August 29, 2025

Yesterday, Mayor Danny Avula, Richmond City Council, Richmond City School Board, and Schools Superintendent Jason Kamras met for a joint education briefing to prepare for the upcoming FY 2027 Richmond Government Budget cycle and further work together in support of public education in Richmond.

The meeting included budget presentations by the City Administration and Richmond Public Schools and provided high-level analyses of those organizational budgets as well as potential FY 2027 pressure points, including changes to the Richmond Real Estate Assessment process, capital-improvement needs, and the overall economic outlook.

The meeting provided an excellent opportunity to build greater understanding of each entity's budgeting process to help ensure Richmond Public Schools and the families they serve can fully thrive. Moving forward, the three bodies will work together to develop long-term, sustainable funding plans.

"This was an impactful, constructive gathering of our schools, the Mayor, and City Council - a true demonstration of shared purpose. Together, we not only acknowledged the challenges facing our education system and the city, we also reaffirmed our collective commitment to collaborate, take action, ensure every child and family has access to the strong public schools and resources they need to thrive," says Richmond City Council President Cynthia Newbille.

"As an RPS parent and a spouse of an RPS teacher, I know well the challenges Richmond Public Schools faces. Real progress will come through intentional communication, collaboration, and a shared commitment to our students and community. I'm grateful we came together to become more informed for the benefit of our students, families, and teachers, and to move closer to a truly thriving Richmond," says Mayor Danny Avula. "We will continue to build on our insights and take the next steps forward together."

"In a city like Richmond, collaboration is the way to go. The same kids who come to our schools travel our streets, visit our parks, and need public housing and transportation. While we face daunting budget pressures, I have no doubt that we can come together to find solutions in the best interest of our students," says Superintendent Jason Kamras.