LETTERS: Reader urges Henrico Schools to ensure equity, excellence

Dear Editor:

As a proud alumnus of Varina High School and an active member of the NAACP Henrico Branch, I am deeply concerned about the impending departure of Dr. Monica Manns from Henrico County Public Schools (HCPS). Dr. Manns has been a beacon of leadership, tirelessly championing diversity, equity, and inclusion within our school system. Her departure leaves behind a void that must be filled with unwavering commitment and action from our community and educational leadership.

Let me be clear: this is not just about bidding farewell to a respected educator; it's about safeguarding the progress we've made towards a more equitable and just educational environment. Dr. Manns' tenure has been marked by significant strides in fostering a culture of equity and inclusion. Her leadership has been instrumental in reshaping policies, curriculum, and practices to better serve all students, regardless of their background or circumstances.

However, as we bid farewell to Dr. Manns, we must confront the harsh reality that her successor inherits a role that is undervalued and under-resourced. The Director of Diversity, Equity, and Opportunity position within HCPS is the lowest paid among directors, despite its pivotal role in shaping the educational experiences of our students. This inequity is not just a matter of dollars and cents; it's a reflection of the systemic undervaluing of the work that promotes fairness and justice in our schools.

Furthermore, the departmental budget for Diversity, Equity, and Opportunity remains insufficient to address the complex needs of our diverse student body. Dr. Manns has worked tirelessly within the constraints of a budget set by the previous administration, but her successor must be equipped with the resources necessary to continue and expand upon her vital work. It's time for HCPS to prioritize equity in its budgeting process, allocating sufficient funds to support initiatives aimed at dismantling barriers to success for all students.

In addition to equitable compensation and increased funding, it is imperative that the NAACP Henrico Branch has a seat at the table in the hiring process for Dr. Manns' replacement. Community involvement in this process is not just desirable; it is essential for ensuring that the next director shares our commitment to equity and is equipped to address the unique needs of our diverse community.

As a taxpayer and citizen of Henrico, I refuse to accept anything less than excellence and equity in our public schools. Our students deserve nothing less. I urge Superintendent Cashwell and the HCPS leadership to heed this call to action, to commit to equitable compensation, increased funding, and community involvement in the hiring process for the next Director of Diversity, Equity, and Opportunity.

Together, let us reaffirm our commitment to creating a school system where every student has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, or zip code. The time for action is now. Our students are counting on us.

Sincerely,
DaQuan Love