The Narragansett Town Council Worksession on December 16, 2024, focused on educational partnerships and budget planning for the upcoming year. Key discussions included the collaboration between local schools and the University of Rhode Island (URI), particularly in expanding opportunities for high school students to earn college credits through various programs.

Council members highlighted the ongoing partnership with URI, emphasizing the potential for students to engage in new sports and medical training programs. A meeting is scheduled with URI after the holiday break to explore access to the Bay Campus, which currently has limited offerings for high school students. The council expressed optimism about enhancing educational pathways for students through these collaborations.

Budget discussions were also a significant part of the meeting. The school committee, newly sworn in, is set to meet for the first time on Wednesday. Members acknowledged the importance of identifying budget goals and priorities early in the process. The school budget will be presented in February, followed by workshops and a formal hearing in April. The council encouraged open communication between the town and school officials to facilitate a collaborative budget planning process.

Concerns were raised about the need for long-term planning in education, with members reflecting on past infrastructure needs, including health and safety upgrades. The council recognized the importance of addressing both immediate and future educational needs, ensuring that decisions made today will benefit the community in the years to come.

Overall, the meeting underscored a commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and fostering collaboration between local government and educational institutions, setting the stage for a productive budget cycle ahead.