WARWICK, RI — Mayor Joseph J. Solomon has announced he will begin hosting monthly coffee-hour style meetings for representatives of the City’s Parent-Teacher Associations and Organizations (PTAs and PTOs).
The meetings are intended to improve the lines of communication between the City and its public schools, Solomon said.
“Our parent-teacher groups are a very important part of our school system,” Solomon said. “We are fortunate to have tremendously active parents and dedicated teachers throughout our community who give generously of their time and talent. It’s important that the City work together with them to help them further succeed in their efforts on behalf of our students.”
The parent-teacher groups help foster collaboration, diversity and communication. After-school enrichment and cultural arts programs, fundraisers, and evening and weekend family events are some of the activities that these groups help to provide both to enhance students’ educational experiences and to strengthen bonds within their school community.
“This is an excellent move by Mayor Solomon,” said City Councilman Ed Ladouceur.
Councilman Jeremy Rix also praised the effort.
“Mayor Solomon has been to the Neighborhood Association meetings for all three neighborhoods in Ward 2. I’ve also been able to schedule meetings with Mayor Solomon on short notice for important issues affecting people in Ward 2. The level of openness and responsiveness is refreshing,” Rix said.
With 14 elementary schools in the City, including the Warwick Early Learning Center at John Brown Francis, Solomonproposes to meet in two groups, with seven schools represented at each meeting. A third group would be comprised of parent/teacher representatives from the Warwick Veterans and Winman Middle Schools and Toll Gate and Pilgrim High Schools. The three groups would meet on a rotating basis within the monthly schedule, he said.
“I hope the Mayor offers times for elected officials to come and sit in. Our communities and there input are important to all of us. Communication is the first step to improvement,” said State Rep. Dave Bennett, (D-Dist. 20).
Author: Rob Borkowski
Rob has worked as reporter and editor for several publications, including The Kent County Daily Times and Coventry Courier, before working for Gatehouse in MA then moving home with Patch Media. Now he's publisher and editor of WarwickPost.com. Contact him at [email protected] with tips, press releases, advertising inquiries, and concerns.
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