Middle school representatives showcase Conservatory musical and describe progress at Springfield schools

Middle school student representatives spoke at a Springfield City school committee meeting about performances and student progress, announcing upcoming Conservatory of the Arts productions and describing support services at alternative schools.

Roxanna Lopez, an eighth-grade student, said the Conservatory’s production of The Addams Family “has spectacular songs that will get stuck in your head forever.” Robert Hines, a seventh grader, told the committee the Conservatory “is a very active school for performers and it motivates you to be a performer and get onto the stage.” Caden Sharp, an eighth grader who plays Pugsley Addams, announced showtimes and sang an excerpt for the meeting.

The students also described academic and behavioral improvements at Springfield’s alternative schools. Diana Zeno, an eighth grader at Springfield Middle, said she had “made significant progress, both academically and behaviorally,” and that with counseling support she “even earned a place on the honor roll this year.” Julian Mendez, a student at Public Day Middle School, described the school as one that “picks you up, dusts you off, and guides you where you need to be,” and said teachers and counselors help students manage academic and social challenges.

Principal Ryan Kelly and staff members Roseanne Henry and Raquel Mateo were present for the student presentations. Speakers noted specific supports at alternative schools including counseling, sensory rooms and an outdoor basketball court where students may get breaks. One student said the school lacks a gym but added that “we have a basketball court outside so you can run and do whatever your heart desires.” Counselors were named as key supports; students referred to “counselors Amy and Mateo” for ongoing guidance.

Caden Sharp gave performance dates for The Addams Family at the Conservatory of the Arts: April 5 at 7:00 p.m., April 6 at 2:00 p.m., April 12 at 7:00 p.m., and April 13 at 2:00 p.m. The meeting record also noted that Superintendent Dr. Sonia Dernault was absent and that School Committeeman Josiah Gonzalez participated remotely.

The presentations concluded with committee members thanking the students. The meeting moved to a short recess following the student reports.