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Every student knows the excitement and anxiety of starting high school — and every high-school administrator across Richmond understands this potent mix of emotions. All our schools work to ease the middle- to high school journey for students. At Richmond Community High School (RCHS), one of three selective-admissions schools in RPS, that process is led by school counselor Ms. Bernita Williams. Throughout the year, she crafts a thoughtful, welcoming experience that helps incoming students feel prepared on day one.
And that process is already underway. During the open application period, every middle school gets a visit from each high school’s staff and teachers to introduce them to the school’s culture and offerings. “We want to make sure parents and students feel informed and supported every step of the way,” Ms. Williams notes. These visits, combined with open house events, allow families to tour the school, meet staff, and understand what each school has to offer.
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If choosing the selective-admissions path, students will learn of their acceptance on Friday, March 7, 2025, and have about two weeks to make the decisions with their families. From there, the next step in the journey is a week-long orientation in August, which introduces new students to the school’s structure, expectations, and resources. This crucial step familiarizes students with their core academic classes. “We want students to know what to expect so they can align themselves with our academic standards and identify where they might need extra support,” Ms. Williams explains. This early exposure helps students plan their schedules and build a foundation for the year.
But orientation is more than academics: It fosters a sense of belonging. Through the spring and summer, students build relationships with faculty, staff, and peers, creating a supportive network vital to their high school experience. “We want every student to feel like they belong here,” Ms. Williams emphasizes. Community—no pun intended—is central to the culture at RCHS.
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‘It’s about creating a space where they can reflect on their skills and advocate for themselves’
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That support doesn’t fade once orientation ends. RCHS faculty remain dedicated to helping students thrive throughout the school year, offering assistance before and after school and during lunch. “Our doors are always open,” Ms. Williams says. This commitment means students have access to tutoring, personal guidance, or simply someone to talk to about the challenges of high school life.
As a school counselor, Ms. Williams also helps students manage their academic paths, offering one-on-one and group counseling sessions to set realistic goals and develop time management skills. “It’s about tailoring support to each student’s unique needs,” she explains. This personalized approach empowers students to take ownership of their education.
Communication is key, and Ms. Williams ensures that families stay connected through weekly newsletters and ongoing dialogue. This openness helps foster a strong partnership between the school and families, making the transition into RCHS seamless for everyone. “We create opportunities for students to share their stories and traditions,” Ms. Williams shares, highlighting events that honor cultural heritage. This emphasis on inclusion fosters mutual respect and helps students learn from one another. At the heart of the work is a commitment to centering each student’s needs and aspirations.
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Ms. Williams believes understanding students’ interests and strengths is essential in guiding them. “It’s about creating a space where they can reflect on their skills and advocate for themselves,” she says. This self-awareness empowers students and helps them make informed choices about their education.
Ultimately, the comprehensive support system at RCHS—rooted in intentional activities, strong communication, and a celebration of diversity—reflects the dedication of all RPS high schools to support students through intentional programming, committed staff, and robust family partnerships. With each step, RPS ensures students find schools that will nurture their academic and personal growth, welcoming each student into a community where they can thrive. At RPS, we have a school that is Right For You!
Learn more about the steps in the application process in the videos below in English and Spanish, and visit www.rvaschools.net/enroll to start an application today.
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