001Good evening everyone. We would like to call the business session school board meeting for Tuesday, January 6, 2026 into order. Madame clerk, >> Mr. Persal >> here. >> Miss Ricard >> here. >> Mr. Farooq >> here. >> Mr. Hedgepath >> here. >> Miss Rizzy >> here. >> Miss Burke. >> Mr. Jafari >> here. >> Miss Fernandez >> here. We have a quorum. >> Thank you. And now we'll have our pledge of allegiance led by Miss Burke. >> I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice. 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 from English
002to Spanish, please come see me. I will be at the table in the back with interpreters. We have interpretation headsets for anyone who needs one. Interpretation in Spanish is also available for those watching this meeting through Zoom. I want to remind everyone to please speak at a normal pace and keep your face no more than a couple of inches away from the microphones so that our interpreters can hear you clearly. I will now make the same announcement in Spanish. Thank you. Moving right along to 1.04. Approve the minutes of December 1st, 2025 and December 2nd, 2025 schoolboard meetings. Miss Ricard. >> Madame chair, I move to approve the minutes of December 1st, 2025 and December 2nd, 2025 school board meetings. >> It's been moved by Miss Ricard and seconded by Mr. Jafari. Madam clerk, Mr.
003Pible, >> yes. >> Miss Ricard, >> yes. >> Mr. Farooq, >> yes. >> Mr. Hedgepath, >> yes. >> Miss Rizzy, >> yes. >> Miss Berg, >> yes. >> Mr. Jafari, >> yes. >> Miss Fernandez, >> yes. >> Motion passes. >> Thank you. And now we have the adoption of the agenda. Mr. Pival. >> Madam Chair, I move we adopt the agenda for January 6, 2026 as posted. >> Second. >> It's been moved by Mr. Pival and seconded by Mr. Hedgepath. Madame Clerk. Mr. Perl. >> Yes. >> M. Ricard. >> Yes. >> Mr. Farooq. >> Yes. >> Mr. Hedgepath. >> Yes. >> Miss Rizzy. >> Yes. >> Miss Berg. >> Yes. >> Mr. Jafari. >> Yes. >> Miss Fernandez. >> Yes. Yes. Motion passes. >> Thank you. Moving right along to recognition 2.01. Uh we have
004our student representative Leila Taylor will be introduced by superintendent cameras. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. Good evening everyone. I am delighted to introduce Leila Taylor as senior at Richmond Community High School where she distinguishes herself as a thoughtful student leader and an engaged member of her community. as a dedicated member of the superintendent student advisory council, an active participant in her school's community council, and a member of Congresswoman Jennifer Mlen's youth advisory council, Leila brings a strong sense of civic responsibility, collaboration, and commitment to service in every space she enters. A QuestBridge Prep Scholar and QuestBridge National Match Scholar, Leila pairs academic excellence with a deep dedication to creating positive change. Her involvement in volunteering, community gardening, and school-based projects reflects reflects her belief giving back and strengthening the communities that have shaped her. Through
005both leadership and service, she consistently demonstrates empathy, initiative, and a sense of purpose. Beyond academics and advocacy, Ila enjoys playing video games and writing, creative outlets that allow her to relax, express herself, and explore new ideas. These interests balance her busy schedule, fuel her curiosity and imagination. After graduation, she plans to pursue her bachelor's degree. Excitedly, Ila has been accepted to my alma mater, Princeton University, where she hopes to continue growing as a scholar, leader, and community advocate. Driven, reflective, and serviceoriented, Leila Taylor represents the promise and potential of the next generation of leaders committed to making a meaningful impact. Please join me in welcoming Leila T. >> Good evening everyone. I hope everyone's evening is going great. I would like to start my opening remarks by first thanking the board and superintendent cameras for
006allowing me to speak in in front of such an influential audience. It is truly an honor to be here and for that I am so grateful. Advocacy has always been an important aspect of my life. Upon upon being a being invited to speak, I knew that I didn't just want my opinions to be said and heard. After talking to various teachers and students from my school and listen listening to them rant about how the water from our ceilings consistently leaked on our library books or that some rooms would be too hot and then too cold. There was a particular problem that we all thought seriously needed to be addressed. The 4x4 brow schedule. In my personal experience, this issue became rather jarring during my junior year of high school where I decided to take four
007advanced placement classes. Within these content heavy courses, each quarter, we had to cram a large quantity of information. Oftent times with the upcoming deadline in mind rather than retaining the actual content itself. After learning how to apply four different formulas or memorizing the 12 important organel functions, I'd continue on with my day participating in various extracurricular activities while also studying to keep up in my various classes. This is the norm in my school. Deadlines and due dates control our ability to effectively learn and efficiently in ways we do best, experimental learning. Textbooks instead of labs and silence instead of interaction have caused students to be underwhelmed, unattentive, and absent. All problems Richmond public schools aim to solve. This leads me to my second point. On the 4x4 bell schedule, classes are way too long. Every
008class period, me and my peers have to endure 90 minutes of lecture and worksheets. In actuality, we are only retaining about an hour's worth of content while the rest of our time is being spent aimlessly looking around and doodling our brain's way of trying to escape the overwhelming amounts of information we are being taught. This unpro this unproductivity not only causes stress for the students but also for the teachers as frustration builds due to their efforts to keep everyone engaged. In my speech thus far, two main issues have been addressed. The 4x4 bell schedule and exactly how long each class is due to this schedule. While I fully recognize the complexity and reframing the entire bell schedule for RPS schools, I know that in a lot of ways the 4x4 bell schedule seems to be
009doing more harm than good. Thus, I want to get a better perspective on the exact pros of a new possible bell schedule, the 8 by8 or better known as the odd and even schedule. So, after talking to multiple students from Olden, I was able to configure a general consensus on the even and odd schedule and why it's more beneficial. To begin, the even schedule allows for much greater flexibility in courses in Scout, allowing for students like me who want to go into STEM get our necessary core classes while also experimenting in hard science courses such as chemistry and physics. Furthermore, with shorter classes, students are less likely to become burnt out and restless, making it easier for them to stay focused and engaged. With this being said, fullyear classes will allow for teachers to be
