News Release
For Immediate Release
December 14, 2023
Contact
Gina Patterson, executive director
434-295-8722, gina@vsba.org
Virginia School Boards Association President Dr. Cardell Patillo Kicks Off
President’s Road Show with Visit to Staunton City Schools
Staunton, VA – Dr. Cardell Patillo, President of the Virginia School Boards Association (VSBA), inaugurated the VSBA President’s Roadshow today with a site visit to Staunton City Schools in Staunton, VA. The primary objective of the visit was to explore the innovative childcare initiative and preschool program implemented by Staunton City Schools. In attendance were members of the Virginia School Boards Association Board of Directors, VSBA staff, and representatives from the offices of Senator Tim Kaine, State Senator Creigh Deeds and Delegate Tony Wilt.
During the comprehensive tour, participants had the privilege of exploring the dedicated preschool classrooms, featuring age-appropriate learning spaces, interactive classrooms, and vibrant play areas specifically crafted to enhance the cognitive, social, and physical development of young learners.
A noteworthy segment of the visit involved hearing from educators within the school division who utilize the childcare program for their own children. This initiative, tailored to support the work-life balance of educators, provides a secure and enriching environment for their children while they concentrate on their professional obligations.
Dr. Garett Smith, Superintendent of Staunton City Schools, conveyed his enthusiasm about the positive impact of the preschool and childcare opportunities on the school community. “Our commitment to education transcends the conventional classroom setting. By offering high-quality preschool and childcare options for our teachers and staff, we aspire to dismantle barriers to employment and contribute to creating an educational environment that nurtures growth and well-being for all members of our school community.”
Expressing gratitude to Staunton City Schools for hosting the visit, VSBA President Dr. Cardell Patillo remarked, “It was truly inspiring to witness the innovation unfolding in Virginia’s public schools. The early childcare initiative in Staunton City is a model program that holds the potential to be replicated across the Commonwealth, offering a solution to the challenges faced by teachers in navigating childcare and afterschool care options for their own children.”
The VSBA President’s Roadshow is designed to extract insights into cutting-edge innovations and best practices in Virginia’s public schools while addressing the challenges confronted by Virginia’s school boards. This visit marks the inaugural event of many planned by President Patillo and the Virginia School Boards Association throughout the upcoming year.
About the Virginia School Boards Association
Virginia School Boards Association, a voluntary, nonpartisan organization of Virginia school boards, promotes excellence in public education through advocacy, training and services. The Association offers conferences, information, training, and counseling designed to meet the needs of the Commonwealth’s educational leaders.
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