Newport committee orders analysis of Rogers High schedule after heated debate on math proficiency and attendance

The Newport School Committee voted to request a comprehensive analysis of Rogers High School’s schedule following an extended exchange among committee members, administrators, teachers and the public about the district’s block scheduling model.

Mr. Liry pressed for immediate change to a seven-period day, arguing that infrequent contact with math teachers contributed to poor test scores and attendance problems. "You have a student that's out on a Tuesday, you may not see math maybe one other time the whole week," he said, urging rapid action.

Administrators and other committee members cautioned that changing schedules alone will not automatically raise achievement and urged a deliberate process that solicits teacher, parent and student input, and models staffing and budget impacts. After debate the committee approved a motion to produce an analysis of different models, "including the pros and cons of different models, cost and staff implications, stakeholder feedback, and a possible implementation timeline by October 1st," the motion read when read back by Mrs. Nash.

What’s next: The administration will prepare the requested analysis and return it to the committee for consideration before any formal vote; committee members stressed the need for stakeholder engagement, contract and pathways analysis (CTE, internships, dual enrollment) and an implementation timetable that aligns with hiring and budget cycles.