Goochland County School District

This strategic plan outlines the direction for Goochland County Public Schools, aiming to inspire and prepare the next generation to make a positive impact by maximizing the potential of every learner. Guided by core values of Excellence, Creativity, Courage, Honor, and Optimism, the plan focuses on four key goals: maximizing student potential for successful lives, creating an engaging and empowering school community, ensuring operational support for instructional needs, and maintaining the safety and security of the school community.

The meeting began with organizational matters, including the election of Ms. Moses as Chair, Mrs. Robinson as Vice Chair, and the appointment of the School Board Clerk and FOIA Officer. The Board approved the Superintendent's Designees, agents for financial matters, and the CY2026 Meeting Schedule. Board representatives were appointed for various bodies, including the Maggie L. Walker Governor's School Board and the Finance Committee. Discussions included a budget request presentation outlining needs and priorities. The Board convened a closed meeting to discuss personnel matters and legal briefings, followed by certification upon reconvening. The agenda was adopted, and recognitions were presented for various achievements, including Teachers of the Year and student representatives. Instructional reports covered GHS's Unified Sports, and student representative reports highlighted activities at GES, RES, GMS, and GHS. Superintendent Armstrong discussed plans for calendar voting, the "First 100 Days" report, and ongoing programs like "Goochland Reads." Key action involved the approval of the FY2027 Capital Improvement Plan Request. The consent agenda, including approval of bills, payroll, financials, and policy updates, was also approved.

The meeting began with the Board convening a closed meeting to discuss personnel matters and receive a legal briefing. Following certification of the closed session, the open meeting commenced after the Pledge of Allegiance and approval of the agenda. Recognitions included a student for the Governor's School for Dance and the GHS Athletics Department for a sportsmanship award. During public comment, community members voiced opposition to Policy IEAA (Display of Flag Policy) and raised concerns regarding JRCA (Student privacy/FERPA) and the transportation budget. The Superintendent provided updates on GHS HVAC and parking lot improvements, the strategic plan for SY25/26, and noted the county office's return to a 5-day work week. Information items included presentations on various policy updates and the Goochland Education Foundation. On the consent agenda, the Board specifically discussed and approved Budget Transfers separately before approving all other items, which included Personnel Action, Bills and Payroll, Minutes, Policy Updates (second reading), and others. The sole action item was the approval of the 2025-2026 GCPS Crisis Plan. The meeting concluded with another closed session to discuss the performance of the superintendent, followed by reconvening into open session and adjournment.

This document outlines the desired characteristics of a Goochland Graduate, emphasizing six key attributes: Critical Thinkers & Creative Problem Solvers, Effective Collaborators & Communicators, Ethical & Civically Responsible, Hard Working & Resilient, Knowledgeable, and Respectful & Personally Responsible. These attributes aim to prepare students to demonstrate literacy and numeracy, pursue continuous learning, adapt to change, innovate, collaborate effectively, act with integrity, and take personal responsibility.

The school board meeting included the appointment of Dr. Andrew Armstrong as the new superintendent, effective April 22, 2025. Discussion also covered the termination of the previous superintendent, Dr. Kmarti. The meeting also included student reports highlighting academic achievements, awards, and school events. Public comments expressed concerns about the termination of Dr. Kmarti and the board's actions, with some alleging racism and a lack of community input.