Insights Newsletter MAY 2026
Dear Parents/Guardians of Richmond Community Schools,
As the final weeks of the school year unfold and the days grow longer and warmer, I find myself pausing to reflect on just how much our students, staff, and families have accomplished together. May is one of my favorite times of year - not just because summer is around the corner, but because this is when the hard work of an entire year comes into full, beautiful view.
Our students have shown us, time and again, what they are made of. From the young reader who finally cracked the code on chapter books, to the high school senior who walks across the stage to collect a hard-earned diploma - every milestone matters, and every one of them belongs to this community as much as it does to the individual student who achieved it.
To our graduating seniors: you have been shaped by this community, and now you go out to shape the world. We could not be prouder of the young people you have become. Richmond will always be home, and we will be watching and cheering for you in every chapter ahead.
To our teachers and staff: thank you. What you pour into these children every single day goes far beyond lesson plans and report cards. You show up with patience, creativity, and heart - and it shows in the confidence our students carry with them.
And to our families and neighbors - thank you for trusting us with your chidren and for being true partners in their education. Richmond Community Schools is strong because Richmond itself is strong.
As we close out this wonderful year, I hope you'll take a moment to celebrate the young people in your life. Cheer loudly at those ceremonies, frame their report cards, and linger a little longer at the dinner table this month. These are the moments we'll all look back on.
Here's to a joyful close to a remarkable year - and a well-deserved summer for everyone.
With gratitude and pride,
Dr. Curtis Wright
RCS and IU East Partner to Launch Registered Apprenticeship Teacher Program
The program provides a groundbreaking pathway for paraprofessionals, substitutes, and teaching assistants to earn a bachelor’s degree in education while continuing to work and receive pay as school employees. Participating apprentices may also be eligible for assistance with tuition, textbooks, travel, and childcare expenses. RCS Superintendent Dr. Curtis Wright sees the program as a natural fit for the district’s existing talent.
“Our paraprofessionals and support staff are the backbone of our schools - they know our students and are deeply invested in our children’s futures,” said Dr. Wright. “ This apprenticeship program removes the barriers that have stood between these dedicated individuals and a teaching career, and we are proud to make that possible alongside IU East.”
The registered apprenticeship model in teaching was established in 2021 under the U.S. Department of Labor. IU East received its federal designation in August 2024 and launched the program, which pairs each apprentice with an assigned mentor and provides comprehensive academic and professional support throughout their degree journey. IU East Chancellor Dennis Rome emphasized the importance of the university’s community-centered approach.
“This partnership with Richmond Community Schools is exactly what higher education should look like - responsive, accessible, and rooted in the needs of the region,” stated Dr. Rome. “By supporting aspiring teachers as they balance work and study on our campus, we are building a sustainable pipeline of educators who will shape Wayne County classrooms for decades to come.”
Today’s signing marks the beginning of a new chapter for Richmond - one where the people who know the community best will become the teachers who shape its future.
On My Way Pre-K Application Open Now!
Safety Kamp 2026
Kiwanis Safety Kamp 2026 is a free, one-day educational program hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Richmond, designed for children ages 5-7 (entering Kindergarten through 2nd grade). Held at Safety Village, 700 NW 13th Street in Richmond. The camp teaches kids essential life skills including traffic signal awareness, bicycle safety, weapon safety, stranger danger, and home fire safety. Sessions are offered on Saturday, July 11 or Saturday, July 18 (8:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.), with lunch provided - all at no cost to the first 45 applicants per session. It's a fun, hands-on day that gives young children the tools they need to stay safe in the world around them.
Need help tracking your student's bus? Check out the MyRide K-12 app! Watch our tutorial video to learn how to set it up. Questions? Contact your child's school.
