In efforts to strengthen crisis response, Albemarle County Public Schools, the local government, and Albemarle County Fire Rescue are joining forces. The leaders of these organizations say it is an important union because if a crisis does happen in county schools, they want to be prepared.

Sussex County Public Schools last week created a TAT (Threat Assessment Team) for the division in response to the General Assembly's legislation Code of Virginia 22.1-79.4 directing the manner in which school safety threats are to be assessed and handled.

The Roanoke County School Board has approved a tentative capital improvement plan for 2024 through 2033 that includes funding for a new career and technical education center, although with some reservations. The plan sparked debate before the school board's favorable vote last week, with some members voicing concerns.

Metal detectors will be installed at multiple Henrico County public schools following a number of safety-related incidents this school year. Superintendent Amy Cashwell addressed families and staff in a statement, saying that she is committed to strengthening security measures in the schools.

"We are failing as a board to uphold our fiduciary responsibilities to the citizens of King William County to be good stewards of the funds we have been entrusted with to educate our children," said school board member Mark Lee.

The American Heart Association's school-based youth programs, Kids Heart Challenge™ and the American Heart Challenge™, awarded four elementary schools funds to purchase resources needed to extend or support existing school wellness programs. One of those schools is Richlands Elementary, located in Richlands, VA (Tazewell County).

Gloucester County Public Schools superintendent, Dr. Walter R. Clemons announced his retirement at the school board work session on Thursday. Dr. Clemons has dedicated 33 years of his life to serving in public education.

Legislation advanced unanimously Monday to extend eligibility for the Brown v. Board of Education Scholarship Program to include descendants of students locked out of school during Massive Resistance. It still has to clear several additional votes to pass, though and will go next to the House Education Committee for further consideration.

Former Arlington School Board member Barbara Kanninen recently was honored by the VSBA as a Regional School Board Member of the Year. Kanninen and JoWanda Rollins-Fells (Caroline County) were recognized for their boardsmanship qualities and active involvement in promoting student achievement.

Students in the Builds and Trade program have recently completed setting up posts for a new structure at the GC Recreational Park Softball Fields. Grayson County Schools Superintendent Kelly Wilmore shares how the Career and Technical Education Center is helping students become productive citizens.