East Greenwich teachers union, school committee agree to address concerns of teachers

EAST GREENWICH, R.I. (WLNE) — The East Greenwich Education Association and the East Greenwich School Committee released a joint statement Wednesday that said the two groups would work together to address issues the union has with the administration after a vote of “No Confidence” in Superintendent Brian Ricca and Assistant Superintendent Sarah Courtemanche-O’Brien.

A working group with members from both the union and committee met on Jan. 17 to discuss the vote, and have “agreed to work together on an action plan to address the specific concerns of the teachers, to ensure that the teaching and learning environment in all our schools is fully supported, to maintain appropriate oversight of school operations and, above all, to protect the position of EGPS as a leading school district in our state.”

The union said the vote was caused by “deep frustration over the administration’s lack of leadership and support,” including “unilateral decisions, a lack of transparency, and conflicting messages from leadership, all of which have contributed to burnout and low morale.”

“The EGEA and the School Committee will pursue an inclusive process with our educators to develop an action plan, to work together productively and to stay focused on our shared commitment to the students, families and community of East Greenwich.” the joint statement read.