North Kingstown School Committee addresses concerns over middle school project and redistricting

In the dimly lit conference room of North Kingstown’s town hall, community members gathered for the NKSD Building Subcommittee Meeting on April 7, 2025, eager to address pressing concerns regarding the future of local schools. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as residents voiced their worries about the ongoing redistricting and the proposed middle school project, which has been a topic of heated debate.

One concerned parent, who had attended previous planning meetings, expressed frustration over the lack of public engagement in the development of a middle school and pre-K option. “Mistakes have been made, and if the process has been lacking, it should be acknowledged,” they urged, emphasizing the need for transparency and a corrective plan to rebuild trust within the community. The parent highlighted their own experiences with redistricting, noting that frequent changes have left families unsettled. “The amount of redistricting in North Kingstown is above and beyond what should be needed,” they stated, advocating for a more stable approach moving forward.

As the meeting progressed, Dr. Duba provided an update on the recent meeting with the Rhode Island Department of Education and the School Building Authority. He clarified that the North Kingstown School Department had proactively sought this meeting to address concerns raised about the high costs associated with the proposed Woodford Middle School project. The total expenditures, which have reached approximately $1.6 million, include feasibility studies and environmental assessments, all aimed at ensuring the project aligns with community needs and state requirements.

Dr. Duba outlined the next steps, emphasizing the commitment to finding cost-saving measures while maintaining educational standards. The design team is exploring innovative solutions, such as a compact building design and the possibility of adding a third floor to reduce costs. “We are deeply engaged with RIDE to ensure we receive maximum reimbursement for this project,” he assured attendees.

The meeting concluded with a promise of continued communication and transparency. The school department plans to submit comprehensive responses to the Rhode Island Department of Education by May 5, with a follow-up meeting scheduled for May 4. As the community left the meeting, there was a palpable sense of hope that their voices had been heard and that the path forward would be one of collaboration and improvement.