INSIGHTS

The National Institute for Excellence in Education (NIET) framework is a research-based, time-tested and proven instructional tool. Their framework correlates with our strategic goals and the visionary perspective that I have been sharing with you for some time now. If you recall earlier this year, I informed you that improving quality tier one instruction (classroom teaching), reviewing, reflecting, and revising instructional best practices, and increasing the overall intellectual confidence within all of our students was of top priority. The NIET framework does that and then some!

For example, the NIET framework is centered around intentionality, collaboration, and sustainability. In short, the NIET framework allows for our classroom teachers, as peers, and teacher leaders amongst one another, to share best practices, trade secrets if you will, as to how to better teach, reach, and connect with our students.

Ultimately, that's what the sweet science of teaching is all about. Establishing rapport, building connections, and placing students in positions to be successful. This framework and the tools found within it, as well as the talent found within our classrooms, will allow us to reach the next level of excellence. I ask that you exercise patience, trust in the process, and extend grace to our faculty, staff, and students. For we are Richmond and we are resilient.

We will post the delay/closing on our District website, on our District Facebook page, and via Twitter. (You do not need to be on Facebook or Twitter to see these posts. However, if you are on these social media sites, please like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.)

We will use our electronic messaging system to call, email and text employees and families about the change in the school schedule.

Our goal is to reach as many families as possible as soon as possible. We call all phone lines listed for parents/caregivers of our students to ensure we reach someone in each household. While it may seem redundant to call your home, cell and work numbers, we must make sure parents/caregivers who work varying shifts receive this important information. We also cannot just send it via email or text as we may not reach all families. Thank you for understanding!

Whether you're planning on maintaining your current coverage choice, considering making changes, or waiving coverage, it is essential you schedule an appointment to ensure compliance of Section 125 benefit information for the 2023 plan year. Your medical, dental and vision enrollment will be completed separately from this enrollment process. Enrollment for American Fidelity begins, Monday, October 31st through Tuesday, November 22nd. Please remember that all employees working 17.5 hours weekly or more must meet with a representative. Please schedule your appointment online at this link.

CANARX is a voluntary international mail order option.

To be eligible for the CANARX program, you must be an
existing member of a health insurance plan.

For more information about free medications call:

TOLL-FREE PHONE: 1-866-893-6337

Did you know that Richmond Community Schools offer our employees an Employee Assistance Program (EAP)?

What is an EAP? An EAP is a program that is designed to assist employees and their family members in the identification and resolution of problems, before they overwhelm you and affect your personal and professional life.

Who is our EAP counselor? Patrick Chimenti

What is the cost? There is no charge to employees or their immediate family members for accessing the EAP services. As an employee of RCS, you and your eligible family members are entitled to receive up to six (6) sessions per family member per incident.

How to use the program? To schedule an appointment, please contact Patrick Chimenti at pchimenti.lcsw@gmail.com.

What are the available times? Tuesdays 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. & Wednesdays 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Did you know that Richmond Community Schools was established in 1852? In 1853, the first count of school children was made in Richmond. This count showed a population of 3,600 people. There were 1,592 children under twenty-one years of age. There were 1,086 between the ages of six and twenty-one. In 1854, the first board of school trustees was named. The members were Dr. Joel Vaile, Dr. James R. Mendenhall and James Elder.

Pictured: School House #9 (Located at Henley and Southeast Parkway)

RCS is hiring for a variety of positions, including bus drivers, transportations assistants, paraprofessionals, cafeteria assistants, grounds and maintenance and so much more. Know someone who would be a great fit? Invite them to learn more and apply today at www.weRrichmond.com/employment

Non-Certified staff raises will be reflected on the November 18 pay.

This fall there have been some personnel changes in the Human Resources and Business Offices. We would like to welcome Alicia Winters and Kyle Nash to their positions. Below you will find information on who to call when you need assistance.

• Jamie Bolser, Chief Human Resources Officer (Extension 3443)
• Laurie Brattain, HR Support and District Switchboard (Extension 3300)
• Vickie Fisher, Benefits Specialist (Extension 3420)
• Lisa Focht, HR Executive Assistant (Extension 3443)
• Kyle Nash, Benefits Specialist (Extension 3353)

• Karen Scalf, Chief Financial Officer (Extension 3406)
• Melissa Swafford, Deputy Treasurer (Extension 3406)
• Debbie Martin, Accounts Payable Specialist (Extension 3432)
• Alicia Winters, Payroll Specialist (Extension 3497)
• Bob McFarland, Business Office and Human Resources Support (Extension 3337)

We know that there are great things going on in our schools every day. Help us to celebrate the achievements of our students, teachers, and staff to parents and the Richmond community! Know of a visual photo op that could tell the story of our schools or anything else you think we should know about? Please fill out this form to let the RCS Communications Coordinator know!