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AB Digital Backpack- December 10, 2025
The Acton Lions Christmas Tree Sale is on-going! The holiday season is here, and so is one of Acton’s favorite traditions! The Acton Lions Club is once again proud to host our long-running Christmas Tree Sale —a cheerful community gathering that has brought families together for decades. Come join the fun, feel the Christmas spirit, and pick out the perfect tree to brighten your home this holiday season! Location: Acton Ace Hardware, 210 Main Street Hours: • Friday: 3:00 – 6:00 pm • Saturday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm • Sunday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm Every Tree Makes a Difference! All proceeds help support charitable and community needs locally, nationally, and even around the world. Last year the Acton Lions contributed over $60,000 back to charitable & community needs and to date, the Acton Lions have proudly contributed over $600,000 to the Massachusetts Lions Eye Research Fund (MLERF) —thanks to community members like you. Stay up to date and keep the holiday cheer going by following us on Facebook: facebook.com/ActonLionsClub Thank you for your support, and Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays from the Acton Lions! The Town of Action wants to hear people’s stories, ideas, and hopes for making our community stronger and fair for everyone. These small group talks are part of a big project to learn what people need and ot help everyone feel healthy, included, and supported. Everyone is welcome to participate in our sessions in January.
Wednesday, Dec 10 2025
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AB Forward Update 12/3/25
Dear Acton-Boxborough Staff, Families, and Community Members, I am writing to you today, following the final deliberation and vote of the AB Forward Steering Committee (SC) that took place last night. This moment marks a key moment in our district’s reorganization process. First, I want to acknowledge the deep commitment each of you brings to our community. This initiative, AB Forward, has been a complicated and difficult process for everyone involved. I understand these changes bring uncertainty and mixed emotions; it’s okay to feel both committed to our mission and saddened by potential transitions. I hear the frustration and sadness over this necessary shift. Many of you have shared heartfelt accounts of the emotional stress that the uncertainty and debate have caused. Discussions about closing schools feel like a conversation about loss, especially for those families whose children have already experienced major changes, such as navigating early elementary years during COVID. I want to assure you that the core strength of Acton-Boxborough has always been its people: our students, families, and educators. A Unanimous Strategic Vision Despite the challenges of reorganization, I am proud to share that the Steering Committee was strongly united about our long-term purpose. We voted unanimously to recommend the Theory of Action and four Priority Areas of the 2026-2031 Strategic Plan. This framework ensures our work is anchored in our core mission: "to provide high-quality, inclusive educational opportunities that inspire a community of learners." The unanimous decision provides a stable foundation, ensuring that whatever path we choose, our focus remains on maximizing learning for every student, supporting staff, achieving financial sustainability, and fostering inclusive communities. The Reorganization Vote After a long, focused discussion about balancing long-term financial stability with minimizing disruption, the Steering Committee achieved a final decision on which reorganization options to advance. The committee voted 11 votes in favor, 6 votes opposed, with 2 abstentions and 1 absence, to advance four elementary-focused options to the School Committee for a final decision. All four scenarios reflect the inevitable need to consolidate the elementary buildings from four buildings to three, requiring the closure of the Conant building. The four options advanced are: Option 3, Version 2 (3.2): Consolidate to 5 K–6 schools by closing the Merriam school and relocating the Conant school community into the available space. Option 4: Consolidate to 5 K–6 schools by merging Merriam and McCarthy-Towne , and relocating the Conant school community into the available space. Option 5, Version 2 (5.2): Hybrid Grade-Band Model: Blanchard remains K–6 , while Boardwalk and Parker Damon campuses are split into Lower Schools (K–3) and Upper Schools (4–6) . Option 6: Consolidate from 6 schools to 3 larger K–6 schools . The Rationale for Four Options Our final deliberation reflected the difficulty of making an equitable choice when faced with complex options: Financial Sustainability vs. K-6 Structure: The options forwarded include those that achieve the highest savings (Options 5.2 and 6) and those that attempt to preserve the highly valued K–6 structure (Options 3.2 and 4). Targeted vs. Shared Change: We seriously considered the questions of equity and fairness. Options 3.2 and 4 were seen by some as unfairly targeting specific communities (Merriam, Conant, or McCarthy-Towne). Conversely, options like 5.2 and 6, which affect all communities, were praised by some members as creating an opportunity to "unite and collaboratively build something new." It was vital to many members to consider preserving the unique educational strengths of our schools, no matter where students land. By advancing four distinct options, we ensure the School Committee can fully compare the benefits of the cost-effective, large-scale changes against the merits of solutions that attempt to minimize disruption to existing community identities. Moving Forward with Hope and Care This difficult work is guided by the hope that our decisions, though challenging, will better prepare us for success for decades to come. I want to repeat my commitment to transparent communication, thoughtful planning, and care for all impacted staff, students, and families. I believe that how we talk and listen to each other will shape the path forward and set an example for our children. Please make time to care for yourself, and if you or your child needs support, personally or professionally, please reach out. The following resources may help guide conversations with your child: Tips for Tough Conversations with Kids Feel Safe in Uncertain Times: Institute of Child Psychology Podcast I want to express my sincere gratitude to all of the members of the Steering Committee. The School Committee is scheduled to discuss these recommendations on December 4th and 18th , hold a public hearing on January 8th , and make a final decision on January 22nd . I encourage you to remain engaged as we work toward a final decision on January 22nd. You can also find more information on the AB Forward Website . With respect and deep gratitude for your partnership. Sincerely, Peter Light Superintendent of Schools Meetings of the AB Forward Steering Committee are open to the public. For AB Forward Updates, visit our AB Forward Website at https://www.abschools.org/read-the-plan View meeting agendas, minutes, and materials at https://abschools.diligent.community/Portal/MeetingInformation.aspx?Id=194 Submit a public comment to the steering committee by using this form .
