The Star News
Celebrating Black History
As a tribute to famous African Americans in history, Ms. McLaughlin, Round Hill Elementary School's Instructional Coach, dressed up throughout Black History Month and discussed their contributions with her students. Check out WSLS' story!
Six RCPS Staff Members Honored with NAACP Impactors Awards
The Roanoke NAACP Youth Council presented its Impactors of Excellence Awards in early March, and six members of our RCPS family were honored:
- Superintendent Dr. Verletta White
- Ms. India Anderson
- Councilwoman Vivian Sanchez-Jones
- Mr. Anthony Swann
- Dr. Jason Wimbush
- Ms. Lori Wimbush
These awards were presented by two RCPS students, Jayveon Tucker and Yolanda Joseph!
RCPS Staff Participate in Division-Wide Safety Training
RCPS Family,
I wish you and your family a restful and safe Spring Break! When we return in April, we will have only two months left in the 2022-2023 School Year, and I know our students and staff and ready to finish strong!
We have many exciting events planned for the final nine weeks of the school year. We know our students benefit from the support of their family, and I encourage you and your family to be engaged and involved with your student's education:
- The third and final EL Parent/Guardian University of the school year will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 13 at William Fleming High School. This is a wonderful opportunity for our families whose students are English Learners to meet with community partners and connect with RCPS staff.
- Our high school students have the opportunity to meet with nearly 80 employers on April 20 for our second annual RCPS Works. This connects our students and employers so students can find productive, meaningful employment and employers can hire hardworking employees, which will benefit everyone across the Roanoke Valley. We are also excited that this year's event will include a Transition Services Fair for our families of students with disabilities.
- Our schools are hosting performances, family engagement events, and PTA nights, so you can stay connected to your student's school. Be sure to ask your student's teacher or follow your school on social media to stay up to date on upcoming events.
We also have many opportunities available for our students this summer:
- RCPS+ will run from June 20 through July 27 for our elementary and middle school students. Students will "Find their Voice" through literacy and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) activities. Registration is now open.
- Our Staying Safe by Staying Connected programming will be available for rising 5th through 8th grade students. We know our students are better able to stay safe when they stay connected to their school and feel supported. Students will have the opportunity to participate in weekly athletic camps and a fine arts academy. More information will be available soon.
- Our Summer Reading program, generously sponsored by Cox, will allow students of all ages to earn a free book, gift card, and other prizes by reading at least 600 minutes throughout the summer. More information will be available soon.
These are just a few of the events and programs we have on the horizon. It is an exciting time for Roanoke City Public Schools, and we are looking forward to seeing our students continue to grow and succeed as we finish the school year and transition to the summer.
Together, We Are One!
Sincerely,
Dr. Verletta B. White
Superintendent
RCPS Works
The annual RCPS Works Student Job Fair and SPED Transition Services Fair is Thursday, April 20 at the Berglund Center! Register today to meet with 70+ employers.
Click here to register for the Job Fair.
Click here to register for the Transition Services Fair.
Dance Español
We are so proud of our 4th graders from Highland Park, Hurt Park, Lincoln Terrace, Morningside, and Wasena Elementary Schools for spending all year learning about dance, music, and life skills such as teamwork. They performed at the Berglund Center at the end of March in front of their families and friends.
Middle School History Quiz Bowl
Congratulations to all our middle schools for recently participating in the 2023 Middle School History Bowl! Congratulations to Woodrow Wilson on placing 1st, and John P. Fishwick for placing 2nd.
High School Bands and Orchestras
Congratulations to our high schools' orchestras and bands for receiving "Superior" ratings at their concert assessment! This is the perfect way to celebrate National Music in Our Schools Month!
Patrick Henry's Concert Orchestra, Chamber Orchestra, Wind Symphony, and Symphonic Bands and the William Fleming Band all received a "Superior" rating, the highest rating possible!
Roanoke City Public Schools
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.