010more interactive with their students and in a way of and in their way of teaching. An example of this is performing labs or going on field trips making school overall more fun and engaging for students. To conclude everything that's been stated thus far, with both scheduling have with both schedules having their pros and cons, the 4x4 schedule has been deemed no longer beneficial by students and teachers alike with problems such as engagement, attentiveness, and attest arising as common concerns from teachers and burntout and stress from students. Determined to e this wor determined to ease this worry. I propose we phase out of the 4x4 bell schedule and into the even odd schedule. Not only to allow students to become more flexible with their courses, but to give teachers more access to experimental and interactive learning
011to keep their students engaged and happy. I thank you all for giving me the opportunity to advocate for myself and my classmates. and I hope that I have provided you with more than enough insight to consider my proposition. Thank you for your valuable time and I hope that everyone has a great rest of their night. Thank you so much for your comments and advocacy. We really appreciate you and congratulations again on where you're headed to Princeton. That's major. Congratulations. I know your your parents are very proud. Moving right along to recognition of Virginia School Principles Appreciation Week. Principles are used to being flexible and creative and just rolling with it. We'll pivot. >> Uh, >> my name is Cecil Atkins, president of the 8th grade here at LMBMS. [music] Virginia School Principal Appreciation Week is
012the week of January 11th to the 17th of 2026. Whereas principles serve as dedicated leaders who guide teaching and learning with clarity, purpose, [music] and an unwavering belief in the abilities of every student. And whereas RPS principles cultivate nurturing, safe, inclusive school communities by fostering trust, championing belonging, and ensuring that students, family, and staff [music] feel welcome, heard, loved, and supported each day. And whereas [music] RPS principles strengthen partnerships with families and community stakeholders, understanding that collaboration, [music] communication, and shared voice enrich the educational experiences for all students. And whereas [music] RPS principles lead with love, modeling integrity, compassion, [music] and resilience as they advance the division's strategic plan, dreams for RPS, and inspire students and educators to reach their [music] fullest potential. Now therefore, be it proclaimed that Richmond Public Schools hereby recognizes January
01311th to [music] the 17th, 2026 as Virginia School Principal Appreciation Week [music] and encourages everyone to join in this celebration. We love you here. We're going to do photos at the end. So, we're going to make our way through the rest of the proclamation. So hang tight. >> Next up, we do have of RPS teacher of the year. Richmond public schools 2025 teacher of the year, Tiffany. January 2026. Whereas the RPS teacher of the year award recognizes the extraordinary work of one of the division's many incredible teachers and a given to an RPS educator who empathize and it means so what it means to teach with love, lead with love and serve with love every day. And whereas Richmond public schools recognizes finalists Lucy Alfonso from Open High School. Andrea Bryant from Lucille Brown Middle
014School, Maria Isabelle Cardona from Oak Grove Bell Elementary School, and Lat Latana Olivera from Southampton Elementary School for their achievement and contributions to students. And whereas RPS honors Mrs. Tiffany Sneed, a literacy coach at the fabulous Fairfield Court Elementary School as the 2026 RPS teacher of the year. And whereas Mrs. Sneeed shares her passion for literacy and deep commitment to fostering student success by ensuring high quality literacy instruction across every grade level and designing learning experiences that inspire growth and achievement. And whereas Mrs. needs diligent efforts assisting Fairfield Court Elementary School in achieving a 20 point gain in early literacy scores. And whereas Mrs. collaborates closely with teachers and administrators to analyze data and provide differentiated support for diverse students, including English language learners and students who require additional interventions. And whereas RPS proudly supports
015Mrs. Sne's application to the Virginia Teacher of the Year award. Now, therefore, it is proclaimed that Richmond Public Schools hereby recognizes Mrs. Tiffany Sneed as the 2026 RPS teacher of the year and encourages everyone to join in celebrating this incredible achievement in supporting Mrs. Sneed in all of her future endeavors. This is a phenomenal accomplishment. Congratulations to all the award winners and to Miss Snee for her efforts. Um up next we have recognition of REB awardees. Before we go to the video, we'd like to acknowledge um third district Councilwoman Kenya Gibson who is here on this evening and ask that when we uh do the pictures, if you would like to come up, I know you have someone represented in the third um in this category, you're welcome to do so. Thank you. >> Hello
016everybody. Welcome to Lucille Brown Middle School. [music] I'm the My name is Emily. I am the parliamentarian for the eighth grade. Today I'll be talking about the 2025 REB awards for teaching excellence January 2026. [music] Whereas for over 30 years, the REB awards for teaching excellence have celebrated excellence in public education. And whereas the awards recognizes public school teachers who distinguish themselves by inspiring students from all ages through lifelong learning and whereas the following dedicated, creative, and inspiring teachers have been achieved this great honor. Jonathan Ash from Franklin Military Academy, Robin Keegan from Francis McClenny Elementary School, Raleigh Quizo [music] from Cardinal Elementary School, Vivian Lee Taylor from Thomas Jefferson High School, and Kieran Wilson from [music] Franklin Military Academy. And whereas the recipients will use your grant awards to pursue enriching professionals [music] development
017experiences that will reinvigorate their practices and bring passion into the classroom. Now therefore it will it will be proclaimed [music] that Richmond public schools have recognized and celebrate our 2025 REB [music] winners. >> Wonderful. And next we have recognition of Franklin Military Academy National ESA Distinguished School. Hi, my name is Cha Ralph, a student at LMBBMS Middle School, [music] a national ESA distinguished schools program recognition January 2026. We are thrilled to recognize Franklin Military [music] Academy as one of only two schools in the Commonwealth selected for recognition through the National ESA Distinguished Schools program. [music] Following a competitive review process, Franklin Military Academy was selected to represent Virginia [music] in category 1, exceptional student performance for two consecutive years. [music] This honor highlights the school's sustained academic excellence, [music] dedication to student success, and unwavering
018commitment to highquality instruction. [music] National honores will be recognized during the national ESA conference scheduled for February 2026 in Denver, Colorado. On behalf of Richmond Public Schools, we extended [music] our heartfelt congratulations to the entire Franklin Military Academy community. We are proud of our of your remarkable achievements and grateful for [music] the love, determination, and commitment you bring to our students each and every day. Wonderful. And because um we had a short holiday season, we didn't have enough time to create a video for this next group. So myself and Vice Chair Perl will do our best to honor them, although we're not one of the cute kids. Hope you guys are okay with it. Uh in recognition of RPS schools highlighted in region one school performance ratings, Mr. Pival. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. Speak
