"We requested the VDOE review almost two years ago based upon our observations that RPS had some major areas of concern beyond just the instructional program negatively impacting our ability to make progress.
I think the VDOE report shows those observations to be true. I along with the many dedicated others who came from other places or who have been here for years worked over the past few years to keep what was working and change what was not in the best interest of students.
We developed both an academic and facilities improvement plan as requested, however neither plan ever received the funding necessary for complete and effective implementation. As we articulated during multiple presentations, the change process takes time which I believe the VDOE report indicates when it articulated a 10 year trajectory to get all schools fully-accredited.
Half of the RPS schools were already in warning status or beyond - headed to a denied accreditation status. However, the team was able to move the needle from 24.4% of the schools being accredited to 38.6% during a short period of time.
And based upon preliminary data reviewed prior to my departure, it may increase to 40% or more. Schools should be about more than passing a test. For the benefit of the students and families being served, I hope whatever plans are developed for academics, facilities and other areas is based upon authentic research, includes consideration of social-emotional learning/trauma needs and has the necessary resources provided for several years to create systemic change.
Systemic change will not occur in one, two or three years or as the result of focusing on a test as the measure of school success."
Many thanks to Katy Evans at the Richmond Times-Dispatch for this quote in full.
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