Summary
The board approved an MOU with the Boys & Girls Club of Metro Richmond to continue after‑school programming at Vernon Johns, reporting 81 youth served in FY2025 and plans to expand offerings including cosmetology, urban farming and creative arts.
The Petersburg City Public Schools board on Aug. 20 approved a memorandum of understanding with the Boys & Girls Club of Metro Richmond to continue after‑school services at Vernon Johns and other sites.
Tamika Brown, presenting for the Boys & Girls Club, described program activity and outcomes for fiscal year 2025: the club served 81 youth (58 middle schoolers and 23 high schoolers), delivered more than 850 hours of programming across multiple sessions, and partnered with more than 20 outside program providers. Key offerings highlighted included the Torch Club (leadership/civic engagement), urban farming in partnership with Virginia State University, cosmetology/barbering instruction, and creative arts programs including music partnerships with Green Spring Academy and spin/DJ programming from local partners.
Brown said programming is free, runs Monday–Thursday from school dismissal to 6:30 p.m., and that registration for the school year opens immediately with programming beginning Sept. 15. Board members and staff discussed opportunities to expand career pathways (for example, a proposed recording studio or increased local partnerships such as House on Bank/House on Market) and noted the club's long history in the community.
The board approved the MOU after the presentation. The superintendent said the MOU would be presented as an action item and was approved by voice vote.
Speakers: Tamika Brown (Boys & Girls Club of Metro Richmond) provided program details; board approved MOU. Community members and employees offered supportive comments and identified local resources for possible partnerships.
Next steps: The club will enroll students for 2025–26 programming, continue to coordinate with district staff and explore local partnership opportunities such as a recording‑studio concept in the South Wing or connections with local arts organizations for grant support.
