| Dear #RPSStrong Family,
Tonight's updates:
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Calendar Reminder – All RPS schools and offices will be closed tomorrow, April 10, in observance of Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan. Eid Mubarak to all who celebrate! May this special day bring you peace, happiness, and prosperity. View the 2023-24 calendar online to see all upcoming holidays.
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April Student Representative – Many thanks to our April student representative to the School Board, Kayden (KJ) Jones, a senior at Franklin Military Academy, for sharing their thoughts with us during last night's meeting. KJ participates in student government; the Parent-Teacher-Student Association; Forensics Club; Family, Career and Community Leaders of America; Future Business Leaders of America; and Poetry Club. They also play varsity basketball for John Marshall High School. KJ’s awards and recognition include: Honor Roll, Scholar Roll, National Honor Society, Basketball First Team All-State and First Team All-Region, 2024 804 All Star Basketball MVP, and recipient of the Girl Scouts Bronze Award. In their spare time, KJ enjoys playing basketball, reading, singing, cooking, and listening to music. Upon graduation, KJ plans to pursue a degree in psychology with a minor in education. Additionally, they aspire to become a math teacher, blending interests in psychology and education to make a positive impact on the lives of students. Thanks again, KJ!
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Assistant Principal Spotlight – Pamela Couther currently serves as one of the dynamic assistant principals at Martin Luther King, Jr. MS, where her primary role is to help bring to life the school's mission and vision. Throughout the school day, Ms. Couther wears many hats – instructional coach, data analyst, curriculum lead, and therapist, just to name a few. She is a self-described problem solver who takes pride in the impact she has on student and teacher growth. What qualities make a great AP? As Ms. Couther shared: "Interpersonal communication, authenticity, innovation, servant leadership, collaboration, passion for teaching and learning, empathy, and having the ability to give actionable feedback."
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Farm-to-Table Monthly Market – All RPS families are invited to join us this Friday, April 12, for our next Farm-to-Table Monthly Market happening at Barack Obama ES. Stop by any time from 2:30 - 4:30 pm to pick up free, fresh produce to enjoy at home. Help spread the word, RPS!
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With great appreciation,
Jason
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Shout-Outs – Please help us continue to inspire and uplift the RPS community by submitting shout-outs to shoutouts@rvaschools.net. Entries can be submitted in Spanish or English!
- I would like to shout-out the hardest working AP team in RPS high schools...the TeeJay Viking AP team of Kelly Gardner, Claude Hataway, and Christal Jordan! Thanks for all you do!
- I want to take this opportunity to shout-out our amazing AP, Dr. Burwell. In just a short time, Dr. Burwell has become an integral part of our Hotlon family. We are so fortunate to have her approachable and knowledgeable presence in our community.
- Shout-out to one of our amazing Deaf and Hard of Hearing teachers in the district for completing her PhD over Spring Break! Dr. Laura Hill is an amazing asset, and I am beyond honored to get to collaborate and learn from her. I am so proud of you, and all your accomplishments!
- Tammy Sellers is a fierce advocate for our students and all the amazing things they can do! She is an amazing colleague, and always brings a fresh perspective, innovative ideas, and collaboration to the table. I am so grateful to get to work with her!
- To Mr. Dwayne Parker, the man with a plan that succeeds! AP Parker is a leader that makes space for collaboration, growth, and feedback. We appreciate the work he does and the impact he makes on the lives of the students and staff here at Marsh. To Ms. Leecost, one of the most creative leaders with a pleasant smile and wonderful presence, we appreciate how she shows up and always follows through! Both assistant principals are like bamboo because of their durability, strength, flexibility, and resilience. They survive the harshest conditions while still standing tall and staying green year-round. Bends, but doesn't break! Thank you both for going beyond!
- I would like to shout-out Darlene Slade, transition mentor teacher at HHS. Mrs. Slade works tirelessly to support her students and her fellow transition team members. She is an irreplaceable asset to us all.
- As we mark Assistant Principals Week, it's the perfect opportunity to recognize Dr. Dava Allen-Miller for her unwavering dedication, strength, and passion in leading the Woodville community towards excellence. Notably, Ms. Allen-Miller recently achieved a significant milestone by earning a doctorate in education. This remarkable achievement reflects her deep commitment to continuous growth and her passion for advancing education for all students! Dr. Allen-Miller is not just a leader, but a mentor and a driving force behind many of our school's achievements. She tirelessly supports our students, teachers, and staff, fostering a positive and inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. Woodville wouldn't be the same without you!
- Dr. Joyce Otey, you are a true blessing in our building! I appreciate your friendly and positive approach to all staff and students! We all think you are great!
- I want to shout-out the best assistant principal on the south side of Richmond, Dr. Joyce Otey. Her calm, kind, and compassionate demeanor are such a blessing. She is a consummate professional and a champion for teachers. Thanks for everything you do for Miles Jones, Dr. Otey.
- Shout-out to Dr. Burwell for remaining passionate about her role and for providing a safe and warm environment for students and parent alike.