019for yourself. Anyway, Bear with us as this is a long list for good reason and I will try to do this with absolutely no preference for schools that may or may not be in my district. We don't do that. Whereas the Virginia Department of Education School Performance and School Framework Region One Snapshot identifies Richmond City Public Schools as a leader in academic excellence and student growth across all grade levels with and whereas Richmond Public Schools demonstrates its commitment to academic excellence with five schools receiving a distinguished schools rating. Richmond Community High School, Open High School, Franklin Military Academy, Mary Mumford Elementary School, and John Marshall High School. I did mention Mary Mumford, didn't I? Yes, I did. Okay. Whereas Richmond Community High School has achieved the historic distinction of being the top ranked school in
020Superintendent Regent 1, re achieving the highest overall framework score of among all elementary, middle, and high schools in the region. While Open High School ranks fourth overall among all high schools in the region. And whereas in elementary education, Mary Mumpford Elementary School ranks fourth overall in framework score among all elementary schools in region 1 with a score of 94.2 and also ranks second overall in chronic absenteeism rate, demonstrating a supportive and engaging school environment. And whereas JL Francis Elementary School has demonstrated exceptional progress, ranking fifth in reading growth among all elementary schools in the region. And whereas Richmond City Middle Schools are leading the region in academic growth with Albert Hill, say that again, Albert Hill Middle, Martin Luther King Jr. Middle, and Thomas H. Henderson Middle ranking third, fourth, and fifth respectively in reading
021growth among all middle schools in region 1. And there's more. And Albert Hill Middle, additionally ranking fourth in math growth. And whereas Richmond City high schools have secured top honors in subject mastery with Richmond Community High School ranking first and Oak High School ranking second in reading mastery. Open High School ranking first and Richmond Community High School ranking fourth in science mastery and Open High School ranking second and Richmond Community High School ranking fifth in math mastery among all high schools in region one. Whereas my alma moater Thomas Jefferson High School demonstrates outstanding support for diverse learnings ranking one first in English learner progress among all high schools in region one. And whereas regarding postsecary readiness, Richmond Community High School ranks third and open high school ranks fourth in the E3 enrollment, employment, enlistment, readiness
022rate in the region. And whereas Richmond Community High School, Open High School, and John Marshall High School rank first, second, and third, respectively in their 4-year graduation rate with Richmond Community and Open High continuing to lead as first and second in readiness for sixyear graduation. And whereas Richmond Community High School and Open High School exemplify student engagement by ranking first and second in their chronic absenteeism performance among all high schools in Virginia's region 1. Now therefore, be it proclaimed that Richmond City Public Schools be celebrated for these exceptional rankings and for setting the standard of excellence and superintendent region one ensuring high quality education and bright futures for all students. This recognition serves as a powerful testament to the tireless dedication of our educators, the resilience of our students, and the unwavering support of our
023families, all of whom play an intricral role in our division's rising trajectory. Let's just sit in that for a second. A lot of great stuff happening. So, now we want to start from the top and work our way down. We'll do some pictures. Is that all right? Right. >> So, we are going to start with our amazing principles. Come on down. We're going to not start with our principles. We're going to start with our student representative. But principles, get ready cuz you're next. Hold on. All right, we still have a full meeting ahead of us, so we're going to shift, but certainly want to acknowledge all of the amazing recognitions that were given out this evening. It truly shows that RPS is on the rise. As we move forward to 3.01, um, announcements, Mr. Jafari,
024colleagues, I take particular pleasure in introducing once again, Miss Taylor, who is a resident of the eighth district. All right. All right. and uh and uh announcements. [snorts] Let's see. Uh I did visit a school over the holidays and there seemed to be some major work that was done. So I wanted to give some applause to uh superintendent for pulling off and also to facilities. All right. Thank you. Um, apart from that, I did want to share as well that uh, you know, we my family over the holidays, we exchanged gifts, something a little light-hearted. And so, uh, my grandson pulled my name and he got me some cologne and it was by a Dr. Squatch. Now, I I'm not familiar with Dr. squatch. So if you're here and you kind of get the like
025a an aroma of outdoorsiness like Sasquatch or something like that, it it's just me. Never mind it. And just enjoy it. [laughter] Bless you all. Thanks, Madam Chair. Colle >> good times. Any other announcements? Miss B. First of all, thank you, Madam Chair. First of all, if you all haven't seen the style magazine, please pick up one. Richmond public schools board is standing in front of Fox Elementary for the ribbon cutting ceremony and is listed as one of the pictures of the year. So, I'm real proud to see that. Also, I may have mentioned this before, but just before the winter break, we were able to in the seventh district checks to each school. We just have one more to go. six of the seven schools in the east district for participating in VCU and
026um synergy technical program where the basketball team comes in and does a lesson with our students. I think I already shared the orange they did electricity with the oranges. I think it did the potato whatever but the students loved it from school to school number one because of the basketball players. So the whole team was there, different portions of the team, even on on team night, on um game night, they came. So each school received a check for over $1,000 and that was pertaining to the scores. So I believe Fair um is it Fairfield? But I know for a fact two of them the highest amount was 1500. So that's on the last day before the winter break. That's what took place. So we left very happy at the end of the day. thanks to
027our partnership with VCU and Synergy Technical. Thank you. >> Thank you, Mr. Hitchpack. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. For the fourth district uh parent teacher advisory council meeting for January, it will be virtual. Uh, and it will be on Saturday morning the 24th of January from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. Uh, if you're interested in joining us, please email me and I'll share the information. You also can get the information off of our u my social media as well as newsletter. U, but um I I recently asked for feedback regarding the the last few meetings and it was asked for both a weekend and an all virtual. So, we're doing that for January. In February, we'll return back to the schools with Lucille Brown Middle as our host. Uh, so more information for that coming
