Newton Superintendent: 'Our Work Is About Trial And Error​'

NEWTON, MA —Students in Newton returned to school on Wednesday, some in-person, others online online and many through a hybrid learning model.

In an address to students and parents on Wednesday, superintendent David Fleishman thanked community members for their patience and cooperation in dealing with surveys, inquiries and many unknowns prior to students' return to school.

He also implored the community to extend its patience forward as the school year gets underway. The return to classes, he said, is "like scientists trying to navigate a vaccine."

"Our work is about trial and error," he said. "The goal is to learn quickly from mistakes and make necessary adjustments. We continue to appreciate your participation and your feedback as we navigate the path toward the first day of school."

The superintendent said the district has taken several steps to help keep students and staff members healthy while in in-person education.

"For students and staff returning to the building now, and those that will do so in the coming months, you will see some significant changes," Fleishman said. "We strongly believe that the health and safety precautions we have put in place make our building safer and healthier for our students and staff."

Changes include modified and upgraded ventilation systems, and rearranged classrooms and a significant investment in technology to allow for reliable distance learning.

Along with physical changes to the school building, Fleishman also called for changes to the attitudes, structures and opinions that contribute to systemic racism.

"While we may be physically apart, it is vital that we be connected in our shared mission to break down structures that lead to the marginalization of our black and brown students," he said. "I can think of no better time to shake up our system given that so much of the world has already been turned on its head."

All told, the superintendent said, his goal is to offer an "enriching academic environment" to every student, no matter where or how they are learning.

"We have high expectations for our students and want to ensure they are challenged and equipped with the skills necessary to be successful in our ever-changing world," he said."