#3CARINGFOR OURSELVES SECURING OURFUTURE

Since the early years of OHS, the number of students reporting mental health issues has increased significantly. Emotionally safe and supportive classrooms have long been a mainstay of the school, but OHS also recognizes the need to amplify our focus on healing and well-being. This includes providing the tools for OHS students, faculty, and staff to keep themselves and each other focused on mental health.

As an urban school, OHS is committed to creating and sustaining a learning environment that reflects the population of the City of Richmond and surrounding areas. Although OHS has always been committed to and valued diversity and inclusion, OHS will reinvigorate our efforts to reach and attract students, faculty and staff from underrepresented groups in the City of Richmond and the greater community. OHS wants to ensure that everyone in the school community feels welcomed, valued, and respected

The strategic planning process elicited a consistent theme about Orchard House School’s faculty –that is – they are universally beloved and the faculty is a substantial reason that students enroll and stay in the school. As OHS approaches our 25th anniversary year, the school is at a pivotal moment in its history. A cohort of faculty and staff will retire over the next few years, fundraising and development efforts are positioned to mature, and longterm plans for building and facilities stewardship are emerging. Developing comprehensive courses of action for all of these areas will ensure continuity in school culture and mission, sound decision making, and a thoughtful approach to new opportunities.