Dear Students, Staff, and Families:
As we wrap up the final Friday of the 2025–2026 school year, I want to extend my congratulations to our seniors as they prepare to walk across the stage tonight and begin an exciting new chapter in their lives. Whether you are joining the armed forces, entering the workforce, continuing your education, or pursuing something else, pursue your path with purpose and determination. Life is short, make the most of every opportunity, live with intention, and never stop striving to become the best version of yourself. Congratulations, Class of 2026, and best wishes for all that lies ahead.
Graduation Update
Graduation for the Class of 2026 remains scheduled as planned for this evening. We are continuing to monitor the weather forecast, which has been changing throughout the week. If weather conditions require us to adjust the start time communication will be shared with families. We also want to make everyone aware that very warm temperatures are expected during the ceremony. To help keep our guests comfortable, complimentary water will be available throughout the event.In addition, our Student Government will be opening the snack bar before and during the ceremony. Guests will be able to purchase additional beverages and ice pops for a small fee.We appreciate your flexibility and patience as we work to provide a safe and memorable graduation experience for our students and families. We look forward to celebrating the accomplishments of the Class of 2026 together. Click here for the live stream link to the graduation ceremony, https://cumberlandschools.org/cumberland-high-school-graduation-ceremony/
Community School Update
It is with great pride and excitement that I announce Community School has been named a 2026 Rhode Island Blue Ribbon School! This remarkable achievement reflects the dedication, passion, and hard work of our educators, staff, students, and families. Community School exemplifies the very best of public education and demonstrates what is possible when a community comes together to support every student’s success. We are especially proud that Community has earned its second Blue Ribbon award, a total of four in the district since 2017. Congratulations to everyone who made this honor possible. We celebrate this achievement with great pride and gratitude! To view this and RIDE’s most recent press releases, go to www.ride.ri.gov/press-releases. A celebratory event will be scheduled in the fall.
Transportation Opt In
Starting this August, we will be implementing an “Opt-In” model for school transportation. The 2026/2027 school year will be used for data collection and monitoring, as well as fine-tuning the process. Families will be asked to opt their child/children into busing if they are planning to utilize the service. The goal is to maximize the use of the fleet to capacity and for cost savings down the road, if possible. The walking distances in the E-2 Transportation Policy still apply.
Sincerely,
Philip D. Thornton, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
