The Star News

Happy Holidays! Thank you to all our students, staff, and families for making 2022 a great year. We are looking forward to a successful and happy 2023 for our entire RCPS family!

RCPS Family,

I wish you and your family a wonderful holiday season and a Happy New Year!

I am so proud of our students and staff for their hard work and dedication this semester. Students, keep working hard to achieve your goals. Even if the first semester didn’t go quite as planned, there is plenty of time to stay the course and make it a successful school year.

To our parents, guardians, and friends, thank you for your continued support of Roanoke City Public Schools. I appreciate your engagement with our school community and hope you continue your involvement in the new year.

I hope you will join me for my annual Winter Storytime on Thursday, December 22nd at 7 p.m. You can find more information on how to tune in below. My hope is that this storytime will be the start of many books you and your family will enjoy together over Winter Break. Roanoke City Public Libraries also has some wonderful storytimes scheduled over the Winter Break. Be sure to click here and mark your calendar for these free events!

We could not do this work without you, and we will continue to move forward, stay focused, and work together throughout 2023. Together, We Are One!

Have a restful Winter Break!

Sincerely,
Verletta B. White
Superintendent

Wednesday, December 21 is a 2-hour early dismissal and the last day of school before Winter Break. Schools and offices will be closed Thursday, December 22 through Tuesday, January 3. Students and staff will return on Wednesday, January 4. We hope your family has a restful break!

Schools will dismiss two hours early for students on Friday, January 13. This is the last day of the second nine weeks. Schools and offices will be closed Monday, January 16 in observance of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Day.

Our students and staff have been working hard and having fun throughout the first semester! This is just a glimpse at some of the exciting things our schools have been up to this month.

• Need assistance with depression, anxiety, or trauma while schools are closed for Winter Break? While the holidays can be a joyous time, they can also be a difficult time for many. Resources are available under Quick Links on the RCPS website should you need assistance. Additionally, immediate support is available by calling Carilion CONNECT at (540) 981.8181.
  
• Not receiving robocalls? Your phone number may be deactivated or incorrect in the RCPS mass notification system. Please contact your child’s school to ensure you continue receiving these important messages. In addition, if you have moved, make sure to provide your new address to the school as well.
• Have a question? Your child's school is a great source of information. They always welcome you to contact them directly with questions. Visit rcps.info/schools for school contact information.

• Need help resolving an issue that impacts student learning, the school-work environment, or understanding how RCPS works and where to go for assistance? The RCPS Constituent Services Office may be able to help! Click here for more information.

• Looking for a job that allows you to be on the same schedule as your child? Apply to become an Instructional Assistant, School Security Officer, Bus Driver, Bus Aide, or Food Service Worker! Other part-time and full-time positions are also available. Visit our website to learn more.

• Missed an edition of The Star News? Access previous issues here!

Roanoke City Public Schools serves approximately 14,000 students in grades pre-K through 12. RCPS provides an inclusive and equitable, student-centered culture that empowers lifelong learning. Through meaningful, relevant, and engaging learning opportunities, RCPS will empower all students to dream, excel, and meet their full potential to benefit our city and its citizens.