09/10/2025
Subject: Superintendent’s Summary of the September 9, 2025 School Board Meeting
Dear GCPS Teachers, Parents, Students and Staff
I want to take a moment to share highlights from our School Board meeting held on September 9, 2025.
We began on a high note as Noah Ford, a fourth-grade student at Abingdon Elementary, led us in the Pledge of Allegiance with confidence and pride.
We then recognized our GCPS Seniors of the Month:
Mylah Santiago: Mylah serves as Executive President of the Student Council Association, has earned her cosmetology certification, and is a member of the W.E.B. DuBois Honor Society and Beta Club. She recently helped welcome our new teachers and aspires to become an elementary teacher herself. We look forward to the possibility of her returning to GCPS as an educator in the future.
Cooper White: Cooper has risen from cadet to Battalion Commander, demonstrating leadership and strong executive functioning skills. He played a major role in planning freshman orientation, captains the rowing team, and has his eyes set on the Corps of Cadets at Virginia Tech. His accomplishments are extensive, and he models what it means to be humble, hungry, and smart.
Student School Board Representative Report
After the recognitions, Board Chair Ms. Arsenovic welcomed Eric Waters, the new student representative, to his first regular meeting. Eric shared that GHS students are eager to participate in sports, clubs, and other activities. Many are also looking forward to upcoming international trips. Since the recent renovations, the building feels a little empty, so students are excited to team up with faculty, staff, and the community to decorate and make the space feel more like their own.
District staff also provided the following strategic updates:
Deputy Superintendent Bryan Hartley presented the Annual School Safety Strategic Plan Update, which included progress on door security upgrades, universal screening, collaboration with the Gloucester County Sheriff’s Office on drills, after-action reviews, school safety audits, and health and safety measures across our division.
Dr. Amy Stamm, Chief Human Resources Officer, shared updates on Employee Development Programs, highlighting work on career pathways, leadership development opportunities, new teacher mentoring, and career growth initiatives for support staff. These programs are designed to strengthen our workforce and ensure GCPS remains an excellent place to work and grow.
Chief Financial Officer Dwight Duren, together with Caitlyn Leavens and Alyssa Brown from the Northern Neck YMCA, presented the new before- and after-school childcare program. With School Board approval granted last night, this service is expected to expand to all elementary schools in GCPS. More information will be shared with families in the coming weeks.
As always, I thank each of you for your commitment to our students, staff, and community. The work highlighted in this meeting reflects the dedication and excellence you bring to GCPS every day.
With gratitude,
Dr. Anthony Vladu
Superintendent
Gloucester County Public Schools