Richmond Public Schools
Academic, Operational & Administrative Performance Assessment (2013–2015)
Executive Summary
RBG supported the Mayor’s Accountability and Efficiency Task Force by identifying structural cost savings, budget reforms, and operational improvements to strengthen Richmond Public Schools’ long-term financial sustainability.
The Challenge
Richmond Public Schools faced persistent budgetary pressure, structural inefficiencies, and the need to identify sustainable cost savings without compromising educational outcomes. The Mayor’s Office established the Accountability and Efficiency Task Force to conduct a comprehensive review of operations, spending, and resource allocation across the district.
The district required an independent, data-driven assessment to identify actionable savings, improve financial governance, and realign resources toward classroom and student priorities.
Our Role
RBG was engaged to support the Task Force by conducting a comprehensive operational and financial review of Richmond Public Schools, including:
Budget analysis and expenditure review
Cost savings and efficiency analysis
Revenue enhancement opportunities
Operational structure and staffing analysis
Policy and process evaluation
RBG worked alongside a multi-disciplinary task force over a three-week intensive engagement, analyzing financial data, interviewing stakeholders, and benchmarking district operations against best practices in public education systems.
The Outcome
RBG delivered a comprehensive set of recommendations that:
Identified approximately $23M in potential savings
Proposed elimination and restructuring of positions while preserving instructional priorities
Recommended major contract reviews and renegotiations, including transportation and facilities
Introduced new budget development and multi-year financial planning processes
Strengthened governance, financial controls, and accountability frameworks
The recommendations were submitted to the Mayor, Superintendent, School Board, and City Council and formed the basis for structural reforms to improve the district’s long-term financial stability and operational efficiency.
Capabilities Applied
Turnaround & Restructuring
Financial & Budgeting Consulting
Cost Savings & Efficiency Analysis
Change Management
Education Systems Transformation
Governance & Operating Model Design
The Robert Bobb Group
Public-Sector Advisory for Complex Projects and High-Risk Programs