Rhode Island's Governor, Gina Raimondo had some harsh words to say to the Warwick school committee over their vote to continue remote learning this Fall. The school committee voted 4 to 1 to have the students start the year learning from home. Some believe this was a premature decision by them and the Governor wished they worked harder at figuring out a better plan because according to the governor, the school committee did not even try to put together an in person plan to submit to the state. The school committee argues that there are problems the school as to face before allowing to return to school. One of those problems is air quality. Apparently the majority of Warwick schools needs upgrades that would allow air filtration to circulate air better and as needed during this pandemic; that includes at least 1,000 box fans as well as more windows to be installed. According to Facilities Maintenance and Operations Manager, Ken Oliver, "Power is at a premium when it comes to powering things up, air conditioners, extra plugs, things of that nature." Additionally money is a problem. The district is facing a $15 million deficit so until they have more funds rolling in, the schools can't afford to make upgrades.
Governor Gina Raimondo was upset that Warwick made this decision of theirs before the state put out their school guidelines. She had this to say when scolding the Warwick school committee:
Governor Gina Raimondo did finally have an update for school this Fall, after Warwick already made their decision, not taking into account anything her administration suggested or did. The state is pushing school back by two weeks...
One of the most vocal school committee members, Karen Bachus, has spoken out to local news outlets opposing in person learning saying: “We did not provide a full 100% return, because we do not have the space nor the circulation to bring that many people to a classroom. If the governor can give us a plan, give us the money, we can talk, but right now my duty is to keep our students and our teachers and our families safe, that is the bottom line.”
When it comes to returning to school this Fall, what would you prefer?
-Producer Lightning