On February 27th, North Providence High School had a special visitor. The new assistant superintendent, Lisa Jacques, got to speak with some of the newspaper staff to discuss her upcoming plans for the community and schools.
Assistant Superintendent Jacques’s current focus is infusing more technological advancements within North Providence schools. By implementing new technologies within the classrooms, information can be exchanged much more quickly and safely with less setbacks.
Before arriving to North Providence, she worked as a math curriculum head, principal, and manager of home for people with disabilities. When asked why she chose North Providence as the location for her, she explained how she had previously worked with the new superintendent, Melinda Smith, and thought that working with her old teammate again would be a wonderful idea.
When first named assistant superintendent, Jacques’s priority was to reorganize the middle schools and Common Core State Standards. Following that, she decided to help change the way school information was being shared by getting the schools to switch from the outdated MMS to an alternative up to date program called Skyward. Skyward includes new notable features such as different curriculum courses and special education programs. Lisa comments that “infusing technology with the new curriculum is a significant step forward in moving the district towards a more modern way of learning.”
Jacques has been thoroughly impressed with the achievements made by North Providence students from not only their improved test scores, but senior projects as well. She was “beyond impressed” with the students’ presentations and dedication. These achievements by North Providence schools have only increased Ms. Lisa Jacques’s love and passion for her job. She goes on to say that the best part of her day is “seeing the work in action in the classrooms.”
Although March 1st will mark only her first year anniversary as assistant superintendent of North Providence, it is thoroughly clear that Ms. Lisa Jacques has acquired a lot of experience and background to which she can offer the schools of North Providence.
By: Amy Zhang
