001Good evening, everyone. We would like to call the business session school board meeting for June 2nd, 2026 into order, Madam Clerk. >> Mr. Percival. >> Here. >> Mr. Card. >> Here. >> Mr. Farooq. >> Here. >> Mr. Hedgepeth. >> Here. >> Ms. Rizzi. Ms. Holton. >> Here. >> Ms. Burke. >> Here. >> Ms. Jafari. Ms. Fernandez. >> Here. >> Madam Chair, we have a quorum. >> Thank you. Um we're going to move to 1.04 actually, the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence. It's slated there. Would you like to lead us in the Pledge of Allegiance, Mr. Hedgepeth? >> I pledge allegiance to the flag >> And now we'll have our translation services announcement. Good evening. >> Good evening, everyone. On behalf of the language justice team, we welcome you. If you need interpretation
002from English to Spanish, please come see me. I will be at the table in the back with the interpreters. We have interpretation headsets for anyone who needs one. Interpretation in Spanish is also available for those watching this meeting through Zoom. I will now make the same announcement in Spanish. Thank you. Gracias. >> Thank you, and now we'll have our emergency evacuation announcement. In the event of an emergency requiring the evacuation of the building during this meeting, the emergency alarm system will be activated. If this happens, all persons should immediately exit this room and go to the lobby where security staff will guide you to the east and west stairwells. Please do not use the elevators. All persons will exit on the first floor. After exiting the building, security will direct everyone across 9th Street and
003down to the assembly area located at the downtown bus transfer station. Able-bodied persons should assist visually and hearing impaired visitors with exiting the building. I will now make the same announcement in Spanish. Thank you. Moving right along to 1.05, approve the minutes for May 11th, 2026 and May 12th, 2026 school board meetings. That's a motion. Ms. Ricard? Madam Chair, I move to approve the minutes of May 11th, 2026 and May 12th, 2026 school board meetings. Second. It's been moved by Ms. Ricard and seconded by Mr. Farooq. Madam Clerk. Mr. Percival? Yes. Ms. Ricard? Yes. Mr. Farooq? Yes. Mr. Hedgepeth? Yes. Ms. Rizzi? Ms. Holton? Yes. Ms. Burke? Yes. Mr. Jafari? Ms. Fernandez? Yes. Motion passes. Thank you. And now for the adoption of the agenda. Mr. Percival. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. I move to
004adopt the agenda of the RPS School Board meeting for Tuesday, June 2nd, 2026 as published. >> Second. >> It's been moved by Mr. Percival and seconded by Mr. Hedgepeth. Madam Clerk. >> Mr. Percival. >> Yes. >> Ms. Ricard. >> Yes. >> Mr. Farooq. >> Yes. >> Mr. Hedgepeth. >> Yes. >> Ms. Rizzi. Ms. Holton. Ms. Burke. >> Yes. >> Ms. Jafari. Ms. Fernandez. >> Yes. >> Motion passes. >> Thank you. >> And now for one of our favorite parts of the evening, our recognition of book 2.01, Ms. Burke will read and recognize our um Early College Academy graduates. Ms. Burke. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. I'm going to apologize in advance. Some of the names I may not pronounce correctly. I don't mind being corrected in the process because each of these students deserve that
005and then some, having finished two years of college before graduating from high school. Richmond Public Schools Early College Academy graduates, May 2026. Tonight, we welcome graduates of the class of 2026 Early College Academy. This remarkable group of 10 students has graduated with both their high school diploma and their associate's degree. Most of the students Most of these students earned a B average or higher, are working toward an advanced studies diploma, and completed challenging college classes while in high school. They also earned more than 15 transferable college credits, qualifying them for the Governor's Early College Scholars designation. These students have been accepted to all colleges and received many scholarships including at least one full scholarship to the University of Virginia. Several students were also invited to join Phi Theta Kappa, an honor society for college students,
006and two students looked to look on for leadership roles. Okay. Please join us in congratulating the class of 2026 early college academy graduates. Michael Amoria Ramos, Franklin Military Academy. Samara Andre, John Marshall High School. David Avula, Franklin Military Academy. Demala Tubo Open High School. Tavares Bailey, Thomas Jefferson High School. Michaela Brown, Thomas Jefferson High School. Breanna Barrell, Huguenot High School. Alexander Colman, Huguenot High School. Creed Carlise Garcia, Richmond Community High School. Janiah Dalton Carter, Richmond Community High School. Maria Finch, Open High School. Carla Freeman, Huguenot High School. Tiana Goings, Huguenot High School. Jaden Harrington, Franklin Military Academy. Shai Shay Jackson, Thomas Jefferson High School. Reese Kay, Richmond Community High School. Kimbrey Ken King, Open High School. Naida Lopez Morales, Richmond High School of the Arts. Sonya De Marchette, Franklin Military Academy. Dory Medina, Richmond High
007School for the Arts Carlos Melendez Llares Franklin Military Academy Kristen Perez Atumu Open High School Jazmine Pinson Leon John Marshall High School Patrick Sapini Richmond Community High School Kelly Sostre Armstrong High School Wayne Taylor Thomas Jefferson High School Elliot Van Valen Valkenburg Open High School Daryl Vaughn Franklin Military Academy and Lindsay Shamari Zambrano Ferdona Ferdol Forgive me. Huguenot High School By embracing the challenges of a rigorous college level curriculum you have not only excelled at academically but have also demonstrated exceptional dedication and persistence. As you embark on the next chapter of your educational journey or venture into the professional world remember and determination that has brought you this far. The future holds boundless opportunities for you and we have no doubt that you will seize them to invest in in and uplift yourselves your community
008and all of Richmond. Thank you. >> Thank you so much. And now we receive Let us state for the record that both Mr. Jafari and Ms. Rizzi joined us at 6:09 p.m. And now um for recognition 2.02 receive proclamation for LGBTQ+ uh Pride Month. >> Hi, I'm Isabel Smith and I'm currently a student at Boushall Middle School and I'm in the seventh grade. Today I'll be reading the LGBTQ+ Pride Month June 2026. Whereas lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer Pride Month commemorates the 1969 Stonewall Uprising, a pivotal moment in the movement for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility in the United States. And whereas Pride Month is an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the contributions, experience, and resilience of LGBTQ+ individuals and communities. And whereas RPS believes every student, staff member, and family deserves to feel safe,
009respected, valued, and supported in their school community. And whereas RPS remains committed to fostering welcoming and inclusive learning environment that promotes dignity, belonging, equity, and an opportunity for all. Now, therefore, be it proclaimed that Richmond Public School hereby recognize June 2026 as LGBTQ+ Pride Month and encourages everyone to join the celebration. >> Thank you. And now for 2.03, receive proclamation for Juneteenth. >> Hello, my name is London Howell, as known as your SGA president of Boushall Middle School. And today I will be reading Juneteenth, June 19th, 2026. Whereas Juneteenth commemorates June 19th, 1865, the day enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas learned of their freedom more than 2 years after the issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation. And whereas Juneteenth stands as a powerful reminder of the ongoing journey towards freedom, justice, and equality while honoring
010the resilience, achievement, and cultural contributions of Black Americans throughout history. And whereas RPS recognizes the importance of teaching and learning the full history of our nation and uplifting the voices, stories, and experiences that have shaped our community and country. And whereas RPS remains committed to creating inclusive learning environments where every student feels seen, valued, heard, and connected to a future filled with opportunity and hope. Now, therefore, be it proclaimed that Richmond Public Schools hereby recognizes June 19th, 2026 as Juneteenth and encourages everyone to join in this celebration. >> Thank you. And now, recognition of SY 2025-2026 valedictorians and salutatorians will be read by Ms. Ricard. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. I want to echo my colleague, Ms. Burke's comments that I am truly sorry to all our scholars if I pronounce your name wrong. Um,
011we are so proud of you. So, tonight we celebrate valedictorians and salutatorians of the class of 2026. This exceptional group of students has demonstrated unwavering dedication, resilience, and a commitment to excellence throughout their years with RPS. Their achievements reflect not only academic success, but also the strength of character and leadership that will carry them far beyond graduation. These students have been accepted to colleges, enlisted in the military, paved career pathways, and received countless scholarships. The future holds boundless opportunities for you, and we have no doubt that you will seize them to invest in and uplift yourselves, your community, and all of Richmond. Please join us in congratulating our PS's class of 2026 valedictorians and salutatorians. Fatima Abdul-Hakeem, salutatorian Armstrong High School. Kaylee Saucedo-Cifuentes, valedictorian Armstrong High School. Sonia Marquez, salutatorian Franklin Military Academy. Jayden Harrington,
