Stories of Learning, Leadership, and Connection Across Rockingham County

Each quarter, I’ll share stories that highlight how our students, staff, and schools are leading with purpose across Rockingham County. From classrooms to communities, every day brings moments of learning, leadership, and connection.  

As we wrap up the first quarter of the 2025–2026 school year, I’m reminded that the heart of our work has always been, and will always be, learning first.

This school year, we’re renewing our focus on ensuring technology serves its true purpose: as a powerful support for learning, not the driver. Our middle schools have made an intentional shift to keep Chromebooks at school for 6th and 7th graders. This decision supports balance, reducing screen time at home while encouraging personal interaction, physical activity, and hands-on learning. Teachers are designing lessons that maximize technology use during the school day, without requiring internet access at home.

At the same time, the Virginia Department of Education is raising academic expectations for students, and that’s a positive step forward. High standards, coupled with strong support, help all students reach their full potential. State standards define what students should learn, and assessments help us measure that learning. But no single test or report card tells the full story. Virginia uses multiple measures to understand how schools help students grow, stay on track, and prepare for the future.

As the state refines its assessment system and updates proficiency “cut scores” over the next five years, we remain focused on what matters most: supporting our teachers and empowering every learner to succeed.

Together, we are leading with purpose, ensuring technology, instruction, and high expectations all work hand in hand to help every student thrive. 

At the start of this school year, I introduced the idea of “Lollipop Moments” to our RCPS employees. These are small but powerful interactions that make a lasting difference in someone’s life. These moments remind us that leadership isn’t defined by titles or positions, but by everyday actions can make a difference. 

Our first Sweet Moment of Impact honors the team of educators, staff, and community partners who stepped up following a recent school bus accident involving students and teachers traveling to the Virginia State Fair. While it was an experience no one ever wants to face, it revealed the best of who we are as a division. From the calm leadership of the bus driver and teachers on board, to the swift response of our administrators, first responders, and partners in Louisa County Public School, every action reflected care, composure, and connection in the face of uncertainty.

As I shared at the School Board meeting, “When things go wrong, don’t go with them.” These leaders embodied that truth. Their steady presence reminded students that even in frightening moments, they were safe, supported, and surrounded by people who cared.

To each individual who played a role that day, thank you for being a living example of what leadership looks like in its truest form.

For more than a decade, Unified Basketball has brought together student-athletes with and without disabilities to compete, collaborate, and celebrate what teamwork truly means. This year, RCPS students took part in nine exciting days of Unified play, showcasing not only their athletic skills but their sportsmanship, encouragement, and heart. 

The Unified teams represent the best of what happens when inclusion meets opportunity, where every player has a role, every basket is celebrated, and every moment reflects respect and belonging.

The goal of Unified Basketball has always been bigger than the scoreboard. It’s about creating an environment where students of all abilities can connect, contribute meaningfully, and share in the joy of the game. As players pass, cheer, and lift one another up, they remind us all that success is measured not only in points scored, but in friendships built and confidence gained.

One of the greatest things I’ve experienced as superintendent is spending time in our schools. Nearly every day, I’ve had the privilege of visiting classrooms, talking with students, and watching our teachers and leaders bring learning to life.

This quarter, I’ve had the chance to see so many moments that remind me why our schools are such special places, and I’d like to share just a few highlights from around the county.

At John C. Myers Elementary, families gathered for a Family Picnic Lunch that turned a simple afternoon into something truly meaningful. Seeing parents, grandparents, and students enjoying time together reminded me how strong partnerships between home and school build the foundation for student success.

This year, we welcomed 54 new teachers to RCPS, and each one is supported by a dedicated New Teacher Mentor. During my visits, I’ve been inspired by the energy our new educators bring and the way our mentors are walking alongside them, sharing wisdom, encouragement, and the belief that great teaching grows through collaboration.

During Rockingham Learns for Life, teachers and staff across the division were engaged in powerful learning focused on Academic Excellence, Serving Diverse Learners, and Mental & Behavioral Health. What makes this initiative especially meaningful is that our own educators aren’t just participants, they’re the experts. Many of the sessions were designed and led by RCPS teachers and leaders who submitted proposals to share their practices and ideas with colleagues. It’s been inspiring to watch our staff both learn from and lead one another with the same curiosity, creativity, and enthusiasm we hope to see in every classroom.

At Turner Ashby High School, nearly 600 students spent a Day of Service giving back to their community,  and their efforts spoke volumes about the kind of young people they are becoming. From helping neighbors to improving local spaces, their actions showed that leadership is about service, compassion, and teamwork.

And at Lacey Spring Elementary, I had the pleasure of visiting the school garden, where students proudly showed me what they’ve been growing. Beyond vegetables and flowers, they’re cultivating responsibility, cooperation, and care for the environment, life lessons that reach far beyond the classroom. I was also inspired by the students and staff who came together in Unity to stand up against bullying, showing that kindness and respect are just as important to grow as anything in their garden.

Every story in this issue reflects what makes Rockingham County Public Schools extraordinary, our people. Thank you to our families, staff, and community partners for continuing to support our mission of learning, leadership, and love for every student.

With gratitude,

Larry Shifflett, Ed.D.
Division Superintendent
Rockingham County Public Schools