New London — Two city schools — Bennie Dover Jackson Middle School and New London High School — recently were selected to become part of the state Department of Education's Commissioner's Network.

The network was established by state statute to focus state aid and technical support to improve student achievement and accountability at some of the state’s lowest-performing schools and allow the schools to “implement transformative strategies” in areas such as academics, operations and school culture and climate.

The state Board of Education earlier this month approved turnaround plans for the schools that were developed over the past year by school officials, teachers and parents in conjunction with the New London Education Association.

The district had first expressed interest in joining the network in 2019 and has since submitted to audits and formed committees to tackle curriculum changes and address such issues as chronic absenteeism and recruitment and retention of teachers.

The districts expect to receive funding from the state, though amount has not yet been announced.

Superintendent Cynthia Ritchie said in an email that the district expects to be working alongside the state for a minimum of three years starting July 1. 

"It is really good news that the CT Dept of Education and the State Board of Education are noting and liking our recent trajectory of strategic movements, planning, goal setting, and actions centered around on-going improvements for the students and families we serve," Ritchie said. "There continues to be a lot of work ahead for us. Our consistent steps demonstrate our commitment to continue working hard. We are grateful for the investment the state has made in supporting our district's efforts and value their partnership."

Plans were presented to the state Board of Education at its May 5 meeting by Ritchie, New London High School Principal Jose Ortiz and Bennie Dover Principal Chris Vamvakides.

Board of Education member Bryan Doughty wrote a letter in support of the acceptance into the network, highlighting work of Ritchie and other school leaders.

"We are seamless and building a school system that other districts should and will admire long into the future," Doughty said. "With this leadership team in place, the continued support of the Connecticut Department of Education, and entry into the Commissioner's Network, New London will be one step closer to providing the support that our staff needs and our students require as they complete their academic journey," Doughty wrote. "We are not in this alone. We are partners, and together we will actively participate with our youth as they grow and become the leaders of the future."

Schools are accepted into the network for a minimum of three years, with the potential for two one-year extensions.

g.smith@theday.com