Petersburg schools will fund only one dual-enrollment course retake per academic year, officials say

Dana Carvero, coordinator of gifted services for Petersburg City Public Schools, presented a revised dual‑enrollment student handbook at the school board meeting and said the division will limit funding for course retakes.

"Petersburg City public schools will only pay for a retake of 1 course per academic year," Carvero said, adding that the policy applies only when the retake is needed to meet Petersburg High School’s advanced‑studies diploma requirements and that retakes required solely by a partner college would not be covered by PCPS.

Carvero told board members the updated handbook consolidates program information, clarifies eligibility and explains who pays for what. She said the handbook lists current early‑college partners — including Richard Bland College, Brightpoint and Longwood University — and emphasizes supports such as tutoring and counseling. Carvero also noted the division currently has 53 students in dual‑enrollment programs: 38 at Richard Bland and 15 at Brightpoint.

Board members asked logistical questions about distribution and a planned parent information night; Carvero said a welcome letter and printed copies would be provided and that the division will hold a parent information session next Monday to explain expectations. She also warned that repeated withdrawals or withdrawals timed to avoid grades could lead to removal from the program.

Board members praised the revised handbook as a measure of student and parental accountability. The presentation was offered for board review; the transcript records board discussion and questions but does not record a formal adoption vote during this meeting.

The handbook change is intended to balance program growth with fiscal responsibility as the division expands dual‑enrollment opportunities for Petersburg students.