Richmond Schools address student support and attendance challenges in work session

The Richmond Community Schools Board of Trustees convened on April 23, 2025, to address several pressing issues affecting student attendance and support services within the district. The meeting began with a report highlighting the results of a recent survey on racial insensitivity, revealing that out of 50 respondents, 16 were students and 8 were teachers. Notably, two-thirds of the student respondents reported witnessing incidents of racial insensitivity, underscoring the need for effective reporting mechanisms and responsive actions.

Following this, Dr. Wright introduced Bridget Hazelbaker, the new Director of Student Support Services, who provided an update on the district's initiatives aimed at supporting at-risk students. Hazelbaker emphasized the importance of collaboration among school principals, mental health counselors, and attendance liaisons to address the needs of students who may be at risk of dropping out. She outlined the various factors contributing to student challenges, including trauma, special education needs, and socioeconomic status.

A significant portion of the discussion focused on attendance issues, particularly in light of new state laws requiring schools to notify parents of unexcused absences. Hazelbaker reported that Richmond Community Schools has implemented a new attendance tracking system, which has shown a slight improvement in attendance rates across most schools, although Richmond High School experienced a decline. The board discussed the importance of addressing habitual truancy and the need for effective interventions to support students and their families.

Trustees raised concerns about the accountability of parents regarding their children's attendance. While the district has made efforts to communicate with families, the enforcement of educational neglect laws remains a challenge due to a backlog in the judicial system. The board acknowledged the need for stronger partnerships with parents to ensure students attend school regularly.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the ongoing efforts of Richmond Community Schools to improve student attendance and support services. The board plans to continue monitoring attendance data and exploring additional strategies to engage families and address the root causes of absenteeism. Future meetings will focus on refining these initiatives and assessing their effectiveness in promoting student success.