During a recent government meeting, Kelly Garbarti, a pre-kindergarten teacher from Riverside Avenue, raised urgent concerns regarding the readiness of school facilities ahead of the new academic year. Speaking to Mayor Coolian and the school committee, Garbarti highlighted significant delays in necessary renovations at her school, The Green, which has been dealing with mold issues.

Garbarti reported that despite assurances from the health and safety team that all work, including the replacement of ceiling tiles and pipes, would be completed before teachers returned, many classrooms remained unfinished. She described the state of her classroom as unacceptable, with old and potentially hazardous materials still present, making it impossible for her to prepare for her students.

With school set to begin imminently, Garbarti expressed frustration over the lack of progress, stating that essential areas for learning and play were not ready. She emphasized the importance of a clean and organized environment for her pre-K students, noting that she was unable to set up her classroom due to ongoing construction and inadequate facilities.

The meeting underscored the pressing need for timely communication and action regarding school safety and readiness, as educators prepare to welcome students back to the classroom.