028up. Thank you, Madam Chair. >> Thank you, Miss Ricard. >> Um, I know we have talked about this before, but I wanted to shout out the wellness office and engagement for their love market right before Christmas. Miss Parks, um, Chief Parks. was the most incredible event and I know there were other board members there as well. Um, but it was the best start to winter break for me and it just there were beautiful greens and turkeys and that I know um, Chair Fernandez helped with and it just um, there was so much love in that Clerk Springs building and um, it really made me proud to represent a district that truly takes care of their families both within the building and outside of it. And I know you are to continue them every month, once
029a month. Um, but thank you so much. I know it is a huge effort. Um, huge, huge effort and everyone was there working and um, but it was truly beautiful. >> Miss Rizzy, >> thank you, Madam Chair. This is just a general um comment. Before the break, I got to visit um Christmas programs and I got to see so many budding musicians, um singers, actors, dancers. Um I got to see firsthand um our handbell program, which I was beautiful. I mean, just absolutely perfect. Um and then of course strings and hearts. um our our school or our students are incredibly talent and um it was really nice to get to see that firsthand although I always know it was just beautiful and I want to recognize that. >> Thank you. >> Anyone else? Thank you.
030Um I also want to echo just I was going to say the love market. So I don't want I don't want to go in exhaustion about it but I will say that we are really when we think about the heartbeat of our community. I think this is an excellent way for us to tap into um not just the needs of our community but for them to know who we are. And what I do love about the love market is not um just one person. It is a team effort and to know that folks are volunteering their time to ensure that it's running smoothly. Um it just speaks volumes to the fact that we are all loved. They are all loved and um so thank you so much Chief Parks and all the team for that.
031And I will have to shout out Haley Toyota for um donating some amazing turkeys and hams um for that effort. And to also encourage um other uh folks that might be watching and listening and you want to see how you can support RPS um you know sometimes it's not about a book. It might be just um you know serving them um through love by food. And so we're always looking for donations and um between the Love Market and the Richmond Ed Fund, we'd appreciate your continued support as we thrive in 2026 to support our community in every way that we know how to do. So thank you. All right, we're going to move right along if there are no more comments um to public information. will ask um madame clerk if she could read through
032the guidelines for us. >> 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 board members, the division superintendent, schoolboard 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 allowed 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 Richmond Public Schools Administration for one-on-one consultation and followup. Is important that all community members who wish to participate in the public information period abide by the guidelines set
033forth in this policy. Refusal to abide by the policy result in the forfeite of the remaining time that has been allotted to the speaker. Committee members may express their views in writing in lie of any oral presentation. Comments received in writing in le of an oral presentation will not be read during the meeting but shall be posted to the schoolboard platform board docs. Thank you so much. We do have one pre-registered speaker. if you're here. Aaron Barry Hill, if you could come forward one last time, Aaron Berry Hill. All right, that gives us space for uh public comment for those who may not have pre-registered but would like to speak. This is your space and opportunity to come forward if you'd like to share any public comment with us. This has to be some type
034of record. I don't even know what to do with myself. All right. Well, going, going, gone. We will move forward then to our external reports. 5.01. receive quarterly financial report from Patrick Henry School of Arts, excuse me, of science and arts. Good evening. Testing, testing. Mr. Hedgepath, I'm sorry to the board. Michael Cusera, I'm a board member at Patrick Henry School of Science and Arts, the interim uh treasurer. And you have the report in front of you. The highlights are uh total uh bank accounts at and assets at 1 176,74.30. Our total fixed assets are at 1,977,858.32. Total assets at 2,154,56262. Our total long-term liabilities are $103,289.34 and our total liabilities and equity come in at 2,1454,56262. I would like to give an opportunity for our principal, Mrs. Hudson, uh to make any comments. >>
035Good evening. Um thank you, Mr. Cusera. I'm going to be brief. Um, it's I did not know that we were having a recognition this evening, so it was a nice little surprise. So, thank you so much for that. Um, first things first, we will be having our ribbon cutting after spring break. We want to make sure everything looks nice and beautiful. The new ADA bathroom is gorgeous, ginormous, and already ready for use. Um, fifth grade will be moving in a couple of weeks out of the cottages and into the building officially. Um, we're very proud of our ontrack scores this year in all reporting categories. Um, we're continuing to improve methods for families to be involved. And with that, we are starting a virtual literacy catalog where parents can read aloud books. it's available to
036every family in the building so that they're sharing with every single child and not just their child and that will help with their 24 hours of involvement requirement. We also do online um trainings for our families using the what works clearing house to make sure our parents know exactly how we teach our math, what we're doing with you, how we're working with our literacy and helping them promote that at home as well. With that, we are also looking to pay for 100% of all field trips starting from the spring of this year until 2027. We don't want a single child to pay for a single field trip in the coming year. Um, we're working very hard on that. We're doing fundraising, but the main thing is we want every child to we never turn a
037child away from a field trip that cannot afford it. However, we want to make sure that every child is going to go and we don't have to worry about asking except permission. Can your child attend? The last thing is we are changing how we do lesson plans. We are making sure that teachers are focused on reflective planning rather than doing 25 pages on the weekend at home at night. We're changing how we do it so that they can focus on small group instruction and targeting those students no matter where they are. So, thank you so much. really appreciate you and look forward to sending the invites for the ribbon cutting. Thank you. >> Do we need to adopt the report that was pres or do we need to vote on it? How do we No.
