Our new school year has arrived, and with it comes fresh energy, new opportunities and strong momentum across Warwick Public Schools. From classrooms to athletic fields to music rooms, our students are ready to learn and grow. Our teachers and staff have been hard at work preparing, and our families are important partners in this year ahead.

Across the district, we are seeing encouraging signs of progress. Winman Middle School became the first public middle school in Rhode Island to earn accreditation from the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. Sherman Elementary was just recognized by Gov. Dan McKee and the R.I. Department of Education as one of the most improved schools in the state for student attendance. Pilgrim High School rose in the U.S. News and World Report rankings, and both of our high schools are showing positive trends in Advanced Placement results. These are achievements worth celebrating, and they reflect the dedication of the entire Warwick school community.

We are also focused on expanding opportunities beyond the classroom. This year, we are working to grow afterschool programs in music, arts, athletics and clubs – especially at the middle school intramural level. These programs give more students the chance to discover passions and build confidence. Every student should have outlets available to them to feel connected.

Equally important is ensuring our schools have the resources they need. Last year brought financial challenges for our district, but today the picture is different. Working with the School Budget Commission, we have developed a balanced draft budget for the 2025-2026 school year. This approach protects classroom services and puts Warwick schools on a strong, clear path. Our commitment is straightforward: careful and disciplined use of our resources that keeps our students at the center.

And with our students at the center, Warwick is investing in new facilities that will serve generations of students to come. Construction is advancing on two brand-new high schools – Pilgrim and Toll Gate – projects that will deliver modern classrooms and top-tier athletic and arts facilities. Renovations at Holliman Elementary and safety upgrades at several other schools are also moving ahead. These improvements are about more than school buildings; they represent a community building our future.

One of my goals as superintendent is to ensure that Warwick is recognized for the excellent schools it has. Too often, the narrative has focused on our challenges rather than our strengths. The truth is that Warwick is home to so many talented teachers, inspiring students and resilient families who want to do everything they can to give their kids the best possible education. We will continue to share that story, in our city and across the state, so that others see what we already know: excellence is growing here in Warwick Public Schools! 

This work takes all of us. I will continue visiting every school, learning from our great teachers and school leaders, meeting with PTOs and community partners and listening to families and students. This district belongs to all of us, and I’m committed to making Warwick’s progress a proud, collaborative effort.

We’ve started this 2025–2026 school year on a strong note, and I want to thank our teachers and staff for leading in our classrooms and schools, and I want to thank families for your support and partnership. Most of all, I want to thank our students. You are the heart of our schools and the inspiration for everything great that Warwick can be.  

We are ready for a year of growth, pride and success in Warwick Public Schools!

William D. McCaffrey is superintendent of Warwick Public Schools.