Fall River adds criminal justice program at Morton Middle School to enhance student pathways

During a recent meeting of the Fall River City Instructional Subcommittee, significant discussions centered on enhancing educational programs at local middle schools, particularly the introduction of a criminal justice program at Morton Middle School and the implementation of Impact Coaching for new teachers at Talbot Middle School.

The proposed criminal justice program aims to provide an introductory experience for students at Morton, aligning with existing vocational programs at other middle schools, such as construction at Talbot and culinary arts at CUS. This initiative is designed to spark interest in criminal justice careers among students, potentially serving as a feeder program for those who may later pursue related pathways at Durfee High School. The program is noted for its low implementation costs, as it does not require extensive resources or facilities, making it a feasible addition to the curriculum. Supporters of the program highlighted its potential to address the current shortage of police officers by engaging students early in their educational journey.

In addition to the criminal justice program, the committee discussed a partnership with Impact Coaching, which aims to support new teachers at Talbot through intensive coaching. Funded by a grant of nearly one million dollars over three years, this initiative will provide weekly coaching for up to six new teachers, focusing on personalized support and professional development. The goal is to enhance teacher retention and effectiveness, particularly for those in their first two years of teaching. The coaching will complement existing support structures within the school, ensuring that new educators receive the guidance they need without duplicating services.

The discussions reflect a broader commitment to improving educational outcomes in Fall River, particularly through innovative programs that engage students and support teachers. As the committee moves forward, the successful implementation of these initiatives could have lasting impacts on both student interest in criminal justice careers and the overall quality of teaching in the district. The next steps will involve further evaluation of the programs' effectiveness and potential expansion based on student interest and needs.