012valedictorian Franklin Military Academy. Lindsey Zambrano-Perdomo, salutatorian Huguenot High School. Alexander Camy-Calderon, valedictorian Huguenot High School. Wayne Williams, salutatorian John Marshall High School. Samira Anwari, valedictorian John Marshall High School. Kymari King, salutatorian Open High School. Dima Lattu Ba, valedictorian Open High School. Elliot Van Balkenburg, valedictorian [clears throat] Open High School. Nathaniel Templeton, salutatorian Community High School. Reese Kay, valedictorian Richmond Community High School. Nieta Lopez-Morales, salutatorian Richmond High School for the Arts. Zoe Medina, valedictorian, Richmond High School for the Arts. Jacqueline Deshido Augustine, salutatorian, Richmond Success Academy. Elda Veliz Rodriguez, valedictorian, Richmond Success Academy. Josiah Harvey, valedictorian, Richmond Virtual Academy. Chai Jackson, valedictorian, Thomas Jefferson High School. And Ivel Bailey, valedictorian, Thomas Jefferson High School. Thank you so much. Moving right along to announcements. Who would like to start? Ms. Burke. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. On
013June 25th, June 26th, 2 days, Chimborazo Elementary School will have in will in have a company entitled Kaboom to give us a brand install a brand new playground for our upper level grades. The PTA, the community, the Richmond Public Schools administration, this started out it took us 5 years to raise $3,000. And now we have in the hundreds. And Kaboom came in and just said, "We're going to do it all for you." So, the ribbon ribbon cutting ceremony I think is on the 26th. But, stay tuned for installation, Seventh District, brand new playground. Also, on June 10th, a press conference will take place at Chimborazo Elementary School. The annual East End Festival, please place September 26th on your calendars. This is a program This is our eighth annual event that benefits all students in the
014East End, 6th and 7th districts, in the areas of music, art, and art programs. And I think that is it, Madam Chair. So, great things are happening. We're ready for summer school at Chimborazo Elementary School. If you haven't registered, please, parents, please give your children an opportunity. Cuz we're doing very well. We're We are excelling. We want to keep that going. Thank you. >> Thank you, Mr. Hedgepeth. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. >> [clears throat] >> Uh this Pride Month, I'm reminded of my friend and mentor, Bill Martin. Um Bill was known to many of us here in Richmond. Um he tragically lost his life on December 27th, 2025, when a person hit him with a car at 10th and Broad Street, steps steps away from us, um on at City Hall. Um he was
015in a crosswalk uh when that happened. To many, he was known as one of Richmond's greatest cheerleaders, historians, and storytellers. He was a unifier, a community healer, and the executive director of the Valentine for 32 years. Perhaps a little less known side of Bill is his advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community. Some of Bill's earliest advocacy efforts date back to 1975, when he was a student at Virginia Tech. It was then that Bill and others successfully sued for the right to form a gay student union. Taking place in rural Virginia, a place where a professor was fired for being gay just a decade earlier, this was also [clears throat] a late 6 years after police raided the Stonewall Inn uprising in New York City, leading to the uprising and that sparked a new beginning for the
016gay rights movement. For greater context, this was 8 years after interracial marriage became legal in Virginia with the Loving vs. Virginia Supreme Court case and only 1 year after the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, which allowed women to have a credit card without the permission of their husband or father. Needless to say, Bill's advocacy was a very courageous move at the time with far-reaching consequences. Uh as said by James Milner, director of the Virginia Pride in a recent Richmond article, "What Bill was doing the work before anybody else. He was not going to be the person that was leading the Pride Parade. He wasn't going to be the person out there in front, but he did things to organize gay history tours in Richmond through the Valentine. He ensured the artifacts related to LGBTQ history were
017uh well represented within the museum, including things like the Pride flag that flew over the Federal Reserve building that caused so much controversy. He did these things quietly, unassumingly, but with intention and with success." Unquote. I can remember my own college experience and joining a gay student union at James Madison University. Uh this was a formative experience for me as a young person. Joining this group would uh lead me to meet some of my very best friends. It made me feel seen, heard, and like I belonged. So, I wanted to publicly thank Bill for his advocacy. His courage improved my life and the lives of countless others. I want to encourage our young scholars to advocate for what they believe in. You never know what your efforts can accomplish and who might benefit from it
018in the future. So, to our scholars, don't like something? Do something about it. Seek to change it. See somebody suffering? Do something about it. Help them. Pride Month is about celebrating identity, so be prideful of your identity, whatever that may be. Be courageous in your own space, whatever that looks like. You never know what might come for it. We love you here. Thank you. >> Thank you, Mr. Hedgepeth. Mr. Jafari. Ms. Rizzi. >> Thanks, Madam Chair. And good evening. Just wanted to take a little time of my two really to thank the teachers and the staff at all of our schools. I had the opportunity to to visit them all. And from almost all of them, they each had multiple year-end events from a pre-K prom to a full-grown prom at Bush Hill. Everything was
019real nice. So, yesterday I had an opportunity as well to attend a a cookout in the in the honor and service of our staff and teachers over Bush Hill. And I had the honor to serve fries and fish alongside my colleague over here, Ms. Holton. So, it was a very nice event. Uh but I I do want to circle around. I want to recognize that by the time we meet each other this time next month, we will have separate sa- celebrated uh the nation's 250th birthday. Um 250th anniversary. There's a lot of different interpretations. A lot of different approaches. But often time in their midst and and right amongst us, we have some sleeping giants and people who have basically gone unrecognized. Uh we have one such individual and I just want to make sure
020that we here as educators recognize this gentleman's contributions not just in advancing uh African Americans after a lifetime of being in of a system that he inherited, but also uh let me just pull from my notes a couple of notes. And I'm talking about George Wythe here. As America's first collegiate professor of law, established at William and Mary a model of legal instruction grounded in disciplined reasoning and civic responsibility. His students, including Thomas Jefferson, John Marshall, and James Monroe, carried his methods into leadership of the early Republic. Over the course of his life, Wythe dismantled the system of enslavement he inherited, freeing and educating those under his control, and supporting their economic independence. As Virginia's Chancellor, he issued rulings that applied equitable principles to both African Americans and Europeans, interpreting freedom claims fairly and recognizing
021the legal standing of black litigants in his courtroom. As an oft litigant myself, his work is a testimony to model judicial decorum and aids me often in my stance before the court. Because I know that people like him came before us. We didn't happen to be here today doing what we're doing in our courtrooms with the lack of a foundation. And Mr. Wythe gave us that foundation. Wythe's commitment to fairness ultimately cost him his life. In 1806, he was poisoned by a relative angered by his decision to leave property to black heirs, making his death a direct consequence of the principles he upheld. His record, noted shared with my colleagues, and rooted in education, equity, and public service, offers a historically grounded example that aligns with RPS's work to expand opportunity and prepare students for
022informed citizenship. I can tell you without that start in the courtrooms, if you think that the courts are really a riot today, think what it would have been without Mr. Wythe teaching people, teaching jurors, and sending them out into the world. So, I do say that by the time we come back in this forum again next month, we will have celebrated the nation's 250th birthday. And as Virginia's first signatory to the Declaration of Independence, I salute George Wythe. Thank you. >> Thank you. Ms. Rizzi. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. Um both uh Mr. Hedgepeth's and Mr. Jafari's uh comments are great segues for the two announcements I'd like to make. Uh the first thing uh I'd like folks to look out for opportunities to involve and help Richmond High School for the Arts staff with
