- MA
- Bristol County
- 8/7/24
- 08/08/2024
- 101 Minutes
- Noteworthy
- Highly Noteworthy
- Routine
Overview: The Fall River School Committee’s recent meeting was dominated by discussions on the proposed cell phone policy aimed at improving academic performance and addressing behavioral issues within schools. The committee analyzed data linking cell phone use to a decline in student achievement and an increase in disciplinary infractions, pushing for a policy to limit cell phone access during school hours.
- MA
- Bristol County
- 7/31/24
- 08/01/2024
- 129 Minutes
- Noteworthy
- Highly Noteworthy
- Routine
Overview: The most recent Fall River School Committee meeting delved into issues affecting the school district, with the central focus on ethical considerations surrounding a committee member’s involvement in a program with People Incorporated. Concerns over conflict of interest were raised due to Mimi Larrivee’s set to lead a program while serving on the committee. Citizens voiced worries about transparency and the implications of committee members holding contracts with the department. These concerns were met with a defense of Larrivee’s reputation and dedication to child-centered work.
- MA
- Bristol County
- 6/27/24
- 06/28/2024
- 106 Minutes
- Noteworthy
- Highly Noteworthy
- Routine
Overview: The recent Fall River School Committee meeting was dominated by urgent concerns regarding mold found in Lerno Elementary School, with citizens and educators calling for immediate action to ensure the safety of students and staff. In addition to mold issues, the committee addressed the approval of a new principal position for the Early Learning Center and debated the superintendent’s contract terms.
- MA
- Bristol County
- 6/10/24
- 06/11/2024
- 218 Minutes
- Noteworthy
- Highly Noteworthy
- Routine
Overview: In a recent meeting, the Fall River School Committee navigated a tumultuous discussion centered on the reassignment of students from James Tany Elementary School, the transparency of the decision-making process, and a broader conversation about the treatment and retention of district educators. Parents, teachers, and community members voiced concerns over the handling of the Tany Elementary School situation, where families received letters about new school assignments with an option to request a transfer, leading to confusion and frustration among parents. One parent, Jennifer Santos, shared a notable account of the mixed messages she received regarding her child’s placement, which brought to light the need for clearer communication from the school department.
- MA
- Bristol County
- 6/5/24
- 06/06/2024
- 277 Minutes
- Noteworthy
- Highly Noteworthy
- Routine
Overview: In a move that culminated a series of discussions and presentations, the Fall River School Committee appointed Dr. Tracy Curley as the new superintendent of Fall River Public Schools. The decision followed a thorough evaluation of candidates’ experience, their vision for the district, and a debate among committee members regarding the best fit for the district’s needs. Dr. Tracy Curley’s appointment was not without controversy, as committee members navigated through concerns of potential conflicts of interest and the desire to avoid political influence in the decision-making process.