Superintendent's Update

1. Superintendent’s Message

2. NACTC College and Career Readiness Winter Report

3. SurveyWorks Now Live

4. Newport Special Education Local Advisory Committee Meeting, February 26th

5. Plumbers, Pipefitters & Refrigeration Technicians UA Local 51 Paid Apprenticeship Program

6. Newport Public Library Free Safe Sitter & CPR Course, February 19th

7. RENEWport Community Dinner For Pell 3rd & 4th Grade Families, February 26th

8. Newport Sings Summer Camp

9. Events

10. Resources

Dear Newport Schools Parents, Families, and Staff:

Happy Valentine’s week! As we move through February, it is the perfect time to reflect on why we love (❤️) to see the learning happening in our schools, our students who are doing great things, our engaged parents, our dedicated teachers, staff, and principals, and our amazing One Newport community partners. Looking back on the highlights from this school year so far, here are a few hearts I want to give out:

❤️At Pell, my heart is full seeing the RENEWport volunteers who greet our students as they arrive. This simple act of community engagement makes school feel like a joyful, connected community. I also love the leadership our Pell Food Ranger students are showing in reducing food waste and the helpful work our Pell student library volunteers are doing. In addition, a big shout out to Mr. Aaron Sherman, whose leadership in the school garden continues to get kids excited about fresh food and hands-on science.

❤️Over at Thompson, I am loving the Principal’s Advisory Council (PAC). Watching these students in grades 5-8 take ownership of their education by working to update the school's mission statement is a perfect example of Emerging Leadership in our strategic plan. In addition, who couldn't love the spirit of the TMS Band, Chorus, and Orchestra? Their performances, guided by music teachers Don Chilton, Justin Leclerc, and Noah Denzer, are a masterclass in community pride and musical talent.

❤️At Rogers, of course I am loving our beautiful new high school building, a true source of pride for our entire community. The vibe in the building is electric, especially when framed by the "Radiance" mural, which truly lights up our new common area and reminds us of the bright futures our students are blazing. I am also loving seeing our Rogers students demonstrating real world responsibility and leadership. I am so proud of the Vikings who stepped up to lead a food drive and a diaper bank to support Newport families in need. Now that is leadership with heart!

❤️Over at NACTC our students are also showing leadership and community spirit. The Seaside Cafe is now open to the public and our culinary students are producing some amazing meals and treats. All led by Chef Matt Reilly who recently received the Teacher of the Year award from the Rhode Island Hospitality Education Foundation. Cosmetology students recently brought some beauty and joy to the residents of the John Clarke Senior Living Center by giving free manicures. I also love that NACTC Executive Director Robert Young was recently honored by the NAACP of Newport for his leadership in cultivating career paths for our youth.

❤️Finally, the greatest gift we can give our students is the gift of time and presence. That is why I want to give a shout out to our parents and guardians for promoting the importance of Attendance Matters, Every Day. Please keep talking with your child every day about their learning; your interest is the foundation of their success.

There are always challenges and more work to do. However, Valentine’s Day is a great opportunity to reflect on what we love. I love Newport Public Schools and my heart is filled with joy when I think about the great things happening at all of our schools.

A reminder that next week is winter break. There will be no school February 16-20, with students returning to classrooms on Monday, February 23rd. Our next Superintendent’s Update email newsletter will be on Wednesday, February 25th.

Have a wonderful week filled with love and learning, and be sure to enjoy all the wonderful things our community has to offer over winter break!

Colleen Burns Jermain, Ed.D.

Superintendent of Schools

Check out this great update report from College & Career Readiness Coordinator Kerry Clarke about all the interesting projects our NACTC students are working on. There is a lot to read and so many great pictures too! Check out all the ongoing projects from the cosmetology services to Construction Program students building comfortable new seating for Salve Regina University baseball games. Everything in this month’s edition is a home run!🛠️⚾

It's official - #SurveyWorks is now live! Students, families, and educators can now take the state’s annual education survey! Your responses help us collect critical feedback and data on how to improve Newport Public Schools. Here's what you need to complete #SurveyWorks:

✅20 minutes of your time

✅A phone, computer or tablet

✅Your input and feedback

Your opinion MATTERS! Click here to take the survey and use the dropdown menu to select the school your child attends. Use the translation tool in the top left corner to take the survey in another language.

All Newport families are invited to attend the Newport Special Education Local Advisory Committee’s meeting on February 26th to learn more about special education resources and supports in our community.

Interested in a skilled trades job as a plumber, pipefitter, or refrigeration technician? UA Local 51 is now accepting applications for their paid apprenticeship program. Applicants must be 18 years of age by September 2026 and graduate high school or have a GED by June 2026. See the flyer below and click here for more information.

Newport Sings Summer Camp invites students entering grades 2–6 to discover their singing voices, express themselves through music, art, and movement, and collaborate together to perform for family and friends.​

August 10 - 14, 2026

9:00 am - 2:00 pm

Channing Memorial Church, 135 Pelham St, Newport​​

For students entering grades 2 - 6.

Registration deadline is April 30 and is offered on a first come, first served basis. A waitlist is available if the camp is full. Click here to register today.