RPS School Board Meeting - April 8, 2025

0018, 2025. Madame clerk, Mr. Perl here, Miss Ricard here, Mr. Farooq here, Mr. Hedgepath here, Miss Rizzy here, Dr. Harris Muhammad, Miss Burke here, Mr. Jafari, Miss Fernandez here, Madam Chair, we have a quorum. Thank you. To a translation services announcement. Good evening. Good evening everyone. I'm here on behalf of the language justice department. If you need interpretation from 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 that needs one. Interpretation in Spanish is available for those watching this meeting through Zoom. I will now make this same announcement in Spanish. Thank you. Thank you so much. Now we'll have our pledge of allegiance and moment of silence. Miss Burke, if you could lead us. Pledge of allegiance. I pledge

002allegiance. Moving to item 1.04. May we have motion to approve the minutes for February 18, 25th, and March 3rd and March 4th school board meetings. some second. It's been moved by Mr. Jafari, second by Mr. Hedgepath to approve the minutes for the February 18th, February 25th, March 3rd, and March 4th, 2025 schoolboard meetings. Madam Clerk, Mr. Perl, yes. Miss Ricard, yes. Mr. Farooq, yes. Mr. Hedgepath, yes. Miss Rizzy, yes. Dr. Harris Muhammad. Miss Burke, yes. Mr. Jafari, yes. Miss Fernandez, yes. Motion passes. Thank you. Before we adopt the agenda, I believe that there is an amendment for two. Thank you, Madam Chair. I would move that we include the updates that were deferred from the April 7th meeting to include 5.02, receive an overview of facilities, conditions, assessments, critical action items. In 5.04, receive an

003update on McKini Vento program uh to follow item five and external reports. So also add to section six board action items as follows. Section 6.05 receive for action approval of VDOE VBOEU letter. 6.06 receive an action approval of staggered start school calendar for school year 2526. 6.07 receive for action approval of Perkins grant application. 6.08 receive for action recommendations on Head Start enrollment. And 6.09 09 receive for action special education and comprehensive coordinated early intervening services annual plan and to adopt the agenda as amended. Second. It's been moved by Mr. Peral and seconded by Mr. Hedgepath. Madame clerk Mr. Percal. Yes. Miss Ricard. Yes. Mr. Farooq. Yes. Mr. Hedgepath. Yes. Miss Rizzy. Yes. Dr. Harris Muhammad. Miss Burke. Yes, Mr. Jafari. Yes, Miss Fernandez. Yes. Motion passes. Thank you. Now for um one of the

004parts that I look forward to every meeting. I'm sure my colleague as well is our recognition. U Mr. Cameron will lead us um into 2.01, our student representative. Thank you, Madam Chair, and good evening. I'm delighted to introduce you to Ian Bane from Richmond Community High School. Ian is a senior at Richmond Community where he serves as senior class president, is a member of the debate team, plays in the band, and serves on my superintendent's student advisory council. Additionally, Ian plays varsity soccer for the Thomas Jefferson Vikings. Ian is a member of the National Honor Society and in his spare time he plays travel hockey and enjoys mountain and road biking, welding, and doing mechanical work on bikes. He gives back to his community through volunteer work with Project Homes and Habitat for Humanity. Upon

005graduation, Ian plans to attend a four-year college majoring in engineering or construction management. We are hiring Please join me in welcoming Ian B. Uh good evening everybody. Uh I would first like to say thank you um for welcoming me here. Uh my name is Ian Bane. Uh I'm a senior at Richmond Community High School. Um but I also attend classes at the Richmond Technical Center. Um, I would like to thank the school board um and the superintendent for the opportunity to further advocate for RPS students already enrolled or interested in educational opportunities at the tech center. Uh, I'm here this evening to speak speak about how invaluable my time at the Richmond Technical Center RTC has been and also to bring to attention areas where it can continue to excel. I have spent a portion

006of all four of my high school years at the tech center. I've taken a range of classes from engineering and design to welding and motorsports job classes. These opportunities have provided me with knowledge that I apply in my personal life and will continue to apply in my higher education and future career. The classes have given me an outlet to succeed outside the traditional classroom while allowing me to develop skills that will continue to use throughout my career. These skills that students get to learn from taking these classes truly set them apart. Many student teachers at RTC encourage students to think critically and solve problems they've never encountered before. These skills have helped me personally and the breadth of knowledge teachers have shared with me and my classmates has been unparalleled. Hands-on environments like those at

007the tech center push students to adapt and problem solve. Two very realworld skills that can often be lost in traditional classrooms. Beyond the technical skills, these classes offer students the chance to pursue interests they would not have had access to without the tech center. Personally, I can say I probably would not have discovered my interest in welding and motorsports if it hadn't have been for Richmond Technical Center. And then even beyond the classroom or shop setting, RTC excels in more subtle but equally important ways, such as the constant support and opportunities I've received from my teachers and staff over the years. From the very moment I stepped into the building, I knew it was an environment where I wanted to continue learning. I've had the privilege of bonding with teachers, students, and staff members who

008all bring unique perspectives to the table. This environment has allowed me to form connections with people who want nothing less than the best version of myself and are deeply invested in my interests and success. The support system at RTC has one that has been unmatched throughout my high school years. And ultimately, I believe that technical education and the opportunities offered at RTC should be available for all students within RPS. Whether a student excels in a traditional classroom or not, they can find purpose and success within technical education. Whether they're looking to learn a trade such as welding, carpentry, or automotive repair, or whether they're more interested in fields like premedical, veterary, or EMS training, RTC provides that essential outlet. For all these reasons, I urge Richmond public schools not only to further grow the technical

009center, but also increase funding and support for the programs already in place. Access to RCT should be encouraged and supported by the district and their zone schools. Students should have the opportunity to explore and attend classes at the tech center. These programs offer students an invaluable opportunity to explore passions and gain real and gain real world experience. preparing them for future careers and future life endeavors. Thank you again for listening and for providing me uh with the greatly appreciated opportunity to speak tonight. I look forward to seeing how we continue to grow RTC. Uh have a great evening. Thank you so much. Well done. Now we receive a recognition of Black History Month essay winner. Thank you, Madam Chair. Is LA like she was not able to make it, but we do want to recognize

010her for her essay rediscovering American identity. The entire essay uh which is rather lengthy and very well written is on board and I would encourage everybody to take a look at it. Uh and let's just take a moment and celebrate Lama for winning this uh wonderful award. He is from Hugenot High School, a 12th grader. Congratulations to you. Congratulations again, Lema. Moving right along to um 2.03 will have recognition for RA awards for distinguished educational leadership winners. Thank you, Madam Chair. Whereas the REB Foundation and the Community Foundation have partnered for over 30 years to promote excellence in public education, celebrating those who demonstrate outstanding leadership and dedication to the success of their students in school communities. And whereas the REB awards for distinguished educational leadership recognize principles who go beyond the daily responsibilities of

011their position to create an exceptional education environment that fosters belonging, empathy, and achievement. And whereas the REB awards are a testament to the importance of educational leaders who inspire and empower their faculty, staff, and students, creating an environment that nurtures learning, creativity, and excellence. And whereas it is with great pride that we recognize principal Tashiana Ivy of Albert Hill Middle School as the recipient of the REB award for distinguished educational leadership for 2025 and Dr. Michael Massa of Hugenat High School as the runner up both from RPS for their exceptional leadership and commitment to educational excellence. Now therefore, be it proclaimed that Richmond Public Public Schools hereby recognizes Principal Ivy and Principal Massa as leaders who exemplify our motto, teach, lead, and serve with love. And we encourage everyone to join in this celebration. Congratulations

012to you both and we will do photographs after we do all the celebrations and proclamations. But congratulations both. Thank you. Congratulations. And moving right along to 2.04 recognition of RPS spelling be champion. Mr. Cameron. Whereas spelling bees provide students with an opportunity to develop their language skills, demonstrate perseverance, and showcase their commitment to academic excellence. And whereas the annual RPS spelling be is a beloved tradition that celebrates the dedication and hard work of students, teachers, and families in supporting literacy and language development. And whereas we proudly celebrate the accomplishments of our students as they strive for success in academic competitions and beyond. And whereas the winner, the 2025 Richmond public schools spelling be has demonstrated exceptional spelling ability, concentration, and a commitment to academic excellence. Now, therefore, be it proclaimed that Nicola Marovich of JB

013Fischer Elementary is the 2025 Richmond Public Schools spelling be winner. And we encourage everyone to join in this celebration. He looks very happy to have all the attention on. Madam Chair, please let reflect Dr. Harris Muhammad has arrived. Yes, thank you. And you couldn't see behind you, but there was a row of hands waving for you. So, just so so you know, congratulations. Yeah, there you go. Next up, we'll receive recognition of our John Marshall High School basketball teams, player of the year and coach of the year, Mr. Cameron. Whereas the John Marshall girls and boys basketball teams have demonstrated outstanding athleticism, teamwork, and perseverance throughout the 24 25 season. And whereas the John Marshall girls basketball team of only seven remarkable young athletes achieved remarkable success by becoming the 2425 2A region champion and

014class 2 state runnerup for the second consecutive year showcasing their commitment and determination. And whereas the John Marshall boys basketball team made history by securing their fourth consecutive class 2 state championship with a recordbreaking performance in the state championship game, setting a VHSL record for the most points scored by the winning team and surpassing 100. And whereas the achievements of both teams exemplify the values of excellence, sportsmanship, hard work, and highlight the dedication of the players, coaches, and families involved. And whereas the following student athletes have received prestigious postseason recognition for their exceptional performances, the girls basketball team region 2A player of the year, Yasmin Hall, first team, Miss Hall and Tiara Herren. Second team, Ra Jane Johnson, Logan Rose, and Kayla Young. Class to all state. First team, Miss Hall again. Second team, Miss

015Young and Miss Herren. John Marshall boys basketball region 2A player of the year, Lrell Almond. First team, Mr. Almond, Mr. Arbrite, Mr. Henderson, Mr. Rose, and Mr. Gibbon. Second team, Isaiah Carter, and Cameron Clayborn. Class two all state player of the year Latrell Almond first team Mr. Almond again Mr. Arbrbrite and Mr. Henderson coach of the year highway as well. Now therefore, be it proclaimed that Richmond public schools honors and congratulates the John Marshall girls and boys basketball teams for their exceptional achievements and contributions to athletics and the community and encourages everyone to join in celebrating their success and dedication to excellence. Congratulations. And I had the pleasure of witnessing it firsthand. You guys were exceptional. both the boys and the girls. So, congratulations. Now, we'll receive the proclamation for the administrative professionals. Whereas, administrative

016professionals serve with love and are the backbone of Richmond public schools, providing essential support to students, families, teachers, school leaders, and staff. And whereas administrative professionals serve as the first point of contact for many families and community members, representing RPS with professionalism, courtesy, and care. And whereas administrative professionals demonstrate exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, commitment to efficiency, ensuring the smooth effective operation of our schools and offices. And whereas RPS recognizes the outstanding efforts of our administrative professionals who go above and beyond each day to support our mission of educating and empowering every student to thrive. Now therefore, be a proclaimed that Richmond Public Schools hereby recognizes April 20th to 26, 2025 as Administrative Professionals Week and encourages everyone to join in this celebration. Thank you. Now we will receive proclamation for assistant principles appreciation

017week. Mr. Cameron, whereas Richmond public schools assistant principles teach, lead, and serve with love every day by fostering learning environments that empower students, inspire academic excellence, and promote empathy and respect. And whereas assistant principles serve as champions for their students, supporting their academic, social, and emotional growth with high expectations and equitable opportunities for all. And whereas assistant principles provide critical leadership by mentoring teachers and staff, promoting a positive school culture, collaborating with families and community partners. And whereas the unwavering dedication, resilience, and professionalism of our assistant principles help ensure that every RPS student is prepared to succeed in school and in life. Now therefore, be it proclaimed that Richmond public schools recognizes April 7th, 11th, 2025 as National Assistant Principal Week calls upon all schools and community members to join Thank you. Now we'll receive

018the proclamation for school library month. Mr. Cameron, do you know why libraries are always so tall? Why? They're filled with stories. Whereas the ability to read, write and comprehend empowers students to achieve their full potential as independent critical thinkers and citizens. And whereas school libraries and school librarians play a vital role in the education and development of students by fostering a love of reading, promoting digital literacy, providing access to diverse resources, and whereas Richmond public schools librarians are essential to promoting literacy through innovative programs including the lit limo, book vending machines, and learning activities designed to enhance reading motivation, establish the skills necessary for lifelong learning, And whereas Richmond public schools is committed to supporting and enhancing school libraries to ensure that every student has access to high quality learning resources and opportunities. Now therefore,

019be it proclaimed that Richmond public schools hereby recognizes April 2025 as school library month and encourages everyone to join this celebration. And last but certainly not least, we will now receive the proclamation for elas. Whereas deos nños day of the child celebrates the importance of literacy, language, and culture in the lives of all children. Recognizing that learning and growth are enriched. We honor diverse backgrounds and experiences. And whereas Richmond public schools is committed to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and nurturing environment where every child feels valued, respected, and empowered to achieve their fullest potential. And whereas the observance of Dia de los Nos provides an opportunity to uplift the voices, dreams, and aspirations of all young people, affirming their right to education, health, and a bright future. And whereas families, educators, and community partners play a

020vital role in ensuring that children have access to resources, opportunities, and encouragement they need to thrive. Now, therefore, be it proclaimed that Richmond Public Schools hereby recognizes April 30th, 2025 as DI encourages everyone to join. All right. And now for the fun part. Um, direction go. You want to start from the top and we'll come down. Let's do it. All right. So, we will start with Ian. If you have any family members, anybody here from community or TJ that you'd like to call on up, we'll take a picture with you. will the librarians please come to the front is Administrative professionals, please come to the front. If there are any administrative professionals here with us tonight, would you please come to the front? Assistant principles. If there are assistant principles, please come to the front,

021please. All right. We have a pretty heavy agenda this evening. So, we're going to transition into um item 3.01, which is our announcements. Anyone have announcements? Miss Burke, could we uh clear the hallway, please? Greatly appreciate it. Just want to make sure we cut down on traffic. Thank you, Miss Burke. Thank you, Madam Chair. I have several items this afternoon. I'm so delighted that um I think the principal from Franklin Military Academy just left, but the students at Franklin Military Academy about a month ago, hundreds of students were selected to be in a leadership event. Colonel Hudson is here this afternoon. The Colonel Hudson is the principal of Franklin Military Academy in the seventh district. We had we had um middle school and high school cadetses to participate in a leadership activity at the Art

022180 downtown on Marshall Street. It was sponsored by Dominion Energy Primis Bank and the Richmond Black Restaurant Experience. It was an a and also blot which is a leadership um consortium. Meals were provided for the children by Hang Suite on Broad Street as well. The reason I share this is our group of students, males, females, just every age level, middle and high, had an awesome presentation. We did a think tank event and two students from the sixth grade level one. So, um, it was excellent seeing what our students can do, given the opportunity to gain leadership skills. So kudos to Franklin Military Academy. Also, um on a couple of Saturdays ago at MLK King Middle School, um the Lynx Incorporated, three chapters, the Richmond chapter, James River chapter, and Commonwealth chapter of the Lynx Incorporated,

023there was a national black Wellness Family Expo where hundreds of persons from across the city, I think we had about 500 persons, received free healthc care. It was an excellent activity. Um, Dr. Harris Muhammed attended from the school board and our superintendent attended, Mr. Cameras as well. We ate hot dogs, then had our hot blood pressure checked in the whole nine yards, but it was for every age group. It was excellent. And the next to the last thing is Marsh Elementary. As we all know, Marsh Elementary in the seventh district is named after Henry Marsh III. They had Marsh Day. So, Prince, it was on the news naen Marsh Carter who used to serve on the school board that her she was there in memory of her father and it was an awesome day and

024it will be an annual event moving forward in December in memory of Senator Marsh's birthday. And then the last amount um la last announcement I have is is the fruit and vegetable activity. I went to Shimmerzo Elementary School in the seventh district and um we had watermelon radishes which were very tasty. Usually we had them in salads but most of the students it took them a while but when we started taking pictures they digested very well. A couple of students said we need some ranch dressing. But what I was very impressed is that was one of the nicest cafeteria. It was all fifth graders. A group of boys made a game out of notebook paper and they we played cards. I don't know what the name of the game was, but they let me win.

