Dear Bedford Public Schools Community,
The public FY26 budget process will commence at the October 22nd school committee meeting (along with a status update on FY25)---the first "finance-focused" quarterly meeting as outlined in the Strong Teams and Systems goal of the 2024-2027 Strategic Plan. This year, I anticipate presenting a full budget recommendation at the November 26th school committee meeting. Thank you in advance for your support as we creatively navigate a challenging fiscal environment together.
Best,
Cliff Chuang 莊 宏 毅
Superintendent, Bedford Public Schools
- October: National Bullying Prevention Month, LGBT History Month, & Dyslexia Awareness Month
- October 1-31: Annual Impact Aid Survey
- October 26: Blue Hills Family Hike sponsored by the PDC (11am-1pm)
- October 31: Halloween/Samhain
- October 31-November 1: Diwali
- November 1: All Saints Day
- November 1-2: Day of the Dead
- November 5: Election Day - No School for Students; Professional Development Day for Staff
The next school committee meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, October 22nd at 7pm, the first "finance-focused" meeting. We anticipate the committee will vote on a FY25 budget reforecast, receive the first FY25Q1 report, and kickoff the FY26 budget development process. The school committee meeting schedule and supporting materials can always be found at School Committee - Meeting Schedule & Supporting Documents.
Please direct any inquiries or questions to: bhs-impactaidsurvey@bedfordps.org
On Thursday, October 17, millions of people--including at BHS--wore purple in support of LGBTQ youth for #SpiritDay, the world’s most prominent anti-bullying initiative. This movement inspires LGBTQ+ youth, particularly transgender and nonbinary individuals, to embrace their truth and authenticity. While research indicates that LGBTQ+ acceptance has reached unprecedented levels, anti-LGBTQ+ discrimination and bullying remain significant challenges. In this environment, America’s youth face greater risks and need our support now more than ever. #SpiritDay provides LGBTQ+ youth, their families, and allies a chance to witness the impact of leading with acceptance. Learn more about Spirit Day 2024 here. Pictured: BHS English Teacher Jill Butler & Grades 6-12 English PA Kelsey McCarthy.
As a public school district, it is our obligation and legal responsibility to educate students about the history of the United States, current events, and the importance of civic engagement to our democracy. Our educational system is designed not to tell students what to think about issues, but rather, how to gather and examine information, think critically, engage with peers, and draw informed conclusions. We recognize that this community is composed of individuals with different life experiences, backgrounds, and viewpoints. Although all community members may not share the same views, it is imperative that we maintain a safe educational environment that fosters thoughtful academic discourse, protects the rights of those involved, and is conducive to learning. We are committed to preserving school cultures rooted in empathy and support rather than conflict and opposition.
When disputes arise regarding political activity in school, individuals often argue they have a right to free speech under the First Amendment. That Constitutional provision does not, however, give individuals the right to voice any opinion, in any setting, without any consequences. In the case of schools, we have a legal and ethical responsibility to ensure speech does not impermissibly influence the political process or create a disruption that would be harmful to students or staff. Thus, in preparation for election day, I am reminding the entire community that the law prohibits campaigning and political fundraising in schools or on school grounds. Furthermore, public employees are prohibited from engaging in any political advocacy on school grounds, or during the school day, and may not use any school property or resources to campaign or raise funds for any candidate or referendum. See M.G.L. c. 268A; M.G.L. c. 55. This includes a prohibition on using school district emails, mailing lists, printers, and office supplies. It is also not permissible for teachers or other staff members to affix signs endorsing a candidate on school walls or advocate for any political candidate in class.
When engaging students in discussion about politics, which should generally be limited to classes in which such discussions are appropriate, educators typically should remain neutral about their own views, while creating a constructive forum for students to explore and discuss the issues.
Finally, verbal or symbolic speech which results in disruption, disorder, or interference with instruction or professional activities is prohibited. If you have questions or concerns about these matters, please feel free to contact superintendentoffice@bedfordps.org