36 Downes Ave
Pawtucket, RI 02861

My son has attended this school for the last 4 years. The school is obviously not getting funding like some other Pawtucket schools and it shows. When asked about it they say all of their funding is going to the Special Education department, and the rest of the students are forgotten about. The main door drop off is chaos- I've seen car accidents and parent fights on numerous occasions- insanity. The school does nothing to improve any of the issues. The school lunch is crap and never served at healthy temperatures- the alternate option is usually not what is posted on the menu. There's a fifth-grade class that hasn't had a teacher all year- teachers on leave- they have short-term subs fill in and kids sitting in on lower grade classes- again being forgotten about and left behind- but they will pass and struggle even more next year in middle school because of the negligence of the elementary school. Better off having your kids go to Potter Burns or even home-schooled.

In my opinion, Lyman B. Goff Middle School does not always treat students fairly. Many students feel that some situations are handled differently depending on who is involved. This can make students feel frustrated and unheard when they believe their side of the story is not being considered.Another issue is that some students believe punishments can be inconsistent. Two students may break the same rule, but one may receive a harsher consequence than the other. When students notice this happening, it can create a feeling that the school is biased and does not treat everyone equally.Some boys at the school feel that they are judged more harshly than girls in certain situations. Whether this is intentional or not, it can make students feel that they are not being treated fairly. Schools should work to ensure that all students, regardless of gender, are held to the same standards and expectations.Students also sometimes feel that their concerns are not taken seriously when they report problems. A school should be a place where students feel comfortable speaking up and know that adults will listen. When communication breaks down, trust between students and staff can suffer Overall, some students believe that Goff Middle School could improve by treating students more consistently, listening to student concerns, and making sure everyone is treated equally. A positive school environment is built on fairness, respect, and trust. When students feel respected and heard, they are more likely to succeed both academically and socially.

As a student from Tolman High School, I can say from experience that if it wasn't for attending this high school I wouldn't be who I am today. Because of Tolman, I got to network and meet leaders in Rhode Island Criminal Justice System. Tolman gave me an internship in which I could of never imagined would make an ever lasting connection. Now I am in my Junior year of College studying law and proceeding to go to Law School after I graduate. Tolman is a very diverse school, and because of that I learned to communicate and work with other people of different races. Of course like many know, Tolman does have bad apples and people who don't care about their education. However, in my years at Tolman, every teacher motivated me and pushed me to my limits. The portfolio gave me a way to display my hardwork but also it prepared me for the workforce. I know that some students that graduated in 2010 with me can say the same. I have been asked to go back to Tolman and speak to the students about my experience and what doors it opened up for me. If any one does have any questions, email me. I'll tell you the truth.