To the editor:

What a breath of fresh air in the Bristol Phoenix and Warren Times-Gazette this week as the papers offered so many positive stories from the Bristol Warren Regional School District.

The cover story focusing on Superintendent Riley’s presentation about the Code of Conduct revealed that the school committee is refocusing its attention on considering far-reaching policy change that can have a significant impact on student success. The article presented a picture of thoughtful, civil, productive discussions of evidence and analysis as the committee contemplates changes in the suspension policy. Many thanks to the School Committee and the Superintendent for getting the conversation started.

And the students! The paper was full of accomplishments of which all community members should be proud. Mt. Hope High School is sending 18 student musicians to the All State Concert in March. Freshman Lola Silva won the gold medal in the long jump at the State track championships. The Kickemuit Middle School wrestling team placed third at State Championships. Ben DiChiappari, class of 2021, was one of only 37 young men in the country to be names to the United Soccer Coaches High School Scholar team.

All a testament to the hard work of the students, their teachers, their coaches and their families during these extraordinarily challenging times. Congratulations to you all.

Susan Donovan, Representative, District 69
June Speakman, Representative, District 68