Mansfield Public Schools

Dear Families,

I hope you and your family have enjoyed a wonderful summer and found time to relax, recharge, and make special memories together. As we prepare to welcome our students back to school, I am excited for the start of a new year and all that lies ahead for Mansfield Public Schools.

Throughout the summer, our staff has been hard at work preparing for a successful opening. Our buildings have been cleaned and readied, classrooms are taking shape, transportation routes are being finalized, and our teachers, administrators, and staff are preparing to welcome students back. I am incredibly grateful to everyone who has worked behind the scenes throughout the summer to make sure our schools are ready for the first day.

You may remember from last year that we placed a special focus on belonging: our belief that every student should feel recognized, valued, and an important part of our school community. That commitment remains at the heart of our work. This year, we will build upon that foundation of belonging by strengthening the connections that help students engage deeply in their learning, their schools, and their community. When students feel that they belong and know that they are connected to the people around them, they are better prepared to take risks, explore their interests, contribute their ideas, and grow academically, socially, and personally.

This work will also be reflected in our new 2026–2031 Mansfield Public Schools Strategic Plan, which will be released in September. Developed with input from students, families, staff, School Committee members, and community members, the plan reflects what our community values about Mansfield Public Schools and our shared aspirations for the future. I look forward to sharing more about the plan and our goals for the future in the coming weeks.

As we get ready for the first day, there are several important dates and reminders for families:

• August 28: Bus routes will be posted on the district website.

• August 31, from 12:00 - 3:00 p.m.: Districtwide Open House - an opportunity for students and families to visit our schools before the start of the year.

• September 2: First day of school for students.

Please continue to watch for school-specific information from your child's principal regarding schedules, arrival and dismissal procedures, and other opening-of-school details.

I know the start of a new school year brings many emotions ranging from excitement, anticipation, and sometimes a few nerves for students and families alike. Please know that our staff is ready and excited to welcome your children back. We look forward to helping them reconnect with friends and teachers, settle into routines, discover new opportunities, and begin the year with a strong sense of belonging in their school community.

Thank you for your continued partnership, your support of our schools, and the trust you place in us each day. It is a privilege to serve this community, and I am grateful to begin another school year together. I look forward to a year filled with belonging, connection, engagement, and growth for all of our students.

Welcome back, Mansfield!

Warmly,

Michelle L. McKeon, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
Mansfield Public Schools