Two new maritime-focused lab schools have opened in Virginia, expanding the total number of such schools in the state to 15. Governor Glenn Youngkin recognized the Isle Maritime Trades Academy (IMTA) and the Maritime Engineering and Environmental Studies Academy (MEESA) for their contributions to preparing students for careers in the maritime industry. The opening event took place on September 24, 2025, with participation from state and local leaders as well as representatives from education and industry.
Governor Youngkin highlighted the growth of lab schools in Virginia, stating, “Three and a half years ago, Virginia had zero lab schools. Today that number is now 15 schools serving 3,600 students across the Commonwealth–from Winchester to Wallops Island and from Southwest Virginia to Hampton Roads. Injecting innovation and expanding options for exploration, exposure, and experience in some of Virginia’s fastest-growing sectors unleashes tremendous opportunity. Thanks to strong partnerships between the private sector, localities and Virginia’s higher education community, students across the Commonwealth can pursue the hands-on skills needed for careers in maritime, health care, coding, data science, aerospace, or rural education.”
State Superintendent of Public Instruction Emily Anne Gullickson commented on the significance of these programs: “The Isle Maritime Trades Academy and the Maritime Engineering and Environmental Sciences Lab School perfectly embody Virginia’s commitment to the 3Es—Enrollment, Employment, and Enlistment. These programs provide students with unparalleled hands-on education and real-world skills that lead directly to high-demand jobs and meaningful careers. The maritime welding pathway at the Isle Maritime Trades Academy offers a unique opportunity for public school students to master a highly specialized trade that supports our naval forces and national security. These lab schools are both vital in preparing the next generation of skilled workers and dedicated servicemembers, strengthening both our economy and our defense.”
Secretary of Education Aimee R. Guidera said, “The Commonwealth’s fifteen lab schools illustrate what’s possible when we give Virginians the chance to dream big. Communities are building the schools they need and want; places where teachers want to teach, parents want to send their children, and students want to learn. This is what happens when we collaborate, when we break the one-size-fits-all mold, and open doors to opportunity.”
Since its launch over three years ago by Governor Youngkin’s administration, Virginia’s lab school initiative has established a network serving thousands of students in fields including healthcare, aerospace, STEM disciplines, and maritime trades. These schools operate through collaborations between K-12 institutions, higher education partners like Old Dominion University (ODU), local governments, and industry organizations.
Dr. Karen Sanzo of ODU’s Center for Educational Innovation and Opportunity (ODU-CEIO) stated: “Yesterday’s event highlights the power of collaboration between education and industry to create new opportunities for students. ODU is proud to be part of this transformative effort, and we commend our colleagues at the Isle Maritime Trades Academy and Camp Community College for their work in bringing hands-on learning and career training to high school students interested in shipbuilding, marine welding, and beyond.”
Old Dominion University’s CEIO oversees a network of nine lab schools partnered with ODU. In May 2022, an Office of Innovation was created within the Department of Education under Superintendent Gullickson’s leadership. This office focuses on system-wide initiatives such as new public school models and integrating technology into classrooms.
Currently serving 3,600 students statewide—with plans for enrollment growth—the Youngkin Administration has worked with more than 60 school divisions across all lab schools. Funding includes operational grants totaling $75 million since January 2024.
Joan Wodiska chairs the College Partnership Laboratory Schools Standing Committee: “Lab schools are free, locally-led and governed public schools, open by lottery, to any student in Virginia,” she said.“We are grateful to the superintendents…who came together with an innovative plan to educate students for high-wage…jobs essential to Virginia’s economy. Public lab schools are blending K-12 and college…to offer Virginia students a pathway to earn free college credit…or workplace credentials.”
The IMTA operates through partnerships involving Isle of Wight Public Schools; Paul D. Camp Community College; Huntington Ingalls Newport News Ship Building; serving upper-level high schoolers who graduate with both diplomas and technical degrees relevant for maritime work.
MEESA is operated jointly by Old Dominion University; Newport News Public Schools; Huntington Ingalls Newport News Shipbuilding; Hampton Roads Maritime Training System—with curriculum focused on engineering disciplines tied closely with industry mentoring opportunities.
For further information about these programs or locations statewide see resources from the Virginia Department of Education. More details about Old Dominion University’s Center can be found in its 2025 Impact Report.
