North Kingstown School Subcommittee reviews architectural plans and safety concerns

In a recent meeting of the North Kingstown School Department Building Subcommittee, held on March 12, 2025, community members and educators voiced significant concerns regarding the ongoing school building plans. The session, marked by a palpable sense of urgency, began with public comments, where Donna Lico, a veteran middle school teacher, highlighted critical issues surrounding student safety and teacher working conditions in the proposed designs.

Lico, who has spent 36 years in education, emphasized the importance of involving teachers in the planning process. She pointed out that many educators feel left out of discussions about the new school designs, which could lead to oversight of essential safety features. For instance, she raised concerns about the placement of bathroom doors in the middle school, which could hinder supervision during critical moments. Lico also noted that the distance between classrooms and supply storage could disrupt teaching efficiency, particularly in science education.

The subcommittee members acknowledged Lico's feedback and assured her that further meetings with faculty would be scheduled to gather more input as the designs evolve. This commitment to collaboration aims to ensure that the voices of those who will use the spaces are heard and considered.

Another significant topic discussed was the potential implementation of a Project Labor Agreement (PLA) for upcoming construction projects. A member of the subcommittee shared insights from past experiences with PLAs, noting that while they might increase initial costs by 1-2%, they often lead to savings in the long run by minimizing work stoppages and ensuring higher quality workmanship. The committee agreed to invite David Langley from the Rhode Island Building and Construction Trades Council to present on the benefits of PLAs at a future meeting, emphasizing the need for informed decision-making as they approach the bidding process for construction management.

As the meeting concluded, the urgency of the discussions underscored the importance of transparency and community involvement in shaping the future of North Kingstown's educational facilities. With plans still in flux, the subcommittee's commitment to engaging teachers and stakeholders will be crucial in navigating the complexities of school construction and ensuring that the needs of students and educators are met. The next steps will involve further discussions and presentations, with the aim of finalizing plans that reflect the community's vision for its schools.