March 31, 2017

Superintendent's Blog

March 31, 2017

See announcement about the All-Day Referendum to approve the school department's budget. It is important for all to go to the polls on April 10th!!

There are so many fantastic events happening in the district. This blog highlights several elementary events from the past couple of weeks.

On March 22nd, Wawaloam and Metcalf hosted a Family Math Night and it was packed! Several families provided feedback about how much fun they had with their children while exploring mathematics. Many thanks to the teachers and administrators who contributed to the planning of such a successful opportunity for our students and their families.

On Tuesday, March 28th, Wawaloam and Metcalf gave their annual presentation to the School Committee. Principals Marino and Ratigan, along with several teachers and students, highlighted exciting programs and initiatives at their respective schools. The theme for this year's presentation was student engagement and topics included science explorations and technology applications. Below, proud student Logan J. discusses his coding projects with the Superintendent and Attorney Henneous. Fabulous job, Logan!

Metcalf held its Creative arts Night on Thursday, March 30th. Framed student art work was on display from every child in grades three through six.

Mrs. Scheff led the Metcalf chorus in a special presentation to the guests.

Other activities included poetry, games, and crazy pictures. Students and faculty shared in the fun. Below, Mrs. McWeeney (the snorkler) and Mrs. Pucino (the shark), took the photo of the evening.

EXETER-WEST GREENWICH SCHOOL BUDGET VOTE

MONDAY, APRIL 10, 2017

Vote at your convenience 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

West Greenwich Town Hall or Exeter Town Hall

On Monday, April 10th an all day referendum will be held to approve the school district budget for the 2017-2018 school year. The E-WG School Committee approved budget is $31,733,320.  This represents a 3.40% increase to the Operating Budget over the previous fiscal year. Based upon actual student population from each member town, the local contribution from West Greenwich will increase by 4.00%, and from Exeter by 2.37%.

The school department continues to experience significant reductions in State aid as a result of the RI School Funding Formula and reductions to regional transportation and group home aid. Additionally, the cost of employee health care has increased by $1.2 million, and we are required to open up new elementary classrooms at four different grade levels based upon enrollment.

Like you, we are very proud of our schools. The School Committee and Administration have worked together to develop, manage and maintain a responsible annual budget. We are accommodating a growing student population through reorganization within existing school facilities, while maintaining an excellent curriculum and programs.

With the continued support of our valued communities, the School District will maintain its focus on academic distinction and student success.  Please,

APPROVE THE SCHOOL COMMITTEE BUDGET!

Where do I vote?

Exeter voters vote at the Exeter Town Hall located at 675 Ten Rod Road, Exeter and West Greenwich voters vote at the West Greenwich Town Hall located at 280 Victory Highway, West Greenwich.  The polls will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at both locations for your convenience.

Please bring canned goods & pasta to restock the food banks in both towns.