The state's education commissioner toured area schools and spoke about the challenges ahead.

Students at Springfield's Van Sickle Middle School had an extra pair of eyes on their assignments.

"It is an opportunity to get in the schools, talk to students, talk to parents," Education Commissioner Mitchell Chester said.

Chester toured Bowles Elementary School and Van Sickle Middle School, meeting with educators and visiting classrooms. His visit comes right after the governor announced local aid and education funding are spared from the 9c cuts. He said he is optimistic about the future of education in Springfield.

"You have excellent leadership in place. Superintendent Ingram is really moving the ball. I met with Tim Collins, head of the teacher's association. I think Tim is very committed to making sure that teachers are part of the solution," Chester said.

This is the commissioner's second trip to Springfield. Cheryl Despirt, principal of Van Sickle, said it was an honor for him visit her school.

“I think it is important for the Commissioner to see that good things are happening. That faculty, staff, students, communities are working hard to move forward," Despirt said.

While the commissioner said he is impressed with the school system, he also said there are challenges ahead.

"The fiscal picture is not a pretty picture, and anybody who is watching the news knows it is not specific to Springfield or Massachusetts,” Chester said.