025But as I shared with the principal, they were just a the being so smart to develop their own game. Who knows where these young men are going to end up moving forward. So I just wanted to say that kudos to the seventh district. Thank you for the time, Madam Chair. Thank you, Dr. Harris Muhammed. Miss Ricard, Miss Rizzy, and then Mr. Hedgebat. Thank you. I just have one announcement. Um, I am planning a virtual town hall chat and shoot to be held in May. A schoolboard colleague would like to join me, please send me an email and more information. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you, Madam Chair. I just wanted to announce that this Saturday um after the Monument 10K, Dogwood Middle School is hosting a community block party. There'll be games and raffles and

026music and free hot dogs while they last and it's just meant to be a good time. Every district has children that attend Dogwood Middle School and um I hope um I will send you all the information and if you have social media and could share it, that would be wonderful. It's from 12 to 3 and Dogwood Middle School is the 1700 block of Floyd Avenue in the fan. Thank you, Miss Rizzy. Thank you, Madam Chair. Um hopefully I won't forget anything. I went to um Lois Harrison Jones to do fruit and veggie week. Um we had an interesting combination of pineapple and lime covered in taheen. And the kids love taheen. I didn't know much about it until they like shared that it's like good on everything. So, um I really enjoyed my time there.

027Um at Swansboro Elementary, I attended their major massive um Black History Month program that takes them literally six weeks to uh prepare for. And ladies and gentlemen, if you were not there, you missed something. Michael Jackson was there, the Supremes, Rosa Parks, uh a very impressive Luther Vandross. Um and so it was an amazing amazing event. Um on April 23rd at Maymont School um there will be a production of Frozen 2 um put on by the theater group at Dogwood. So you may already um and so that's something that I'm sure people would be happy to see you if you want to visit. Um let's see. Oh, and there's there's a science fair on April 15th at Swansboro. So yeah, events or like proliferating and um I'm just really happy for spring and I think

028a lot. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Hedgeb. Mia, I second you on being happy for spring. Uh earlier this month, I had the privilege of attending the youth summit uh which uh RPS had a significant uh presence. It was amazing and inspiring to witness our scholars uh learning about banking and about entrepreneurship and really celebrating each other. So that was a a very meaningful experience that I want to thank the organizers uh and sponsors for for for organizing. Also earlier this month, uh Westover Hills Elementary School teachers uh hosted a walk-in uh in support of public education. And I wanted to uh shout out the teachers who organized that. That was an outstanding event. Um, we're at a critical time as as as no mystery uh to us. And so it's important that the uh

029that that we we share the message of of the importance of of what's happening in our buildings. And so I appreciate the teachers efforts there as well as the the parents uh and the kiddos that even sing and played guitar for us uh that morning. That's it today. Thank you, Mr. Jafari and Mr. Farooq. Thank you, Madam Chair. Good evening. Uh from the ETH district, bring you greetings and I wanted to invite uh everybody, my colleagues, there has been a push in the eth district to get a historical designation for the Hickory Hill Center, which is a a very it's a very vintage community hub in that area. So, on April the 25th, get all my in a row here. Uh, Friday, April 25th from 11 to 2 pm, they will be having the Hickory

030Hill School Celebration. And so, we're looking forward to everybody just coming out and joining in with us to celebrate their efforts. And I did want to just send a shout out to Miss Monica Esparza and the group that the core group that has been spearheading the efforts to really bring the kind of historical significance that that building deserves and that our district deserves. Thank you, Madam Chair. Thank you, Mr. Farooq. Thank you, Madam Chair. Like many of my colleagues, I also participated in fruit and veggie week. We had blueberries and spinach salad. And what was exciting was one how all the children were not only excited to have something new and different and interact with different adults. Many of them proudly displayed some of the veggies that they normally bring with them to school. And

031so again, it was an opportunity for us to do a little bit of work on nutrition, especially some of you may remember earlier this year, one of our student representatives mentioned improving our nutrition at our schools as a key goal and something we should work on. So we're grateful to all the staff. There were so many volunteers that showed up and of course our great partner Greater Richmond Fit for Kids. I also want to announce that this coming Thursday, April 10th at 7 p.m. some more of our partners like Voices for Virginia's Children and others are doing a data walk which will go through census data in the Richmond area specifically around children and host an interactive conversation about how to improve services and programs for children. So that's this Thursday, April 10th at 7

032PM. Thank you. Anyone else? All right. I have a couple of um items that I want to um to call out. Um I was very very excited to witness the RPS science showcase um which was at the science museum. I ran into my colleague um Miss Ricard there and I will tell you it was absolutely phenomenal. I mean I took pictures um but it doesn't really do it justice. Our children are learning at such a um greater rate. I mean, the things that they were uh doing like growing a potato from out of a cylinder um in third grade or um some of the other exhibits that they had around robotics. It was phenomenal and it just speaks volumes to the talent that we have in RPS. And so I want to give a huge

033shout out to everyone um who was a part of of that um of organizing that. Uh the uh lit limo was out there and um kids were able to grab a book. They were able to get some ices. I even got some cotton candy. No judgment. Um but it was a great time. Um I'd also like to um give a huge thank you to Pip for Kids and the initiative again for um fruit and veggie week. I too um was able to um put together this spinach and blueberry salad with uh balsamic v vinegarette dressing and it was a huge success. Over half of the children enjoyed it. Some were already familiar with spinach salad but some were not. But it was great to just start having the conversation about health and why it's important

034to eat healthy. Um, so wanted to thank um, folks at Cardinal for allowing us to be there and take over uh, the kitchen for those efforts. Um, also I want to give a huge shout out to um, Councilwoman Nicole Jones and um, Judy who is phenomenal um, for the little libraries initiative that we are um, spearheading in the ninth where every single school will have a little library where they can give and take books um, right there on site. it's um open to the public and so um it's just another initiative that we have for literacy and ensuring that every child has a book available to them. Um I'd also like to share a huge shout out to the urban district literacy convening that took place. Um myself and uh Matt were able to be

035a part of um several different states. New York, Baltimore, um North Carolina, uh I'm sure I mentioned some Texas all came to RPS to get a understanding of what we're doing um in in reference to our literacy efforts. And so we were able to showcase the talent at three phenomenal schools uh which were Shimarazzo um Road Rock and Reed in the ninth um uh to just see what what we're doing well. And I will tell you we had kindergarters that were reading. I'm not kidding you. I mean, it was phenomenal to see um this the consistency and the use of um the literacy initiative and how it's really working from grade level to grade level. So, I say all that to say we're doing some great things in RPS and we should be proud. Um,

036and to have folks coming from around the country to see what it is that we're doing, it speaks volumes to the administration, the teachers, uh, the staff, the interventionists, all who are working together to ensure that, um, we continue to raise the bar for our children. Last, but certainly not least, I want to make an announcement for a virtual town hall that we will be doing um, um, on April 22nd at 6 PM. As you all are aware that there has been a lot of concerns as it relates to our community and the ICE mandate that has been sent down from um the federal government and this is going to be a way for us to just educate our families um on what that means to them. We already know that we have a resolution

037out and our schools are safe. It's a a a safe zone for um our families. However, we do understand the impact of those that are off-campus and what that might mean to families. And so, we want to make sure that we empower them um in ways that we can. And so, um more information to come, but we we hope that you can join us for that virtual town hall um on April 22nd at 6 PM. And if there is nothing else, right, we'll move right along with the agenda. And so, uh, now we will have, um, public information. Uh, before we get started, if you could, uh, read the guidelines, please, Madam Clerk. Conduct with speakers. Speakers shall state their full legal name prior to addressing the school board. Speakers will address the school board

038as a whole rather than individual schoolboard 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 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 school-based issues, the chair may refer that individual to Richmond public schools administration for one-on-one consultation and followup. It is 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

039the speaker. Community members may express their views in writing in lie of any oral presentation. Comments received in writing in lie of an oral presentation will not be read during the meeting but should be posted to the school board platform. Thank you madame clerk. At this time, we will call forth our pre-registered speakers first. Um although you're a pre-registered speaker, we still ask that you sign the um the clipboard that is up front. Um and we're going to call you three at a time so that we can help to with the flow to get as many people as we possibly can because we do want to hear um as many um people from the community tonight. Um so with that said, we have first our my former colleague. Mariah White is here. Um next we

040have um Bill Muth. Um my apologies if I pronounced your name wrong. Um and then uh Callie Coffee in that order. If you sign your name and then pass it back and then that way we can help with the flow. And we do have new microphones. So once you hit the button, you'll know that it's on um because there'll be a green light at the podium. Good evening, board. My name is Mariah White. Uh good evening um superintendent and president and vice president. I'm coming before you because uh I do have some concerns and I was out back in there listening and I'm glad that I listened to everyone is enjoying the fruit and vegetables uh at their school. That is a great thing. But uh as of I believe last night with the DI

041initiatives, I'm here because I did hear uh the statement that was made whether we should or should we not sign this. And if you don't know, the DEI initiatives focus on creating equitable and inclusive environments and not solely on diversity. So therefore, you should sign this because we're losing money. You're going to terminate federal money from our children at RPS. So there are a lot of things here looking at the budget that really didn't and of course you know I have my papers here that really didn't um resonate with me. It showed 1.9 for a passion for reading. Passion for reading is no cost. That's you fly. So I'm not sure why there's a budget amount there. My other uh question is I saw how all of you were so about their your schools and

042one school that is really dear to my heart and will always will be and that's Richmond Success Academy better known as Richmond Alternative School. I didn't hear anyone say anything about that school. It's been two years and they haven't had any extra support. They still have the same teachers which are long-term subs. None of you have been over there. All of your All of your students are over there. Every last one of them. I went over there in January. Same students. Although some of them have transitioned. I know you're not afraid to go there. You're putting them in there every time you have a hearing. So, you should be able to go over there and see them. I also have an issue with uh and I'm not sure if the old board educated the new

043board collective bargaining 30 seconds and I saw that where you have put everyone in collective bargaining except the bus drivers now they shut down the afterchool program today. What we going to do when they shut down the daily schools? I had a problem with that cuz my little boy run track and he couldn't. So somewhere we going to have to do something. I might can't get it all in this time, but I'll be here the next meeting and the next meeting time because something has to be done. Thank you. Thank you. Next up, we have Bill Move. Good evening. If you want to touch the button, it should be green. And then after um Callie, there'll be my Taylor. All right. Good evening, board. Uh my name is Bill Muth. I am here to discuss

044a resolution to solarize the remaining RPS schools and take advantage of millions of dollars in federal funds while they're still available. I'm a co-f facilitator of the climate justice club at Open High School and a member of an elder group of climate activists called Third Act RVA. Third act partners with the club on this resolution we sent to you by email and we'll send again out tomorrow. Um like you these climate justice students are committed to safe and healthy school environments and a future in which all children can thrive. We realize that solarizing schools might be a stretch goal given the pressing challenges you face. The resolution recognizes, for example, that before building solar arrays, you have to make sure the roof can support them. And financing methods can be tricky. Climate change itself can

045seem intangible and even deferable, but please take this resolution seriously. Timing. Timing is key. The current administration is hellbent on killing the clean energy transition. If successful, Drill Baby drill will almost assuredly lock warming levels of 3 degrees or greater in our students lifetimes. That's twice the level of warming that the Earth can sustain and remain hospitable to humans. On a positive note, in 2019, you solarized 10 schools at no cost. That accomplished reduced greenhouse gases by millions of tons and lowered energy bills every year since. Our resolution builds on that work and adds millions of new dollars to the funds that are already allocated for roof repairs. More importantly, it affirms the long-term well-being of our youth and the world we are handing over to them, especially those most vulnerable, most exposed to climate

046change who maybe work outside, lack air conditioning, live near toxic gas or coal plants, or in an urban heat island. for their sake. Please bring this resolution to a vote and vote to solarize RPS. It's a win-win. Less energy cost and less greenhouse gases. In the meantime, we'll happily make ourselves available to meet with you individually should that be helpful. Thank you. We have Callie Coffee who's next. And then if I'd ask my Taylor and Forester and Kima Williams if you could u begin to come forward and go ahead and sign the clipboard as uh Miss Coffee speaks. Good evening. Push the button. Yes. Is it on? Is it on now? Yes. Okay. Hello. My name is Cali Coffee. I'm a student at Open High School and I'm a member of the Open High School

047climate club. Um, I've been I'm here to speak on the same thing that Bill was speaking on. I've been involved with the climate movement for a while. Um, I first started to learn about climate change when I was in sixth grade. Uh, in a very intangible, vague sense. Um, and I did not have the sense that it was a pressing issue affecting me. um until I started to see clips from activists like Greta Tunberg who were speaking on how it affects humans specifically and the imminent danger that it uh that it it it shows. And I I recognize that there are a lot of things that the board has to address and that there is many many issues that RPS is dealing with. Um, and as Bill was saying, it can seem like an intangible

