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Springfield students from across district tell school committee middle-school supports, clubs and academic gains
Summary
Middle- and high-school student representatives from Forest Park, Kiley, Kiley Prep, Legacy Academy, Chestnut TAG, Chestnut Impact Prep and Putnam told the committee Oct. 2 about belonging, academic growth, extracurriculars, and CTE experiences. Several students cited teachers and school culture as key supports.
Students representing multiple Springfield Public Schools addressed the committee Oct. 2 during the Student Speak Out, describing how particular programs, teachers and extracurriculars have affected their academic and social experience.
Caden De Jesus Cruz, a sixth grader at Forest Park Middle School, said Forest Park provided a "fresh start" after family transitions and credited teachers including Mr. Morgan, Mr. McKnight, Mr. Verne and Mr. Spencer with support. "It is my fresh start, my future, and that's why I love being a Falcon. Go Falcons," he said.
Students from the Academy at Kiley described the school's "crew" structure and a self-care crew that includes meditation. Kiley Prep eighth grader Imari Marshall reported rising reading scores (stating she is reading at an 11th' to 12th-grade level) and said she maintained a 4.0 average. Legacy Academy student-body president Star Gabriel highlighted Spirit Week, bilingual clubs and a new volleyball team with a first game scheduled Oct. 12.
Chestnut TAG students spoke about accelerated coursework, parent engagement such as student-led conferences and open-house activities that encouraged family participation. Chestnut Impact Prep eighth grader Elias Lopez Martinez described a supportive community, high expectations and personal growth in organization and leadership.
The student representative, Ally Delone (a junior at Putnam Vo-Tech), introduced herself to the committee, described Putnam's early education and care shop and noted work-based internships and fundraising work as class president. Committee members praised the student speakers and thanked them and their supporting staff and families.
The speak-out portion concluded at roughly 6 p.m., and the formal meeting began at the regularly scheduled time.