038Do we have any questions for them? Okay. Give me just one second, please. Miss Richardson, could you shed some light for us on um the current standing or the financial reporting? Do we normally vote on that or what is your experience? I don't rightly recall that when the other gentleman come and give it that we take a vote, but just give me a few moments and I'll take a look at our previous minutes. Okay. >> And we can circle back if we need to. >> All right. I appreciate it. Just let us know. >> It's important for us to do things appropriately. So, we appreciate you raising that. Um, we'll circle back if needed. Okay. Moving right along to 6.01. Receive for action Head Start report. Thank you, Madam Chair. We do not have any
039reports for approval. Okay. Wow, this is moving full steam ahead, isn't it? Um, give me just one moment to discuss something with um, Vice Chair Persal. All right. Um, thank you for that. Okay. Now, moving right along to the consent agenda. Is there a motion, >> Madam Chair? >> Yes. >> Make a motion to accept the consent agenda. >> Second. >> It's been moved by Mr. Hedgepath and seconded by Miss Rizzy. Before we vote, is there any um matter of debate? Wonderful. Miss Richardson, Mr. Perl, >> yes. >> Miss Ricard, >> yes. Mr. for Ruben. >> Yes. >> Mr. Hedgepath, >> yes. >> Mr. Rzy, >> yes. >> Miss Berg, >> yes. >> Mr. Defari, >> yes. >> Mr. Fernandez, >> yes. >> Motion passes. >> Thank you. Now for um new business. >> Miss
040Rizzie. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. To go along with um what Dr. Wiggins um just so thoroughly presented to us yesterday. I am wondering if there's a way to work into um our schedule some periodic um subgroup updates and maybe some updates on you know um ways that we're working to address any disparities. >> Agreed. And um in addition to that, because some of the numbers weren't quite reflective of um what was correct, we had already put a tickler out there to revisit it anyway. So I think that's perfect for us to do that. Mr. Hitchbad. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. uh as we begin this this new calendar year, I wonder if maybe we can revisit the work that the governance committee did at the beginning of of the term last year uh for
041uh norms and procedures if maybe we can put that on the agenda for February. >> Thank you, Miss Burke. And then Mr. Peru. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. Um this is just a heads up evaluation committee's last report regarding our uh goals for our board whereas we stated 30 minutes for instruction etc. Yesterday we spent over 87 minutes. So we we are aligned with our goal and then some. So congratulations >> every child first. I'm counting it. I got it down step by step. >> I love it. So we will document that we are on >> wonderful >> well done >> Mr. F. >> Thank you Madam Chair. Echoing what our student representative mentioned today. I would like at either whatever might be appropriate whether it's a committee meeting or a full schoolboard meeting a
042presentation and discussion of the 4x4 schedule. What are is it meeting our goals? Obviously, no, you know, when it comes to limited time and trying to help our students get ahead, there's no perfect system, but some sort of discussion of pros and cons so that we make an intentional choice. Uh so either at a schoolboard meeting or a committee meeting, I hope that we can do that sometime in the next two to three months. Second, um there were a couple resolutions that we had discussed um that I would just ask be put on the schedule for future vote. One was the resolution about creating um an online tracker for our maintenance requests and buildings. I know that we're already in the process of making that, but just as a way to send a message to
043our public that we're taking it seriously. Uh and the second is, you know, I we recently passed some changes to our collective bargaining. Um I plan to draft a resolution that spells out that we will create a work group in the future. So, just wanted to put that on your radar. hope to maybe get that on the vote either at next month's meeting or the month after that just so we don't have to keep revisiting this and that we follow like a set process. >> Miss Burke, >> Madam Chair, thank you so much and um if I may thank Mr. for that and I'm wondering do we need to have a resolution per se? Can't we move forward? I thought we discussed that before the holidays that as long as it comes before us and
044we vote on it or however we should move on it but the vital resolution at this point we know what to do. We just need to make sure it's done consistent consistent consistently. So my question is is it necessary to have a resolution? >> Mr. F. >> Thank you Madam Chair. Yes, Miss Burke, there are for sure already things spelled out in the resolutions we've passed that lay out timelines for when things can be changed, people that have to be consulted. I'm speaking specifically about the creation of a committee. When we when we had the big discussion about it at our one of our previous meetings, many many people said that they'd be comfortable with some sort of committee that has set representation that has public meetings. And so that that's not either explicitly allowed
045or not allowed in our resolution. So just spelling that out is what it was my or was was my was my intention given the suggestions from the public. Thank you. >> I'd like to add I'm I'm open to having a conversation um with that regard. But I will say the intention behind us adding some additional um public meetings um specifically not just for budget but just as we think about community engagement. I I do think that that will solve a lot for the piece that was is I feel like and I think we all do is really missing in terms of the connectivity between us um that may solve for that. But I I'm not um disregarding what you're asking. I'm open to hearing more about what that would look like, but I do feel
046like we are moving in the right direction as well. So, thank you both for the commentary, Miss Ricard. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. Um, I also just want to echo what Mr. Fuk said about the 4x4. Um during our virtual town hall in December, there were concerns raised by parents and by teachers that were on that call about it. I see both sides. Um but I think it would be great to get maybe some more intentional engagement from building leaders, from teachers, from parents just about what is best for our students. Um, and then the other thing I wanted to put, I know this has been brought up for new business and it it was brought up last night, but how do we want communications to go from this board? Um, is it I am
047um sensitive to our clerk's time and I don't want to create extra for them. Um, is there another way we could accomplish more um, community outreach and forms of communication and forms of other engagement that's not continuing to tax the administration and and the staff, but at the same time is kind of allowing us to be more front-facing with the people we serve. Um, so I would love some sort of discussion about that in the future. And Miss Rosie, I don't know if you have Well, um I will say that that was one of the things that I wanted to mention tonight um during our discussion, but I can save my thoughts, but I do think we have a solve for that includes all of us um that I want to get your feedback on,
