Superintendent Deborah Jewell-Sherman sent this email to all Richmond Public Schools staff today. I guess the main thing that stands out to me is that she seems so desperately to want to focus on the future and the positive, but there is still a part of her that has to call Wilder’s act “disorderly and uncivil.” Not that she is wrong in any way, but just that we need to move on and make this about the kids. Later today we should have an answer from the court.

Dear Colleagues,

As you well know, our Central Administration Offices have been in disarray since last Friday when the Mayor ordered the removal of School Board offices from City Hall. I am sure that most of you are aware of this chaotic situation, so I will not review recent events. I do, however, want to ensure all teachers and support staff that we are in recovery mode - determined and diligent to keep our focus on educating students. Many of your Central Office colleagues worked throughout this past weekend, along with School Board members, to restore order and civility to a most disorderly and uncivil act. On Monday and Tuesday, the work continued as staff unpacked boxes, swept up trash, reconnected phones and re-established our communications network. We are still not functioning at 100 percent, but we will not be deterred from serving our children. The lawsuit goes before the judge today as City Council voted 8-1 to join us in the suit against the City Administration. No matter the outcome, and because of your dedication and commitment, I am confident that we will continue to provide Richmond City students with a world class education. Again, I deeply and sincerely thank you for your hard work and loyalty to each other and to our students.

Deborah Jewell-Sherman