048issue, but I promise you that to your students, it is not. Um, over the 16 years that I've lived in Richmond, I've watched the weather get warmer and the spring start earlier and the pollen last for longer and the summers last for longer and the weather get less predictable and more extreme. Um, and more Personally, I've watched the vague understanding that my peers have of the issue. The jokes about how early spring is happen happening and the vague idea of what's going on turn far less joyful at the warm weather and far more afraid. Um, it's an issue that's affecting all of us right now. We are seeing longer springs and more intense summers in Richmond as well as flooding frequently um especially in the more urban areas of it. We're seeing how urban heat

049islands, which were already an issue, are in uh are worsening and how that's affecting the most marginalized communities in Richmond. Um those without green spaces around them, which is especially historically redlined communities. Um and it is an issue that more and more is coming to the forefront of students minds. Um, so while we understand that there are a lot of things to deal with and a lot of issues to address, we would like to really encourage you to focus on climate change as much as possible and address it as quickly as possible. Um because the money that is available for solarizing schools is not going to last for long. Um and it's already under threat and if we want to take advantage of it to solarize schools and improve the infrastructure of Richmond public schools,

050we have to take advantage of it now. Thank you. Thank you. Next up, we have my Taylor. Hello everyone, school board member, superintendent cameras. I bring you greetings once again from Liona and the entire transportation department. If I could just take a second as I'm speaking, if you are within the transportation department, parents of children who are transported, if you could just stand up and so you could be recognized. I am the union organizer with Liona Local 804 and today as the budget comes to a point of final review. I ask you I ask you to ensure that the collective bargaining agreements previously for for agreed upon and promised to be fully funded is honored as you prepare the final budget proposed proposal mentioned at last evening's work session. I've had the opportunity to participate

051in two collective bargaining mediations with the last happening on February 18th. At that time, Lyuna on behalf and with the support of transportation made several recommendations. Those include a 6 to 8% increase for 12-month employees and monitors to give them a livable wage and not and as well off offset the salary decompression. I recently learned from a member of your staff that the salary decompression was implemented simultaneously with the 10% raise given last year. Many 12-month employees, including our administrators and our mechanics, didn't realize it because of a ceiling salary that took effect this at the same time. When the compression was implemented, that maximum salary level was frozen and they would not allow them to move beyond that point. So that would be something I would dearly appreciate you all looking into. The salary

052decompression did not give all the raises if they happen at the same time. We also requested that resource officers be placed on the high school buses as I mean on the high-risisk buses as well as bus stops. Many times drivers and monitors express unorthodox behavior that can happen on buses and in communities and monitors are left behind and placed in bus on buses for first students. If you all are aware, that's a a company that you all outsource um drivers to. And the monitors a lot of times aren't given that added support to be able to be on the buses with the drivers. Um that request was never responded to post mediation. We lastly ask that you maintain the practice of a 2-hour minimum for after school runs, which is justified considering its alignment to

053the practices within RPS such as after school tutoring, custodians securing buildings for evening activities, and resource officers providing security at sporting events. These practices support the school board's goals for fairness and equity and should be considered equally. That request was not we were not provided feedback as far as the mediation. The final offer rejected Liona's proposal for the 2-hour minimum after school run in its totality. A response in good faith should have included a counter that addressed all the concerns concerns presented during mediation on behalf of the transportation department. Our drivers, monitors, mechanics, route planners, supervisors, and administrators do a tremendous job in taking care of our young scholars 24/7. And I can assure you that it is truly a labor of love. They are the first line of defense transporting our children to and

054from school and their activities. Even in the most in the midst of tragedies, poor weather conditions, and horrible traffic. They even transport safely some of your children. That said, we ask that you consider all CBA recommendations for the success of our scholars and that you gain more clarity on the final proposal budget proposed budget. We ask you to consider full-time employee count in the CBA units as it appears to show some inconsistencies in the budget by approximately eight employees as well. The deficit pre previously reported as 13.3 million less has now skyrock I mean deficit has now skyrocketed skyrocketed to $16.5 million. So we need to find out exactly what that is all about. The health care the city has 5,000 employees. You all have roughly 3600 and we pay more in healthcare than they

055do and we both use Sigma. That's concerning. So with all those things considered, we ask you to seriously look through and not just take the word of someone telling you this is what you should spend. This is how it should be spent. And we ask you to consider all things considered, all things requested from Liona on behalf of the collective bargaining agreement. Thank you. Thank you. And Forester, good evening. Hey everyone, good evening. My name is Ann Forester. I am the REA president and a teacher at Richmond High School for the Arts. Um, I hope everyone had a good spring break. Um, I had more I was going to share, but I'm just going to jump ahead to some budget stuff just for the sake of time and to give more folks um, the opportunity

056to speak. Um, as you all know, Mayor Vulo's budget does not fully fund RPS and does not even add enough new funding to fully fund our hard one collective bargaining agreements. I know the superintendent said last night that the intention is to fund the CBAs, which is good, but I now worry who or what will be cut to make that happen. Um, it's concerning that we're in this predicament to begin with. Um, I sent all this to you in an email. Um, but something with the numbers on our side is just not adding up. The proposed budget slide decks from February and March um, both list the total CBA cost on the talent priority slide as approximately $16.5 million. However, when you get into the actual budget line items, the numbers don't add up. In

057February, the totals for personnel services or what I'm assuming is our raises, um, as well as other compensation like stipens and things for CBA pay was a total of 22 million when you combine those line items. A month later, the revised March budget that the board approved, those same line items totaled 13 million. Where did $9 million go? And why does neither amount or any line item equal 16 million as the board was presented? Um, I'm not an expert on this stuff, right? But I've confirmed with people who do read these types of documents for a living, and it's it's nebulous. It's unclear. It's imprecise. Um, and I think a lot of that is what is leading city council members to sort of not trust what's going on in RPS with our our finances. Um,

058so we will as a union, as workers, as a community, we're going to continue to advocate for more funding from the city, from the state. Um, even you know, like Mr. Hedgepath said having those rallies um to protest the department of education cuts at the federal level. Um but we need the superintendent and the RPS administration and the school board. You know, you all are responsible for budgeting within the allocation and ensuring that the CBA agreements are accounted for and honored. Um, while the mayor and city council have an obligation to ensure that our students and schools receive the funding they deserve, the superintendent's budget plan must be accountable for making collective bargaining work, not just in principle, but in practice. And that starts with good faith bargaining like the folks from LA are talking

059about tonight. Um, and that starts with transparency and clarity. Um, I've had many people who have worked in many other districts talk about how difficult it is to understand our budget and where money is going and how money is being spent. Um, I've never worked anywhere else. I'm an English teacher, not a budget person, but this is coming from people who who know what they're talking about and have seen other school districts. And so, um, further, like I have said, members of city council have stated that the mayor's proposed budget includes the full local funding amount requested by the superintendent and school board in their official submission, and that's a quote from a city council member's email. Um, that's not my understanding of what the city council budget is. It's it's considerably less than even

060what we need to fund the CBAs. And so I guess I'm asking for the school board and the RPS administration to provide more information on what was actually requested of the city and why the city council and the mayor are not understanding our funding needs the same way you all are. Um it it just it just simply doesn't make sense. And I think the city council members are, you know, realistic and righteously concerned to wonder what is happening with our funding when there's just so much ambiguity, so much so many things that are nebulous and imprecise. Like I don't know how we can track things like, you know, new teacher bonuses and out of outofstate relocation things. Like how how do we track how much that's going to cost? How do we track how much

061different things in our CBAs are going to cost? like how are we doing this precisely to then say like oh we don't have the money for something else that we're going to need. And so I worry that what's going to happen is that the administration and the mayor are going to spin the budget this year and the narrative will be that CBA is too expensive and unaffordable or unpopular cuts will be made as an attempt to sway the community's opinion of collective bargaining when the reality is we have school administration that is not managing its finances or its leaders. Look at the mess with the transportation workers that are here tonight and their ongoing issues with activity pay. Look at those pecard audits that have been on the news. Look at the misuse of funds

062from the former chief engagement officer um that one of our members brought forward. Look at the chaos and turmoil in the talent and finance departments under the chief. Look at the workers that come forward about toxic work environments and those leaders don't leave until a lot of staff have. And so I'll close by saying that not all that glitters is gold. Just because we have good PR and communications going on in RPS doesn't mean that our house is in order. We can and should celebrate the strides and joy in RPS, but we also have to be honest and realistic about what is really going on behind the scenes in city hall. Thank you. Thank you. Next up, we have uh Kenya Williams. After that, we have um Tenanisha Crump, Daryl Williams, and Alfonso Blunt. if

063you can go ahead and make your way up and and sign the clipboard. Colleagues, I'll also share that we have 11 minutes left for public comment. Good evening. Good evening, school board. Here we are again. Same conversation, different day, different month, same issue. Okay. Um, as you very well know or you may not have known, I've been here since 99. I've been doing my same afterchool activities since 2001. I started my Wreck andPock at Shimarazzo and then I drive for Belleview Wreck and Pac. I've been getting the same two hours per activity since then. That brings me up to my 40 hours a week before we got the 8 hour contract that we did not ask for. We did not ask for eight hour contract. We were okay with our 6-hour contract. We were forced

064to get a 8 hour contract which threw everybody into overtime. So what the administration did was they gave a school district with unlimited overtime 40 hours coming out the door. That was not a driver mistake. That was an administrative mistake. The drivers are not responsible for the for the shortcomings of the people who made that decision. Now I'm here to say today that the drivers that sit behind me today and the monitors rely on this income to maintain their household. I've done the math for my household for myself. And if y'all take away the 2hour activity minimum for my two activities, I want you to drive cuz I pick up at 7:00 at night. Why? Some people at home sleep. We're still out here working. I get to my doorstep at Chesterfield at 8:45 sometimes

065at night and have to be back to work at 6:30 in the morning. So that doesn't guarantee me getting 6 2 hours a day for my activity. I think that's false. Okay. So the monitors who ride on the bus with us, this is their only form of income, that's their only form of getting overtime. If they ride with a driver. So to take that from somebody who's making $12 an hour is a smack in the face. I came in I came in here in 1999 as a bus monitor. I was making $8.88 an hour. So you mean to tell me that since 99 to 25 they're making $1250 some cent an hour? Where's the fair the fair wage at in that? And you want to cut their twohour activity? That's not fair to me. They

066have children. I raise three sons on Richard public school salary. And remind you I start at $888 an hour. So I don't know nothing to do but to do my activities. I don't have nothing written. Miss Burke, I'm out of context. I ain't I ain't writing nothing today. So this is freelance. Okay. Apologize. So um so with that I put three sons through college. 30 seconds and they all graduated from public schools. Armstrong and no Armstrong and Hugan. So I said y'all should agree to the two-hour minimum for all drivers and monitors and increase the amount to pay to at least $15 an hour. Thank you. I would like to remind everyone during public comment that we would ask for your respect and being silent while others are speaking. We really appreciate you being here,

067but it just helps things to run a little bit smoother without the commotion. With that being said, we would ask um Tanisha Crump. Hi. We went to school together years ago. Childhood friend. Yes, ma'am. And then after that we have Daryl Williams, Alons Blunt, and then Keon Shim. Well, good evening. It's a pleasure being with you all this evening. My honor. Well, I would like to introduce myself as Tanisha, formerly a private school student and beg my mom to let me be a part of Richmond public school in which I did attend Armstrong High School. Graduated in 98. Life goes on. I transition to become a parent in which those two the oldest did attend Shimmerazzo in which Mrs. Bert was the principal. [Music] Phenomenal. And um I'mma double back because Shir Shironda Fernandez was

068a childhood friend of mine at St. Patrick's. So I it's an honor to stand amongst you. Okay. So moving forward MLK and Armstrong is where my two oldest formerly did attend. And with that being said, I used to stand at the bus stops with the children and I would stand out there, you know, the buses I run in and days that I knew that the drivers because I would call over the transportation, the drivers will have to double back or do triple loads, you know, to try to fill in positions to transport these school. So, I would do a carpool. And then as time went on, I had a neighbor that helped patting me on my back and begging me, won't you drive a school bus? And I'm like, you know what? That's a great

069idea. I could be a part of the team so I can continue to help the I could be a part of the community because I love Richmond City and I love Richmond public schools. So that's what I did. I have been employed here since 2013. Started out at $12.81. Oh my goodness. I had to run my bus. I had smoke coming out the tail pipe. I was a six-hour driver. I did field trips, activities, and I did it with pride. I do my job from my heart. Everyone Everyone knows that about me. I'm excited about my job. To be honest though, sometimes when I received my paychecks, I just did not know how I was going to make it. I had to rely on faith in which I did. So many different people, why are

070you here? You too smart. You should do this. you should do that. You have your CDLs. You should work somewhere else. And I said, "No, I'mma I'mma hold on to my face and everything's going to be all right. And one day we will be okay. We'll see more money. They they will honor us." 30 seconds. They will know how important we are. Well, with that being said, since I have 30 seconds when I became a eight hour driver, I'm just freestyling. I was excited because I do have a 9-year-old that that is now a student at Shimmerazza. So, I had to give up a lot of activities. So, the eight hours helped me with my $2,300 rent that I paid. If I was to lose any hours, how would that I explain that to my

071landlord if I don't if I don't have the eight hours or if I don't receive two hours for the activity time. Thank you, Miss Crump. Daryl Williams, colleagues, we are a bit past time, but we do have two other speakers that have um pre-registered. Are we in agreement to allow them to go ahead and speak, but then move forward after that? Okay, Mr. Williams going uh start off this I know and some of y names perspective of what put in perspective of who I am some of y'all got some disturbing email from me during the winter break about this way situation but I'm going speak on this right here what need to be spoken about why are these bus drivers so important to Christian publishing Google. Let me point out point paint paint y of

072why drivers are so important and why the past practice of paying the two hours per activity is important. We the drivers are responsible for transporting 95% of the students to the to and from school. I know some of y'all just think we're just bus drivers, but we are just more than that. We are their guardian mentors outside their homes. Whether or not y'all want to admit it, the school system, students, and parents need us. Taking away the past past practice pay will cause tremendous ripple effect on the students and parents and eventually the school system. Just in case y'all still don't see the picture yet, let me break things down. The extracurricular activity programs that are are there to help the students push their learning skills and mold them to be our future leaders and

073the next big superstar in sports. Some students need a program to get away from being at in at home from bad situations, whether it's a broken home, getting having no food at home, uh getting away from the gang and violence in the neighborhoods, having these school programs a safe haven from for some of the students. Two, taking the two hour away will cause a ripple effect. We the drivers choose this profession because of the pay and most important for the love of the students. We sacrifice our lifestyle and time away from our families to make sure that these children are in school learning and not involving theel in gang activities in the lifestyle crime. Being a bus driver is not an easy job. We have to we have to have the patience, physical and mental

074abilities to deal with different adversities of different students. When I got hired two and a half years ago, I talked about how so important for these drivers, how important the drivers are. And as of right now, I'm not understanding uh not understand if we are we the drivers can't keep the past practice and guarantee I guarantee you that no drivers are doing these programs. 30 seconds. We don't get paid. We don't want to get paid 20 to 30 minutes per activity when I'mma jump ahead. Not only you going to have drivers uh get take students from home back and forth to school. Yeah. Uh 37 is not a lot. I got a lot to say. I have a lot to say. And what I'm trying to get at is that without the drivers, the school

075program, y going to collapse the time. I'll be back. Thank you, Mr. Williams. Next up, we have Alons Blunts. You're present. if you could come forward and if Keon Shim is here, if you can go ahead and come forward and and uh sign the clipboard, we would appreciate it. Good evening. Good evening. Good evening uh members of the U Richmond uh school board. I want to thank you for uh for hearing us out this evening. My name is Alons Blunt. I am a mechanic at the uh at the fleet garage and uh I'm also a uh union shop steward with our union Luna. And believe it or not, I've actually come to thank you for a few things. Um, the last time I was here, and I forget the exact date was about a couple

076of months ago, but I listed a number of concerns that we've had at our uh at our fleet garage, many of you know that we were at a location about two and a half years ago on Chamberlain Avenue when there was a bad fire and we got eventually burned out. Then we got moved to a small location on the south side uh compound which we just did what we need to do to make things work to get safe buses out for the students uh the drivers and the other people who who share the roads. And then finally we were moved to another location on uh at six and Mari which we're making it work. is really much smaller than what we need, but we're making it work and we're able to put out safe equipment.