- It is with great pride that I salute my supervisor, leader, and colleague, Mrs. Sherina Gilpin. She wears multiple hats here at Amelia Street School. She is the administrative dean of the A-Team as well the school's compliance coordinator. Her door is always open. Although she’s always busy, she makes time to lead, encourage and give sound advice. It’s like Maya Angelou said: "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." Thank you, Mrs. Gilpin.
- I’d like to sing the praises of Mrs. Ana Estrada-Williams as a focused leader who puts children first each day as she sets the example for all of us to follow. She works longer and harder than any administrator I’ve ever seen for the success and growth of our students. Working with her each day has been a pleasure and an honor.
- I would like to give a shout-out to Woodville’s AP, Ms. Allen-Miller. She has such dedication to the Woodville community and it shows in all she does. She has built amazing relationships with the students and families. The trust my daughters and I have in her is immeasurable. We love Ms Allen-Miller.
- I want to take a moment to give a heartfelt shout-out to Mrs. Latoya Coley Graham, the incredible assistant principal at Miles Jones. Mrs. Graham holds a very special place in my heart because not only was she an exceptional assistant principal, but she was also once my first grade teacher. She embodied everything a teacher should be – compassionate, dedicated, and inspiring. She had a unique way of making learning fun and engaging, instilling in me a lifelong love for education. Her patience and kindness knew no bounds, and she always went above and beyond to ensure that every student felt valued and supported...As an assistant principal, she continues to lead with grace and empathy, always striving to create a nurturing environment where both students and staff can thrive. Mrs. Graham's dedication to education and her unwavering belief in the potential of every student is truly inspiring. She leads by example, demonstrating integrity, professionalism, and a genuine passion for helping others succeed. Her leadership style is characterized by inclusivity and collaboration, fostering a sense of unity and purpose among all who have the privilege of working with her...Mrs. Latoya Coley Graham is not just the best assistant principal ever – she is a true beacon of light and inspiration, whose legacy will continue to shine brightly for years to come. Thank you, Mrs. Graham, for being a shining example of excellence and for making the world a better place, one student at a time. You are, without a doubt, a gift to education and to all who have the privilege of knowing you.
- Shout-out to our amazing assistant principal at G.H. Reid Elementary, Chris Angeles. He began in October and has been leading with love each and every day! We appreciate all that you do here at G.H. Reid Elementary. Thanks for always being positive, gentle, and supportive.
- I would like to shout-out Vercynthia Penn, AP at Bellevue! Mrs. Penn is an awesome assistant principal. She is a caring and loving AP. Bellevue is lucky to have her! You rock, Mrs. Penn!
- Mr. B broadens the students' musical knowledge by giving them the opportunity to experience playing a variety of instruments in a fun and exciting environment. He does all this with an encouraging and inviting manner that brings the kids into the wonderful world of music.
- This shout-out goes to Mr. DeVaughn, the AP at PHSSA. He has stepped up when needed and has worked to make sure our students know that they are cared for. Thanks, Mr. DeVaughn!
- Ms. Taylor goes above and beyond for her exceptional education team. Ms. Taylor worked hard to make sure that her team collectively and effectively completed over 50 annual IEPs by the district's deadline. Go Southampton. We love you Ms. Taylor!
- Thank you all of the amazing volunteers for creating a warm and welcoming space for the John Marshall students to practice their interview skills, share their career aspirations, and take away valuable feedback. You all made this a fun and valuable learning experience for all the students. The school feedback was super positive, and teachers are asking when you all can come back. I appreciate you sharing your enthusiasm and valuable time with us today!
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| Reminders from Previous RPS Directs
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| 2024-25 Preschool & Kindergarten Enrollment Events – Preschool and kindergarten enrollment is currently underway! We're thrilled to offer preschool for eligible 3 and 4-year olds, and kindergarten for all 5-year-olds. All Richmond families are encouraged to join us at one of our upcoming enrollment events to begin the process. Prior to your visit, be sure to visit our website for a list of required documents for preschool enrollment. For more information, please email enrollrps@rvaschools.net.
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| #TeachWithLove at RPS – We're thrilled to offer signing bonuses of up to $7,000 for new hires starting in the fall! If you or someone you know is interested in joining the RPS team, please take a moment to visit our website to browse open positions. For more information, please email talentoffice@rvaschools.net.
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| Lit Limo – Our newest Lit Limo is officially on the road! It has built-in bookshelves, power outlets for computers, A/C and heat, and a wheelchair lift so every RPS student can come onboard and browse for free books. Check out the schedule below, and don't forget to share your visit on Instagram by tagging us at @rps_lit_limo. Happy reading!
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Tutor Recruitment – Are you a retired teacher, college student/recent grad, or community member interested in supporting the academic success of our students? We're currently accepting applications for academic tutors to support our high-intensity tutoring program. If you or someone you know is interested in joining the RPS team, just visit our website to apply or scan the QR code below with your phone's camera. This work is going to take #AllofUs!
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