048but I'll allow you to share. I know this is something important to you as well, Miss Rosie. >> No, I'm wondering now if what that recommendation is is a part-time comm's person. [laughter] I wish. >> I thought you were working on that. >> Ideal. >> I thought you had um some insight into a potential. >> Okay. >> I mean, I think that that would definitely be a huge help. Um considering that we're we're all working so hard and it is very hard. I will tell you especially for me I don't have a lot of experience with setting up newsletters and it has been a huge task to try to keep that going consistently and so any kind of support we could get with this would be really helpful. So, here's um some things that I
049kind of put pen to paper on that I wanted to really get you all's thoughts on this perfect opportunity since and we're we have a little bit of time. Um as we shared yesterday, u we had every intention on adding communications the communications committee as an additional committee. However, um concerns were raised about the amount of meetings that we already have for this fiscal year. The reality is that we're almost up to 100 meetings for the year, which is a lot and that's not including the individual um engagement that we offer and lend to our schools and the community. So, um what I am wanting to suggest as an alternative alternative um is instead of having a committee that we have a coordinator be assigned to oversee um our collective goals as relates to community
050engagement by way of communication. So when you think of like um Instagram or Facebook or newsletter and just draw from strengths of those who can create flyers like I do well with that or if someone's great at newsletters maybe they can give some um inspiration behind it. We would still have to kind of think through how we would approach consensus, right? So we don't want folks to go rogue. Um, but we do think that it's important for us as a board to begin to have an identity with the public and with the wave of the future the way that it is. We know that social media newsletters are something that is a great way to engage but also tell the story of the school board. Right. I think that the the administration and kudos to
051Superintendent Cameras, they do a phenomenal job with RPS and getting the word out about what's happening, but I do believe that it's important for us as a board to have our own identity in that as well and to talk through some of the wins that we have through policy governance um and for them to just get to know us. Right. So all that being said, my proposal is instead of having a committee that we have a coordinator, my first thought obviously was um Miss Ricard as she um has been very intric intricral part of what we've done thus far, not just with these discussions, but also um through Summerfest and um the Thanksgiving turkey giveaway. like logistically she's able to put the pieces together. She helps with vision and we would lend her support um
052throughout that process, but to have one key person to kind of be the information dump for all of things um that we might want to consider and kind of flesh through it that way. So, I want to I know that was a lot, so I want to stop and just really get you all's thoughts about it. Um Mr. um heads back. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. First of all, I want to just say that uh it's an honor to work with a a hardworking board when we think about the amount of meetings that we have. It's uh there's a lot of good things happening. So, so, uh it's it it's meaningful time. We also want to make sure that we uh are respectful of everybody's time and um and so I appreciate that. U I
053I I worry about a single person with communication uh because that is a it is a lot. Uh so I I I also want to be sensitive to the the amount of meetings. Okay. U I wonder if because our legislative committee and our governance ad hoc um are um infrequent meetings if that can if those two can be rolled into our policy committee which seems to make sense and then in lie of those other two the communications committee is created u and then that maybe could be shared amongst three people and and maybe it's that that that Miss Ricard is the chair and takes the lead, but that way she had she's assured uh some shared ownership and some some help that um you know wouldn't be completely on her back. >> Here's the pickle
054with that. Um, initially I I thought it was an amazing idea, but when you think about the governance committee and um you think about the legislative committee, those committees aren't active but for one is as needed um which I think to your point though could probably roll underneath the policy committee. So policy and governance committee could kind of be its own entity. I do believe that there's value and this is just me sharing but I'm open to you all's thoughts as well. I do believe there's valuable and value in having the legislative committee remain separate only because it's more about strategy and engagement throughout the community as well as um and I do believe that the policy committee has enough amazing work that has to be driven within itself that it should be some form
055of distinction. So I'll just I'll share that and just I'm open to hear your thoughts on that. >> Sure. >> I wonder if and you kind of said it uh in the piece of legislative being about engagement is legislative the home of the communications as well. Do those two work together as one committee? >> Rzie. >> Yeah. Thank you, Madam Chair. I I first of all want to say, you know, I'd be happy to help with any work with this. I put my maskcom degree to work um which I haven't used for a while. Um and um you know, I think we did vote at least to establish this committee. So, if we don't do it, we will need to resend that vote. Um and yes, we did. I remember taking a vote. I thought
056we Yeah, we we had a consensus, but we never voted. I did ask um Miss Richardson to check unless >> I've been researching and if you can give me any insight as to how to further pinpoint that, but I've been digging into it the last two days since you guys brought it up just to see. >> I feel like we are to establish it. I thought >> Miss Ricard. Um I am open to what was suggested. Um I do it concern concerns me for one person being the voice. Um and I think one I would never want that person to um upset other board members for what was said. Um, and I feel like in that case, like a committee of three that maybe is charting out the communications plan, maybe tackling different elements of
057it based on strengths. Um, I hope Mr. Farooq will be our chief meme creator for social media because um, >> no one's going to follow us if you don't do that. [laughter] Um, so I I I think that division of of labor makes >> I'm happy to I mean I had every plan of supporting and and certainly wouldn't have allowed anyone to do it um on their own and as I have you know with support with with everyone I'm happy to be a part of it and whether it's informal or formal. So just know that whoever spearheads it, you will definitely not be alone. Any other Miss Ricard? >> Sorry. Just so um I guess do we just so it doesn't stay in this like weird parking lot situation that I feel we've been in.
