The Rhode Island Department of Education’s latest school report cards were released last week, and the results for Newport Public Schools are deeply disappointing. Academic performance declined in English Language Arts, mathematics, and science, as did our four-year graduation rate.
Although standardized test scores are just one (imperfect) measure of student success, we can’t turn a blind eye to the consistent underperformance of our schools. I fear we are seeing the consequences of years of inadequate leadership, a lack of vision, and unreliable funding.
I share these results not simply to acknowledge the disheartening moment our schools find themselves in, but more importantly, to plead with our community: Please, stay with us. I understand that families with the means to seek alternatives may look at these results and question whether Newport Public Schools is the right choice for their children. But when families opt out, the consequences extend beyond their own households. Declining enrollment creates additional financial pressures, and our students benefit from learning alongside peers with diverse academic strengths, backgrounds, and experiences. Strong public schools depend on a community that believes in them and invests in their success.
I also believe there is so much worth staying for. We have new district leadership willing to confront our challenges, acknowledge where we are falling short, and do the difficult work of improving student outcomes. In just a few weeks, Newport will elect a new School Committee and City Council. These elected officials will have the responsibility and opportunity to establish priorities, allocate resources, demand accountability, and make public education a central commitment of our city.
Beyond the promise of change, our schools experience successes every day that simply can’t be measured by test scores. We have extraordinary educators in every building who care deeply about their students and work tirelessly on their behalf. We have remarkable community partnerships that provide opportunities and experiences that extend far beyond classroom walls. And we have an incredibly diverse student population whose languages, cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives enrich the educational experience of every child.
I am not asking families to ignore the data or settle for the status quo. Quite the opposite. I am asking families to believe that our schools can be better, to demand that they become better, and to be part of making that happen.
Strong schools require strong partnerships between educators, leadership, families, and the broader community. I believe better days are ahead for Newport Public Schools, and I hope you’ll stay with us to help make them happen.
Liz Barron
Candidate for Newport School Committee
The post Op-Ed: Newport Public Schools are worth fighting for. Please stay with us appeared first on What's Up Newp.
