FRCMedia is taking a look at what parents and students can expect from city schools when the new year begins next week. We wrap up our series by previewing what’s ahead at the Fall River Public Schools.
The district’s got a new leader as Dr. Tracy Curley stepped in as superintendent last month. She admits there’s a lot to learn in this new role, but with 15 years of experience in the district, she’s been able to hit the ground running.
The district is expected to see a marked increase in enrollment this academic year, likely topping 11,000 students. Dr. Curley says parents see the improvements being made in the level of education in Fall River and are not seeking alternatives.
The increase in enrollment in recent years has placed a strain on some of the city’s elementary schools to increase capacity to meet the need. Case in point is the Fonseca School which has a service area that stretches through the middle of the city from the waterfront to the west to North Watuppa Pond to the east. to ease the strain the district is reopening the Westall School on Maple Street as a K through fifth-grade community school.
The Stone Therapeutic Day School will relocate from Westall to the district’s new facility at 2501 South Main Street.
The district is also continuing its efforts to grow its Pre-K early childhood offerings, placing classes at the South Main Street location as well as leasing space at the former Bishop Connolly High School on Elsbree Street.
As in years past, the school department will begin the new school year with many teaching positions not filled. Dr. Curley says despite those who transition from Fall River for other teaching opportunities, the district remains committed to investing in teachers and those who stay value the opportunity Fall River offers.
The district will implement a policy restricting cell phone use during school hours at the middle schools and Durfee High School later in September. Dr. Curley says the policy should not be seen as a punishment.
With such a diverse school population, Dr. Curley says the district remains committed to including parents, as much as possible, in the education of their children.
Most students will begin school next Wednesday with Pre-K and kindergarten starting after Labor Day.
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