058Do we want to move forward with the creation of a communications legis? I don't know if we need to rebrand what it's called. engagement maybe. Um, but I I just want to make sure that as we enter the new year that we are actually bringing this to fruition because I know we've talked about it for a bunch of months. Yes, if I may just add one piece of clarification to piggyback on what Miss Fernandez spoke about in terms of collapsing or combining different committees and how that would potentially offset the number of meetings because we have a new board and most of you have not been here through the last um tenure. The legislative committee was not active as it has been this year, nor has the governance committee been active. And so what you
059all have been seeing is something new and an anomaly. So in the collapsing of those into any other um committees is not going to open up any additional bandwidth. You will still be adding the additional monthly meeting for another committee without necessarily offsetting any additional space. So after March there will be no leg more legislative meetings. So that takes away that one meeting for the rest of the year. And then if you all engage it again when the session opens again, then it'll be there. The governance committee has probably um operated maybe twice um in my tenure here. So when we talk about adding and collapsing, I just want everybody to be really cognizant of the the map that's as young people say not mapping. Um particularly in the way that you all are seeing
060it. So, and you know, when we talk about support, um, my hand is always raised for additional support in the clerk's office if there are things that you all want to see accomplished that could be facilitated by additional staff. But with that being said, I'm also very conscientious of the budget restrictions that we're under right now. So, you know, have to advocate for myself and my colleagues. So, I just appreciate your opportunity to share that. I appreciate that, Miss Richardson, and certainly something that we are sensitive to. Um, as we know the amount of effort and work that you all put in day in day out on our behalf. And so, um, it goes without saying that we thank you for that and thank you for keeping it top of mind for us. So that
061said, we could So what I'm hearing from Miss Richardson is that even if we collapse, it doesn't take away that we will still inevitably have to add on to meetings. So um how do we feel about that? Would we still like to move forward with the official title committee or would we like to reconsider a coordinator with um some conversation around how we can share the load in those efforts? Miss Rizzie. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. I still think this is pointing to the fact that we may need to find even a quarter time or part-time person who could give us some assistance with this. I mean it you know it is a big role. It is important. It is important that we engage. It is something I think that we could collectively invest in
062and help each other out with so that we aren't all you know our messaging we it doesn't have to be standardized. I I don't want that but necess but you know some of the recounting perhaps of the events of the schoolboard meeting that could be standardized that we could all use that sort of like city council does with their newsletter. And so I mean I think it's worth this probably will be a longer term conversation but I do think it's worth considering how important it is um our public facing communication is um and how taxing it can be to take it on that we we think about ways that we could solicit support for this outside of us. I I just um you know it's labor. It's a lot of labor and it needs to
063be done well. Um and so perhaps this is something that we can talk about further down the road. >> One question for you with that regard. Are you um suggesting that we look for unpaid internships or are we talking about something with budget implications? because I want to make sure I'm, >> you know, I I would hope that it would be minimum in terms of budget implications, but certainly I want to honor people's labor and I don't want to have anyone who is working with us and not compensated. So, um, it it may be a pipe dream. may never happen, but I do think that it's important to consider um because, you know, we're moving along, we're innovating, we're changing, we're growing, and I'd like to see that area also do the same. >> Mr.
064Jafari and then Mr. Cameron. >> Thank you. I do see the need for person to do the calm aspect. You know, I am a bit wary of taking on extra budgeting issues. Given [clears throat] the appearance that we can just do an outlay to bring somebody in, but I also see the importance of what M. Ricard indicated, it's necessary to have it and to have an imposial person do it because uh inevitably if one of us does it, it's obviously going to be through that lens. And so we do want that, but I' I've long felt that we need that positive narrative out there and we need somebody to be able to tell it and have it out there so as to not offset negative publicity, but to get out there and just tell the
065good news about RPS. There's a lot of good news about RPS and we need somebody out there to do that. Uh so again u just just wary about just uh suggesting that we can just bring somebody in or again applying our energies to looking at that want to possibly look we may be able to do and develop an internship. Don't know how that will work. We can probably work in conjunction with the CTE and and some of the curriculum that they have over there which would allow and of course uh Mr. cameras to be able to um look and see if we can develop that and once we get that channel set up it could be a renewing type of aspect but again I do see the value in doing that. >> Thank you Mr.