Wednesday, Dec 03 2025
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Update: AB Forward Eliminates 5 Options
November 19, 2025 - The AB Forward Steering Committee met on 11/18/2025 and voted to eliminate 5 options from consideration. The options that are not moving forward are: Option 1: Maintain the status quo. Option 7, Version 1: Maintain all 4 elementary buildings and all 6 individual elementary schools, but organized as K-5, moving 6th grade to the Junior High. Option 7, Version 2: Maintain all 4 elementary buildings and all 6 individual elementary schools, but organized as K-5, moving 6th grade to the Junior High and moving 8th graders to the High School. Option 8, Version 1: Combine the K-5 grade-level shift (moving 6th graders to the Junior High) with any of the elementary consolidation options. Option 9: Expand the region (this option is a long-term solution and would require significant coordination and planning). After two rounds of voting, this decision to eliminate the above options was made based on polling where committee members had expressed unanimous agreement. The other options had varied levels of support for either elimination or keeping, and will be discussed further at the December 2nd meeting. This stage of the process involves incredibly difficult decision-making. A decision that may feel like relief to some may represent a significant loss for others. I would strongly encourage us all to act with both empathy and compassion for all of the members of our community as we move through the next month or so together. This is not easy and is deeply impacting many of us in different ways. We will work to have all of the documents, information, and a detailed summary of the meeting posted to our website over the next few days. Sincerely, Peter Light Meetings of the AB Forward Steering Committee are open to the public. For AB Forward Updates, visit our AB Forward Website at https://www.abschools.org/read-the-plan View meeting agendas, minutes, and materials at https://abschools.diligent.community/Portal/MeetingInformation.aspx?Id=194 Submit a public comment to the steering committee by using this form .
Wednesday, Nov 19 2025
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AB Digital Backpack- November 19, 2025
Acton Lions to Host Annual Ski, Skate & Gear Sale The Acton Lions Club will once again host its long-running Ski, Skate & Gear Sale , a community tradition now in its 45th year. Residents are encouraged to check their basements, garages, closets, attics and kids’ rooms for equipment to consign or even donate, and to spread the word to friends and neighbors. The sale provides an opportunity to purchase new or gently used skis, skates, snowboards, winter sports gear, and related equipment at very affordable prices. The event will take place at Conant Elementary School , 80 Taylor Road, Acton . Drop-off / Consignment: • Friday, November 21: 6:30–8 p.m. • Saturday, November 22: 8–10 a.m. Sale Hours: • Saturday, November 22: 11 a.m.–4 p.m. • Sunday, November 23: 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Payout / Item Pick-Up: • Sunday, November 23: 3–5 p.m. Consignors will receive 70% of the sale price for items sold. Any unsold items not picked up by 5 p.m. on November 23 will be considered a donation. Proceeds support charitable causes at the local, national, and even international levels. To date, the Acton Lions have contributed over $600,000 to the Massachusetts Lions Eye Research Fund (MLERF) For updates, follow the Acton Lions Club on Facebook at facebook.com/ActonLionsClub Pink Friday - Drop & Shop - DROP & SHOP - Save your spot here: https://www.dannys-place.org/events/drop-shop All Winter Programs will be open for registration on November 18, 2025 at 8am. All sign-ups will be on a first-come, first serve basis. Please note that many of our programs fill out within the first day so please mark your calendars accordingly. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out: info@dannys-place.org - Sign-ups here: https://www.dannys-place.org/winter
Wednesday, Nov 19 2025
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AB Forward Update 11/18/25
November 18, 2025 - Summary: The AB Forward Steering Committee meets tonight at 6:30 p.m.; AB Forward Website updated with new information AB Forward Steering Committee Meeting Materials for November 18, 2025 Our next Steering Committee meeting is Tuesday, November 18th at 6:30 p.m. in the Administration Building (located at 15 Charter Rd.). The meeting is open to the public. Below are meeting materials that may be of interest to the community. November 18, 2025, Steering Committee Agenda Public Comments Received Supplemental Information & Data Packet Superintendent’s Memo Research Brief Community Feedback Analysis Enrollment & Open Enrollment History School & Classroom Models Potential Cost Savings Updated Timeline for Decision-making November 18th – Steering Committee reviews information and begins to narrow possible options for consideration December 2nd – Steering Committee makes final recommendation of 2-3 options for School Committee Consideration December 4th – School Committee receives final report and recommendations from the Steering Committee December 18th – Possible AB Forward Discussion at scheduled School Committee Meeting January 8th – School Committee Final Public Hearing on AB Forward Final Options January 22nd – School Committee makes final decision on one preferred option for reorganization I hope this information is helpful. We will continue to keep you updated about the progress of AB Forward. Sincerely, Peter Light Meetings of the AB Forward Steering Committee are open to the public. For AB Forward Updates, visit our AB Forward Website at https://www.abschools.org/read-the-plan View meeting agendas, minutes, and materials at https://abschools.diligent.community/Portal/MeetingInformation.aspx?Id=194 Submit a public comment to the steering committee by using this form .
