Superintendent's Update
June 2025 | From Superintendent Podraza
Dear Families and Caregivers of South Kingstown School District,
As we enter June and begin to bring closure to a remarkable 2024-25 school year, and while there are still tremendous celebrations and special events that lie ahead, I find myself reflecting on the incredible learning and growth that has taken place throughout SKSD this year. This month's update opens with two items that capture and celebrate the excellence happening in our schools.
First, I am thrilled to share that our SKSD Teacher of the Year is Mrs. Katie Bubrick, an exceptional mathematics teacher at South Kingstown High School. Katie received this well-deserved recognition last Thursday during a surprise announcement at a SKHS pep rally. The moment was made even more meaningful by the presence of Katie's family—her wife, aunt, and mother (who made the trip from Florida) to witness this celebration. Katie's innovative teaching methods, unwavering commitment to student success, and collaborative spirit exemplify the very best of what it means to be an educator in our district.
Second, we are currently accepting nominations for our district's Educator Support Professional (ESP) of the Year. Our ESPs—Administrative Assistants, 1:1 Teaching Assistants, Classroom Teaching Assistants, Child Outreach, and Health Assistants—are the backbone of our operations and play an invaluable role in creating the environment where learning thrives. These dedicated professionals work alongside our teachers every day to support your children's success. Similar to last month when you so graciously submitted nominations for the SKSD teacher of the year, I ask for nominations of those ESPs whose dedication, professionalism, and positive impact deserve recognition. Nominations can be accessed by clicking here and will be available until 4 PM on Friday, June 13th.
As we approach the end of this wonderful school year, I want to thank you for your continued partnership in your child's education. Your support, involvement, and trust in our schools make all the difference in creating an environment where every student can thrive. I hope your family enjoys a joyful close to this school year and a wonderful summer break. Thank you for being such an important part of the South Kingstown School District community.
With sincere appreciation and gratitude,
Michael
“When large numbers of people have a deeply understood sense of what needs to be done—and see their part in achieving that purpose—coherence emerges and powerful things happen.”
~Michael Fullan~
Reminders
I. Please notify us ASAP if you will not be joining us next year.
Please contact your current school if your child, or children, will not be attending a SKSD school next year. This information is essential as we look to ensure we have all of the necessary materials, personnel, resources, bussing, and supervision needed for all of our students. The earlier we receive this information, the better positioned we are to have everything ready to give every student what they need at the start of the new school year, while also being efficient and maximizing your taxpayer dollars.
II. Kindergarten registration is open!
III. Attention families with students at Charter, Out-of-District CTE Programs, or who are currently homeschooling students- School Committee Policy Change for SY 25-26.
Please be aware of a change to the district’s Residency Policy #8425, which now states, “Students attending charter schools, CTE programs, and those students participating in a homeschool
program must annually provide proof of residency in South Kingstown to the school department”. We will begin accepting this documentation for next school year on July 1 and would appreciate copies of required documentation outlined in the policy before the start of the students’ academic year on September 2nd.
IV. SY 25-26 Calendar: Transition Day Tuesday 9/2- Grades K, 6, and 9 only. Wednesday 9/3- First day of school all grades
V. Major milestones in SKHS construction plans
V. Upcoming Events in June
6/9 Join Town Council and School Committee Meeting- RIDE Stage III Construction Submission 7:30 PM @ Town Hall
6/10 School Committee Meeting, 5:30 PM Executive Session, 7 PM Business @ SKHS Cafeteria
6/11 6th Grade Band Concert
6/13 Graduation, 6 PM @ Ryan Center
6/19 District closed- Juneteenth
6/20 8th Grade Promotion, 6 PM @ BRMS Fields (weather permitting)
6/23 Last Day of School
About South Kingstown School District
South Kingstown School District is a proud Professional Learning Community built upon collaborative leadership and 21st-century deep learning competencies while developing a culture of equity, openness, and sharing of ideas.