<p>WHEREAS: The cleanliness and upkeep of the playgrounds and yards in and around our public schools are critical to ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for students, parents, and staff; and</p><p>WHEREAS: Several playgrounds and areas near the City’s public schools, particularly those in and near the Port neighborhood such as the Fletcher Maynard Academy, have been observed to have an unacceptable amount of trash and debris, including overflowing trash and recycling receptacles; and</p><p>WHEREAS: The presence of such trash and debris is especially concerning during the first week of the new school year, when students and families are returning to or becoming acquainted with their school environment; and</p><p>WHEREAS: The Public School Department has a responsibility to maintain these areas in a clean and well-manicured condition to support the health, safety, and aesthetic appeal of our communities; now therefore be it</p><p>RESOLVED: The Interim Superintendent be and hereby is requested to direct the appropriate CPSD staff to increase the frequency and thoroughness of cleaning in and near the playgrounds and areas surrounding our public schools, with particular attention to those in and near the Port neighborhood; and be it further</p><p>RESOLVED: The Interim Superintendent be and hereby is requested to ensure that this heightened maintenance effort is sustained throughout the school year to prevent future accumulations of trash and debris, and to report back to the School Committee on a plan of action for this process in a timely manner.</p>
