School Board votes to terminate Montessori program at George Washington after 2024-2025

The Kingston City School District (KCSD) Board of Education convened on June 4, 2025, to discuss significant changes to the district's educational programs, particularly the Montessori program at George Washington School. The meeting highlighted concerns regarding the effectiveness and equity of the program, especially for English learners and economically disadvantaged students.

During the session, board members expressed frustration over the challenges faced in implementing the Montessori approach, particularly in a school with a high population of Hispanic students and English learners. The discussion revealed that the current structure of the program limits flexibility and support for students who require additional help. Board members noted that the costs associated with the Montessori program, including training and additional staffing, have not yielded the desired academic outcomes, particularly for the district's most vulnerable populations.

A motion was made by board member Mister Ryder to cease the Montessori program at George Washington School following the 2024-2025 school year. The motion was seconded and led to a discussion about the need for equitable resource distribution across the district. Board member Mister Spicer emphasized the importance of addressing the performance disparities among students in the program, stating that the current setup does not promote equity.

After deliberation, the board voted on the motion, resulting in an 8 to 1 decision in favor of discontinuing the Montessori program. This decision reflects the board's commitment to reallocating resources to better serve all students and ensure that educational strategies are effective and equitable.

The meeting concluded with a recognition of the difficult nature of the decision, underscoring the board's ongoing efforts to address the diverse needs of the student population. The next steps will involve planning for the transition and ensuring that families are supported throughout the process.