Watkins Early Childhood Center serves 322 students in grades Prekindergarten.
The student:teacher ratio of 14:1 is equal to the Virginia state level of 14:1.
Minority enrollment is 85% of the student body (majority Black), which is higher than the Virginia state average of 56% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Quick Stats (2025)
- Grades: Prekindergarten
- Enrollment: 322 students
- Student:Teacher Ratio: 14:1
- Minority Enrollment: 85%
- Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), VA Dept. of Education
Top Rankings
Watkins Early Childhood Center ranks among the top 20% of public schools in Virginia for:
Category
Attribute
Percent Eligible For Free Lunch
Community Size
School Overview
Watkins Early Childhood Center's student population of 322 students has declined by 33% over five school years.
The teacher population of 23 teachers has declined by 20% over five school years.
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten
(offers virtual instruction)
(offers virtual instruction)
Total Students
322 students

Gender %

Total Classroom Teachers
23 teachers

School Rankings
The diversity score of Watkins Early Childhood Center is 0.66, which is less than the diversity score at state average of 0.72. The school's diversity has stayed relatively flat over five school years.
Student : Teacher Ratio
14:1
14:1

American Indian
2%
n/a
Asian
1%
8%

Hispanic
21%
19%

Black
52%
22%

White
15%
44%

Hawaiian
n/a
n/a
Two or more races
9%
7%

All Ethnic Groups



Eligible for Free Lunch
100%
55%

Eligible for Reduced Lunch (15-16)
6%
6%

School Statewide Testing
School District Name
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), VA Dept. of Education
Profile last updated: 02/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How many students attend Watkins Early Childhood Center?
322 students attend Watkins Early Childhood Center.
What is the racial composition of the student body?
52% of Watkins Early Childhood Center students are Black, 21% of students are Hispanic, 15% of students are White, 9% of students are Two or more races, 2% of students are American Indian, and 1% of students are Asian.
What is the student:teacher ratio of Watkins Early Childhood Center?
Watkins Early Childhood Center has a student ration of 14:1, which is equal to the Virginia state average of 14:1.
What grades does Watkins Early Childhood Center offer ?
Watkins Early Childhood Center offers enrollment in grades Prekindergarten (offers virtual instruction).
What school district is Watkins Early Childhood Center part of?
Watkins Early Childhood Center is part of Newport News City School District.
In what neighborhood is Watkins Early Childhood Center located?
Watkins Early Childhood Center is located in the South Newport News neighborhood of Newport News, VA. There are 14 other public schools located in South Newport News.
School Reviews
Review Watkins Early Childhood Center. Reviews should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
Recent Articles

What Is A Charter School?
Explore the world of charter schools in this comprehensive guide. Learn about their history, how they operate, and the pros and cons of this educational innovation. Discover key facts about charter schools, including admission policies, demographics, and funding, as well as what to look for when considering a charter school for your child.

10 Reasons Why High School Sports Benefit Students
Discover the 10 compelling reasons why high school sports are beneficial for students. This comprehensive article explores how athletics enhance academic performance, foster personal growth, and develop crucial life skills. From improved fitness and time management to leadership development and community representation, learn why participating in high school sports can be a game-changer for students' overall success and well-being.

February 05, 2025
Understanding the U.S. Department of Education: Structure, Impact, and EvolutionWe explore how the Department of Education shapes American education, from its cabinet-level leadership to its impact on millions of students, written for general audiences seeking clarity on this vital institution.