North Kingstown Schools propose preschool move to Davisville Academy for expanded services

In the heart of North Kingstown, a recent meeting of the NKSD SELAC Subcommittee illuminated the district's ambitious plans for enhancing educational support and resources for its youngest learners. As discussions unfolded, the focus was clear: creating a nurturing environment that prioritizes social-emotional learning and accessibility for all students.

One of the key highlights was the proposal to establish a Positive Pathways Kindergarten program, likely to be housed at Fishing Cove. This initiative aims to provide essential support for preschoolers transitioning into kindergarten, addressing the needs of a growing cohort of students. The committee expressed satisfaction with the recent budget approval, which includes funding for additional teaching staff to bolster these programs.

The conversation also touched on the potential relocation of the preschool to Davisville Academy, a move that is still pending final approval as part of a broader redistricting plan. This shift is seen as crucial for accommodating the increasing number of preschoolers, which has surged from a typical enrollment of five or six to nearly thirty this year. The committee emphasized the importance of having adequate resources and flexible programming to support these students effectively.

In addition to the preschool plans, the meeting addressed the ongoing efforts to alleviate overcrowding at Hamilton Elementary School. The committee discussed various redistricting scenarios aimed at redistributing students to create a more balanced environment across schools. Parents have actively participated in these discussions, seeking solutions that minimize disruption while addressing capacity issues.

As the meeting progressed, the focus shifted to the Extended School Year (ESY) program, with preparations already underway for staffing and logistics. This year, ESY will take place at Hamilton Elementary and the high school, ensuring that students continue to receive necessary support during the summer months.

A particularly innovative aspect of the meeting was the proposal for a partnership with Momentum Clinic, which aims to provide Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services directly within the preschool setting. This collaboration seeks to remove barriers for families in accessing critical services, ensuring that children with special needs receive the support they require in a familiar environment.

The discussions concluded with a sense of optimism and commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for all students in North Kingstown. As the district moves forward with these initiatives, the focus remains on fostering an inclusive and supportive atmosphere that prioritizes the well-being and development of every child. The community eagerly anticipates the positive changes that these plans will bring, reinforcing the district's dedication to its youngest learners.