Aug. 5, 2026

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Analysis from the Associated Press shows an increase in borrowers defaulting on their student loans. (Photo via Canva)

Ashley White

Education Reporter

Nearly one in five student loan borrowers in Virginia are currently in default, reflecting a sharp national surge following the end of pandemic-era payment pauses. 

An analysis of federal data reveals that Virginia's default rate reached 18%, marking a 77% increase since September.

Officials attributed the trend to widespread borrower confusion surrounding changing loan servicers, shifting forbearance periods and altered repayment plans.

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The city could join Portsmouth and Newport News in asking voters to help fund school construction. (Photo via the city of Norfolk)

Norfolk City Council has called a special meeting to consider putting a sales tax increase for school construction before voters this November. 

If approved, the resolution would authorize a referendum asking voters to add up to 1% to the city's local general retail sales tax. 

Revenue generated from the proposed tax increase would go solely toward funding new school construction or major renovations across the city.

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Michael Marshall partners with nonprofits to offer counseling and reentry services. (Photo courtesy of Michael Marshall)

Portsmouth native Michael Marshall created the nonprofit First Opportunity in 2014 to provide mentorship, job training, substance abuse counseling and reentry services to formerly incarcerated residents. 

Having experienced incarceration as a teenager and serving more than a decade in prison as an adult, Marshall uses his lived experience to connect with young people and offer the guidance he felt was lacking in his early life. 

Forty-four years after his first arrest, Marshall returned to Chesapeake Juvenile Services to speak directly with detained young people about redirecting their paths.

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Virginia launches new unit targeting illegal vapes and intoxicants Read More

A couple of Northern Virginia localities are doing away with gas-powered leaf blowers Read More

AUDIO: Sentara Albemarle Medical Center approaches first anniversary at Elizabeth City campus Listen here

Adults have struggled to set rules for AI in school. These teens figured it out. Read More

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Julius Ayo

Digital Producer

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