Dr. Jeffery O. Smith science wing at Kecoughtan High School is dedicated

The Dr. Jeffery O. Smith Science Wing at Kecoughtan High School was dedicated on Wednesday, November 1, 2023.

Smith began his tenure as superintendent of Hampton City Schools (HCS) on July 15, 2015, and served as a true champion in our community until he retired in June, 2023. 

City Manager Mary Bunting, city council members, school board members, Hampton City Schools administrators, representatives of the architectural firm RRMM, Oyster Point Construction Company, MBP Construction Management, and other invited guests gathered to dedicate and tour the new science wing at Kecoughtan High School (KHS). 

Kecoughtan executive principal Dr. Dwayne Lucas said, “the 15 new state-of-the-art science classrooms will provide hands-on learning opportunities that will spark young people’s interests as they have access to the newest equipment and begin to see themselves on the pathway to a STEM career.”

In his remarks, Superintendent Dr. Raymond L. Haynes publicly acknowledged the dedication and commitment of the faculty and staff, and in particular to the operations team for their extraordinary efforts to get the building ready for the dedication.

“The innovative spaces stand as a testament to the ideals, values, and vision that Dr. Smith held dear during his tenure with HCS,” shared Haynes. “It is more than bricks and mortar; the Dr. Jeffery O. Smith Science Wing is a living, breathing embodiment of his passion for education and his vision of transforming the four high schools from five pocket academies to 16 wall-to-wall academies and offering our students 44 unique career pathways.” 

“I am deeply honored and humbled to stand before you as we celebrate the dedication of this state-of-the-art science wing made possible by strong and collaborative partnership between the school board and the city of Hampton,” said Smith. “It is my hope that as people drive by this wonderful facility that it will represent greatness yet to be born and contributions yet to be made by the next generation.”