Tuesday, Nov 18 2025
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AB Forward Information and Survey
October 31, 2025 Dear AB Families and Staff, As we continue our work on potential school reorganization options, your voice is essential in helping us shape the future of our schools. Please take a few minutes to watch this short video , which provides an overview of the options being considered, and then complete the accompanying survey to share your thoughts and perspectives before Sunday, November 9, 2025. We also invite you to watch the 10.30.25 virtual community forum . Your feedback will help guide our next steps and ensure that every decision reflects the needs and values of our community. Thank you for taking the time to engage in this important conversation — your voice truly matters. Sincerely, Peter Light Superintendent of Schools Meetings of the AB Forward Steering Committee are open to the public. For AB Forward Updates, visit our AB Forward Website at https://www.abschools.org/read-the-plan View meeting agendas, minutes, and materials at https://abschools.diligent.community/Portal/MeetingInformation.aspx?Id=194 Submit a public comment to the steering committee by using this form .
Friday, Oct 31 2025
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Superintendent's Update- 10-24-25
October 24, 2025 In This Update: Congratulations! AB Forward Update Special Education Meet & Greet A-B's Weather & Emergency Communication Procedures School Visits Congratulations! Last week, the Boardwalk Campus hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to commemorate the installation of a new sunshade. This initiative was made possible by an $8,000 grant awarded by the American Academy of Dermatology, in conjunction with financial contributions from Douglas and Gate’s PTOs. At the commemoration ceremony, Dr. Christy Williams of AP Derm, a key contributor in securing the grant, spoke about the importance of sun safety. Newly retired school nurse, Diann Oster, was also present for her contributions in acquiring the grant. State Representative Dan Sena delivered a house citation to honor the new structure, which will help to provide a shaded area for the students while they play on the playground. The sunshade will serve the community year-round for many years to come. AB Forward Update Thank you to everyone who has given us feedback on the various reorganization options so far. Here is the flyer with our list of Community Forums . If you need interpretation services, please contact us . Reorganization Survey is open! We launched to AB Forward reorganization survey. We invite all members of the community to Take the Survey . The survey is open until November 9th. Thursday, October 30, 2025 AB Virtual Community Meeting Forum Zoom Invite The Zoom link is here: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84476349685 About 75 families attended the first community forum this past Monday at ABRHS. The forum provided an overview of the reorganization options, and about 90 minutes of community questions, answers and comments. You can view the recording of this meeting on Acton TV’s Youtube Channel . We have held 31 focus groups so far with the remaining groups scheduled for Monday, October 27. As a reminder, you can get updates on all things AB Forward on our dedicated page at: https://www.abschools.org/read-the-plan Special Education Meet & Greet The Special Education Leadership Team recently hosted a successful Meet & Greet with parents on October 22, providing an overview of programs, supports, and ways families can engage with our team ( presentation ). This meeting was a reminder that families are essential partners in supporting students’ academic, social, and emotional growth. We are grateful for the families who collaborate with us every step of the way. A-B's Weather & Emergency Communication Procedures Our goal is to ensure that our school campuses and facilities are safe for students to attend each day. There will be times when conditions beyond our control, including weather or other factors, might cause us to delay or cancel school, or in rare circumstances, release students on a different schedule. I am providing the information below to help you understand how delays, cancellations, and early dismissals work. The Decision-Making Process The Superintendent is responsible for deciding when to cancel, delay, or close our schools. Before making a decision, our team consults with our weather service, the Departments of Public Works in Acton and Boxborough, local public safety officials, and our own facilities and transportation offices. Communication We try to notify staff and families by 5:30 a.m. about any school closure or delays for the day. If schools are closed