077So, uh that's a good thing. But we had a number of concerns. Um one was storm drain safety. We had a big area of the floor where it should have had some uh type of metal deck with a seal on it to allow us to uh to work safely. And uh we had issues with emergency exits. We had water damage all throughout the building. number of ventilation issues, a number of secured wires, some clutter and other fire hazards. But then I'm just thankful that uh someone here with this body or someone with the administration flipped a switch because after that meeting uh the next three or four weeks we just had people coming from facilities and all over the place to correct these issues. So, uh, I don't know why we had to come to

078this body to get it done. Someone wasn't listening to us, but I'm glad I came. And I want to thank each and every one of you for making that work for us. Um, 30 seconds. I do have some other issues. Like my boy said, 30 seconds ain't a lot. We um, but I'm going to bring this up. We were the uh the mechanic for the unit uh that got decompression along with what we were supposed to get as raises uh last year and uh I don't know what happened. I don't know what decompression does. I think it takes you back several steps because we just didn't see any decent increase. We haven't had a real increase in four years. So I appreciate the attention to that. Thank you. Thank you. At this time, we will

079transition um after Mr. Shim. Good evening. Good evening. Um my name is Keon Shim. I am the business manager of Local 804 who represent transportation workers that are here with me tonight. Um I had a handout, a one pager to hand out. I was told that uh you guys will be getting it after my my speech. So hopefully you guys will take the time to read it. Uh because it's a one pager that's kind of clarifying why we should preserve the two hours and also revisit the decompression that uh our colleague Al was just talking about. But this really speaks more to the two hours. Um so as let me take you guys back to last year um the auditor's report. So there were things there that was not true that he claimed. One was

080that uh the drivers were in violation of the Fair Labor Standards Act uh which was false. Uh the drivers were in violation of Virginia overtime law which was also false because the auditor was not aware of the simple fundamental fact that the bus drivers are not hourly wage employees their salary. um and he just missed that and decided to say I'm a lawyer and these are things that they were in violation of. And of course, I came to you uh last year with documents from our general counsel uh disputing that fact. And then after you guys consulted with your lawyer, they also confirmed our findings as well and and our argument that those were not facts. Also, uh the auditor's report stated that the drivers were making on the average of 80 something,000 a year.

081I don't know if you guys watched the one board meeting where Miss Kenya Gibson actually pulled out the calculator and did the math and they were off by at least 30 something thousand. Of course, you know, nobody makes 80 something,000 a year on the average in the transportation unless you're talking maybe director's level. I don't know. Um so um what we agreed to at the last mediation is that we took a huge compromise and we gave a big concession to the administration because we want to work together as partners. So we did agree to take the drivers back to six hours which means now they will be working 30 hours a week. So even if you give these drivers two hours per activity run, they still have to make up 10 hours. And think about

082it, there's five days in a week, right? So if a driver does one activity run per day, that fills up their 40 hours, which equals to zero overtime. Right now it's eight hours. So when they do those five runs, they're getting 10 hours overtime. See the big difference here? Huge difference. So, we've already made these concessions and we agreed that let's let's compromise and we will take us back to 6 hours. However, we're still getting push back on preserving the two hours. This is going to in our opinion and as we stated we when we were here last year, this was the fundamental problem, the eight hour contract as you heard our members speak about it, right? So, we did our part, but for some reason, we still have to spend thousands of dollars and

083go to an independent party called the panel, which a third party arbitrator is going to come in and they're going to hear both sides and they're going to have to decide on this. Um, by the way, is is Doug still on your payroll? The auditor? It's like, where's Waldo? Where's Doug? Just wanted to mention that. Um, but again, why do we have to spend millions uh more thousands of dollars and resources and money when we don't have to. And we feel confident that we will prevail in that panel because we're not asking for anything extra. We actually took less. I think that's a fair agreement. So, I ask this board to clarify what our ask is. Please vote as a board to preserve the two hours and revisit the decompression because it wasn't decompressed. It

084was compressed even more. One minute. Thank you, guys. Thank you. At this time, public information is now closed. We'll move forward. The next item on the agenda for external reports which is 5.01 receive Richmond ED fund for member nomination. Good evening, Madame Chair, members of the board. Uh, this is my first time presenting to this new board. I'm Taiken Cooper, president Richmond Ed Fund. and now a resident of the third district. Um, so initially we were planning to bring a slate of uh please we're planning to bring a slate of potential board members for you all to affirm. We are adding to that slate. So um I hope that we can bring that before the end of this fiscal year. I did want to provide you all a short spring update. Um, a couple things

085that I' I've talked to most of you all individually, but um, I haven't said this collectively. I said to the former board, I didn't want any of you all to make decisions out of scarcity. And uh, many of you have taken me up on that. Um, and I'm I'm committed to doing that. Of course, we can't invest in everything. We'll talk a little bit more about finances, but we're committed to being partners with you all in this work. And the other thing is um I might get myself in trouble on this, but most of you all know I'm always available. So um I was six time zones away. I was sending uh text messages and emails to Superintendent Cameras. He was responding at 3:00 a.m. Eastern time. Um, many of you have called me nights,

086weekends, but I truly take to heart uh us being partners. So, FY24 at a glance. Um, we have another clean audit with no findings or concerns. Um, I shared in our fall update that we were uh suns setting our scholarship program. One of the things that a few board members asked, you know, exactly how much money comes in for scholarships, it was 1.2% and honestly scholarships that was the the largest amount that we received in scholarships in quite some time. Something that I'm really proud of here is that only 7.7% of our revenue goes to operation. And so the industry standard is up to 35%. All that means is that the money we receive goes back out to students, schools, and initiatives. Also wanted to share with you all that um we've taken trips at

087this point across the country. So we took a delegation I think of 12 or 15 to New York last June. Then we took another delegation of 12 to Arizona in October. We took a delegation of 30 to Colorado in in February. Um these trips initially were to inform some of the work that we could possibly do at the Mari Street School, but um these trips have morphed into so much more and we have a number of external partners who are really really excited about passion for learning and I look forward to sharing more updates with you all. Um after that about that also something that I heard uh the former board talk a lot about was we need to grow school leadership. And so we made a pretty significant investment in RPS lead which is

088a program designed for uh to really help individuals become strong school leaders. So, uh, we have a cohort of 13 assistant principles and two principles, two new principles. Um, it's a a year-long cohort and, um, one assistant principal came up to me at an event a few weeks ago and said that, uh, that was the most significant uh, professional development that she's ever participated in. So, I hope that continues and I look forward to sharing more information. But my goal is that uh these individuals become great school leaders and build a culture and we retain them and ultimately see more student success as well. Um in October I told you all that my personal goal was $5 million and true for fiscal year 25 and my um my board even said hey I think that's

089a lofty goal. So, here today to tell you all that we've secured $4 million already for fiscal year 25 and we have pledges for another million dollar. So, we're going to reach that $5 million mark. So, something that I want to say to you all is that we oftent times in education foundation or ed fund world, we hear a lot about the size of an organization's budget. Um, at $4 million, that means that we've raised an additional $180 per student in RPS. Nationally, ed funds and education foundations raise about $50 per student. Once we hit that $5 million number, we're going to be at $210 per student. Honestly, that's still not enough. So, I don't have to tell you all about the JARF report. um many of the conversations that you all are already having

090about the budget. We need to we honestly need to raise at least a thousand dollars more student. Um so we are taking some steps and I'm trying to be really creative and aggressive and say how do we grow this from a $5 million organization to a$20 million organ. Something else that I don't think you all give give yourselves enough credit for. Um, and it's a little small on this document, but we always hear Richmond compared to all these other cities and sometimes counties. Um, but Richmond is a little bit different and we aren't like demographically we're a little bit different, but academically we aren't that far off. And so, um, when you look at the percentage of our multilingual learners and economically disadvantaged students and compare that to, uh, graduation rates, I think we're definitely

091going in the right direction. So, I'm really excited about that. And, um, there was a lot of feedback last year about RPS Shines. Um, and so I want to share with you all that this year RPS Shines is going to be an adult only event. Um, we've changed the location. So RPS Shines has historically been on Tuesdays at Main Street Station. It's going to be on Friday, May 2nd at Dewey Gotwall Center. We're going to have live music. Um, we we won't have a sitdown dinner per se. Uh, we're going to do something a little different with dinner. So I look forward to your feedback. I'm sure that I know that you all will definitely give me the feedback if you didn't like it. Um, but I think it's gonna be an exciting night and

092also in conjunction with RPS Shines, um, we are running our our online auction again, celebrate RPS. So, we're gonna have some really cool experiences, I invite you all to think of something like you bake a cake, maybe we can um, hey, we can auction off your cake. Uh but if there's an experience, if there's something that you enjoy doing, um I invite you all to do that. So it might be go for a hike or go fishing with someone. But um I think it's going to be a great way to shine a light on a number of things that we do and in Richmond public schools. And so we're kicking off this this auction in RPS shines with a $100,000 campaign um that I got some pledges for today to really make May my goal

093is to make May a month of celebrating RPS staff. Um and so I see this from being like maybe all teachers can get massages at at some place. um or you can get your car washed at another place. But that's how I really hope that you know in partnership with the engagement office we can grow this campaign for May. Happy to answer any questions you all have. Dr. Harris Muhammed, Miss Burke, but before you um share, uh Mr. Cameron would like a few words. Thank you, Madam Chair. Um, first I just want to say how grateful I am to Taiken and to the education fund for their support. Uh, truly not a week goes by where we don't reach out. The request could be something small, it could be something large. Request usually comes from

094Miss Parks. So we are grateful for all that taking does and the foundation particularly in the wellness front to support um our young people but also on literacy on uh our work for the new CTE center and so many other things. We truly couldn't do the work uh without you and without the entire foundation. So thank you so much. Also as I shared with the chair I'm happy to auction off bespoke jokes for RPS Shines. So, just putting that out there. With all due respect, I I only want things that people might want to invest in. Don't quit your day job. If we win the bid, can we bury the joke so that they're never told? Make it a roast. Maybe. I don't know. Thanks, Mr. Cameras. Miss Burke, you're right. Dr. Harris Muhammed, Miss

095Burke, and then Mr. Mr. Hitchb, thank you so much Madam Chair. Thank you for this great presentation. Appreciate the work that all of you all are doing particularly in the area of wellness parks. I know stated there are a lot of requests coming from that department and I know you all um probably were somewhat involved with trying to ensure that the family that lost a student last week, you you all are always there. So I know I appre I really appreciate that. So, if I have not said it, thank you. Or if I have not said it enough, thank you for all the work you do. And I I will be committed to um bake 12 homemade rum cakes for your I know you were throwing that at me to auction off for the auction.

096And I know my colleagues have not tasted except Miss Renzy, my room cakes. Um but I will commit to donating 12 to the auction. Thank you. But I have a disclaimer. Don't eat the rum cake and then drive. That's all I'm saying. That's all I'm saying. Put that out there. Thank you. Thank you, Miss Burke. The rum cake just threw. Wow. I believe you make ice cream, don't you, Miss B? You shared that before. Rum ice cream with rum cake. Okay. Okay. What? All right. Let's Yes. But he brings such joy to us and I thank you number one for thinking outside of the box. I love the idea of the month of May just to celebrate. That's something that I I always speak about because when you lift people up, they feel better about

097we feel better about puts us on a different plane. Now, apparently you have something surprising for us since it's going to be an adult only activity. So, I'm waiting to see what that's going to be. I'll see you on May 2nd. Well, I Well, looking back over the past, it's been absolutely fabulous. Fabous and I thank you for including everyone all the families. I also appreciate what the superintendent stated in regards to the literacy piece and what you shared in regards the leadership piece. You're spreading the joy without our having to stress where are we going to get the resources? How are we going to do this? And I thank you for that. And as we continue in the climate of which we are, we're going to really be leaning be leaning upon your expertise.

