Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Education Support topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Students and educators urge funding, warn of staff non‑renewals at Fall River School Committee meeting
Summary
A student and multiple educators told the school committee on June 3 that reduced math-tutoring hours and hundreds of recent non‑renewal notices are harming students and classroom continuity, pressing the superintendent for updates and support plans.
Chihong Sang, a junior at Dery High School, told the Fall River School Committee that the district Math Lab must be fully funded so students with athletics, jobs or transportation limits can access help outside class. "The need is clear — are you willing to provide students the support they are asking for?" she asked, saying the Math Lab recorded more than 130 student visits even while operating just two days per week for a single term.
Educators amplified those concerns in public comment. Keith Michon, president of the Fall River Educators Association, described a difficult year for staff and said his unit recorded roughly 213 non‑renewal notices and numerous resignations. "While some staff and students thrived this year, this has been a difficult year filled with disruption and instability for many," Michon said.
Preschool teacher Kelly Gabbard said she received one of the non‑renewal notices after more than 20 years with the district and asked the committee to consider the consequences to children with specialized needs. Gabbard said she is willing to pursue additional certification but urged the administration to weigh the impact on students who depend on familiar staff and individualized supports.
Superintendent Dr. Kathleen Smith responded directly to speakers and the committee, saying the administration is working with principals to support staff who received letters and will pursue necessary waivers, licenses and placement assistance. "We will work to help people that have to get licenses that have been on waivers," Dr. Smith said, adding that the district is coordinating with the teachers' association to provide supports.
Why it matters: The public comments focused attention on two linked issues that affect instruction and student stability — the scale and reach of academic supports such as the Math Lab, and a wave of non‑renewal letters affecting many classrooms. Committee members asked administration for updated figures and a written update for the next packet, and several members emphasized the importance of keeping experienced educators in place while meeting state licensing requirements.
What’s next: Committee members requested a formal update in the next meeting packet about Math Lab funding and a timeline for helping affected staff obtain required credentials or waivers. The superintendent said she will report back with numbers and placement plans.
