September 3 2026 Community Update

As we continue working to restore district technology systems, I want to provide another update and address some of the questions that understandably have emerged.

What We Know and What We Are Still Investigating

At this time, the cause of the disruption remains under investigation. We are aware of claims and other information circulating online related to this matter. We understand why those reports raise questions. They are being reviewed as part of the investigative process, but we will not speculate about the cause of the disruption while the investigation remains ongoing.

When critical systems are unavailable, uncertainty can quickly lead to concern and speculation. Our responsibility is to share verified information as it becomes available and keep our community informed as the investigation progresses.

Our technology team continues to work around the clock with external technology specialists to investigate the cause of the disruption and restore systems safely. Some systems remain intentionally offline while that work continues.

We also do not yet have a definitive timeline for full restoration. Our priority is to restore systems safely and responsibly rather than bring them back online prematurely.

Current System Status

Our schools remain open and instruction continues each day. Internet and Wi-Fi connectivity, district and school phone service, and several systems that depend on network connectivity remain affected. There may be limited or intermittent connectivity in some circumstances, but we will not consider systems fully restored until they are stable and ready for normal use.

Safety and Emergency Communications

With our regular phone systems unavailable, contingency procedures for emergency communications remain in place at every school. We are also in direct communication with the Westfield Police and Fire Departments and have confirmed that the emergency systems in place are functional. Administrators and staff maintain the ability to contact emergency services when necessary, and our established school safety and emergency procedures remain operational.

Teaching and Learning

Our teachers and staff have demonstrated tremendous flexibility in keeping teaching and learning moving forward. Educators are using print materials, discussion, writing, collaborative activities, previously prepared resources, and other instructional approaches that do not rely on network connectivity. We have also asked staff to exercise appropriate flexibility with assignments, deadlines, and other activities affected by the disruption.

Technology can be a part of modern teaching and school operations, but these past several days have also reinforced that our schools are ultimately powered by people. Our teachers, administrators, support staff, students, and families have adapted extraordinarily well under challenging circumstances.

Moving Forward

We recognize the significant interest in this situation and the questions it has generated. We will continue to provide accurate information based on verified findings rather than speculation, share additional updates as the investigation progresses and systems are restored, and encourage families and staff to rely on official district communications for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding this disruption.

Thank you for your continued patience, flexibility, and support of our schools.

Dr. G.