098But I commend you on finding those resources during challenging times. So apparently you know the right people and you're in the right place and I wish you well. Thank you. Thank you. Um, you know, one of the things that I shared earlier uh this week with a potential investor said that um the work is being done. It's just my job to help tell the story. Um and so thank y'all for for committing to doing the work and keeping the main thing the main thing. Um and I'll do my job to amplify the work that you all are doing. Mr. Hback. Thank you, Madam Chair, and thank you, Teen. We'll build on to my colleagues comments. Um, I think it's really important to continue to model growth mindset and and also being humble and um realizing

099that we don't always have the answers, but we don't need to reinvent the wheel. So, I appreciate your uh your interest and and uh dedication to going outside and and like my colleagues comment about about looking outside of the box and uh going to um you know other places that you may face similar issues that that we can learn from. Um I so I appreciate that. I saw that there's a a paid internship that's going to be um launched and I don't know is is it too early to share anything about that uh or um can you just anticipate an update on on that later? Yes. So, we've been working on this kind of behind the scenes. Um there are a couple other conversations that have to happen uh both with the administration and with

100the city, but um my goal is that we will launch a pallet as soon as this summer um probably in partnership with Mayor's Youth Academy and then I hope we can we can do something really interesting beginning this fall. Anyone else? Mr. Pible. Thank you, Madam Chair. Um so, Mr. Cooper, you you briefly touched on the trips that we took and I was lucky enough to be on the Denver trip and I think you undersold the importance of what was going on out there and that is uh first and foremost we we saw what was being done right with CTE programs and what we could bring back as bees, what we could bring back to the hive. But what was equally of importance is everything that I talked about on the campaign trail last year

101about Richmond and what Richmond needed, the conversations that we needed to have with business leaders, getting everybody in the same room. You did with that trip. I had breakfast with business leaders and we talked about what's best for Richmond and how RPS fits into that. If we had a an ed fund for the whole city, it would be amazing. I think that's what Richmond needs. But I I just wanted to put punctuation on what you covered very briefly and the importance of that trip. And also I bake a pretty mean loaf of bread. So thank you. Anyone else? Um I just would like to um just say thank you for all the work um that you do um with the Ed Foundation. I mean, it speaks volumes to your commitment and the success. Um, I'm

102not surprised that you've already raised $4 million. Um, what a lot of people don't know is that, um, when we have these different events and activities, um, where our, you know, schoolboard colleagues are going to and superintendent cameras goes to, I understand the why, but I also see the sacrifice in that. I I know that there was a day where um we were like passing all day long with different events and activities and um sponsorships and um the science uh event. You were there at the science museum, but you know that commitment to be there to be able to tell the story. Um and I just appreciate that about the work that you do. um it's not just um someone giving you a report to say here's what we're doing. The commitment to actually go

103into the community to talk to the folks, the teachers, the principles, the administrative staff that is just going far beyond the call of duty. And so I just wanted to give you your flowers and tell you thank you for your efforts and we look forward to it you doubling it this time next year. No pressure. Um, and just thank you for all that you do to um to bring value to RPS. Thank you. Thank you. Okay, so next up we have um board action items. I'd like to call out that I think we might have duplicated um the Head Start enrollment. It was on 6.01. 1, but when we amended it, um, we added it to 6.08. So, I just want to call that out that it's the same. It's just worded a bit differently.

104So, um, we will move forward with 6.01. Let me backtrack. Oh yes, from last night. Okay, so we have next up, my apologies, is 5.02. Receive an overview of facility condition assessments and critical action items. Good evening. Good evening, Madame Chair. Mr. Vice Chair, school board members and superintendent cameras, I do want to give a quick disclaimer. Um, Robert Hathaway, who is our dur facilities director, was unavailable this evening. Um, they are a temporarily a part of the wellness office. We have our family and facilities and risk management. So happy to to be learning um some additional things. And so we've had them for about three weeks. The disclaimer for this evening is I will do my very best as not being the content expert, but any subsequent questions that I am unable to answer,

105I will capture them and they will be a part of the board memo that will be shared on Friday. So, we're going to look at the facilities can is that the No, can you put the other one up first, please? It's actually the transportation the facilities I know they were similar in name so sorry before you begin I just want to remind the public for those who are watching that the documents that um are part of this presentation were from last night's session um so that there's um no confusion there. we were a little bit longer um and so we opted to transition them to tonight. We want to call that out so that they know where to follow those documents in the presentation please if you don't mind. It's the one with Michael Bourne

106and Robert Hathaway. It's the transportation report. Thank you so very much. Come on and join me. This is Michael Bourne. He serves as the RPS risk manager. Um, as the board is aware, on March 4th, we did have some facility staff members that came to the board and expressed some concerns. We wanted to make sure that we had an opportunity to address all those concerns because we want to make sure that our staff are in safe, loving, healthy working environments. And so, we took those concerns very seriously. We itemized those each of those concerns one by one and then we took action on them. I am happy to report that as of this evening there are three outstanding items from the list of 12 items that were mentioned as a part of the board meeting

107and then some additional items that were mentioned um in conversation with our transportation director um Ingred Fenny Reynolds. That's the correct name right? Okay. just wanted to make sure that I shot her out as well. She's been very accommodating to us. She's been very transparent in expressing some of the concerns. Um, and we we do want to make sure that we work towards the resolution for all of the items that we were able to complete. There's pictures there. The three items that we were unable to complete are the exhaust. Those parts have come in, so we will be able to take care of that relatively quickly. Um, at our Belt Boulevard location, there are two outstanding items that have to take place. One of the things that were mentioned as concern was only having three

108bathrooms for 150 people to be able to use. Certainly, that is concerning. Uh, and so we will be getting bathroom trailers for that particular lot. uh that requires the quote because the trailer itself is a price and then each and every week the waste has to be disposed of. So that's a price as well. And so we're trying to get some competitive quotes to make sure that not only we're able to serve our staff, but we're also getting the best price for our budget. Um the last item is the cameras. Uh the PO has been placed. We're just waiting for an installation date and so hopefully we will have either our cameras installed or a date prior to the next meeting. But we will have an update as a part of the board memo on

109Friday. And with that, we'll take any questions. Mr. Hedgep. Thank you, Madam Chair. Thank you, Miss Sparks. Um there were a number of pictures and I'm very appreciative of those. I just wasn't able to access them. said that they we needed permission. So, I just wanted to be able to to see them. So, maybe that can just be remedied. We can take care of that. Thank you, Dr. Harris Muhammed. Thank you all so much for getting on top of this. Um, as quick as you all did, I just wanted to publicly say thank you because it has been a concern um at that particular lot. So, I can't stress enough how um a safe a safe environment, a safe working environment is important, retaining our our people. So, thank you. I'd also like to echo

110just um the response and um your efforts um from the time that um you know, some of the concerns were called out. Um you guys were right on it. So really appreciate that. I just would also like to note that um you know it should not take someone having to come to a meeting for us to you know act on things that are there. And so I um would just encourage um the facilities team to continue the efforts and being proactive and ensuring that we handle these things with a kick love. Um I know that they're working extremely hard. Um, but super important that we ensure that some of these things are not magnified if we just handle them a little bit quicker. So, but thank you so much and thank you for embracing this

111opportunity to learn. Um, I've already seen a difference in um what has taken place in the last three weeks because of your leadership. So, thank you for that, Miss Parks. And thank you. Teamwork. Yep. Teamwork makes the dream work, Miss Burke. Thank you, ma'am. Thank you, Madam Chair. Thank you all so much. Um, I read the report and I was very pleased to see this. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. My question is and I asked this during the last meeting at some point our facilities report were any of those items that we just that you all just took care of were they on the report is had they were not ma'am are you serious so there are two different things they had a concern about the actual working conditions and the condition of the

112facility where they were located our facilities condition assessments which we'll discuss next are something totally different. So, no ma'am, they weren't listed. So, I'm looking for every little item on that report to be um shared with us. But from what you're saying, it's the bigger picture. That's interesting. Thank you so much. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Bourne, for coming back the next day. I appreciate it. Oh, yes. Thank you so much. We appreciate you. So, Mrs. Burke, I think this is the one of interest for you. The next presentation, it is our facilities condition assessment report. The board did approve for a fullfledged look at all of our buildings. Let's see the condition of them. That was done last year um in the spring and throughout the summer. At the conclusion of the report, we

113had tons and tons of information that was given to us to dissect, but it was a very thorough overview of all of our buildings, which is great. Um, and what you will find is that there's a lot that needs to be done. We have a lot of deferred maintenance items that we've had to move down the road because we have not had the money um to do that. But we are plugging along with what we do have. And unfortunately because of some of the budget cuts, the things that we have allotted as a priority for this year as well as next year will have to be deferred as well. And so the reports have been available to the public. We just wanted to bring it to the top of box for our new board members

114so they can be aware that we are on it. There are some next steps, but there also are some challenges. uh and we look forward to finding creative ways to be able to bring resolution. I will give an example um to you. There has been this lingering question about there's money in the ADA funds. One of the things that I did when we looked at the budget was hey what is within our facilities condition assessments that are ADA related and it is our elevators. And so while we would have deferred that for five schools in particular, we're going to use our ADA funds to be able to do that as well as to place a ramp on another school. And so it's just looking at how can we make the money align. And so I'm

115happy to report that we'll be able to do that. Those elevators are about $200,000 a piece, so they're not cheap, but they will be um replaced at five of our schools. And so I'm happy to report that as well as the ramp at Westover. And we're also looking at some additional support as far as ramp go for um Mlenny. Is it Mcclenny? Sorry. Um and with that I'll take any uh additional questions that I am able to answer. If not, I will capture them and ensure that they are in the board memo on Friday. Miss Berg, Mr. Hedgepath. Thank you, Madam Chair. I am so happy that Armstrong High School's elevator is on the list because we've gotten a lot of lot and I know people have worked on as much as they possibly could,

116but I am so happy and I'm sure you know why on many levels. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. So, we're looking forward to seeing that. It's not in front of me, but are we waiting on We already We already know how much it's going to cost. Yes, ma'am. A couple of them I saw in the areas that we were waiting on the um budget budget for procurement or something. So, if it is a large ticket item based off of our protocols, if it's over a certain um amount, then we have to get quotes and some some items require board approval. Right. Well, thank you for Armstrong. Thank you so much. So, the five schools are Red, Bushaw, Armstrong, John Marshall, and RTC both north and south. Any additional questions? Mr.

117Hedgeb. Thank you, Madam Chair. Thank you, Mrs. Parks. Uh this information is really important um and and helpful for us new board members and for also for the communities to understand the full scope of the needs of each of our buildings. Um and so much thanks for the finding of the money for the ramp. Um the PTA at um and and the school community at Westover Hills has been desperate for that uh that replacement for some time and so uh I'm just very appreciative of of that being taken care of. I've we've had a lot of conversations of you know should the PTA be paying for this out of their fundraising money and I told them that no that this is something that the school system needs to pay for and so I'm I'm very

118thankful that that we were able to to do that. So thank you and your folks for for working through that. uh shouldn't ETA shouldn't be spending their money on on ADA compliant uh infrastructure. Uh I also wanted to bring up the the the conversation that we brought yesterday that uh that I brought up yesterday that we still reminder we do have uh unencumbered money in our CIP budget um that could take care of some of these other remaining immediate needs uh while we're waiting for more CIP money from the city. I know that what they're going to give us this year is proposed to be far below what we actually need. So that's it. Thank you, Miss Parks. Mr. Jafari. Yeah, thanks M. Sparks and uh thank to the rest of the division for the

119promptness and the persistence to address these issues. Certainly thankful for the ADA compliant updates that you're going to be making at the other schools. But I want to chime in for Bushaw because I know that I know that they are really interested in knowing that these improvements are headed their way. So again, I didn't want you to leave without knowing that we really appreciate all the efforts that you guys have put in for Thanks. Um I just have um a couple questions, but thank you. I mean, this is something that I've been asking for for quite some time. And so, I really appreciate um you know, you being able to compile this together with that top list of critical priorities as we go into um you know, determining budgets and cuts. It's helpful to us

120to have that snapshot um to consider. My question is um along the lines of what my colleague uh just mentioned about unencumbered funds. Um what is the realistically you how much work are we going to be able to to do with the unencumbered funds and is there an amount that we know of um as relates to that for the rest of this fiscal year? Most of our funds have been encumbered. They may not have been deducted from the ledger and there could be a number of reasons why they haven't did it yet. We haven't received the invoice and the work hasn't been done so we haven't paid it out yet. But most of our funds have been encumbered and spoken for um what we can do as a part of the board memo to say

121these are the things that we are waiting yeah to deduct. I think that'd be helpful for us to understand and then to get if there is um a little bit of change that's left in the purse. Um perhaps we can talk about ways that we can utilize it if any obviously I understand that infrastructure is a challenge for us overall. And so there's um definitely more needs than money. So understand that. But um it will be interesting to see uh what that looks like and what's on the waiting list and what what money we have left. I did want to mention that our CIP budget is for our large ticket items. And so you have your roofs, you have your HVAC systems, all of those things are very, very costly. A roof $1.5 million. And

122what we've been doing essentially is patchwork. And at some point you're not going to be able to patch. You're going to have to fully replace it. Our maintenance budget is all of the little small nicks and things that you see to replace light bulbs and that help with some of our utility costs. All of those things are super duper important. You know, we're looking at the facilities assessment report. Swansboro was built in 1921 and it still has its original single pane glass windows. So imagine what the cost is to have that building maintained particularly during cooler months. And so I think that the public are aware of all of these things and to the greatest degree possible we'll try to make it simplistic so that people can understand that we really are in crisis mode.

