Beach offers free woodworking and sewing classes for veterans and their families through a partnership with ASAP. Led by local artisans Jeff and Kim O’Connor, these workshops...