#USA #Virginia Education #Lynchburg #Rivermont Schools #Beth Ackerman

Overview

In a significant move for Virginia's education landscape, Dr. Beth Ackerman from Rivermont Schools has been appointed to Governor Youngkin's Board of Education. This appointment is set to last until June 30, 2028, signifying Virginia’s dedication to meeting the unique needs of students with special requirements. As Senior Vice President at Rivermont Schools, Dr. Ackerman boasts a rich background that combines classroom experience with executive leadership, ensuring her insights will be invaluable as the Board strives to enhance the education framework for all students.

Commitment to Special Education

According to Virginia Secretary of Education Aimee Rogstad Guidera, Dr. Ackerman has been a steadfast advocate for special needs students over the past two decades. Her commitment goes beyond mere policy; it reflects a deep understanding of the challenges faced by these students. Guidera emphasizes that "Nothing is more important than preparing our children for life," and a quality education is crucial to achieving this goal. With her extensive experience, Dr. Ackerman is expected to inform vital discussions at the Board of Education, ensuring equitable educational opportunities for every child, regardless of their circumstances.

Leadership at Rivermont Schools

Dr. Ackerman’s current role includes overseeing operational aspects and strategic growth at Rivermont Schools, a network dedicated to providing a customized educational experience for students with special needs. Under her leadership, the institution has successfully increased its reach, now serving nearly 1,000 students annually across Virginia. One of the standout initiatives she has introduced is the deployment of licensed behavior-support teams in each school, along with real-time data dashboards. This innovative approach allows educators to tailor support to meet students’ academic and behavioral goals more effectively.

Vision for Virginia's Students

As Dr. Ackerman embarks on this new chapter with the Board of Education, her focus will be on amplifying the voices of special needs students and their families. She remarks on the urgency of addressing the challenges associated with recruiting and retaining skilled educators in the field, particularly in special education. With an alarming rate of educators leaving the profession, Dr. Ackerman is determined to bring fresh perspectives to tackle these pressing issues. "It’s a critical time in our field, and we need to explore new strategies for supporting our educators and students," she states.

About Rivermont Schools

Rivermont Schools, strategically located throughout Virginia, specializes in providing therapeutic educational programs for students aged 5 to 22 with diverse needs, including those with autism spectrum disorder and behavioral challenges. Their mission focuses on guiding students in understanding and managing their emotions and behaviors. Educators at Rivermont Schools work collaboratively with students to achieve their developmental milestones, ultimately preparing them for reintegration into traditional educational settings.

Conclusion

Dr. Beth Ackerman’s appointment to the Virginia Board of Education is a pivotal moment for special education in the Commonwealth. Her leadership and vision are expected to drive policies that prioritize inclusive quality education for all students. As she steps into this role, the future of educational support for special needs students in Virginia looks promising, with prospects for innovative programs and enhanced advocacy leading the charge.