North Kingstown Education Leaders Review Summer Program Success Amid Mental Health Challenges
October 01, 2025 | North Kingstown, School Districts, Rhode Island
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The North Kingstown School Committee meeting on September 30, 2025, highlighted significant advancements in summer programming aimed at enhancing student learning and addressing mental health needs within the community. Nearly 400 students participated in various summer programs, receiving crucial academic support and resources.
Jody Clark, the director of curriculum, reported on the success of the Key to 5 MTSS Success Academy, where 50 students focused on individualized goals in reading, math, and writing. Remarkably, 96% of participants met their reading goals, and 98% achieved their math objectives. The program, which ran for three weeks, provided busing for students, ensuring accessibility.
The rising ninth graders' program also showed promising results, with 21 out of 27 invited students attending and 67% meeting their goals across multiple subjects. The high school program, coordinated by Bethany Carameil, saw 97 students earn a total of 126 credits through a combination of in-person and online courses.
In addition to academic support, the meeting addressed the pressing issue of mental health services for students. Clinical social worker Lori Duffy emphasized the growing need for specialized mental health interventions, citing an increase in anxiety and behavioral issues among children. Duffy praised the school committee's efforts to collaborate with organizations like Momentum to enhance mental health resources in the community.
However, concerns were raised regarding changes to transportation for parochial students, with parents expressing worries about safety and accessibility. The shift to state-managed bus stops, which are not neighborhood-based, has left some families feeling uneasy about their children's safety during drop-offs.
The meeting underscored the ongoing commitment of the North Kingstown School Committee to improve educational outcomes and mental health support for students while addressing community concerns about transportation and safety. As the school year progresses, the committee aims to continue fostering an environment that prioritizes student well-being and academic success.
Jody Clark, the director of curriculum, reported on the success of the Key to 5 MTSS Success Academy, where 50 students focused on individualized goals in reading, math, and writing. Remarkably, 96% of participants met their reading goals, and 98% achieved their math objectives. The program, which ran for three weeks, provided busing for students, ensuring accessibility.
The rising ninth graders' program also showed promising results, with 21 out of 27 invited students attending and 67% meeting their goals across multiple subjects. The high school program, coordinated by Bethany Carameil, saw 97 students earn a total of 126 credits through a combination of in-person and online courses.
In addition to academic support, the meeting addressed the pressing issue of mental health services for students. Clinical social worker Lori Duffy emphasized the growing need for specialized mental health interventions, citing an increase in anxiety and behavioral issues among children. Duffy praised the school committee's efforts to collaborate with organizations like Momentum to enhance mental health resources in the community.
However, concerns were raised regarding changes to transportation for parochial students, with parents expressing worries about safety and accessibility. The shift to state-managed bus stops, which are not neighborhood-based, has left some families feeling uneasy about their children's safety during drop-offs.
The meeting underscored the ongoing commitment of the North Kingstown School Committee to improve educational outcomes and mental health support for students while addressing community concerns about transportation and safety. As the school year progresses, the committee aims to continue fostering an environment that prioritizes student well-being and academic success.
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