Newport’s schools are too important for the School Committee and City Council to work in separate corners. Our students, families, educators and taxpayers all have a stake in the decisions shaping our schools and our city’s future.
I was concerned by comments at the joint School Committee and City Council meeting suggesting the school budget is too large, the middle school should close, or the state should take over our schools.
We need to be responsible with taxpayer dollars, but cutting the budget cannot be the answer to every financial problem. Before making decisions, we should look at where money is being spent, what our students need, and the impact of proposed cuts.
As a sixth-grade science teacher with 26 years of public school experience, I know better decisions come from asking questions, listening and looking at the facts. Our city leaders need to work together, plan for the future, and provide residents with clear information about school finances.
We should also listen to teachers, families and staff who see what is happening in our schools. We need to understand what is working, where students need more support, and how to use resources responsibly. The goal should be to help students succeed, not simply find places to cut.
The School Committee and City Council may have different responsibilities, but we serve the same community. Our city leaders must be willing to work together to prioritize our public schools and the students they serve.
Carrie Cassady
Newport. Cassady is a candidate for the Newport School Committee.
The post Op-Ed: Working together for Newport’s schools appeared first on What's Up Newp.
