As our district navigates the changing nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is crucial that we listen to the voices of school-based staff. The REA has composed the following list of recommendations based on the input of the people who work in our buildings with students on a day-to-day basis. It is our hope that RPS will adopt these changes in the interests of health, safety, and staff retention.

• The district must establish metrics that state the minimum number of required staff needed to provide instruction, maintain student safety, and operate each school building effectively.

• Mandated service providers (LIEP, interventionists, Exceptional Education) should no longer be asked to serve as substitute teachers. Doing so prevents them from providing required services to students.

• Schools should be provided with a more equitable process for replenishing PPE. 

• An easier and more equitable process/plan(Each site should have 3 individuals that will pick-up on Wednesdays, if impossible, then sites can partner pick-up) for replenishing PPE (current process is stated to be that each school picked up needed supplies ever Wednesday from a designated location).

• Virtual learning must be expanded so that all students who request a spot and can demonstrate success in a virtual learning environment have the opportunity to do so. 

• Pay for instructional assistants must be increased, and additional pay must be provided to compensate them for providing coverage for colleagues. 

• The district must allow teachers the autonomy to set their own pacing. This will allow them to better meet the needs of their students.

• RPS should institute a temporary pause on all observations and evaluations that are not mandated by VDOE. The district should seek to promote a positive and supportive culture in buildings. 

• The district needs to devise a plan to provide more mental health support for students and staff.