023packing. And look out for information about a commemoration of the old uh RHSA building. So, that more than likely will take place next week, but we will update you and please keep an eye out for it. Um the other is um And you know, I do want to as an aside say that in my interactions with Bill Martin, uh certainly he was a champion for LGBTQ um causes and and and he raised awareness in ways that many hadn't before. I will also say that he championed equity and inclusiveness across the board. And in my interactions with him, he demonstrated that time and time again and ver- and ways that just um exhibited how very brave he was in standing up against systems of injustice. Um and so, the Valentine Museum Va- Valentine Museum uh next
024week, June 4th, um will open an exhibit um titled Building a City: Richmond landmarks. Um students were invited to select, research, and create models of some of Richmond's most iconic landmarks, and those landmarks will be displayed in a grand opening on June 4th, and the exhibit will stay open until May 31st. So, June 4th is Thursday. I believe it's from 6:00 to 7:30. Um if you can get out there, you'll see some amazing work by our students. Thank you. >> Thank you. Ms. Ricard, and then Mr. Farooq. >> Thank you, um Madam Chair. As it comes with the end of the year, there are always lots of recognitions. There were just two things that drew my attention this past month that I just wanted to call out. Um the first was, as I was making
025my rounds at schools, I had the um fortune of talking to two teachers that had gone through the SEED program this year, and I unfortunately missed the SEED graduation due to another committee meeting, but they just talked about what a blessing that program was, how it really guided them to get to full licensure, and so, I wanted to just recognize Mr. Robinson and everyone who assisted with that work. They just could not have said more wonderful things about it. Um and then just the second thing is um Clark Springs, through the Safe Center and Wellness, and Ms. Parks just held so many wonderful events this past year, and I'm grateful for them. I got to see the optometry day that happened in May, which had seniors from high schools come, and they got eye exams,
026and they walked out with glasses that day, which they can then take with them when they graduate out into the world um to see clearer and to make their mark. And that's not to count not to also speak to the love markets and the many other things. That center I think has just done such good work for RPS and for our community this year and I'm truly grateful. >> Thank you, Mr. Farooq. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. It was a real joy to join my colleagues and of course our students and our parents at some of the graduations. Because of my day job, I was only able to attend the Tech Center graduation and John Marshall High School and it was really really moving and a great reminder of why we are doing what we're
027doing. Um in the vein of Ms. Burke, there are two summer school sites in the North Side in the third district. So, there'll be one at Holton Elementary and one at Henderson Middle. And so, another opportunity for some of our kids to be with their friends to be getting enrichment. >> [clears throat] >> Next week, I will be at the Battery Park Civic Association and the Rosedale Civic Association meetings. That's on Tuesday, June 9th in the evenings at 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. So, any Northside residents that want to meet hear from me or meet me, I'll be there in person. And also, among the many comments and emails that I've gotten this year were concerns from several parents about the use of screens and screen time in Richmond Public Schools. So, sometime this summer
028myself and Ms. Ricard plan to do a joint sort of meeting with interested parents and our staff to talk through how does Richmond Public School use screens and just review are we using them appropriately and how are those things going. Thank you, Madam Chair. >> Thank you. Ms. Holton? >> Thank you, Madam Chair. I'll I'll join in all my colleagues with all my colleagues and heaping praise on our teachers, our staff, our central office staff, our security staff, our staff in all our schools who worked so hard to get our students to the finish line, but then also to help celebrate and honor their achievements at the I was able to attend several of the graduations, but also with Ms. Burke, I was able to attend the community of caring end-of-year celebration at Henry Marsh.
029Thank you. And yes, Mr. Jafari and I had a great time serving fried fish and chips at the Boushall teacher staff cookout yesterday thanks to our our see our fishman in the audience, Charles Willis. And it's just a great time of year to be able to celebrate. I know it's a lot for everybody, but for me it was a particular honor to join in for my first time on on this side of the dais in all those wonderful celebrations. One particular achievement I want to point out is that I I met and heard about a number of our students across the different comprehensive high schools who are heading to the Apprentice School in Newport News at Newport News Shipbuilding. And for those of you who don't know that entity already, it is reputed to be
030as hard to get into as Harvard and Yale by the sheer admissions statistics. I have met visited the Apprentice School and met with the leadership folks at Newport News Shipbuilding and in Huntington Ingalls, the the parent company, and virtually everybody in the CEO level C-suite jobs came up through the Apprentice School. So those folks start out with great paying jobs as electricians and welders and they end up in the leadership of that major major industry. So, kudos to the number of graduates we have who are heading to the Harvard and Yale of the of the CTE world. Just one more flag I will give if I have time. Sadly, our community our school community has been impacted significantly in recent months by gun violence both students and and staff and I just want to note
031that this is national gun violence prevention month and that we have a number of events to commemorate and honor and and celebrate efforts to prevent gun violence. One of them is the local day out event sponsored by the NAACP this Friday at midday and there's a bunch of events all over the city. And then on Saturday the city of Richmond's Orange Fest is at the park right next to Blackwell Elementary noon to 4:00 p.m. and got lots of great bands and other activities celebrating peace and promoting peaceful resolution of challenges in honor of gun violence awareness month. So, thank you all and please put those all those things on the calendar with everything else you have already. Thanks. >> Thank you so much. Anyone else? Okay, I would like to just share my congratulations to
032so many graduations that took place last week. They were all amazing. So, congratulations to all of our RPS graduates roughly 1,200 or so graduates walked across the aisle and received their diplomas and so we're thrilled about this next season of their lives. I also want to just give a huge shout out to everyone who worked behind the scenes to make the graduation what it was. People do not realize the amount of work and effort that takes place and putting on this joint effort. I don't want to call people by names cuz I will get in trouble, but there are a few groups that I would like to acknowledge. Of course, the administration but also our CSA officers who were there day in and day out. Our translation services associates who were instrumental at every single
033graduation to ensure that interpretation services were there. We had tables set up information to stay connected with with the families and so SRO officers, VSU, police officers, VSU in general for allowing us into the space. VCU Did I What did I say? VSU? I'm Hail State. VCU Go Rams, >> [laughter] >> which I am an alum. Thank you so much for the beautiful space, not just Siegel Center, but the Singleton Center as well. The library for the city of Richmond. There's so many nuances to this and so we just thank you for the collaborative effort and spirit. We are so grateful for all of the work that was put in and so we want to give a huge shout out for that. I also want to congratulate all of my the kiddos in the ninth
034district who stepped across the aisle. I was able to attend River City Middle School graduation where over 400, I am not exaggerating, over 400 students graduated from middle school and I had the opportunities to shake each and every one of their hands. And so, that was I was honored to share a few words as well. They're doing some amazing things over there at River City along with the other elementary schools that are in the ninth district, J.L. Francis, Cardinal Elementary. We have Red, Reed always get in trouble because I always miss one. Who did I miss? I did say Cardinal. I think I got them all then. Reed, Red, J.L. Francis, Cardinal, River City and Miles Jones, yes. Uh so, they had some phenomenal end-of-year um activities uh you know, they had a send-off at
