City Springs’ Rhonda Richetta Advocates in Washington

Dr. Rhonda Richetta, Principal of City Springs Elementary/Middle School and nationally recognized educator, participated in the “Hill Day” on April 23, 2026, visiting legislators on Capitol Hill to advocate for continued funding for public school education.

This annual day in Washington, D.C., organized by the American Federation of School Administrators (AFSA), brings national public school administrators and leaders together to discuss critical issues about public schools and needed funding with members of Congress. 

Dr. Richetta, a seasoned advocate who has participated in numerous Hill Days, spoke with Maryland legislators about three federal funding issues that are slated for cuts by the current administration:

• Title II funding for educator professional development
• Federal funding for school-based mental health services; and 
• Title IV funding for addressing violence in schools

 

Synopsis of Hill Day:

• Back-to-back meetings throughout the day starting with a meeting with the AFSA leadership attended by the local affiliates of AFSA from across the country.  
• Dr. Richetta attended the AFSA meeting as a representative from AFSA local #25, the Public School Administrators and Supervisors Association (PSASA).  She has served as VP of the local #25 since 2021; PSASA represents all principals, assistant principals, and district office administrators of Baltimore City Public Schools, BCP’s educational partner since 1996. 
• Dr. Richetta, PSASA representatives, and AFSA leaders from across the U.S. then spent the day on Capitol Hill for scheduled meetings with legislators. Her group met with Maryland officials from the offices of Senators Angela Alsobrooks and Chris Van Hollen, and Maryland Representatives Johnny Olszewski, Jamie Raskin, and Kweisi Mfume.  

 

We asked Dr. Richetta to reflect on this crucial advocacy for public school education.

Why is it so essential that you and other national educators advocate for public school funds?     

“As a principal, I can speak from firsthand experience about what federal funding means for children, families, and educators in our schools. I can share real stories that demonstrate how these resources directly support student success, strengthen teaching and learning, and provide critical opportunities for our community. Those experiences underscore why it is so important for legislators to continue fighting for our schools and protecting federal funding from harmful cuts.” 

While the prospect of funding cuts is very concerning, what do you find rewarding about this work and sharing your voice? 

“What I find most rewarding is knowing that I have the opportunity to advocate for children, families, and educators whose voices are not always heard in these conversations. Every day, I see the impact that funding has on real students — whether it is academic support, mental health services, enrichment opportunities, school safety, or simply making sure children have what they need to succeed. Sharing my voice allows me to put a human face on these issues and help legislators understand that these decisions are not just about budgets or numbers; they are about children’s lives and futures.”

It was incredibly inspiring to be in the Capitol building itself. The beauty and history of the building are a powerful reminder of the importance of our democracy. Walking those halls and speaking on behalf of students and educators made me feel both humbled and hopeful.”

Thank you for your leadership and advocacy, Dr. Richetta!