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Longwood University President W. Taylor Reveley IV and Hampden-Sydney College President Dr. Larry Stimpert have been named to Governor Ralph Northam’s COVID-19 Education Work Group to help chart a path forward for determining how schools can safely reopen later this year.

“As we begin to think about how Virginia’s education system can operate in the summer and fall, it is crucial that we have the advice of a diverse, thoughtful group of education leaders,” Secretary of Education Atif Qarni said. “This group will use their expertise to guide our approach and help ensure that all voices are heard, and all recommendations are made through the lens of equity.”

Reveley and Stimpert join a group that is comprised of representatives from Virginia’s public and private early childhood, K-12, and higher education systems, and includes teachers, superintendents, parents, college presidents, state agency personnel, special education advocates, museum directors, and student perspectives.

As part of the work group, members will develop recommendations on key issues schools must address before reopening and help determine how to ensure continuity of learning for Virginia students.

“I am deeply grateful for Virginia’s educators, administrators, school nutrition workers, support staff, parents, and students for the ways they have adapted to new learning environments over the past two months,” Governor Northam said. “As we make decisions about the path forward, this panel will help ensure that we are best supporting rural students, English language learners, students of color, and students with special needs.”