Kamras, Bhagat encourage stronger connections with Richmond's children

RPS Supt. Jason Kamras
RPS Supt. Jason Kamras

Before a crowd of new and returning students, faculty and staff at the fall convocation of the VCU School of Education, Richmond Public Schools Superintendent Jason Kamras encouraged them to devote their time and skills to helping students in Richmond schools achieve their potential.

Dr. Ram Bhagat
Dr. Ram Bhagat

“We all know that there are a lot of challenges in Richmond Public Schools,” he said. “I also know that every RPS student deserves the same opportunity at success as students anywhere else. I encourage all of you to join me in making RPS everything that it can be,” he said.

SOE alumnus Dr. Ram Bhagat, a member of RPS’ new Restorative Justice Task Force, spoke about a need to bring all Richmonders together. “We all have a collective responsibility to build a culture of collaboration in Richmond, and end the social arrhythmia that is pulling us apart,” he said.

Dr. Bhagat gave a sensory demonstration of a culture of collaboration through a clapping and drumming exercise.

“It returns us all to a natural rhythm, one that connects us and lifts us up,” he said.

Dr. Andrew Daire said that the challenges facing urban and high needs schools in Richmond also present opportunities for SOE.

“Our faculty and staff are working very hard to meet and address these challenges,” he said. “The year that we’re embarking on gives us another opportunity to do more for our students, for our community, and for the state.”

Below: "School of Education 2018 Convocation," featuring Supt. Kamras and Dr. Bhagat. (from YouTube; Total Running Time: 39 minutes)