035Miles Jones where they had bubbles as uh they walked out of the building. So, there's so much spirit around this time of year. Good luck to those. We pray that everyone has a safe summer and those that will be in summer school that you um just embrace it for all that it's worth. Also, want to share a community update uh if you will um Councilwoman Nicole Jones will have a a community meeting on June 10th at 5:30 p.m. Um it's around the Snead Road improvements that are taking place. This is important to us because it is directly correlated from Broad Rock Boulevard to Hay Road. We all know that that is a area that still is widely without sidewalks. And so, this is a conversation that the RPS community should certainly be a part of
036to glean off of and to share your feedback. So, we hope that you can make it there. That will be at J.L. Francis Elementary School at 5146 Snead Road. Um and that'll be from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. There's nothing else, we will move forward. All right, that will end announcements. We will now go into public information. Madam Clerk, if you could share the guidelines before we move forward. >> Conduct of speakers. Speakers shall state their full legal name prior to addressing the school board. Speakers will address the school board as a whole rather than individual school board members, the division superintendent, school board attorney, clerk, or any other staff member. The school board will listen to comments, but will not respond during the public information period. Persons appearing before the school board will not be
037allowed to one, campaign for public office, two, promote private business ventures, or three, use profanity or vulgar language. If a community member's comments during the public information session relate to school-based issues, the chair may refer that individual to RPS's administration for one-on-one consultation and follow-up. It's important that all community members who wish to participate in the public information period abide by the guidelines set forth in this policy. Refusal to abide by the policy will result in the forfeiture of the remaining time that has been allotted to the speaker. Community members may express their views in writing in lieu of any oral presentation. Comments received in writing in lieu of an oral presentation will not be read during the meeting, but should be posted to the school board platform BoardDocs. >> Thank you. We will start
038with our pre-registered speakers. We have five um that have um signed up ahead of time. Please pardon me if I mispronounce your name. As I call you forward, if you could sign the clipboard and then pass it to the person that is behind you. We should have plenty of time for public comment. We excited to hear from everyone else um once we've heard from our pre-registered speakers. First up, we have uh Bruce W. Tyler. If you are here. And then Amanda Hugridge Rodney Robinson Charles Wilson and Laquisha Williams. Charles I'm sorry, Charles Willis. My apologies. Charles Willis. How can I My sincerest apologies. It's been a very long 24 hours. >> [laughter] >> I could I know it, right? It is not. We promise. If you have anything to pass to us, if you could
039give it to our clerk, please. Thank you. >> Um >> Good evening. Uh my name is Bruce Tyler. And I am uh chair of the Carver Literacy Project, which is a part of the Kiwanis Club of Richmond. And I'm here uh tonight >> Um my apologies. Could you just scoot a little bit closer to the microphone so we Not just us in the room can hear you, but >> It's my first time at a mic. >> No worries. >> Um I'll start again. My name is Bruce Tyler. Uh I am a member of the Richmond Kiwanis Club, and I'm here tonight on behalf of the Kiwanis Club and the Carver Literacy Project, uh which we began 4 years ago. Um Madam Chair, Mr. Vice Chair, and member of members of the school board, and Mr.
040Camera, it's pleasure to be here tonight and to talk about this wonderful program. So, I want to get right to it. Um long time ago, I learned that the one thing you can give a child that no one can take away is an education. Now, think about that. The one thing you can give a child that no one can take away is an education. And that's what the Carver Literacy Project's about. It's that simple. It's that straightforward. And it's geared to help the student. Approximately 4 years ago, uh Richmond Kiwanis Club met with Dr. Giles, the principal of Carver Elementary School. And during that time, we were we had been reading there for 10 years. We were in the process of making sure every student got a book for free. We were there with the
041little free library. And we were donating five, maybe 10,000 dollars a year to help the school because we we saw the need. But we said, "What else can we do?" And um we sat down with Dr. Giles, and she said, "I could use two reading specialists. Two reading specialists. And if I could do that, then 80% of the students would be on grade level reading at Carver Elementary School." We kind of stepped back because we knew this was a big ask. This was not a small ask. This was a big ask. But you know, not a single member of the group said, "We can't do it." What we said was, "We need to do this." And so we took the time to figure out ways to raise money so that we could put two reading
042specialists in the school. The first 2 years that we've been involved in this, we were able to only raise $100,000 a year. Uh and we were able to put Ms. Johnson in to the into Carver Elementary School. The The thing that I think about more than anything else was when when we were having a conversation about the students that come to Carver Elementary School. Uh Dr. Giles mentioned that they had 65 students show up at the year that we were uh having discussions. And she said only seven passed the very basic test that is administered or evaluation. Only seven. And what that meant was, Richmond Public Schools and the state of Virginia, their curriculum starts here. The student was here. And the gap began. And so what the Carver Elementary School project does is it
043eliminates that gap and gives that student the confidence to be able to read, to be able to learn, and to be able to take the next steps in life that we all cherish. And that is to fulfill our dreams. When Dr. Anderson came on board, we um um we sat down again and we had a conversation. And she said, "If >> If I could have two reading specialists, I could have all the students on grade level reading." Now, I have a document that may or may not have been passed out, but I will tell you what it says. In the first year, we had 25 students that completed the the in 20 20 25. Out of 25 four students that began at high risk, at the end of the year, they were at 12 at
044high risk. This past year, >> we had uh Sorry. We had um We had 22 students. And halfway through the school year, we only had nine. I want you to understand this program works. It is a program that can be duplicated and replicated and should be out should be in within all the Richmond Public Schools that have a Title I designation. Thank you very much. >> Thank you. Good evening. I'm Amanda Heagrich. Here last time. Y'all probably remember me. I'm here for the same reason. Um our bus uh just want to make sure it's still on everyone's minds and not forgotten. And I wanted to make sure to bring up one more thing that uh that was brought to my attention um over the past month. And that is that um one of the biggest
045issues we're facing is bus on the buses is the overcrowding. Um and so the kids get on the bus that we parents are finding alternate transportation solely because uh the buses are too full to take the kids. So, you know, we're we're we're offering kids this great opportunity and we're leaving them in without any options. And I just we're dealing with, you know, at this point a knowing awareness that there's a safety problem with the buses that are overcrowded going all the way down to Petersburg. So, I just wanted to don't need to take up the full 3 minutes, but I just want to make sure you all I'm I'm still here. Not going away. Thanks. >> Thank you. Rodney Robinson. Charles Willis. Miss Laquisha Williams. Good evening. >> Good evening. Madam Chair, Vice Chair,
046and members of school board and the I see that our superintendent had to rush out. And I'm pretty sure it was urgent cuz he's always loved to see me. He like to see the fish man come. But I thank all of you all for the opportunity. Uh I am representing United Communities Against Crime, Madam uh Secretary, and may not need the whole 5 minutes, but I do want to recognize that. I want to thank the board, the superintendent, uh Mr. Patrick, and others um for that vision to move up the construction and the opening up Richmond High School for the Arts. I had a chance to contact board members, those that I could, um from the superintendent to the chair to share my uh excitement about that. Um I think it was a great decision
047of the board. I've spoke with several community members that have been uh working very diligently when we first started um >> [snorts] >> way, way back when we thought it was necessary and saw the growth in the south side of Richmond that we needed to explore the opportunity of a new high school. And uh so I I just want to say publicly that I really thank you all as a board, and I'm hoping that I'm praying that it's a unanimous decision that uh whatever the finances are, I believe that the board is making a great decision to uh deviate some of those funds to try to fix up the old George Wythe High School and decided to make sure that those funds were diverted to opening up very soon Richmond High School for the Arts.