066Cameras. Um, I was going to offer well um to to foster consistency of communications. Um I think we could do a monthly uh like board direct and if um say Miss Ricard or somebody could be charged with aggregating anything that you all wanted to share in that and uh basically produce the copy. We could use our existing structures and templates and you know logos and whatnot. So it all feels like we're all one system, but it can be directly from you all to celebrate board wins, board activities. You could each have little section um as long as you all kind of funnel through Mr. Ricard all the copy creation. Yeah, if we get one document like here's what we'd like to do next month, I think we can pull that off for you and that
067way you can get something up and running and then you could yes in your individual social media accounts take that and push it out and then you don't have to worry about somebody else managing all that. So I offer that as a solution. >> I love that. I appreciate it. Thank you Alyssa. Um so let's let's talk about it. Um it's a wonderful first step. Um the question is are we good with Miss Ricard as the coordinator or or you know we can use another term facilitator liaison. Um I'm or I'm happy, you know, I'm happy to do it, but you know, if you're not comfortable, we can we can Google doc this. Okay. Okay, great. Are we all good here? All hearts and minds clear, as my mom would ask. Miss B, >> I
068like that. I think it would be great and cost effective also. I like questions or depend upon so many words or some guidelines. Yeah. Once it's equally balanced init. >> Sure. Yeah. >> Yeah. I think that a natural first step will definitely be um now that we have some consensus with Miss Ricard and Miss Rizzy and I'm happy to be a part of that as well to just compile do a brain dump think those through and then we can you know give that information to the full board to see what everyone's thoughts are are so we can streamline the approach and come up with something that is makes sense and is meaningful to the objective. So, um, great first start. Anything anyone would like to add? I love when a plan comes together. Miss Burke
069>> followup. Will we have an opportunity? >> Absolutely. Always. Always. Right. Because I don't want to have a picture out there with my eyes closed or my hair standing on top of my head. So >> well Madam Chair, since you will be submitting all the content, [snorts] we will merely be transmitting it. You will have full control. Thank you all so much. I'm really excited. I mean, we are um as a team really just driving innovation and and just taking things to another level and just really excited to be a part of what we're doing. So, appreciate the collaboration there. Are there any other items for new business? Mr. Jafari, >> thank you. Again, circling back, I just want to bring some closure. It's not so much new business as making sure we close out
070old business. some of the uh prior things that we've talked about here. I want to talk start at the top of the list. I want to I know that we indicated that the renaming going to be uh 2027, but there we we lack specifics. And so what I want to do, I I I want to know what that's going to look like. I want to be able to have the community know that we just didn't pass a hollow vote and that this is these are the steps. This is what it's going to impact. And that's um on that level it is bit discouraging sometimes when I when I look at the plight of the infrastructure levels in in the eighth and as well when I look at the scores I have to be honest we
071really have to do something but looking at the population influx I know a couple of meetings or a couple of months ago I did ask um how what's the breakout in in other words we we talk about the influx of families moving into the ETH but there's never any quantitative analysis given the data where are they what schools are they going to we don't have any high schools so obviously all of our youngsters scholars are going to fourth district or hugenot and they're going to the school for homeing arts. So again I asked for the breakout so that we can see what are the numbers. We talked about the playing field. A lot of the youngsters that are going to be playing on it are actually coming from my district, not my district alone. But
072I just want to see what the numbers are. And I think the only real way that we can address what definitely what I'm looking at and what I'm working with within the district and being able to give information to my constituents, the only way I can give them the information is to have the data. And so I'm going to really need to know the breakout. Uh who's going to which schools? Uh even the anti our youngsters. I have scholars who are going to JR Francis which is in the ninth. And obviously ecstatic that they're going to Richmond public school sites but I still have uh precares who are going to basically a private site where I really don't have access to them. I can't give them any fun support. I can't go in and just
073talk to them like I can do in Richmond public schools. And so I I just don't want that to be forgotten as well that I think 14 years ago they were put there with the idea that it would be a temporary arrangement. We're now going to year 15 or so and they're still there. I just don't want them to languish there and be forgotten. the the city plan that that we got the plan that we got from the city as I indicated in the back of the house that it's it's an executive summary. I'm really interested in the followup what the actual how do we do this looks like. Um, those are nice suggestions, very suggestive, nice points, but I do want to be able to see, you know, apart from that, what's the how
074to list? And so, if you circle back, because as we all know, the executive summary basically precedes the plan itself. We need to see the actual layout of of what, you know, we need all the assistance we can get, but once we get the plan and we're able to actually see it, we can actually collaborate with them. Some things work, some things don't, but we we just can't stop with the executive summary. Thanks, Madam Chair. >> Thank you. Just for we want to make sure we're capturing exactly what it is that you're wanting the administration to come back and report back on. So, for the data, you're wanting to for them to um speak to not just the students in the district, but those that are registered um but are private. I want to make
075sure we understand what you're asking us to provide with the data. For the first question, >> I do think given the latter part of it, the the information about the private schools is important >> but my primary focus is on the public schools. the RPS aspect >> and if they're going to RPS schools or other schools. Okay. >> Yes. Yes. From the eighth district. >> Okay. >> Where exactly are they going? >> Okay. And then I would also add in that in terms of relocation like if if they start in one district but end up in another I think we've several of us have asked for that information before. And then for the second um request, you're referring to what executive summary are you referring to? >> Oh, the map from the city. Okay, got
076it. >> It says it's a plan, but if you look up at the tab, it's an executive summary. Basically, it's a synopsis of what the suggestions are. >> So, that always precedes the actual plan. I just want to make sure they follow up and get that as well. Absolutely. Thank you. Any others? I just wanted to reiterate um I know that it's been some time um but it was raised again tonight by one of I think it was one of the principles about fees for our scholars and what that looks like. I know that was a heavy lift, which is why I haven't really pushed you, you know, you having it um sooner rather than later, but I think we've had enough time now where if we could get some information about what the requirements
077are per school, what that looks like and if there's a level of consistency, um is are funds being raised? Are is there value in the PTAs being able to raise funds, the schools that don't? um what are those implications for the students who want to um achieve certain goals with athletics for example or things of the like um is fees a hindrance to them and how can we kind of put a stop gap there so okay any other thoughts I think you have a close Mr. Jafari. >> Madam Chair, colleagues, I move that the school board of the city of Richmond convene in close session one to consult with legal counsel and receiving briefing by staff members pertaining to an employment lawsuit as authorized by Virginia Code 2.2-3711A7 2-3711 A7 and two to discuss and
078consider candidates for a central office position as authorized by Virginia code 2.2 3711A1 and to consult with legal counsel regarding issues relating to foyer as authorized by Virginia code 2.2 3711 A8. >> Can I get a second? >> Second. It's been moved by Mrs. Jafari and seconded by Miss Ricard. Madame clerk. >> Mr. Percal. >> Yes. >> Miss Ricard. >> Yes. >> Mr. Farooq. >> Yes. >> Mr. Hedgepath. >> Yes. [laughter] >> Miss Rizzy. >> Miss Burke. >> Yes. >> Mr. Jafari. >> Yes. >> Miss Fernandez. >> Yes. Motion might pass. It passed. Never mind. Thank you. We're now in close. If we could transition to the back, we could get out of here at a very reasonable hour.