Meet Riverside Middle School's New Principal

Who could lead Riverside Middle School better than a former student? Stephen Prew has decided to return to his alma mater, taking over the position of principal from Sandra Forand, who has gone on to become a master evaluator for the new education evaluation plan in the district.

Of his experience of being back at Riverside, Prew said, “A lot of memories came flooding back as I walked though these halls … This is kind of a homecoming.”

Prew brings a great deal of experience to his new job. For the past seven years, he has worked as assistant principal of the Edward R. Martin Middle School, which is sometimes regarded as Riverside Middle School’s rival. Prew chose not to take sides, however, saying, “We’re all Townies. We’re all part of something bigger — this community.”

Prior to his position at the middle school, Prew worked at East Providence High School as a special education teacher. He holds a degree from Providence College in special education and administration in addition to a master’s from Austin Peay State University in health and wellness. Prew spent several years working as a wrestling coach in his early career before returning to the area and settling in Seekonk with his wife and four children. He enjoys playing golf in his free time.

As the incoming principal, Prew recognizes the challenges that lie ahead, especially given the current turbulent economy.

“We’re currently trying to do more with less,” Prew said, referring to budget cuts in schools across the state. “But I am excited to be here and help continue and build on what has been built before.”

Prew hopes parents will continue to be involved with the school, perhaps even increasing their involvement.

“We need our parents and community members to be involved in their children's and students' education because it's a big undertaking and we can’t do it alone,” he said. “Knowing Riverside like I do, I would say parents are involved, but we need even more to become better.”

With this in mind, Prew will be hosting a meet-and-greet at the Riverside Middle School library for parents on Monday, Aug. 29^, at 6 pm. He hopes parents make use of the opportunity.

“This is an open forum for parents to get to know me and ask me what I’m about,” he said.