At Monday’s School Board work session, the FY27 budget review included a discussion about how we identify economically disadvantaged students. Staff explained that this identification has traditionally relied on data from the free and reduced lunch program. However, because all students now receive free meals, it has become more difficult to determine which families may need additional support services.
When I served as a social worker in SCPS, part of my job was to connect with families to understand their needs. We sent a form home with every student, allowing families to indicate if they needed support or wished to help.
Through that experience, I learned that many families who could benefit from support often preferred that the help go to someone else. Sometimes, reassurance was needed to help them understand that we had enough resources for everyone. Other times, families respectfully declined, and I always respected that parental choice—though, as trust grew, some later reached out when needs became more pressing. I also made many home visits to drop off food and supplies, ensuring privacy and reducing any potential stigma for students.
This is where having recent, hands-on experience in SCPS truly matters. We need School Board members who not only understand policy but also have direct experience working with students and families. With your support and your vote, I hope to bring that experience, compassion, and understanding to the School Board.
https://www.spotsylvania.k12.va.us/o/scps/page/fy2027-budget-information