048So, I can assure you that everyone I have spoken within the community have shared their great uh enthusiasm that the fact that Richmond Public School Board, the superintendent, and others have made that decision or going to make that decision. I have a follow-up because I'm in business and my other things. So, again, thank you so much. If the board has come collectively and make that decision, I hope it's today so that in August those young folks can move into those staff members and that the parents also would be so excited that they would come running saying what can they do to help unpack instead of pack up. The other I want to share with you under the umbrella of United Communities Against Crime and other partnerships is that months we celebrate many months months of
049Black History, Ramadan teacher support, teachers teacher support step toward support staff, administration. We talked about the LGBTQ uh day. We talked about even gun violence prevention day and month. I want to you all to consider that many of our young folks are going through a lot. The parents are going through a lot. The community is going through a lot. Many folks are stressed out and dealing with it in many different ways. They're dealing with trauma and pain. Affliction, hardship. Some are dealing with homelessness that they have never seen before, and I I I just don't like the word unhoused. They're homeless. They don't have a home. The author said click your heels three times and go there. Some people don't even have heels to click. And I'm not trying to be funny. It may be
050a little humorous, but I'm very serious. So, I want the board to consider to maybe uh looking at the as you go in through uh your opportunities to discuss different things to look at maybe a mental health awareness day. And I'm very serious about that because what we have seen recently at some of our graduations, some of our schools, some of our activities out in the community. Folks are dealing with mental health in a many different ways. Many, many different ways. And they're having turned out to be a very nice ways. So, we as a Richmond community of looking at creative ways to do some things. You all are doing some creative things. But, I think that would be a very good start because it starts with our young folks. >> 1 minute. >> Thank
051you. One of the things I said at a conference when I was on a panel I asked the congregation, I said how many raised their children? And I don't want to put you all on the spot. But, the whole congregation raised a hand and I shook my head and said we are all wrong. Because the Bible say train up a child. You all are educators. We train young folks. If you're raising them, we're missing the boat. So, we have to train young folks. We have to train our adults not to come to schools with guns and not to come fighting. We have to train our young folks how to deal with conflict without resorting to violence. So, I want you all to consider that. And thank you again for this board making that decision about
052Richmond High School for the Arts. Thank you, Mr. Superintendent. >> Thank you. Good evening. My My is Laquisha Williams and I'm a parent, resident and staff member of the district. This afternoon I'll come to you speaking strictly as a parent. Before I start with any of my bullet points, I would like to thank three people. Mr. Hedgepath, Ms. Parks, and Ms. Latonya Waller. Each one of them have reached out to me pertaining to most of everything I'm getting ready to mention before you. And it's a little disheartening that they're the same people that always respond to these things. As I will bring one of these scenarios to your attention. On 5/16 I sent a letter of appeals to my child's school. Six people was on the email. Mr. Hedgepath and Ms. Parks were the only
053ones that responded. I'm still waiting on a response that follows the appeal process. I will also like to bring to your attention that the email address to the principal supervisors does not work. I don't know if other people in the community are able to notify that, but I also emailed it from my work email and it says the same thing. As it is a Google spam alert. So we may want to look into that. Other people may have tried to appeal their students' disciplinary actions and can't follow through with the process. I also would like the process for appeals to be highlighted in a more layman's terms that parents and community members can understand what it looks like of an appeal that's going to go before the panel board versus an appeal that needs to
054go before a principal. Parents do not understand that process. Mind you, I still have not been responded to since the 16th except for Ms. Parks. Thank you, Ms. Parks. If I've never told you, I appreciate you for all of your work and due diligence that you do to support me and my family. I also would like to bring trouble and situations that occur at bus stops. I was told in an email that we don't control those things, but they always happen to spill into our schools. I want to talk about the 4x4 block schedule. Please don't allow that to go any further than where it already is. I work at a middle school where I see that, and now I've been a parent of a high school that it doesn't work. I will also like
055to shine light on enrollment process. My family experienced a house fire, and we had to transfer from one high school to another high school. >> 30 seconds. >> My children had to sit at home for 2 weeks. That's unacceptable. No one can follow up to let me know how that can be worked through and what we can do to improve it. I'm still waiting on a response from the appeal why my child has missed his SOLs. Thank you. >> Thank you. As I shared previously, we do have some time. How much time do we have left for public comment? >> 18 minutes. >> Okay. Um we have a very significant amount of time. If there's anyone here who would like to share thoughts, please come forward, uh sign the clipboard, and introduce your name before
056speaking. Good evening. >> Good evening. My name is Liz Bartonstein. I signed up. Thank you. My name is Liz Bartonstein, and I'm a current RPS teacher. Um I'm here to talk about the proposed $20 cut to the hourly rate for teachers who cover classes. Having teachers cover classes is a band-aid on a chronic problem that I think we're all aware of, the substitute teacher shortage. It's a problem that teachers, the ones who pay the price with their time, have little to no ability to fix. This shortage should be a management problem, but instead teachers pay the price often. And now we're being asked to do so for $20 less per hour. The timing of this proposed cut is concerning. If this weren't the first week of summer, I can assure you teachers would be filling
057this room. Once again, the school board is being asked to make a rushed decision. One which will have far-reaching effects on our district. That's not fair to this voting body, and it's certainly not fair to teachers. This move could also be interpreted as bad faith as the hourly rate being put on the table today is already being discussed right now in our contract negotiations. In negotiations, there is a back and forth, a sharing of information, proposals and counter proposals. It's incredibly detailed work for both sides. And it's a lot more nuanced and democratic than what is being proposed today. I ask that the board reject this proposed cut and allow bargaining in good faith to continue. And the way the hourly rate to be determined will be determined. Thank you. >> Thank you. Good evening.
