Best Elementary Schools in Zip Code 23608

Zip code 23608 in Newport News, VA contains six elementary schools—Oliver C. Greenwood, Richneck, Knollwood Meadows, Stoney Run, George J. McIntosh, and David A. Dutrow—all part of the Newport News City Public Schools district and serving grades PK-5 in a high-poverty area where nearly every student qualifies for free or reduced-price lunch. David A. Dutrow Elementary is the clear standout: it ranks highest in the group (40th percentile statewide), posts the best average SOL proficiency at about 69%, and has the lowest chronic absenteeism at just 8.9%—well below the state average. It is also the only school in the area performing close to Virginia’s state average of 71.6%. Oliver C. Greenwood Elementary is the most improved, climbing from the 7th percentile in 2023-24 to the 32nd percentile in 2025-26, making it the second-strongest school here. At the other end, Stoney Run Elementary ranks in the bottom 5% statewide with an average proficiency of just 45%, and Knollwood Meadows Elementary is trending downward after a particularly strong 5th grade cohort left the school.

Despite all six schools facing near-identical poverty levels, there is a 24-point proficiency gap between the top and bottom performers, suggesting that school-level practices matter enormously. Interestingly, higher spending does not translate into better results: George J. McIntosh Elementary spends the most per student ($12,275) but ranks near the bottom, while Dutrow spends far less yet achieves the best outcomes. Chronic absenteeism is a bright spot across the zone—every school is below the district's 18.5% rate—and Dutrow’s 8.9% rate stands out as a likely contributor to its success. Richneck Elementary also performs solidly relative to the district, with particular strength in 4th grade Virginia Studies, though its 5th grade math dipped. Meanwhile, Stoney Run struggles in nearly every subject, and McIntosh saw a sharp drop in 5th grade math despite overall improvement.

For parents, the takeaway is that school choice within this zip code matters a great deal. Dutrow offers the strongest academics and attendance, while Greenwood is a rising option worth watching. Knollwood Meadows needs attention to reverse its decline, and Stoney Run appears to need the most intensive support. Student-teacher ratios vary but don't explain performance—Stoney Run has a favorable ratio yet the lowest scores, while Richneck does well despite larger classes. Overall, parents should look beyond spending and demographics and focus on each school's specific strengths and trends, as the differences in outcomes are real and meaningful.