FRCMedia is preparing parents for the new school year by looking at what’s new in our local schools. Today we spotlight the Fall River Public Schools where classes will begin Wednesday, August 31.
Students in the Fall River Public Schools will begin returning to the classroom on Wednesday, August 31. Superintendent Maria Pontes is excited about getting back to school and says the first day of classes is always one of her favorites.
In her first full school year as the permanent superintendent, Ms. Pontes leads a district that has seen an increase in state funding. She says the influx of money allows for targeted, but not wasteful spending.
As a distressed district, Fall River sees a high rate of teacher turnover every year. Ms. Pontes says with a week to go until school starts, new staff are being added to ensure a smooth opening.
The increased funding is allowing for the hiring of paraprofessionals for each city pre-K, kindergarten and first-grade classroom. Ms. Pontes says providing extra support in the early years of development will help students successfully learn.
The school district is also looking to expand its pre-K offerings to allow for any parent who wishes their children to get a jump start on their education to do so. Ms. Pontes says she hopes to launch five to six additional pre-k classrooms as soon as possible, but obstacles remain.
When the new B.M.C. Durfee High School opened last year it was marred with severe traffic congestion as all motorists were restricted to entering and exiting the facility via Elsbree Street. Ms. Ponts says now that major demolition of the old school is complete, there will be more options for parents and busses to access school grounds.
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