058>> Good evening. My name is Hannah Kleiman. I'm an RPS exceptional education teacher and one of the lead negotiators for REA. I emailed you all this week to communicate our concern about collective bargaining within RPS and I appreciate the responses I got. From the beginning of this process, it was communicated pretty clearly that bargaining for anything budget related would be difficult since the budget has already basically been determined. We understand this year's budget has been tough. We all feel that especially at the negotiations table and we're constantly told there is no money. But what is really being communicated in that room is that there is no money for education workers. We have seen time and time again that this board and past boards do not prioritize funding the people that make this district run. From
059paraprofessionals to school nutrition staff, to teachers, to care and safety, to bus drivers, to custodians. The people that keep the schools clean, safe, drive kids to school, teach kids, feed kids. Their worth is not seen in this budget. What is seen is the high pay for a superintendent, chiefs, directors, and principal directors. And we did the math. If we cut these salaries by 10% along with a 5% cut to a few manager positions, this would save the district over $900,000. And all of these positions would still have a base pay that is over six figures. Why is this not being considered? Why are the cuts from the bottom rather than the top? Why is it that we that sacrifice so much daily continue to have to sacrifice our pay? There needs to be some give
060somewhere. If not in pay, then in autonomy, in respect, in allowing the proposals that we bring to the table that allot for no money whatsoever, let them move forward. Our planning. All we want to do is a collaborative planning. We want to be trusted as professionals. We want to be able to determine how we spend our planning and how our students learn and how to benefit our students. And currently, it's not being accepted. >> 1 minute. >> We want to have a say in how we spend our day. If not just the trust, all it is is just trust that we deserve to do our jobs and to be professionals. We don't want to lose our lunch break for 4 weeks without compensation. We're being asked for 4 weeks to lose our lunch break and
061not get paid for that. We don't want three staff meetings per month. If you're not going to consider these budgets, at least consider how you're going to retain and recruit staff. Thank you. Thank you. Good evening. >> Good evening. This is Dr. Emily Yin. I'm >> [clears throat] >> here on behalf of Teamsters Local 322. Um [snorts] we're here to say that we um are concerned about the proposed cuts, especially to frontline workers. Um we would like uh consideration to uh have cuts from um some of the um top administrators instead of the frontline workers. We also would like um consideration um for some of these um our our union siblings in REA who are negotiating a contract right now. Um especially on non-budgetary um items to be uh fully considered. And um we would
062like the uh Richmond Virtual Academy to uh remain open. Um thank [clears throat] you very much. Thank you. Good evening. >> Good evening, Madam Chair, Mr. Vice Chair, members of the board, Mr. Superintendent Benjamin Hoin, longtime RPS parent and rising uh Appomattox Regional Governor's School ninth-grader, little surprised to be here actually advocating for the Lunenburg Holton the Hub stop for ARGS. Driving by Lunenburg Holton many times over many years and see the bus that fly there, high school open high school, military school, and of course the other uh Governor's School in town, Maggie Walker. All have hub bus stops at Holton, yet ARGS does not. Uh so I'm trying to figure out why that is. Uh all other parts of the city uh have a hub stop for ARGS. That includes the East End, the
063Southside, Central City, and of course the West End with multiple stops uh at Thomas Jefferson High School. So the Holton Hub bus stop would not only serve uh Northside, um Bellevue, but it also serve the broader Northside community, Battery Park, Inner Park, Brooklyn Park, etc. So, I'm trying to figure out why there is no Northside stop. I know we got some tremendous advocates for the Northside, board member Farooq, and then even some prominent members of RPS staff here that are Northside advocates. Uh one of your own board members could tell you a lot more about Linwood Holton than I certainly ever could. Um and then I know we have some ARGS parents on the board as well. So, we got ARGS parents, we got Holton advocates, we got Northside advocates. So, why no Holton the
064Hub stop? Why no Northside Hub stop for Appomattox Regional Governor's School? So, I'm so simply here to ask that the school board provide Northside families with the same opportunities their own constituents receive. Again, Eastside, Southside, Central City, West End all have a Hub stop for Appomattox Regional Governor's School, and please give Northside families the same treatment as the rest of the city receives, and provide a Hub stop. Thank you very much. >> Thank you. Good evening. >> Uh good evening. Uh my name is Steven Strauss. I'm a teacher at Huguenot High School, um speaking about the cut to um class coverage from $55 to $35. I understand that there's an $800,000 gap, uh but to my colleague's point, if you took the superintendent, the principal directors, the chief of staffs, the director positions, cut those
065by 10%, um they would still have a base pay above $100,000, uh and that would net us over $900,000 if you include a couple managers as well, um and give them a 5% cut. And I know that this board is not likely to do that, um but I just wonder why is it the only cut that's being put forth in this budget uh is going to affect our teachers. Um I don't classes very often. Uh my planning time is precious, and so I try to avoid that, but for a lot of teachers, that $55 um helps them make ends meet. Teachers don't make a lot of money and this is a way for people to help provide for their families. We have a lot of teachers at my school who are single parents and them
066being able to cover classes and receive that rate you know makes a huge difference in terms of their their livelihood. Um, and so I just asked the board to consider maintaining the current rate um, with the current budget. Uh, yesterday during the school board meeting um, utilities were brought up and the rising cost gas and I think that we all recognize that currently what's budgeted will not cover um, what gas prices are and so I think I with that in mind as well we could just bake in this $55 knowing that there's going to be a money coming um, the 7th District willed it last night and so that that it is going to happen. We are going to get the extra funding and then on top of that every year there is money in
067the general fund that isn't used because of things like resignations and so there will be unallocated money that could help close that $800,000 gap. Thank you. >> Thank you. Do we have any more time? >> We have 9 minutes Madam Chair. >> Okay. >> Good evening everyone. Good evening. Good evening. Good evening. >> And if you could sign the clipboard before you get started I'd appreciate it. >> My name is Dee Winston. That's D E E N Winston. It is good to see you all. I'm standing here again and again and again as a parent of a student at Richmond Virtual Academy whose school has closed allegedly due to lack of funding. In all of my years, I have never heard of a school being closed unless another school was being built. However, we're virtual.
068Our school, it takes less money to run, but we're being closed. It is just not a good thing, and I'm just going to say I'm going to keep advocating. Get used to seeing me. I'm going to be here. I'm going to show up. You may be dreaming about me. It's not over. >> [laughter] >> It's not over. I'm just saying it's not over. I couldn't be here on May 12th because my daughter had her Girl Scout ceremony. And also, she crushed her SOL and her English. I haven't gotten the math. So, Richmond Virtual Academy is working. Her teacher, I have my phone say, "Tell her I need a new pair of shoes." Cuz she had to send it to me, but I'm telling you, I'm going to keep coming, and I'm going to keep fighting.
069So, get used to seeing me cuz I'm here. >> Good evening. Good evening. Good evening. My name is Chloe Trumper. I'm a teacher at Boushall Middle School and an Academic Architect for the district. I'm just here to echo what my other union members and teachers have said tonight because if we were aware of what we were just informed by cutting our CBA pay and all the other things happening in negotiations, we would have more people out tonight, but it is summer. We are exhausted. Teachers are working our butts off all year long. We care so much about our kids, and then we're continuously getting day after day, RPS is doing this, RPS is cutting that, RPS is doing this. And then I'm thinking about my kids and my students and how this is impacting them
070and stressing [clears throat] about them. And I just hope you guys realize how much impact this has on us as individuals, as people. I lose sleep thinking about how these cuts are impacting my fellow teachers, the other staff in my building, the students in my building. I get that you have to make these hard decisions, but there are people who will not be impacted as much if you cut appropriately and you budget appropriately. I'm never going to make $100,000 if I stay with RPS, which is my plan, until I taught for 40 years. That's ridiculous. People are making that now for less time. And why are we not considering that? Why are we not having other options out there? I just hope you guys will sit with that, sit with your heart, think about the
071people doing this work every day, consider that you are hemorrhaging excellent educators in this district. I know probably five, 10 people who have already quit or will not be returning next year. That is a huge loss for this district and the students in this district. We have to start making better decisions or we're going to lose everybody, and you're going to be stuck with these long-term subs that you're paying some corporate business for. So, please keep that in mind, and please think about the educators and the students that you are impacting with your choices. Thank you. >> Thank you. If there are no one else, no one else? All right. We will consider that the ending of our public information section. We'll move on to um 5.01 adopt FY27 operating and CIP budgets. Mr. Chambers.
