The National Institute for Excellence in Education (NIET) framework is a research-based, time-tested and proven instructional tool. Their framework correlates with our strategic goals and the visionary perspective that I have been sharing with you for some time now. If you recall earlier this year, I informed you that improving quality tier one instruction (classroom teaching), reviewing, reflecting, and revising instructional best practices, and increasing the overall intellectual confidence within all of our students was of top priority. The NIET framework does that and then some!

For example, the NIET framework is centered around intentionality, collaboration, and sustainability. In short, the NIET framework allows for our classroom teachers, as peers, and teacher leaders amongst one another, to share best practices, trade secrets if you will, as to how to better teach, reach, and connect with our students.

Ultimately, that's what the sweet science of teaching is all about. Establishing rapport, building connections, and placing students in positions to be successful. This framework and the tools found within it, as well as the talent found within our classrooms, will allow us to reach the next level of excellence. I ask that you exercise patience, trust in the process, and extend grace to our faculty, staff, and students. For we are Richmond and we are resilient.

The decision to close or delay Richmond Community Schools relies on many factors and is a collaboration between all county schools and emergency personnel. We take into consideration the current weather, road conditions, as well as the duration of the wind chill factor predictions.

As a general rule from the National Weather Service, a wind chill factor of -19 degrees will be the determining factor as the whether to close or delay school. Frostbite can occur on exposed skin in a relatively short time for children out in extreme temperatures. Parents are encouraged to ensure that students are appropriately dressed for these conditions while waiting at the bus stop or walking to and from school.

The following is a list of the emergency options used by Richmond Community Schools. Please discuss these with your children and plan what to do in each instance.

We will post the delay/closing on our District website, on our District Facebook page, and via Twitter. (You do not need to be on Facebook or Twitter to see these posts. However, if you are on these social media sites, please like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.)

We will use our electronic messaging system to call, email and text employees and families about the change in the school schedule.

Our goal is to reach as many families as possible as soon as possible. We call all phone lines listed for parents/caregivers of our students to ensure we reach someone in each household. While it may seem redundant to call your home, cell and work numbers, we must make sure parents/caregivers who work varying shifts receive this important information. We also cannot just send it via email or text as we may not reach all families. Thank you for understanding!

Do you need help filling your FAFSA? Join us at Richmond High School (Door #1) on Sunday, November 6 from 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.

350 Hub Etchison Parkway, Richmond.

Birth to Five is adding a new Playgroup on Mondays! The Playgroup will be held at Starr Elementary School (301 N. 19th Street, Richmond) on Mondays from 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Please enter the school through the front door and you will be directed to the Sensory Room. We hope to see you there!

The woods can be a bit scary at night but remember that the animals at night are also there during the daytime. We just do not see them as easily.

Bring a Flashlight. Cover flashlight with red paper. (Red paper will be provided to those that need it.)

Did you know that Richmond Community Schools was established in 1852? In 1853, the first count of school children was made in Richmond. This count showed a population of 3,600 people. There were 1,592 children under twenty-one years of age. There were 1,086 between the ages of six and twenty-one. In 1854, the first board of school trustees was named. The members were Dr. Joel Vaile, Dr. James R. Mendenhall and James Elder.

Pictured: School House #9 (Located at Henley and Southeast Parkway)

We know that there are great things going on in our schools every day. Help us to celebrate the achievements of our students, teachers, and staff to parents and the Richmond community! Know of a visual photo op that could tell the story of our schools or anything else you think we should know about? Please fill out this form to let the RCS Communications Coordinator know!

RCS is hiring for a variety of positions, including bus drivers, transportations assistants, paraprofessionals, cafeteria assistants, grounds and maintenance and so much more. Know someone who would be a great fit? Invite them to learn more and apply today at www.weRrichmond.com/employment

Become a school bus driver now...Get more information or apply at www.mystudenttransit.com