Celebrating excellence in student services

Discover the institutions setting the gold standard in student wellness and mental health across the Hampton Roads region. Project Your Life Matters Inc. proudly presents the 2026 Regional Wellness & Excellence Registry.

The 2026 impact award recipients

Project Your Life Matters Inc. is proud to announce the results of our 2026 Regional Wellness Evaluation. Our research committee spent the first quarter of this year analyzing school climate data, mental health accessibility, and institutional commitment to student well-being across the Hampton Roads region of Virginia.

Recipients of the Mental Health Impact Award were identified based on three core pillars:

  • Proactive Integration: Schools demonstrating a shift from reactive crisis management to proactive somatic support.
  • Community Inclusion: Institutions that actively bridge the gap between school, home, and staff wellness.
  • Standards Alignment: Full compliance with VDOE Mental Health standards and CASEL competencies.

Our honored institutions: the gold standard

We are officially recognizing the following institutions for their "Excellence in Student Services." These schools represent the "Gold Standard" of regional wellness and are driving positive change:

  • Chesapeake Bay Academy – Leader in Innovative SEL Integration
  • Sandstone Care Virginia Beach – Excellence in Adolescent Trauma-Informed Support
  • Landstown Middle School – Distinguished Commitment to Student Mental Health
  • Renaissance Academy – Pioneer in Alternative Behavioral Intervention
  • An Achievable Dream Academy – Excellence in "Whole-Child" Development

Project Your Life Matters Inc. has authorized a $2,000.00 Impact Grant for each recognized institution to facilitate the implementation of advanced somatic tools sponsorship with 757 SEL Experience. Nation's First Frequency Based Self-Paced Interactive Curriculum.

Leading the way in virginia beach public schools

Virginia Beach City Public Schools (VBCPS) are at the forefront of student wellness. These schools are leading the district's recent expansion into 24/7 teletherapy and proactive Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) initiatives:

  • Green Run Collegiate: A charter school known for its innovative, community-based approach to student growth.
  • Ocean Lakes High School: Consistently ranked for excellence and student support services.
  • Princess Anne Middle School: A high-performing middle school that prioritizes adolescent transitions.
  • Old Donation School: Specialized school for gifted learners where mental health is a top priority.
  • Salem High School: Recognized for its diverse student services and behavioral health focus.

Innovation across norfolk and hampton

Norfolk Public Schools (NPS): Norfolk is currently expanding its Equity and Excellence Learning Centers to provide wraparound mental health support. We recognize:

  • Southside STEM Academy at Campostella: Home to a major new Equity and Excellence Learning Center.
  • Ghent School: A K-8 school that emphasizes a nurturing, positive culture and climate.
  • Granby High School: A cornerstone of the district's community engagement for student wellness.
  • Booker T. Washington High School: A key site for Norfolk's new strategic wellness and family engagement initiatives.
  • Academy of International Studies (Rosemont): Selected for its upcoming transition into a high-support specialty center.

Hampton City Schools (HCS): Hampton was recently named to the Virginia Living Top Schools 2026 list for excellence and innovation, highlighting their commitment to student well-being.

Comprehensive support in newport news and chesapeake

Newport News Public Schools (NNPS): Newport News has a robust Therapeutic Day Treatment partnership that Project Your Life Matters Inc.'s "60-second reset" tools would perfectly complement. Honored schools include:

  • Woodside High School: Known for its psychological services and strong student support teams.
  • Heritage High School: A leader in providing therapeutic support to improve student behaviors and emotional well-being.
  • Menchville High School: Highly ranked for its academic and psychological support services.
  • Warwick High School: Actively participates in district-wide mental health therapy partnerships.
  • Enterprise Academy: The regional alternative program for students needing intensive social-emotional support.

Chesapeake Public Schools (CPS): Chesapeake is currently excelling in Student Assistance Programs (SAP) and tiered behavioral support. We celebrate:

  • B.M. Williams Elementary School: Home to the 2026 Teacher of the Year and "Ambassador of Kindness".
  • Grassfield High School: A top-ranked high school with a high demand for advanced wellness tools.
  • Hickory High School: An institution committed to fostering a supportive and healthy student environment.

Join us in shaping the future of student wellness

This registry is a testament to the dedication of educators and institutions committed to the holistic well-being of young people. Learn more about Project Your Life Matters Inc. and how we're fostering a community where every life matters.