Civil Municipal Magazine - Dec 2023

309 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 4, ISSUE 12 district’s vision is clear: a diploma is not the end goal but a launching point into a sustainable life. Dr. Edwards and her team strive to ensure that students are not only academically proficient but also equipped with a comprehensive life plan that might include higher education, entering the workforce, or serving in the military. She provides a panoramic view of the student demographic, revealing a diverse tapestry of about 7,900 students from varying racial, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds. “We’re a little melting pot, a little bit of everybody,” she describes. This diversity, she suggests, is a strength that enriches the educational experience for all students. Maintaining quality interaction between students and teachers is a priority for Lynchburg City Schools. Dr. Edwards acknowledges the challenges presented by the national educator shortage, exacerbated by the pandemic, and outlines innovative solutions the district employs to attract and retain quality educators. “We really try to put excellent educators in front of our kids,” she says, pointing out the strategies in place to combat the teacher shortage. The district’s proactive measures include a classified teacher program spearheaded by Chief HR Officer Sherri Shepherd. Dr. Edwards speaks to its success: “Through this program if you have a bachelor’s degree but not teacher licensure, we provide tuition assistance and a salary that’s about 90% of a first-year teacher’s.” This program is designed not only to bridge the gap between substitute and full-time teacher pay but also to make the teaching profession a viable and attractive career choice. Dooley elaborates on Lynchburg City Schools’ efforts to nurture homegrown teaching talent through growing a partnership with the University of Lynchburg, spearheading the ‘Teachers for Tomorrow’ program. This initiative is a strategic step towards encouraging students to enter the educational field and envision a future teaching in Lynchburg. He also shares Dr. Edwards’ initiative to integrate internships across various departments within the school system, from IT to automotive, paving the way for a robust, self-reliant community that retains its skilled graduates. Further exemplifying the district’s collaborative spirit, Dooley highlights the supportive relationship with Liberty University, where their students engage in volunteer work and contribute to the Lynchburg City Schools’ endeavors. Dr. Edwards echoes this sentiment, commending Liberty University for their substantial role in providing extracurricular support and contributing to the district’s pool of educators. She affirms the strength of this partnership, underlining the shared commitment to fostering not only academic excellence but also the broader civic and social development of their students. Nurturing Partnerships for Progressive Education Lynchburg City Schools understands the significance of a strong support system, one that extends beyond the immediate school community to the very suppliers and vendors that contribute to its day-to-day operations. Dr. Wodicka speaks to the importance of these relationships, particularly in the nutrition and wellness of students. “We’ve got a really great partnership with some local food vendors,” LYNCHBURG CI T Y SCHOOLS