Exeter-West Greenwich, RI – As students and staff settle into the rhythm of a new school year, the EWG School District is buzzing with energy and a clear vision for the future. In a recent update to the community, Superintendent Erinakes highlighted an ambitious new strategic plan, successful hiring efforts, and a slate of exciting new projects designed to enhance the student experience.
The district’s fresh, three-year strategic plan, approved by the Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE), is set to guide EWG through 2028. Focused on Responsive Instruction, Excellence in Learning, and, crucially, Student Voice, the plan outlines a roadmap for continuous improvement. Key initiatives include boosting student engagement through hands-on, collaborative learning and actively involving students in district-level decisions. The full plan is now available on the district's website.
In a powerful sign of the district's appeal, EWG successfully navigated a growing national teacher shortage to fill every single staff vacancy with fully certified and highly qualified individuals. The new team brings a diverse range of experience to the classrooms, and the community is celebrating the return of several EWG graduates who are now serving the next generation of students.
The district is also doubling down on the critical goal of improving student attendance. EWG has already seen a three-year decline in chronic absenteeism, a testament to the hard work of staff and families. The district's goal is to continue this positive trend, working to ensure every student is present and engaged, ready to achieve their full potential.
Beyond the classroom, student life is flourishing. The district has increased funding for clubs at all three schools—Metcalf, the JHS, and the SHS—to expand extracurricular opportunities. Following the huge success of last year's pilot program that involved over 100 students, the Metcalf theater program is now a fully-funded district activity. Athletics are also expanding with the introduction of a new girls' hockey team for the current school year, joining the recently added boys' lacrosse team.
Meanwhile, the campuses are getting a major facelift. Upgrades to the JSHS fire suppression system are nearing completion, and excitement is building for another major project: the installation of lights on the JSHS football field. With equipment on order and vendors on-site to map out the electrical work, there is a strong sense of hope that the project will be finished in time to host some inaugural “Friday Night Lights” games before the season ends.
Finally, the district took a moment to celebrate the exceptional individuals who make EWG a special place. During the opening day orientation, a number of staff members were recognized for their outstanding contributions:
Erica Berek – JHS Special Educator
Andrew Liguori – Wawaloam Music Teacher
Leah Lozy – Metcalf Grade 3 Teacher
Carol Spaulding – SHS Special Educator/Transition Program Coordinator
Kelly Hart – Lineham Teacher Assistant
Liz Pappas – Metcalf Secretary
Jimmy Read – Wawaloam Custodian
Christina Rosato – JHS Secretary
Robin Cerio – Administrative Assistant in the Administration Office
Superintendent Erinakes concluded the message by expressing gratitude for the community's continued support, noting the "amazing things" already happening in classrooms as the students and staff embrace the new year.