Bristol Warren School Committee revises student hours policy for CTE pathways

The Bristol Warren Regional School District (BWRSD) School Committee convened on April 21, 2025, to discuss several key educational policies and requirements affecting students in the district. The meeting focused on clarifying the number of hours required for student participation in various programs, including Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways and performance-based assessments.

The committee addressed the confusion surrounding the required hours for student engagement, ultimately deciding to maintain a minimum of 30 hours for general participation. This decision aims to ensure that students can meet graduation requirements without facing barriers. For students enrolled in CTE pathways, a higher requirement of 80 hours remains in place, providing them with essential opportunities for apprenticeships and internships.

To facilitate students in achieving the 30-hour requirement, the district plans to introduce school-sponsored service learning opportunities, particularly targeting freshmen and sophomores who may lack transportation. These initiatives will allow students to complete their hours through community service projects during the school day, ensuring that the requirement is manageable and accessible.

The committee also discussed the possibility of waiving the SAT prep requirement for students who have completed an outside SAT preparation course. This flexibility aims to accommodate diverse student needs and preferences regarding test preparation.

Additionally, the committee clarified that students completing the Advanced Placement (AP) Capstone program would not need to fulfill the 30-hour requirement, as the coursework encompasses a significant number of hours. This option is part of the broader educational framework established by the Rhode Island Department of Education.

In response to questions regarding middle school curriculum, the committee confirmed that while students can earn credit for world languages in grade 8, they are still required to complete four years of mathematics in high school, regardless of any advanced courses taken in middle school.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to ensure that all educational policies are clearly communicated and accurately reflected in the district's documentation. The committee will continue to refine these policies to support student success and engagement in their educational journeys.