New space to serve as educational asset to enhance teaching and learning opportunities

Altria Group subsidiary U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company (USSTC) has agreed to donate a two-story, 288,000 square foot facility to Richmond Public Schools (RPS). Through this donation, Altria continues to emphasize its desire to enhance educational opportunities for RPS students. The building will be used to contribute to an overall effort to modernize and replace outdated RPS educational facilities.

Proposals for the space include:

• Possible redesign of the Richmond Technical Center
• Infusion of new academic program offerings
• Enhanced environment for new and existing programs
• Creation of career academies as part of a hands-on learning experience

“We are pleased to accept this generous donation acquired through our continued community partnership with Altria,” said School Board Chairwoman Dawn Page. “This new facility will only increase the possibilities for teaching and learning opportunities in a more contemporary atmosphere that is customized to our students’ needs for their academic growth.”

The school board will establish a committee to develop a funding plan that addresses the design concept for the building to support a 21st century teaching and learning program. USSTC will maintain operations at the facility through the end of 2017.

“Altria and its companies are proud of our long-standing support of Richmond Public Schools, both financial support and employee volunteerism, and are pleased to make this donation,” said Brian Quigley, President & CEO, U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company. “This facility is an additional resource for the school system and an example of how the business community can help to contribute to student success.”