072>> Thank you, Madam Chair, and thank you to everyone who came out tonight and who has participated throughout the budget process. All of your feedback has been incredibly helpful and while we of course have not been able to do everything that everybody has asked, we have certainly worked hard to put forward a fiscally responsible budget that does also have many benefits for our schools and our employees including a 2% raise for all teachers, a 7% raise for transportation personnel, an 8% raise for our school office associates, a 12% raise for our family liaisons, full funding of summer school, full funding of our mental health and wrap-around support contracts, and this is of course just a short list, but there are many other benefits included as well. At the same time, we recognize there is a
073lot of pain in this budget with the closure of the Richmond Virtual Academy, the reduction force of 46 employees, the furlough of dozens of employees in senior positions, uh along with several other reductions as well. I wish we could fund everything that we all want for all of our students and I know everybody around this dais is committed to be continuing to advocate particularly at the state level to ensure that the Commonwealth of Virginia reforms the manner in which it funds public education. Uh we're grateful for the increases we've received from the state, but we also know based on independent research that the Commonwealth still under funds K-12 education by something on the order of two to three billion dollars. And so my commitment, our commitment I believe is to continue to fight that good
074fight to ensure that RPS receives all of the resources that it needs and that it deserves so that our students and our teachers and our support staff get every possible resource that they need and deserve. And so with that Madam Chair, I present to you for adoption the FY 27 budget with a general fund in the amount of 453 million 964 dollars, a special revenue fund budget in the amount of 91 million 808,424 dollars, and a capital improvement budget in the amount of 9 million 918,000 dollars. Thank you. >> Thank you, Mr. Percival. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. I move that the school board of the city of Richmond adopt the fiscal year 2027 school board budgets as follows: the FY 27 general fund budget in the amount of 453 million 964,963 dollars, the FY
07527 special revenue fund budget in the amount of 91 million 808,424 dollars, the fiscal year 27 capital improvement fund budget in the amount of 9 million 918,000 dollars. >> Second. It's been moved by Mr. Percival and seconded by Ms. Burke. Before we vote, are there any matters of debate? Having none, Madam Clerk. >> Mr. Percival. >> Yes. >> Ms. Ricard. >> Yes. >> Mr. Farooq. >> Yes. >> Mr. Hedgepeth. >> Yes. >> Ms. Rizzi. >> Yes. >> Ms. Holton. >> Yes. >> Ms. Burke. >> Yes. >> Mr. Jafari. >> Yes. >> Ms. Fernandez. >> Yes. >> Motion passes unanimously. >> Thank you. Moving right along to board actions, 6.01 receive for action Head Start report. Good evening. >> Good evening, Madam Chair, Superintendent Cameras, members of the board. I have two key updates I wanted
076to share tonight. So, as I shared at my last presentation, our en- enrollment numbers have not really moved from last uh from our last update because we are towards the end of the year, and so we are focused on enrolling in school year 26-27. Um at this time, we have 24 slots for our early Head Start uh program, and 126 applications, so we are feeling super confident about uh being able to fill those slots. As for our Head Start program, we have 67% place a placement rate at this time, which is higher than at this time last year. We were at 54%. We have uh we're uh we have 40 applicants in the queue for this week, and so if those all move through, we will be at 75%. So, super excited about the progress
077that we are making towards our school year 26-27 enrollment. Um we have a couple of canvassing events uh that we are working in collaboration with our policy council members to make sure that we are um helping to drive enrollment uh for our outstanding slots that we have. So, um really excited about the collaboration that's happening there. Uh and as we prepare for next year for our returning families, we have a uh returning parent orientation on Tuesday, 6/9, where we'll go through and um reorient them to the program. We have partners, our SNS partner, excuse me, our School Nutrition Services partners are there, transportation, policy council, um physicals for families who need that, hearing screens to really help and try and smooth uh the enrollment process for school year 2026-2027. With that, I'm happy to receive
078any questions. >> Mr. Jafari. >> And Ms. Hall. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. I'm going to circle back to this. Uh as I look and try to serve all of the youngsters in the eighth district, and I look at the early Head Start slots, and I brought this up previously. I just the youngsters that we have in the Oak Grove Child Care Center, I know that we're full. I I see that, and I get that. But, I would like some kind of projection. Do Do we see any way that we're going to be able to bring them back into the fold on an actual site, a Richmond Public Schools site? Um Give me some idea, you know, what you see in the future for that. Um I know you don't have a crystal ball or
079anything, but take a stab at it, because the the reality is I really can't serve them like I serve the kids that are Summer Hill. It It's not an actual public school site. Can't contribute to them. Can't help them with their uh moving on ceremonies and that kind of thing. Uh can't get them painted crosswalks. I can't get them cross guards. And as I have said uh here before, I want them to be served, and I want them to be safe just like any other child anywhere else throughout the district. So, I'll just leave the floor open to you now. Thanks. >> Thank you, Mr. Jafari. It You are correct. There are While we have um Head Start classrooms in there, the entire facility is not uh an RPS site. Um and they are in
080their own independent facility. Um I've not spoken to them specifically about this item that um you're bringing up and I'm happy to have that conversation. We We do regularly think about, you know, where we need to expand our seats and this is something that we can continue to um look into. Mr. Jafari. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. Just as a follow-up, um and again, I know you don't have a crystal ball, but this is something that I've heard previously that we will do it, but I just want to make sure that my colleagues are cognizant of the fact that while we keep repeating this, uh we do have youngsters that RPS is responsible for who are continuing moment to moment to go through that lack. And so, I just I don't want it to become
081just a statement that we keep saying. I want us to do something concrete and substantive to get those youngsters moved into an RPS site. And I just want to make that clear. I'm a superintendent. So, that we can move ahead and and do something to get them where they can be treated on par with every other student throughout not just the district, but the division. Thank you. >> Mr. Kamaras. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. Um Mr. Jafari, I would love to sit with you to to talk more about this. I do think to achieve what you are articulating with uh potentially require us to expand the number of seats that that we have in RPS. And so I would want to just understand what the space needs are, um where those students would go, that
082sort of thing. And so, um would like to take some time to to work with the team, and then follow up with you, um to to see what's possible about about making that adjustment. I also, of course, want to talk to the childcare center themselves, uh because there are um I would imagine benefits to becoming part of RPS, but there are also some um responsibilities, costs, and uh requirements that come along with that as well. And so, uh we would have to uh engage in those conversations, but we're happy to explore them, and and to include you as part of that process, and follow up with any information that that we're able to gather. Uh if I may, just one other note, um the the Head Start students in the Oak Grove childcare centers receive
083the same education benefits, um uh meals, etc., because they're Head Start students. They are under the same federal requirements as the young uh children in our RPS sites. And so, if the question is one of differential care or differential education, I don't think that is currently the the issue. If there is a question of um wanting to be a part of the RPS system, that's certainly something we can explore, but um by law, there there can't be any difference in terms of what we are providing in terms of services uh for the young people, and I I don't believe the Oak Grove childcare center um folks would um would say that there's anything inferior about the the education and the care that that they are providing. So, I would want to understand a little bit
084more um about the the goal that we're we're trying to achieve. >> Sure. Mr. Jaffery. >> So, I I just want to be clear. There's no allegation here that they're being taught any differently. If I can just give you an analogy. Yesterday and at various times throughout the year, I've been able to go into Bush or Blackwell and I'm able to actually directly work with the youngsters there. When we say that we are actually giving them the same level of services, that's just not correct. I'm not able to just go there and and do this. I'm not able to just uh go there and help work with them on the programming there. I'm not involved, contacted, or otherwise reached out to to be involved with them. So, that's just inaccurate. To say that um >>
085One more >> We have We have schools that have crosswalks. As I indicated, we don't have any crosswalks or anything there. We have parents who pull up there and for lack of a better description, they're already angry. They double park. They take that anger into the building. So, no, it's not the same thing. And so again, uh like I said, we've visited this before. And so I'm back here again. I just want to make it clear that we're talking about two different things. I'm talking about full and complete delivery. I'm not talking about whether or not they are actually doing the education delivery. My granddaughter went there. They're doing an exceptional job. Absolutely. And I'm not knocking that. I'm just saying that what they what those youngsters are not getting on the back end, they
086are entitled to have. All of it. Thanks, Madam Chair. >> Thank you. Ms. Holton and Ms. Byrd. >> Uh thank you, Madam Chair. Uh and thank you, Ms. Chang. Um the to hear that we are well ahead of the placement rate for last year on the Head Start and that we're clearly going to have no trouble filling our slots for early Head Start. So, thank you. I know that's due to a lot of hard work for you from you and your team matching needs to opportunity. So, thank you for that good work. You mentioned canvassing events. I just wanted to say if there are events where we personally could be helpful being present, please let us know because I for one and I'm sure many of my colleagues would be happy to chime in. Um.