123We can't do everything although we would love to do it but we are itemizing those things of critical importance and then if there's anything left over you know we had a request from a principal that asked for some LED lights and it's like hey do your lights work? Yes they do. I'm sorry we can't switch them out to LED lights. That's a nice to have. I look forward to the day where we can discuss LED lights. Uh but I agree that is not the priority. I know there's several schools on in the ninth. Um one in particular who needs their windows replaced ASAP. Um and so we get it. We understand. Um we're here to support you, you know, whatever way that we can. Um but it starts by us understanding, you know, where we

124are and and what we have left and see what we can do from there. But thank you so much for all your efforts. All right, moving right along to um 5.04, receive an update on McKenna Vento um program. Good evening. I believe that you were here last night as well. So, thank you so much for coming back. Make sure that you're um now it's on. All right. Okay. Uh good evening, school board chair, vice chair, superintendent cameras, and school board members. I have the distinct pleasure and honor to share an update on our center for families in transition. Since we are doing disclaimers, uh as Chief Parks did, I am not the content expert here. Um our coordinator, Dr. Jamal Taylor is not available, but I am here to present the information and I do

125have Nikita Brown here with us who will help answer any questions after the presentation. included. Um, big shout out to uh Dr. Taylor again, Tequita Brown, Sandra Bullet Lomax, Nikesha Martin, and Jisha Fitz. This is the team right here that uh does the hard work. It is hard work, but I like to call it heart work for what we are doing uh here in Richmond public schools and the CFIT team. They do amazing work uh each and every day. You have to see them in action for sure. So if you ever can stop by RS RSA and check us out on the third floor um and you can see these wonderful ladies in action. So uh as you know we leverage the Mckin Vento uh homeless assistance act right to support our families who are

126in transition. This is the most vulnerable population in RPS by far. uh our students are um encountering all types of barriers and issues on a daily basis. Uh our CFIT team is uh strong and they come together working with internal external partners so forth all the resources project hope Virginia uh all that we have available to us to support our students and hopefully remove barriers as best we can uh so they can graduate. We would love to see our students uh graduate, right, and not have this be a barrier to that. Um many of our families are displaced, right, due to evictions. We know this for a fact. And there's just an inability uh to secure affordable housing in the city. You all have seen this. We continue to have this issue. Although we are

127seeing all types of developments and housing being built, we still have lots of issues going on in our city. Uh on this slide, I just want to highlight a few things that our C5 team does versus a few of the things that they don't do. I'm not going to read all of this um for sure. Uh one thing that we do have now um that's highlighted here at the bottom is our attendance tracker for our CFIT students. Um this was a new tool that we had. We've had attendance trackers uh for years now. Um and they've been a great tool, but we did not have a specific uh tracker for our uh students who have been identified under Mckenny Vento. So now we have this separate tracker. We're able to really use this uh information

128to better support our students. Um one thing for sure uh that we do is once students are found eligible for McKini Vento services a uh what I want to highlight is that we submit a uh request for transportation right so transportation can be routed by our wonderful transportation department um our folks in CFIT do not provide direct transportation to our students they are submitting the request um and working with the transportation department, but they are not the folks who are absolutely um transporting those students. So, just wanted to make that that point clear as that has been uh something that's come up uh over and over um from schools and just wanted to make sure everyone understood that these lovely folks don't actually do the transportation. But our transportation team um over the years we

129I think we streamlined this process and gotten to a point where the turnaround is a lot quicker which we're very thankful for. Um but just wanted to highlight that particular fact on this side here. We just wanted to highlight a story. Um I'm not going to read this entire thing to you, but the gist of it is this that uh this was a family with multiple children throughout the division right across different grade levels. Um this story just shows how it takes a village. It truly takes a village. Our folks in CFIT can't do it alone. They can't pass it off to our team and family and community engagement for us to do it. It takes a a collaborative effort for sure. So here uh first up right uh contacting the homeless uh connection line

130for working with moments of hope for the hotel stay. Uh Commonwealth Catholic Charities also assisting with shelter. Uh we also had home again shelter which is where this particular family uh ended up um to get support and of course family lifeline right to also support the the family. In addition to all of that, we also have our schools and our school teams that wrap around our students to help as much as possible. So, all of these folks are at the table uh consistently. And this is not an exhaustive list uh as uh for the resources and folks that we collaborate with and partner with. But this gives a good sense of it absolutely takes a village and multiple hands uh in this particular work. Uh here we just have some numbers and I do want

131to highlight that these numbers are are up until the end of winter. Um so there's there's no spring data here just through winter the end of February. Um but something I wanted to highlight here that I think is important is that there has been an increase. Um as you can see here we have 739 students who have been found eligible for Mckin Vento services for this school year. That is over a 25% increase from the end of last school year. As you can see here in the graph, we had 716 by the end of the school year. So that's this issue is is is uh steadily bubbling uh in the city. Uh the good thing is we're fortunate to have a great team um supporting our students and they are working hard supporting our divisionwide

132engagement goals within the work that they do, right? increasing uh parental and uh student advocacy which is very important right advocating for their rights around um their situation. Also two-way communication is strong and making sure that we have that and of course we want to decrease chronic absenteeism as best we can um knowing that when students are found eligible most of the time they're already uh chronically absent. So that is an issue that we have to tackle on a day-to-day. Uh here just speaking a little further about chronic absenteeism. Um as you all know right with uh this population of students uh their chronic absenteeism rates are a bit higher. You can see here we have our graph for where we are now. About 48% very high almost 50% chronic absenteeism for our students who

133have been uh found eligible for the mento uh services. That's big and we want to hopefully bring that number down as best we can but it's hard work but we'll keep we'll keep at it. Um I do want to point out as well that the data will differ a little bit as Amelia Street is no longer a school of record. So we are um it's now those students are now based their calculation their information is found in the school based calculation. So now it's a little little different with how everything is calculated. You can see that. Uh something else I want to mention, um we have 678 students who are currently active of 739 who were found eligible, right? And 331 of those 678 students are chronically absent. Yes, I see your face and I

134totally agree with how you feel about it. Um here we here we just want to talk about solutions. U we are solution oriented right this is what we do we problem solve and try to figure out well how how can we best support uh our CFIT team works with other uh agencies other uh local education agencies and districts to try to figure out some better ways to uh support our families who are in this uh particular situation uh one of which of course cross collaboration across departments is key uh see if it can't do it alone of course you've already heard me mention transportation uh office of course or our department and family and community engagement and all of the schools that we work with right across the board. Also, we talking about perhaps we

135can um leverage asynchronous work for our students so they cannot uh miss days right so we can uh try to increase their opportunities for learning. Um we think that's something that is absolutely doable and we just need to figure out how to make sure to keep that consistent and um make sure they are supported and also working with our schools right our school leaders around uh students who are suspended right and and how can we have better interventions and support those students who are going through those trouble times uh here just talking more about I won't you know get into all of the the language here But the big piece here is that we continue to work with our internal and external partners. Absolutely key uh throughout this uh process and not do it alone.

136And here just a few things that our CFIT team does as they continue to serve with love. Uh one thing that I love that they are able to do is cover the cost for uh caps and gowns for graduation. That is huge. Huge. Um I I can't imagine if it's my children or me, right? Like and not having the money to do that. And that is such a big time, right? I mean, you all know I still have my high school diploma and pictures and you remember that's that's something that you will always remember for a family. So we are super excited that they are able to provide that resource as well as things that you need for hygiene, things that you need for your household, etc. They do a nice welcome kit for uh

137for families once they get permanent housing, right? Is as is a gift. Um and I I have to mention the work that they do beyond our our uh regular contractual hours. Um our folks work uh at any time, weekends, after hours, you name it. They will go to someone's house. They're dropping off laundry, detergent, or food or this or that. They're working with the market at 25th. And shout out to the market at 25th for their continued partnership in providing meals and groceries for our families every week. We have volunteers at RSA who are helping families with that. So we just really absolutely thank our partners and you all for the support that you all have uh given us and I know will continue to give us as we do this hard work. Um that's

138all I have uh this evening. If you have any questions, Miss Brown will be happy to answer. All right. So, we have Mr. Farooq, Miss Rizzy, Miss Ricard, um, one second. All right. So, we have Mr. Baroo, Miss Ricard, Miss Rizzy, Miss Bert, Dr. Harris Muhammad. Wait, did you have your hand raised? Mr. Jafari. Okay, Mr. P. Thank you. Couple questions. One, for McKin Vento transportation, is it pointto-oint, meaning you pick them up from wherever they're living straight to the school? And two, what specific services does Family Lifeline provide? So the first question about transportation, we do pick them up from point A to point B. Point A is not always their physical resident, but we ask that they provide um an address to be picked up from and dropped off. And as far as

139family lifeline, Family Lifeline supports um families with children from expectant from expected moms up until 5 years old. Miss Ricard, thank you. Um, so with a 25% increase, um, how has that impacted the transportation budget? Um, have we seen an increase in those costs as well just because there's more students now to transport from point to point? I believe that that's a question that we would need to take down and defer to the transportation staff to be able to answer that, but we'll make sure that we get the answer to that. And just one more followup. Um, so there were 739 students identified, 678 are active. So does that mean this there's about 61 who are currently in inactive? Yes. Or I can explain the difference. So um, and as of today we have 865

140students who we found eligible and about 752 who are actually active. And the difference is is that initially every student that we find eligible is active, but for various reasons they become inactive. So whether they transfer out to different different districts um or um that's that's pretty much normally what happens. They start with us and then they may obtain permanent housing in another lo locality. Um, but we do have the information in regards to what happens and when they do W9, we do work with the schools to make sure that we recover them so that they're they're just not out of. Thank you, Miss Rizzie. Thank you. Um, you know, I I really want to thank you all for what you do for um what are our most vulnerable families. um the cost of living

141is increasing and working families um income that has not kept those have not kept pace and so uh I'm certainly not surprised to see that the situation is worsening. Uh I do have one question for you. So so first of all I just want to emphasize I appreciate what you're doing. We all do. Um so a student can be chronically absent right and then they get identified. How about students who may be displaced um but not chronically absent. So students who are dis every student that comes in um they come in with with with the status either they are making it to school every day because the parent is Ubering or driving um or sometimes they just don't have the transportation. um to get there. So what we do is every student that we find

142eligible, we automatically set up transportation. It's a part of the process. Screen them, we tag them, and we automatically send a um a referral over to RPS transportation um for them. A followup. So So what I'm asking is say a student is not chronically absent, but they're displaced and they're walking around school and they don't have stable housing. How are you able are you able to identify those students? Okay, I got you. So um through training that we do annually we train with school social workers, we train with the counselors, we train with the the regist the cis ops and registars um as many persons within the school building that we can um train to be able to identify the needs we do. And so what happens is is I will say typically transportation is

143the avenue in which families are connected with us. But we have been trying diligently to make sure that we inform you know community members through tableing events in the community um also through training any way that we can um letting them know hey this is who we are this is what we do this is who we um you know are connected with so that when they do um come into contact with students who are who are displaced um I know a lot of times with our high school students they may um you know sometimes it's a mom and I turn 18 or 17 and mom and dad don't really want me here right now. So when it comes down to that, we have a lot of unaccompanied you who um are connected with our office

144and what we do is no matter we make sure that they understand that they know no matter where you are, no matter how many times you move, we we're here. You fill out this form, we are going to set up transportation to pick you up. Um, another thing that we've done is we we we always annually have posters in schools um, you know, that outline the work of Project Hope and the work of McKenna Vento. But we've been trying to brainstorm new ideas and new things that we can do to give um, our families and community members and everybody to let them know, hey, this is how you connect families to us. So the most recent thing that we've done and I have it on today is we've gotten key key tags and and this

145QR code takes you straight to the CFIT website and that is where our screening form is found. That is where information on Mckin Vento services is found and so it allows them to apply apply for services no matter where they are right then and there in real time. So that QR code is on your flyers now. Yes, it it's on the flyers. We have postcards that we um we hand deliver them to other organizations um our BHA, R, our RAH. We try to make sure that everyone in the community has them and is readily available um to want to add to go back to your question um for that student if they're displaced and not chronically absent. Um our school attendance teams are absolutely bringing those students up for sure. Um school social workers may

146learn about it or counselors or the family liaison may hear about it. But all of those folks are at the table at the uh attendance team and they absolutely talk about these students or students who may be um trending in that direction or they're fearful that they may uh become chronically absent due to those type of circumstances. Miss Burke, you all are phenomenal. Thank you so very much. I've had the opportunity to work through McKenna Vento and many, many, many, many, many situations. I learned a lot, especially with the graduation piece, and it did make a great great difference. But you all go beyond was scripted for you to do and I thank you for that. All of the partnerships that you have connected with yourselves with and I'm recalling a situation with the public

147housing. I don't know who it was that was on the phone with me because it was a Zoom call but whomever from your place of business you all were there to make sure this family could get housing but oftent times sometimes our parents need additional support. So, you're doing you're helping the children, but you're also h helping their family members. And I thank you for that. Whenever anyone comes in to bring you items, you always receive it well. I know the Kowanas Club that does the books out front, they speak about you all highly. And everybody knows your name, Daryl Williams, in the East End. Okay. All right. I can only speak from my side of town. Everybody knows. Oh, I can call Miss B. I can call Darl. I see you. Okay. But I

148thank you for being so personable. I've seen you all drive about in the vans. I guess that's transportation dropping students off to get to school. But my concern and this it right now is the the attendance piece. I was talking to a principal yesterday saying that the child is here today, tomorrow we can't find them. the next station shows up and that continues to be a a challenge. So, thank you for keeping your eye on the prize and that's our children. Now, how do I get the flyers or the tags or the postcards? We'll make sure that you get them. Okay. Thank you so much. Keep doing what you're doing. We appreciate it. Dr. Harris Muhammed, thank you so much. This is a program that is very near and dear to my heart because I

149was almost one of these children until my grandparents intervene. So I am a huge supporter of um McKenna Vento and every year I learn how to make it pop different through Dr. Pop. And so it's amazing we're talking about this this evening because I was just on the um Charlie check-in earlier this morning with Dr. pop and the team and so we are doing amazing things and I just wanted to take this opportunity to share that personal story or tidbit of mine to know that to let you know that I understand exactly the work that you do every day. Um so I have a couple of questions. How do we support the students identified as see fit with tutorial and remediation supports particularly those students that come to us as an accompanied adult or accompanied

150student? You mean within the school? How do we support them? How do we support? Because a lot of them are transit. Um so they may start at over B Shepard but because of their um challenge with nighttime residency they may be at O growme I'm just naming a school so they may start at one academic program as my colleague just stated they may come today may not come for two days then they come again so how do what supports are is the academic team communicating with you all to make sure that the students that are identified which is a large number of students events. Um, and we saw yesterday that our academic team in the area of math and science is very slim. But how do we continue to ensure because they have to if

151they come to school, they're required to take assessments. So, how do we make sure or how do you all support that with the academic team? I would say that our team relies heavily on um the assistance of the SAS team because we do work out of the Richmond Success Academy and we are not present in the school building so we aren't always you know aware right away but I would say that with our connections with social workers with the family liaison we are heavily in communication and as soon as it's you know a couple days and they they they see that they've accumulated you know one or two more absences they reach they're calling the parents They're reaching out. They're they're saying, "Hey, I talked to Miss Jones and she said that they moved." They're

152making sure that they fill out the contact change forms. Um transportation is getting them routed right away to get them back um in school as soon as possible. Thank you. Followup. How can RPS identify the number of students that are in transition um that is a student with a disability? and and and be very transparent in that question. How difficult? I guess really my question should have been how difficult is it to start that because once that process 30 seconds it could be 45 to 60 days and then they may be with us when you start the process and just curious so to we we rely on the school the school day staff to to let us know what's going on. Between that and the information that we received from Aspen, we don't really have

153a big direct connection with them in the process. But if through the process they are transferred to another school and they do require, you know, a change in enrollment or an update in transportation, they notify us of anything that we can specifically assist with right away and we make sure that we get taken care of. Thank you. Appreciate that, Mr. Jafari. Yes. Thanks, Madam Chair. Uh yeah, and I'm sitting here in kind of reflect like my colleagues here. I kind of chime in on having a grandmother step in large part be responsible for me, but also I can reflect on uh some of those very transitional kind of situations growing up and the uncertainty. So I did I do want to commend you guys for removing some of that uncertainty from those youngsters because it