or delayed, the information will be shared with you in the following ways: By text, automated phone call, and email through ParentSquare: https://www.parentsquare.com Posted on the District website : www.abschools.org Local media : Channel 4 WBZ; Channel 5 WCVB; Channel 7 WHDH; Channel 10 NBC Boston; and FOX 25. To update your ParentSquare contact details, log in to your account, go to My Account, click on Edit Account, and select “edit.” For technical support, access EDTech assistance by selecting the “email icon” located in the top-right corner of the district website. School Closure/Cancellation If we decide to cancel school for the day, all schools and programs will be closed . For closures/cancellations, the following will apply: All PreK-12 classes and school activities will be canceled for the day. This includes all before and after-school activities, sports, and extracurricular events. All after-school and evening meetings will be canceled unless an exception is made. All Community Education programs will be canceled. Transportation of students to out-of-district schools will be canceled. All offices will be closed. Delayed-Opening Sometimes, we need extra time to clear roads or sidewalks. In this case, we may call for a delayed opening. For delayed openings, the following will apply: Transportation will begin their schedules and pick-up times as close to the delayed time of opening as possible. For example, if a bus run begins at 6:45 a.m. on a regular school day and a two-hour delay is called, that bus will then aim to pick up students at 8:45 a.m. Schools will be dismissed at their regular times. Breakfast and Lunch will be available today. PM and All Day sessions at the Carol Huebner Early Childhood Program will begin at 12:00. AM sessions will be canceled. AM Kindergarten session will be canceled. Community Education Extended Day will open on a delayed schedule. All after-school activities and programs will operate under their normal schedule. School offices will open two hours later depending on the delay announced. If you have a student driver and believe the conditions are unsafe, please transport them to school. Emergency Release Once students arrive at school and the buildings are open, we make every effort to operate a normal schedule and release students at the normally scheduled time. However, in the event of severe weather or other emergency conditions, it may be necessary for us to release students on a different schedule. If such a decision needs to be made then the automated notification system will be used to alert parents and guardians. Please have a plan in place with your child who might arrive home early on these unusual occasions. Special Note on Weather Conditions and Student Drivers Our goal is to be open every day and we base our decision around our ability to have our schools appropriately staffed and for our buses to navigate the roads. We recognize that student drivers have a range of abilities and experiences and not all conditions may be appropriate for young drivers. It is a family’s decision if weather conditions are safe for student drivers. If you believe conditions are unsafe, please make alternate arrangements for your student to get to school. School Visits As part of our continued commitment to fostering open communication and mutual understanding between students and district leadership, I had the pleasure of meeting with Conant Elementary fifth- and sixth-grade students. During our conversation, they shared thoughtful feedback about what matters most to them in their school experience—insights that will help inform our future district goals and priorities. Outreach to our senior community continues as I had the pleasure of visiting the Senior Center last week, along with Town Manager John Mangiaratti, to hear directly from our seniors about what matters most to them. Next week, we look forward to welcoming Acton and Boxborough seniors to the High School for a tour and a conversation about how school life today compares to their own experiences “back in the day.” This intergenerational connection is a wonderful way to strengthen community ties and celebrate our shared commitment to lifelong learning.
Friday, Oct 24 2025
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AB Forward Community Survey Launches
AB Community, I am pleased to share that the AB Forward Community Survey has launched and will remain open until November 9, 2025. The survey can be found on our AB Forward Website, along with all of our supporting information at: https://www.abschools.org/read-the-plan If you have not done so already, we encourage you to review information on the AB Forward website about each of the options before taking the survey. Please note: the AB Forward video can be translated by using the closed captioning feature. Thank you for your continued engagement in this important process. Sincerely, Peter Light Superintendent Meetings of the AB Forward Steering Committee are open to the public. For AB Forward Updates, visit our AB Forward Website at https://www.abschools.org/read-the-plan View meeting agendas, minutes, and materials at https://abschools.diligent.community/Portal/MeetingInformation.aspx?Id=194 Submit a public comment to the steering committee by using this form .
Thursday, Oct 23 2025
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