Richmond Public Schools push to establish Parent-Teacher Association’s in every school

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Richmond Public Schools is working to expand both parent and teacher support by establishing a Parent-Teacher Association in every school across the district. 

Leaders say the goal is to strengthen collaboration and address needs that can improve the school experience for both students and staff.

According to district officials, only about 49 percent of the division’s 46 schools currently have an active parent-teacher organization.

The district has been discussing ways to increase those numbers, including holding interest meetings, offering virtual participation options and providing transportation support when possible.

“We’ve talked about having some form of an interest meeting and figuring out the best way to do that,” said Darryl Williams, the district’s associate director of family and community engagement. “We’re open to exploring all options—maybe virtual meetings, maybe helping with transportation—however we can support families.”

One of the active associations is at Thomas Henderson Middle School, where PTA president Danette Bland says involvement has grown quickly.

What started with fewer than ten members has grown to 83 parents and staff who now participate in monthly meetings. “There are parents who want to help. There are teachers that need the help, and the support is there,” Bland said. “So I was like, ‘Hey, let’s get this started.’”

The group’s efforts range from purchasing supplies for classrooms to coordinating Teacher Appreciation Week. Bland encourages parents to get involved—even in small ways—saying it makes a meaningful difference.

“Sometimes when I get off work, I don’t want to sit in meetings,” she said. “But I know the need, and I have a passion behind it because I know what it’s like to work in a school.”

Bland added that participating in the group has helped her form lasting relationships. “I’ve built connections with people I probably never would have talked to. It’s not just being in a school building—it’s lifelong connections.”

District leaders say they are continuing to meet with active PTA members and reaching out to all schools to help establish parent-teacher groups where they don’t yet exist.