Welcome Forrest Families

Hello! My name is Derrick Alston and I am the Family Engagement Specialist at Forrest Elementary School. Throughout my career in the school system, I have served in a variety of ways for students and family support roles from the elementary to the high school level. 

I am a Hampton native and I graduated from Hampton High School. I attended Virginia State University where I received my bachelor's degree in Social Work. I'm actively involved in the Hampton and Newport News communities through my fraternity, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., as well as being a youth football coach and High School Football coach. 

My goal for Forrest’s Family Engagement Program is to continue to bridge the gap between the school, parents and community to effectively help provide resources to families. I will also like to expand the parent involvement and activity within the school.