087The uh the Oh, well, I I just to Mr. Jafari's point, I had not Jafari's point. I was not aware of this issue and would love to hear more and I will um look to speak with my colleague about it. I will say I've had the opportunity to visit a number of the private child care centers that we partner with uh uh in the Head Start program and just observe them doing really tremendous work and what I'm hearing what I heard from them, I was meeting with them in a different capacity some last year was what they want is more slots and more students because they have the capacity. I mean, most of them are faith-based organizations connected to providing child care more broadly and they feel they have more to offer in the Head
088Start field and so I I just encourage us to do everything we can to make sure their spots are being filled equitably with the RPS spots, but also that we do everything we can to help support those programs. Thank you. >> Thank you, Ms. Burke. >> Thank you, Madam Chair and thank you for your report. We've come a long way with Head Start, but we're not there yet. 67% we can do better. We can do better. I'm from my my perspective because if our children don't get that Head Start, we pay for it later. That's inevitable. My question is, there are several stand-alone Head Start programs in the city. For instance, in my district, I think I have two or three. Do you have any idea per se at this point? If not, we can
089talk about it later because I'm wondering more about logistics in terms of if we're right now have 67% and our goal is 100%. So, we have spaces within the current buildings to move those children into or it would be a different program per se. It's the same Head Start. Maybe it's a It's a conversation to have, but I'd like to know how many stand-alone programs are there in the city of Richmond? >> I will provide that information, and I'll also include um where we are for enrollment at each of those sites specifically. >> Thank you. >> Welcome. >> Thank you, Mr. Percival. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. I just wanted to clarify for Ms. Burke um just for context, uh you are correct. We're constantly striving for 100%, and for the the guidelines, we would
090have to be at 97%. Um when Ms. Chang is reporting 67%, that is the end of the year where Early Head Start have moved on and Head Start has moved on. So, we were at 96 >> .45% uh just about a month ago until students actually moved on. So, as Ms. Chang pointed out, we're ahead of where we were last year as far as re-enrolling students. So, we would assume by August that we would be back up into the high 90s. I just want to make sure that was clear for everyone because it probably >> Thank you. Yes, in action this week. >> Yes, I I do need approval of the reports as presented. >> Ms. Ricard? >> Thank you, Madam Chair. I move to approve the Head Start program reports, minutes, and financial statements
091as presented by the administration. >> Second. >> It's been moved by Ms. Ricard and seconded by Mr. Farooq. Madam Clerk. >> Mr. Percival? >> Yes. >> Ms. Ricard? >> Yes. >> Mr. Farooq? >> Yes. >> Mr. Hedgepeth? >> Yes. >> Ms. Rizzi? Ms. Holton? >> Yes. Ms. Burke? >> Yes. >> Mr. Jafari? >> Yes. >> Ms. Fernandez? >> Yes. >> Motion passes. >> Thank you. >> We're at item 6.02, receive for action the personnel actions. >> Good evening, Madam Chair, members of the board, Superintendent Cameras. I'm here to present personnel actions. I present the nomination of 69 employees, change of contract of 138, the position elimination of 23, reduction in force of six, non-renewal for licensure of 46, resignation of 123, retirement of 38, furlough of 13, and death of four. I I request approval
092of personnel actions. >> Thank you. Before we vote, I do understand this is your last evening with us. And um just want to say how very much appreciative we are of the contribution that you've shared with RPS. Um you are leaving some big shoes to fill. But and you will be greatly missed. Thank you for all that you've done to make us better. And with that do we have a motion? Mr. Hedgepeth. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. I'll second that, Ms. Veliz. Uh thank you. Um and I move that we accept the personnel actions as presented. >> Second. >> It's been moved by Mr. Hedgepeth and seconded by Mr. Farooq, Madam Clerk. >> Mr. Percival. >> Yes. >> Ms. Ricard. >> Yes. >> Mr. Farooq. >> Yes. >> Mr. Hedgepeth. >> Yes. >> Ms. Rizzi.
093>> Yes. >> Ms. Holton. >> Yes. >> Ms. Burke. >> Yes. >> Mr. Jafari. >> Yes. >> Ms. Fernandez. >> Abstain. >> Motion passes. >> Thank you. Moving right along to the consent agenda. We see before us 7.01 through 7.06. There are no items to question. Can we have a motion? >> Madam Madam Chair, I have a procedural question if I may. >> Sure. >> I I'm fully in favor of the all the items on the consent agenda, but there's one I want to speak to briefly. So, is will I have would I have an opportunity >> opportunity. That's exactly what I just opened the floor for. What what item would you like to pull out? >> I I I I just want to commend the staff on item 7.03, the score uh uh uh
094the student ethics document. They worked hard to incorporate feedback from us last month on uh uh trauma-informed responses, and I think it's a great product, and just want to thank them for their hard work. >> Okay, yeah. Then, we always love congratulations and thank you. So, thank you for that. You just tell me It's always time for that. Um are there any questions about any of the items before we have a motion? Okay. Who would like to make the motion? Mr. Hedgepeth. >> Madam Chair, I motion that we approve the consent agenda as presented. >> Second. >> It's been moved by Mr. Hedgepeth and seconded by Ms. Ricard. Madam Clerk. >> Mr. Principal. >> Yes. >> Ms. Ricard. >> Yes. >> Mr. Farooq. >> Yes. >> Mr. Hedgepeth. >> Yes. >> Ms. Rizzi. >> Yes.
095>> Ms. Holton. >> Yes. >> Ms. Burke. >> Yes. >> Mr. Jafari. >> Yes. >> Ms. Fernandez. >> Yes. >> Motion passes. >> Thank you. We'll now open the floor up for new business, colleagues. 8.01. Do we have any? Ms. Burke. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. Is this the opportunity we can make requests regarding agendas moving forward? All right. I have two. Number one, I would like to um receive the updated organizational chart. Since we have so many changes going on, we can get that in July. That would be perfect. And then, my second uh ask is that I think the policy committee is doing an awesome awesome job. Um as we want to make requests moving forward to add a couple of things, not to correct what you have, but just to review procedures.
096>> Is this specific to the policy committee? >> Yes. >> Mr. Hischak. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. Thank you, Ms. Burke. Um we always welcome um any uh policy questions or proposed edits. Uh all board members are able to uh to to propose those. Um you do not have to be a member of the committee. In fact, Mr. Stanley, I think any member of the public can also propose uh them, so um send them my way. That'd be great. Thank you. >> Appreciate you. Thank you. Thank you. Will that be all? All right, who has close? >> Madam Chair, colleagues, I move that the school board of the city of Richmond convene in closed session. One, to discuss and consider the performance and possible specific related to consult council on the same issue as authorized
097by Virginia Code 2.2-3711 A1 and A8. And number two, to discuss the disposition of possible school board property where the discussion in open meeting would adversely affect the bargaining position of the school board as authorized by Virginia Code 2.2-3711 A3. >> Second. It's been moved by Mr. Jafari and seconded by Ms. Ricard. Madam Clerk. >> Mr. Percival. >> Yes. >> Ms. Ricard. >> Yes. >> Mr. Farooq. >> Yes. >> Mr. Hischak. >> Yes. >> Ms. Rizzi. >> Yes. >> Ms. Holton. >> Yes. >> Ms. Burke. >> Yes. >> Mr. Jafari. >> Yes. >> Ms. Fernandez. >> Yes. >> Motion passes. >> We are now in closed