The Newport School Committee held a meeting on Tuesday, October 8, lasting over two hours and covering a variety of topics.
The meeting began with a roll call and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a moment of silence for recently deceased community members.
Student Council representative Saraya Bell, a Rogers High School senior, presented an update on changes to the student council structure. “This year a committee of us, including Simi, Frank, Connor and myself. It is not just a single individual who we are presenting to you all occasionally,” Bell said. She emphasized the council’s focus on collaboration and diversity of voices.
The committee recognized two students, Camilla Thaxter and Victoria Ramos, for their academic achievements. Both seniors qualified for a College Board recognition program based on their GPA and test scores.
Newport School Superintendent Colleen Burns Jermain presented an update on the district’s five-year strategic plan, launched earlier this year. The plan focuses on implementing high-quality curriculum, student leadership opportunities, and improving accountability and responsiveness. “We’re trying to build investment, commitment to the portrait of a graduate and strategic plan,” Jermain said.
Director Robert Young and Principal Jared Vance provided an overview of the Rogers High School transition plan, developed over the past 18 months with input from community partners, families, and teachers. The plan addresses technology implementation and strategies for the new school building, set to open in June.
“We’ve done a lot of work with our community partners, bringing as many folks to the table as possible,” Young said. He noted that the plan includes strategies for student culture and building culture, not just technology use.
Conexion Latina Newport, a community organization, presented concerns from Hispanic families about communication with schools. Marissa Portillo, speaking in Spanish, outlined the organization’s efforts to address barriers faced by Hispanic families in Newport.
Committee members and administrators acknowledged the need for improved communication systems. Director Young mentioned exploring technology solutions for instant translation of emails and text messages.
“We know that there are different programs that exist that allow for instant translation when emailing to and from teachers and staff in the building,” Young said. “And they also automatically translate any text messages, any brochures, anything that we post.”
Committee members suggested looking into restructuring translator roles to ensure consistent coverage across schools and improving guidance on when to escalate issues.
The meeting also included discussions on homecoming plans for Rogers High School, which is currently operating without its usual facilities due to construction. Student representative Bell assured the committee that alternative locations had been secured for events.
Committee member Sandra J. Flowers commended Rogers High School students for their community service work, noting their assistance at recent fundraising events. “I feel that people should know some of the great service that our young people are providing to the community,” Flowers said.
Throughout the meeting, committee members and administrators used new translation devices to facilitate communication with Spanish-speaking attendees, demonstrating an effort to improve accessibility and inclusivity in school governance.
The wide-ranging discussions highlighted the committee’s focus on student engagement, strategic planning, and addressing the needs of Newport’s diverse student population as the district navigates significant changes, including the construction of Rogers High School.
Watch The Meeting
