Updates: CHS Listening Session
November 20

We appreciate the incredible surge of interest we're seeing in the future of Charlottesville High School (CHS) and indeed all of Charlottesville City Schools (CCS). This situation is rapidly evolving and encompasses many moving parts, and we appreciate all of the parties who, like us, are working around the clock to help.

Charlottesville United for Public Education was formed two years ago when a group of parents, caregivers and community members recognized a void: we needed more vocal support in Charlottesville for our public schools. At the time this was centered around securing funding for the reconfiguration and renovation of Walker and Buford.

We have continued to evolve and work to serve as a conduit for the community. In recent days that void has been a forum for parents, teachers, and students to share their concerns and hopes for CHS in the midst of turmoil. Charlottesville United for Public Education is working with others to take steps to fill the void, by offering a safe space for community voices to be heard.

We want to be clear that Charlottesville United is not advocating for any set solutions at this juncture. We are here to listen.

For this Listening Session we are in support of:

Modeling respectful behavior and dialogue for our children

Treating each other well as fellow humans

Becoming comfortable with cognitive dissonance

Having an open mind and embracing diverse viewpoints

Curiosity and active listening

Being part of the solution

We have fielded numerous questions about the event format. Like the situation, the event details are evolving, and things continue to be fluid. To address a few queries: We absolutely welcome the voices of students and have been working diligently over the weekend to ensure that the event is accessible and have secured childcare and a virtual option. Additionally, the listening session will begin with a teacher panel, so that we can listen to educator voices, and then student and other community voices.

We understand that our students, parents, and other caring adults have different ways of communicating. If you don’t feel comfortable speaking in a public setting, we’re working on an online form to collect feedback. You can also email the School Board directly. Still have reservations? Show up and share your ideas in the comment period. We’ll also bring some posters and markers for those who prefer to make signage to express their feelings. No matter how, we want to hear from you.

We are encouraged by the level of interest in public education that has emerged in recent weeks, and we are excited about the possibility of sustained engagement and what that could mean for our children. We fully embrace the concept of collective action, understanding that it takes all of us to change the ecosystem in which our schools exist in order to create the best educational environment for all.

Yours in partnership,

Charlottesville United for Public Education