Hilton Elementary School

Hilton Elementary School is a public Pre-K through Grade 5 magnet school located at 225 River Road in Newport News, Virginia, part of Newport News Public Schools. With around 401 students and a student-teacher ratio of about 18:1, the school operates the Communication Arts Magnet Program, which emphasizes reading, writing, and oral communication.

Approximately 72% of students are proficient in reading, while 47% meet proficiency in math on state assessments.The student body is diverse, with approximately 49% of students from minority backgrounds. School leadership is under Principal Troy Latuch. Hilton aims to ensure students master state standards and become effective communicators through its magnet program and supportive learning environment. The school is accredited by the Virginia Department of Education and serves families in the Hilton Village community, offering preschool readiness and strong parent-school communication.

Hilton recently refreshed its magnet program communications to highlight new Spanish introduction in grades 4 & 5 for students in the Communication Arts Magnet.

The school maintains its strong reading proficiency (~72%) in the latest state and district data, emphasizing literacy as a continuing area of strength.

Q1. What is the magnet specialization at Hilton Elementary, and what grades does it apply to?

A. The school offers a Communication Arts Magnet Program focused on extensive reading, writing, and oral communication skills. In grades 4 & 5, students in the magnet program are introduced to Spanish as a language component.

Q2. What ratings has Hilton Elementary received from external evaluators?

A. On GreatSchools, Hilton Elementary has an 8/10 rating, performing above average compared to other public elementary schools in Virginia. On Niche, it holds a grade of B- minus.

Q3. What is the racial/ethnic and socioeconomic profile of the students?

A. Around 49% of students are minorities. The school has moderate diversity and a minority enrollment reflecting the community. Free/reduced-price lunch eligibility is a factor but specific percentage varies by year in district data.

Q4. Which school district governance and principal leadership are in place?

A. Governed by Newport News Public Schools, the principal is Troy Latuch. District policies on magnet admission, state standards, attendance, and community involvement apply.

Q5. What support services or resources are available at Hilton Elementary?

A. The school provides preschool readiness, support for mastering state standards, strong communication with families, and programs to help students who need additional supports, particularly in areas such as writing or speaking.