154is resounding and I I can speak from the heart on that. Um the other little piece is uh when you when you spoke about the transitioning and homelessness, I had the opportunity around the turn of the century 21st century, not too far back, but but I had I had the opportunity to work with uh with Richmond's with Richmond social services department and I did some homelessness outreach and when I heard you talking about liazisoning in the community and the resources that you were connected to. I didn't hear uh anything about like ritual social services and I didn't hear keratas. So I was curious uh do you still uh reach out to keratas? Is keratas an active participant in what you're doing and and if so could you share in that to with the board? I'm

155glad you asked the question because we are connected to several community resources. Keratas is one of our community partners that we do work very closely with. um and even beyond keratas because a family is one of the barriers that we sometimes run into when it comes down to making referrals for furniture is that a family is only eligible to receive assistance through keratas once every five years. So if a family Yeah. So if a family has received assistance from keratas and they are no long they're not eligible and like let's say that they experienced homelessness again two years later we have um start be created um partnerships with other churches and organizations to try to be able to assist them. Um we even with with our art funding we purchased beds for families who weren't

156eligible for car. So, whatever we we need to to do to to try to the best of our ability to make sure that families get what they need, we try to do it. Um, social services, our resource specialist, and I I just cannot not um shout her out. She does an outstanding job in making community connections, long-standing connections with our community partners. She has specific persons within social services that she will email and I look at, we get an email right back 20 and 30 minutes later sometimes. So we do have a connection with them. We have a connection to mental health services within RBHA. We have um connections with homework. We know homework is basically the front door to all homeless services in the city. We have a very strong connection with them. We

157go to case staffing with them and our connection with them has grown to the point where we have two additional meetings outside of the case staffing to ensure that every piece of information that we need in regards to being able to assist our families, we're able to get. We um when everything we know our space in um the Richmond Success Academy is very small. So we we no longer we don't have a a a onhand clothing closet. We do have food a resource room where we keep non-p perishable food. Um but when it comes down to to clothing we have direct resources for clothing. We have we work with Mercy Mall to be able to get the thing the inhome things that we don't necessarily have on hand. We work with Little Hands to help

158parents who need um diaper and wipe assistance and any and any kind of assistance with you know new new baby. We work with Sylvia Sister who provides feminine hygiene to our our community. Um and the list it goes on and on. But I have to also mention um the bringing families home program because we work with them directly and they provide first month rent and deposit assistance for our families who qualify. So when families fall on hard times and sometimes they have you know back they owe back rent they owe back utilities in the thousands and when they make the referral they work with the family and they bring them back to a clean slate to be successful in moving forward in housing. So we have several parties. Yes sir. Outstanding. Mr. Pible. Thank you,

159Madam Chair, and thank you guys for doing the hard work. Um, as as far as the solutions, I it was interesting to see you call out Home Again. I was on the board of Home Again for many years. Part of the solution, I think, is making sure that we all understand how to dispel a lot of the myths around homelessness and transition. Um I I spent many a family get together um where as soon as the the topic came up people were all too quick to tell me what the solutions were and they always involved some sort of addiction treatment or mental health treatment. The reality what we found at home again and the reason why the number of 700 students is very alarming to me is that we found that 85% of our customers

160were firsttime homeless people. And so the majority of those 700 people likely, I'm guessing, were not part of the program last year. These are new students. Um, so that's concerning because the trajectory is going up and we're seeing more and more families experiencing this type of of environment. So yeah, I would encourage all of us as part of the solution on your slides is to is to be the advocates out there that are dispelling some of the myths and the misconceptions about what it means to go through transition. Thank you again. So this topic is near and dear to my heart as the administration knows. I mean, since I've been on the board, I've I've um you know, shared thoughts with um Dr. Greenbell. Shout out to her who is absent. Um tonight, um but

161you know, for many years, I was a single mom with two children and I remember there were times that just because life happened, I didn't have a job and I found myself sleeping on the floor of my mom's house and thank God I had my mom. Um, but I understand this scenario all too well and a lot of folks don't even see that as um being homeless or in transition. I think that is a part of some of the work that we continue needs to continue that we need to continue to message is that homelessness or transition looks different for everyone. And you know, just because you don't have a place to stay doesn't mean you don't need help. Um, thank you for your work. I could get very emotional talking about this topic. I

162have tons of questions and I'll I'll submit I promise you I'll submit most of them later. Um, but there's some things that I wanted to touch on, but I just know how heavy this work is and so I'm very appreciative of the sacrifice um that you all have. Um, and it's something that I'm extremely um passionate about and and and I would love to work a little bit closer with this just to um, you know, bring awareness to um, this this area. Um, I even, you know, imagine how maybe, um, as we think about fundraising with, um, you know, the ED fund, how we can maybe partner and and start to tell some of these stories to help just with seaf. Um, I I think it's admirable that you all are um doing things after

163hours, but we need to quantify that. We need to know what what you're spending out of pocket. I, you know, Dr. Dr. Greenbell shared a story of a young kid rode on the bike um during January when we had the water crisis to get food with no coat. And she said, "Where's your coat at?" and said he didn't have one. So they made sure he got a coat by in the matter of three hours. But we need to know that. We need to I need for us to quantify that so that we can start to paint a picture of what the true need is because it's far exceeds what's on this paper. And so if we've identified 875 um students, then there's a a larger population that is gone unseen to no one's fault. Um,

164but one of the things that I want I know I have 30 seconds that I probably go over, but I promise you I will make it short is um surveys. What I would love for us to do is just do you know specific surveys about um you know and and maybe it's just a couple hit questions about okay you know where do you live or how do you I don't know how however we can do it but just ways that we can kind of um survey our our students to understand um if there is a need because I think um one of the biggest opportunities in this process is selfidentification of the families. Um, and so I had a thousand other things that I wanted to say, but I will make sure I send them

165all via email and um, connect with you all later on. Mr. Cameron, thank you, Madam Chair. I too just wanted to uh, thank the team. I mean, if you just look at this list of things that are almost like above and beyond, it's it's truly extraordinary. And we are in budget season. And what I often hear is why does it cost so much more to educate students in Richmond public schools than it does in the counties? This is why. And let me tell you, RPS somewhere between 7 800 students facing homelessness this year. Chesterfield County has three times the number of students as RPS and has about 900 students facing homelessness. So almost the same number of kids facing homelessness, but they have three times as many total kids. That is why it is more

166expensive. And we're not making excuses. We do what needs to be done, but that costs money and we should not be shy about asking and demanding. Thank you. And I will just add um this is why wraparound services are important. Somebody just recently asked, "Well, why do we need, you know, these partnerships? Can we, you know, are we overstepping?" I think we need to find more ways to collaborate. One of, you know, the things that we raised in terms of um a great opportunity a couple of weeks ago is how we can partner with city council. I think transition and children in transition and homelessness fits very nicely in both spaces and maybe that's the start of a conversation where we can um collaborate and see how we can the right hand knows what the

167left hand is doing to support but um there's so much more opportunity. Thank you for sharing that. Um because there we're going to get the work done. You're right. Um but we do need money to do that. I think I saw Miss Ricardan was raised and Miss Rizzy Yeah. And thank you, Madam Chair. Thank you, Superintendent Cameras. I mean, that was part of my question about transportation because I think that's a cost we can say our students 25% increase. This costs more. I know one of the things you put in the budget that I believe got cut was an additional person to help with all this routing and support and we cut that. But we do probably need that to support these students and to help you all and the load that you're carrying. So

168I think this is a narrative that could be built and just thank you for all you do. Miss Rizzie and then Dr. Harris Muhammed. Thank you Madam Chair. Um I just want to say this is an all call to those out of you out there who are doing affordable housing advocacy. Um this is a large part of why we are having these problems. Um and you know a lot of families out there are finding it very hard to find sustainable affordable housing. Dr. Harris Muhammed, that is the reason why I asked you the questions that I asked earlier because the people need to hear that you need help that this particular department. I knew the answers already because of this is the work that I do every day, but we need help. So, I just

169want to state that. Thank you. Thank you. I somehow feel we just didn't have enough time. But um this is a uh you know the start of a very important conversation, but we want you to know that we see you, we appreciate you, and we're committed to partner with you um to to to even take it amplify the level even greater. So thank you for your time. All right, the hour is nigh, so we're going to try and do this in supersonic speed. Um most of these we've already discussed and so um no pressure um as we move into board action items. Um so it's um 6.01 and 6.08 receive for action. Head start report approval. Mr. Cameras. Thank you Madam Chair. There are two actions uh we are requesting from the board tonight. One

170is the approval of the regular updates that we uh provide at each meeting. The second and more uh weighty action that we are requesting is your final decision on the seat reallocation. As a reminder, the policy council did take action uh to move forward with a 200 seat reduction. Uh as I shared last night, uh my request is either to uh comport with that decision of the policy council or if you feel compelled to go with a smaller number to immediately request time with the policy council to uh seek a meeting of the minds as I do have concerns about the timeline that we are facing in terms of submitting the reapplication. Thank you. Okay. So, we have two action items here. One would be for um the approval for the regular report. Um so,

171that'll be the first um item. Do I have a motion? Dr. Harris Muhammed. I move that we accept the Head Start report as pre presented. Madam Chair, I'll second that. It's been approved. Excuse me. Motion by Dr. Mr. Harris Muhammed and um seconded by uh Mr. Hedespath. Madame clerk Mr. Pible. Yes. Miss Ricard. Yes. Mr. Farooq. Yes. Mr. Hedgepath. Yes. Miss Rizzy. Yes. Dr. Harris Muhammad. Yes. Miss Burke. Yes. Mr. Jafari. Yes. Miss Fernandez. Yes. Motion passes. Okay. Okay. Now say what you're mouthing to me. So it is a second action item which the 6.08 um which is to um receive an action recommendation for head start enrollment as we've discussed. Um the recommendation is to um reduce seats by 200. Um do I have a motion? Dr. Harris Muhammed. I move that we accept

172the Head Start scope of change report as as presented to include their reduction of 200 seats. Is there a second? Second. It's been moved by Dr. Harris Muhammad and seconded by Mr. Perl. Are there any discussion before we vote? Madame clerk. Oh, yeah. Madam clerk. Mr. Percal, yes. Miss Ricard, yes. Mr. Farooq, yes. Mr. Hedgepath, yes. Miss Rizzy, yes. Dr. Harris Muhammad, yes. Miss Burke, yes. Mr. Jafari, yes. Miss Fernandez, yes. Motion passes. Next up is 6.02 02 received for action approval of dreams for RPS strategic plan goals. As a reminder, this was um the one where there was a request um um to send the letter for the mo Oh, that's not this one. Which one is this one? Oh, yeah. Thank you, Madam Chair. This one I'm requesting we defer action on this

173until the summer once we get the new so scores back, the new accreditation ratings back so that we can create targets based on those based upon all the changes that the state is making. So um no action is needed tonight. Okay, makes it easy for us. We'll move right along then. Favorite action is no action, Mr. B. All right. Um next up 6.03 03 receive for action school year 2025 2026 re-election list. Good evening. Good evening, Madame Chair, Mr. Vice Chair, Superintendent Hammerson, board members. Um we are requesting approval of the 2526 re-election list. It was uploaded for your review. Um, the re-election list contains names, job titles, and salaries of all full-time employees slated to receive contracts for the 2526 school year. Dr. Harris Muhammad, there are any questions about the reelection list. I

174can make a motion to accept as presented. Please proceed. I move that we accept the reelection list for the 2526 school year as presented. It's been motioned by Dr. Harris Muhammad and seconded by Miss Burke. Madame Clerk, Mr. Perl, yes. Miss Ricard, yes. Mr. Farooq, yes. Mr. Hedgepath, yes. Miss Rizzy, yes. Dr. Harris Muhammad, yes. Miss Burke, yes. Mr. Jafari, yes. Miss Fernandez. Yes. Motion passes. Thank you. I have the next one, too. Okay, great. Welcome back. I now will receive for action school year 2025 to 2026 salary schedule. Thank you. Um, we are requesting approval of the 2526 salary schedule that was also uploaded. Um, although the city, excuse me, city and state budgets have not yet been approved and although anticipated funding levels are well below what RPS is hoping to see, the

175administration recommends moving forward with issuing contracts for the 2526 school year to ensure that we are able to retain staff. I apologize for my voice. It's allergy season. You're here. So, please note that all of our contracts include wording um appropriation language to protect the school division um in the event that our final budget allocation is insufficient to maintain all. So, that's on every single contract that we have. Um so, I just want to do a brief overview of the changes in the salary schedule and our different CBA units. Um, for the licensed personnel unit, for the licensed personnel unit, the 2526 salary sc teacher salary scale reflects the board's approved raises from the licensed personnel collective bargaining unit, which was effective July 1, 2023. Teachers and licensed positions will receive a 3% raise and

176a 1.17% step increase. The support staff unit. The 2526 unified pay schedule reflects the board's approved raises from the support staff collective bargaining unit which was effective July 1, 2023. Instructional assistants have a new starting salary of $30,000 which is an increase from 27 $27,000 in FY25. School nutrition supervisors 2% raise. School nutrition managers new starting salary of $40,000 which is an increase from 38250 in FY25. Food service assistance new starting salary of 25309 which is an increase from 2250 in FY 22,500 excuse me in FY25. non-contracted food service assistance, the new hourly rate of $18.93, which is an increase from $18 per hour from FY25. Karen Safety Associates um while a 2% raise is in the agreed upon amount for this group. A new starting salary of $44,000 is reflected to compete with neighboring

177employers, care and safety zone supervisors, administrative security supervisors, and emergency management training coordinators. U while a 2% raise is the agreed upon amount for this group. A new starting salary of 51,840 is reflected which is proportionate to the increase um for the increase in starting salary of care and safety associates. Nurses and nurse assistants a 3% raise instructional specialists 3% raise and all positions in this unit will receive a 1.17% uh step increase along with the raise. support professionals unit. The 2526 unified pay schedule reflects the board's approved raises from the support professionals bargaining unit which was effective July 1, 2024. Family liaison 11% raise school-based office associates 9% raise. School-based office associate ones and bilingual office associate ones 1 and a half% raise. and all positions in this unit will receive a 1.17% step

178increase in addition to the raise. This custodial and facilities unit, the 2526 unified pay scale reflects the board's approved raises from the custodial and facilities collective bargaining unit which was effective July 1, 2024. facilities personnel and custodians 1% raise and all positions in this unit will receive a one 1.17% step increase in addition to the raise transportation and fleet services unit the 2526 unified pay schedule reflects the board's approved raises from the transportation and fleet services collective bargaining unit which is still in negotiation transportation personel bus operators and bus operate bus monitors, excuse me, 6% raise and all positions in this unit will receive a 1.17% step increase in in addition to the raise. The administrative unit, the unified pay scale reflects the board's approved raises from the administrative collective bargaining unit, which is still

