With the goal of speaking directly to parents who might need assistance or have suggestions for the Everett Public Schools, Ward 5 School Committeeman Marcony Almeida-Barros is launching monthly office hours in community-based organizations across the city, starting at La Comunidad, Inc, on Friday, September 27 at 5:30 pm. Office Hours will be in the evenings or weekends to give working parents flexibility and better accessibility to address their kids’ education. Almeida-Barros will also hold office hours at the Family Resource Center starting in October.
“There are many parents who don’t know the function of the School Committee and our duties as elected officials,” said Almeida-Barros. “And many of them speak English as a second language, which often prevents them from seeking out information or assistance. By being bilingual, available during the evening, and present in community-based organizations where parents might feel more comfortable to come and speak, I hope to be a direct source to guide them and their kids through our district’s offerings. The Everett Public Schools have an outstanding staff, and I’m happy to direct parents who might not know where or to whom to reach for help when needed.”
Community leaders lauded Almeida-Barros’ Office Hours initiative. “We are thrilled to have Marcony in our office available for parents and students who might feel it’s easier to share their concerns and suggestions directly with him, at a time when they are available,” said Antonio Amaya, Executive Director of La Comunidad, Inc.
Marcony has been a constant presence at school events, but he hopes to be able available to more families during Office Hours. La Comunidad is located at 471 Broadway in Everett. The Family Resource Center is located at 548 Broadway in Everett (Maple Ave entrance). For a monthly calendar of Office Hours with Marcony, visit www.facebook.com/marconyforeverett.