Petersburg City Public Schools (PCPS) has released new guidelines for public conduct at sporting events, games, and school-sponsored activities. The guidelines request that students, community members, and visitors adhere to expected behavior standards.
According to PCPS, all students from pre-kindergarten through 8th grade must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or responsible adult at games and remain with them throughout the event. Spectators are required to stay in the stands and are prohibited from loitering under bleachers. Re-entry is not permitted once someone leaves the venue. Attendees must vacate the premises immediately after the game concludes, with only athletes, coaches, staff, media, and credentialed personnel allowed on the sidelines.
Security measures have been implemented by PCPS to ensure safety at these events. These include restrictions on bag types—only clear bags for personal care items are allowed—and mandatory screening for all spectators, band members, cheerleaders, and visiting athletes. Items such as backpacks, coolers, luggage, and large bags are prohibited. Disruptive or inappropriate behavior may lead to suspension from future events.
The Petersburg Athletics program aligns with PCPS’s mission by offering student-athletes opportunities in both academics and athletics while adhering to values of integrity, excellence, and loyalty. The program aims to meet academic and athletic standards including graduation rates and Virginia High School League (VHSL) measures. Strategic goals encompass supporting academic achievement, student growth, sportsmanship, athletic performance, financial accountability, diversity, equity, and community engagement. This involves collaboration with the Guidance Department, alumni networks, and local communities to provide resources for student-athletes.
PCPS serves approximately 4,400 students across nine schools with a staff of 672 employees and an annual budget of $70.5 million. The district’s mission is focused on preparing students to become capable 21st-century citizens skilled in collaboration, communication, and innovation. Its vision emphasizes transforming learning opportunities so every student graduates with a broad range of choices available to them. Governed by a seven-member School Board elected for four-year terms responsible for setting policies and overseeing the budget among other duties; Superintendent Yolonda Brown leads the district with board meetings generally held twice monthly open to public attendance.
