What has RPS accomplished with recent funding increases?
As we discuss school budgets, it's important to review what we’ve accomplished so far. Richmond City residents want their public resources spent improving schools and giving our kids the strongest start!
How can Richmonders learn about how our schools are doing?
First is our Dreams4RPS strategic plan outcomes report 2018 - 2023. This was a difficult period of time due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there were still some improvements we are able to celebrate!
Highlights:
Four more schools were accredited
Slight increase in the graduation rate
Increase in teacher pay by an average of $12,000 to help retain educators
Huge increases in kids enrolled in algebra 1 and AP classes
When Virginia released the SOL scores from last spring, RPS saw increases in EVERY single SOL subject. We were up three points in reading, 10 points in writing, four points in history, three points in math, and 10 points in science. It’s also worth noting that we’re growing faster than the state as a whole in many grades and subjects. This is especially heartening given how much scores declined during the pandemic.
In addition to rising SOL scores, we have five new schools in the fully accredited column: Thomas Jefferson High School, Dogwood Middle School, Bellevue Elementary School, Overby-Sheppard Elementary School, and Reid Elementary School! We’re improving schools in every part of the City!
How is RPS using its money?
We’re in the process of developing the budget for next fiscal year. In addition to the budget, the School Board is given updates on how the budget is being spent through monthly financial reports. These reports are posted online publicly as part of school board meetings. I’m pasting reports for the past two months below:
You can also view the actual Check Registry. The Richmond Public Schools Check Registry is one way the division promotes transparency in our spending. Vendor payments are made and posted twice weekly to promote good relationships and to maintain prompt payments as encouraged by the Commonwealth of Virginia.
As we advocate for more funding for Richmond Public Schools, it’s important to know that this money is being put to good use. We can do even more with increased investment. Our kids are worth it!