179in negotiation. principles, assistant principles, and directors 3% raise, and all positions in this unit will receive a 1.17% step increase in addition to the raise. Central office unit. The unified pay schedule reflects the board's approved raises for the central office personnel, central office associates, administrative office associates, office associate twos, office associate 3es, executive office associate ones, executive office associate twos, and administrative assistants 5% raise. American Sign Language interpreters 5% raise. All other central office personnel 5% raise and all positions in this unit will receive a 1.17% step increase in addition to the raise. Recommended changes to the summer school salary scale. Given the reduction to summer school funding from the FY26 budget, we are recommending that the board amend the 2425 summer rate schedule for the following employee groups. These changes allow administration to accurately

180budget for and support summer school costs. Bus monitors um changed to $25 per hour and in last year um they were paid time and a half. Bus operators hourly rate of $30 per hour um whereas last year they were paid time and a half. Care and safety associates hourly rate of $38 per hour change from time and a half last summer. had an instructional assistance $25 per hour which is a change from time and a half last summer. Happy to answer any questions you may have. It appears that there are no questions. Oh, Mr. Jafari, but before you begin, Mr. Cameron wanted to share a comment. Thank you, Madam Chair. I just wanted to clarify for the board, everything that Miss Davis just presented reflects all of our collective bargaining commitments. So, um, by voting

181for these salary changes, we are reaffirming our commitment to meet all of our collective bargaining commitments and my commitment to you is to come back to you with a revised budget proposal that does so. It will involve reductions in other areas. That is simply a matter of math. Um but I'm committing to you to uh provide that to you at the appropriate. Thank you, Mr. Jafari. Just as a point of clarification, I'm on slide 10 and I'm looking at the hourly rate, current hourly rate, but I also see adjacent to it alley rate time 1.5. In clarifying that are we saying now they don't get time and a half they're going to get a flat $25 in the case of the bus monitor irres irrespective of the number of hours. Yes it would be $25

182per hour but if there is an instance where they work beyond the 40 hours on the work week then they would receive time and a half. Okay. Thank you. You're welcome. There are no further questions. Do we have a motion? Dr. Harris Muhammed. I move that we accept the salary schedule for the 2025 2026 school year. Second. It's been moved by Dr. Dr. Harris Muhammed and seconded by Oh, Mr. Farooq. Um, Madame Clerk. Mr. Perl. Yes. Miss Ricard, yes. Mr. Farooq, yes. Mr. Hedgepath, yes. Miss Rizzy, yes. Dr. Harris Muhammad, yes. Miss Burke, yes. Mr. Jafari, yes. Miss Fernandez, yes. Motion passes. Moving right along to 6.05. 5 receipt for action approval for BDOE letter. Uh yes, ma'am. I just need to know if the board wishes us to uh send the letter or to

183modify it to uh request a modification of the view or to hold. Those are the three options. Mr. Pible. Thank you, Madam Chair. I would move that we accept the letter as written and send it. Do I have a second? Miss Rizzy, I just have a question. Um, that letter is posted to last meetings board. Is that correct? That's correct. Okay. Thank you. That's all. His motion is to send the letter. Second. So this was the one just for um for debate. Well, not debate but just for a point of reference. Um the discussion yesterday was um whether we request to be removed from theou that we have been under. Um and then there were a couple who um perhaps stated that we should modify it um with concerns about being removed because we aren't

184fully accredited. And so now there's a motion on the floor for us to move forward with sending the letter to requesting that we um be removed from theou. Okay. So it's been moved by uh Mr. Pival and seconded by uh Mr. Farooq. Madame clerk. Ready. Mr. Percal. Yes. Mr. Ricard. Yes. Mr. Farooq. Yes. Mr. Hedgepath. Yes. Miss Rizzy. Yes. Dr. Harris Muhammad. No. Miss Burke? No. Mr. Jafari? No. Miss Fernandez? Yes. Motion passes. Thank you. Moving along to 6.06. received for action approval for staggered start school calendar for uh 2025 2026. As a reminder, um this was presented on last night as well and um there was a consensus from the board to not um move this forward to May uh and efforts for them to work with the spirit of excellence and moving forward

185with planning. And so, do we have a motion, Miss Rizzy? Thank you, Madam Chair. Um, Mr. Cameron, would you remind people what that staggered start means? Mr. Cameron. Thank you, Madam Chair. Yes, it would mean that uh very first day of the school year, Monday, August 18th, uh for our uh middle schoolers, only sixth graders would attend. Um, for our high schoolers, only ninth graders would attend. The following day, Tuesday the 19th, everybody would. Miss Rizzie, um, yeah, I, you know, as we talked about it yesterday and I went home and I thought about it, um, I am a little curious about how much outreach took place before this. I I'm just wondering how many of our parents were engaged in this decision. I would hate to think that we're making a decision or that

186I would that um hasn't been like really vigorously um advertised and discussed with our families. Thank you, Miss Rizzie. Um is would this be mandatory? That's my question. Would it this staggered schedule be mandatory or would it be optional? Sorry. Pull you out your chair. So yes, it would be mandatory, but we still have summerbridge the summerbridge programs that we talked about. The reason we moved to staggered schedule is because we would get 100% of the rising sixth graders and ninth graders. Whereas with the uh summerbridge, you may not get 100% participation. Yes, Miss Rizzie. Thank you. I No, I'd ask about, you know, just outreach to parents. That's that's my question. Yeah. And so, as uh PD Waller um mentioned, since the beginning of the school year, we actually had a task force that

187was about uh 40 individuals that included principles, teachers, external groups such as Next Up and UB 100. So there were a few parents PTA members but in terms of like a a survey that we sent to every family we didn't however we looked at the research um and again we also looked at our surrounding counties to see how successful they were and even reached out to them and uh that is how we made the decision um but we did not do the broad survey miss RZY thank Thank you, Madam Chair. Yeah, I would say, you know, I certainly am not going to block this, but I am a little concerned because it represents a change that I would like to have more assurance that all of our families are aware of. Thank you. Are we

188ready to put this to a vote? Need a motion. Madam Chair, I move we accept the staggered start as presented. Second. It's been moved by Mr. Persal and seconded by Mr. Burke. Madame Clerk. Mr. Perl. Yes. Miss Ricard. Yes. Mr. Farooq. Yes. Mr. Hedgepath. Yes. Miss Rizzy. Yes. Dr. Harris Muhammad. Yes. Miss Burke. Yes. Mr. Jafari. Yes. Miss Fernandez. Yes. Motion passes. Thank you. Next we have 6.09 receive for first read of special education and comprehension coordinated early intervening services an annual plan. I think that should be a motion right not receive a first read but action um so receive for approval um the special education and comprehensive coordinated early intervening uh services annual plan. Madam Chair, what what item number are you on? 6.09. Are you going to 6.07 received for approval of the

189Perkins grant? I missed that. Thank you. All right. So, let's go to 6.07. Receive for action approval Perkins grant application. Mr. Mr. Ricard, I move to accept the Perkins grant application as put forward. Second. Second. It's been moved by Miss Ricard and seconded by Dr. Harris Muhammed. Madame Clerk. Mr. Perl. Yes. Miss Ricard. Yes. Mr. Farooq. Yes. Mr. Hedgepath. Yes. Miss Rizzy. Yes. Dr. Harris Muhammad. Yes. Miss Burke, yes. Mr. Jafari, yes. Miss Fernandez, yes. Motion passes. All right. Now, we're moving along to 6.09. We already did eight. Yeah. Um, receive for approval the special education and comprehension coordinated early intervening services annual plan. We have a motion. I have a question before the motion, of course. Um, well, I'll wait to to business. Okay. Do we have a motion? This was the presentation that

190was done last night and no one had any questions. Miss Burke, the title slide. Title slide. Thank you. I move that we approve the special. Second. It's been moved by Miss Burke and seconded by Dr. Harris Muhammed. Madame Clerk. Mr. Percible. Yes. Miss Ricard. Yes. Mr. Farooq. Yes. Mr. Hedgepath. Yes. Miss Rizzy. Yes. Dr. Harris Muhammad. Yes. Miss. Burke. Yes. Mr. Jafari. Miss Fernandez. Yes. Motion passes. Wonderful. Um, now we have the uh consent agenda. um which is should be one motion. Any concerns or any removal requests? Do we have a motion? Madam Chair, I move that we approve the consent agenda. Second. It's been moved by Mr. Hesp and seconded by Miss Burke. Madame clerk. Mr. Perl. Yes. Miss Ricard. Yes. Mr. Hedgepath. Mr. Farooq, yes. Mr. Hedgefet, yes. Miss Rizzy, yes. Dr. Harris

191Muhammad, yes. Miss Burke, yes. Mr. Jafari, yes. Miss Fernandez, yes. Motion passes. Thank you. Now we're at new business. Um, Dr. Harris Muhammed, Miss Burke, Miss Rizzy, thank you. Is it possible that we can have an update on the SEAK committee and the number of parents that are on the committee? I asked this at our March school board meeting and um did not see that in the latest school board updates. And can also board members receive an invitation to attend the seat committee, Mr. Cameras? Yes. Um, Dr. Harris Muhammad, we will make sure to get that information. Mr. Jefferson will email it to the entire board. Thank you. And um, we've we've added it to the the list as well on our end. So, we'll make sure that we capture it if we it was

192missing. It's the list that Miss Door gave you and I when she transitioned. Miss Berg. Thank you, Madam Chair. I just want to remind everyone on the board that in yesterday's um committee information listed that the evaluation piece is included and we do have a timeline in place and um the committee, Mr. Hedgepad, Mrs. Bard and myself will be connecting with those persons that are to be evaluated and that also includes us. So just please that has to be done this month and we plan to stay on schedule. Thank you. If you have any questions or concerns just email them. I think Miss has a follow up. Yeah, Miss Burke, especially for the self evaluation, maybe we can send an email just reminding them of it. Yeah, thank you both. Did you Okay, Mr. Farukq

193following on new business. Madam chair I know we have all been working very hard and been very I think productive in our long meetings. I know that we've had some discussion about how can we be more efficient because when the meetings get very long the reality like my colleague Miss Rizzy mentioned is that it's harder to pay attention to these very important issues. So I wonder if we can try rearranging our agendas and pushing some of these discussions into the committees where we might, you know, because our committees are meeting more often than they did in the past. So just a small suggestion. I appreciate that. Um would definitely open for suggestions. Um I appreciate the approach of committees. um just be mindful that at some point it still would have to come to the

194board for full discussion. Um so I do believe that is an efficient way of of approaching it but it doesn't stop it from actually landing on the agenda. I think yeah I think that um what our challenge has been um as of late is there have been some hot and heavy topics that are just we have to tackle. But I am certainly sensitive. Um, you know, there is one thought to perhaps consider another meeting as needed. I mean, we can't compromise the integrity of the work that we're doing. Um, but do understand that it's important for us to have a fresh set of eyes. Um, it's easy for things to fall through the cracks. So, that's another option to consider as well. Thank you for raising that, Miss Rizzy. Thank you, Madam Chair. Um, I

195would like to continue to have this discussion um as a board and maybe even have an opportunity to look at agendas, talk about what could be moved perhaps to um committee work or um maybe there are some items that can be, you know, I don't know what your um calendar is looking like um but those should be the priority items and maybe there's a way to redistribute some of what we have here. These agendas are quite heavy. Um I would argue that there are ways of making these more efficient every other district. And I'm not saying, you know, Richmond, yes, we have a lot of issues that other districts don't, but then there are districts that are sister um in terms of similar demographics and issues that manage to do this um just fine. And

196so I would like to have a open this up for a broader discussion. Um, I think we all need to have input on this. Yeah. And and in in agreement we I think we're all in agreement that we would always look for ways to make it more efficient. It's been noted um it's been captured as a topic of discussion on an agenda item at a future board meeting. Would love to continue this conversation. M I Ry. Yeah. This is my new business item. Um it's definitely not something we need to spend a lot of time on. Um and it may be something that we can discuss or or maybe you know update the public in some other way. I would like to have um some discussion on who has access to our school buildings and

197what our policies are with that. So noted. Thank you, Mrs. Jafari. Yes. a matter of new business. I would like the board to uh them to consider in uh I want to say what quarter of a century ago kind of thing. Um yeah, look we we not we but the city gave the building they gave the Maggie Walker building to the governor school and the governor's school annually receives federal fund and um it it is a concern of mine u that the requirement that they have a written student grievance procedure has over a quarter of a century I've been adhered to and complied with and I've talked to my colleague uh Miss Ricard about that and so um she obviously is going to walk that through but I I want I want to be clear

198about that should be no school I don't care what's governor school or what kind of school within the jurisdiction in Berwick or the city of Richmond that does not extend to uh its students a written grievance procedure such as we have for our students in Richmond public school there is a written format for them to follow that can be submitted by current when something happens. And so again, I don't think that anybody should escape that, especially nowadays when uh we're doing all that we can to remove the kinds of programs uh that even suggest DEI or anything else. We have to take those other steps on the back on the back of that to make sure that all of our students are being protected and that they all have an avenue of redress when something

199happens. Uh otherwise the uh the mares that we have about bullying and all of those kinds of things, they kind of go by the wayside if we're not actually doing something on the backside to make sure that the students can be actually heard and that their grievances can be processed. Thank you. Thank you. There are no other new um business items, then we'd like to proceed with um close session. Madame Chair, I move that the school board of the city of Richmond convene in close session to one discuss the terms of the employment contract of a central office employee and to receive legal advice on the same issue as authorized by VA code 2.2-3711A1 2-3711A1 and A8 to discuss the performance and possible discipline of two office employees and to receive legal advice on the

200same issue as authorized by VA code 2.2-3711A1 NA8. Three, consult with legal counsel regarding settlement demands, appointment of council for litigation and issues involving civil rights laws as authorized by VA code 2.2-371. 2-3711A88 and four to discuss the performance of classified employees as authorized by VA code 2.2-3711A1. It's been moved by Miss Ricard and seconded by Miss Burke. Madam clerk, Mr. Perl. Yes. Miss Ricard. Yes. Mr. Farooq. Yes. Mr. Hedgefe. Yes, Miss Rizzy. Yes, Dr. Harris Muhammed. Yes, Miss Burke. Yes, Mr. Jafari. Yes, Miss Fernandez. Yes. Motion passes. We are now in close session. We could transition to the room quickly.