Gloucester, VA, November 25, 2024 – In recognition of the Virginia Association of School Boards' (VSBA) "Take Your Legislator to School Month," Gloucester County Public Schools (GCPS) proudly welcomed two distinguished visitors to our schools.
On November 15, Ms. Diane Kaufman from U.S. Senator Tim Kaine's office joined members of the Gloucester County School Board and district leaders. Today, November 25, GCPS also hosted State Senator Ryan T. McDougle.
During these visits, discussions centered around the district's strategic priorities, including instructional innovation, curriculum enhancements, career and technical education, dual enrollment opportunities, and the NJROTC program. These areas reflect challenges and opportunities under the Virginia Department of Education's revised accountability and support framework, emphasizing the "3E Framework"—Enrollment, Employment, and Enlistment.
Furthermore, these visits emphasized the district's focus on instructional differentiation, ensuring all students, regardless of achievement level, engage with challenging and rigorous academic and career preparation content and experiences.
Both representatives commended district leaders and the School Board for working collaboratively on behalf of students. Furthermore, GCPS was commended for striking the right balance between post-secondary academic preparation and career and workforce development.
We thank the VSBA and the Gloucester County School Board for advocating for critical issues such as concerns about adequate state funding, competitive compensation, construction funding for facilities, and enhanced school safety measures. GCPS expresses its gratitude to Ms. Kaufman and Senator McDougle for engaging with teachers, staff, and students to better understand our schools' needs.
A special thank you goes out to the students, teachers, and staff at Abingdon Elementary, Botetourt Elementary, and Gloucester High School for welcoming district staff and our elected representatives. Your warmth, commitment, openness, attention to detail, and engagement make us all proud.
By fostering collaboration between educators and elected officials, GCPS remains committed to advancing the success and safety of all students in Gloucester County.
Dr. Anthony Vladu
District Superintendent
