The Common
Dear Nashoba Community,
Last spring, we shared that Google updated its data privacy requirements. Google’s Core Services, such as Google Docs, Drive, and Classroom, are designed specifically for education use and continue to meet student data privacy standards. However, Google’s Additional Services, most notably YouTube, use data practices that do not align with these standards.
To ensure that our students’ information remains protected, and to stay in compliance with state and federal student data privacy laws, Google Additional Services will be disabled for all student accounts beginning on Friday, February 20, 2026.
Students will still have full access to Core Google tools including Google Docs, Drive, and Classroom. They will no longer be able to sign in directly to YouTube or other Additional Google Services with their NRSD accounts.
Teachers will continue to share videos and online resources through Google Classroom, Google Slides, or during class. District-supported learning platforms and curriculum tools will remain accessible, ensuring that students continue to have the instructional materials and supports they need while their data stays private and secure.
These updates are an important step in keeping student data safe while students utilize online resources. We thank you for your understanding and support as we continue to provide a secure, privacy-conscious learning environment for our students.
Kirk Downing (He/Him)
Superintendent
PRISM Professional Learning in Action, Sarah Gannon of Crafting Minds Visit
As part of our PRISM Grant professional development series, Sarah Gannon, Co Director of Crafting Minds, spent time in our schools modeling effective structured literacy routines for Grades K through two. Sarah worked alongside classroom teachers, related service providers, and early literacy tutors, demonstrating high impact small group literacy instruction aligned to the science of reading.
Crafting Minds has been a valued partner in our early literacy work, supporting educators through early release professional development, participation in school based Professional Learning Communities, and the development of systems for using data to identify and address student needs as early as possible.
Sarah and her team joined us again during today's early release day and will return later in February to continue this work with school based teams using winter screening data to support instructional planning and accelerate student reading growth.
National School Counselor Week, Thank You NRSD Counselors!
In recognition of National School Counseling Week, we would like to thank the Nashoba Regional School District’s Guidance Counselors, Adjustment Counselors, and Social Workers for the important work they do every day. These dedicated professionals support students academically, socially, and emotionally, and play a key role in helping them feel confident and ready to learn. Through their work they help students navigate challenges, build resilience, and plan for their futures. Their work makes a meaningful difference in the lives of our students and families, and we are grateful for their continued commitment to our school community.
Nashoba Community Partnership, FREE Weekly Playgroups
The Nashoba Community Partnership for Children is now accepting registrations for FREE weekly playgroups for children ages 2–5 and their caregivers. Playgroups will be held in Bolton, Lancaster, and Stow from January to June 2026. For more information on the Playgroup times, dates, and locations as well as the registration, click here, or on the button below.
These playgroups are funded by the Department of Early Education and Care’s CFCE grant and are designed to support young families in our communities with fun, hands-on learning and social opportunities. Spaces are limited!
Have Questions About Special Education? The NRSD SEPAC Can Help!
The NRSD Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC) is an all volunteer group with a mission to support students and their families by providing education and information on special education issues and services. Through their efforts, the organization aims to promote a better understanding of, respect for, and support of special education in the community. The Nashoba SEPAC works closely with the Nashoba Regional School District administration and School Committee to ensure that students' needs are being met in accordance with applicable laws.
SEPAC welcomes everyone. We strive to build a community of support for those on the special education journey. Get in touch by emailing SEPACchairs@nrsd.net. Each town has parent liaisons whose contact information names can be found on the district website.
Cold and Flu Season is Here, What Can You Do to Reduce Your Risk of Getting Sick?
The colder months are here and we have entered the peak season for stomach viruses, colds, flu, and other respiratory illnesses. Here are the best ways for students and families to reduce their risk of contracting and spreading illnesses in school and within the community:
Key Points to Prevent Illness
Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially before eating.
Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
Avoid touching your face.
Use hand sanitizer when soap and water aren't available.
Stay home if you're sick.
Get vaccinated against common viruses like influenza, Covid, pertussis, and RSV.
To learn more about illnesses that are common during this time of year, please see the following links: Stomach Virus, Common Respiratory Illness, Strep.
Free Breakfast and Lunch Will Continue, Community Support and Resources Available
The district wants to reassure families that free breakfast and lunch will continue to be available to all students at every school, and these meals will not be affected by the shutdown.
In addition to school meals, families can access support through Project Bread’s FoodSource Hotline, provided by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). Hotline counselors are available in 180 languages to connect families with programs such as WIC and local food pantries.
The district’s Department of Health and Wellness has also compiled a list of local resources for families who need assistance or want to help others in the community. These resources include food assistance programs, holiday gift aid, general support services, and utilities help. The community has a strong network of partners dedicated to ensuring that no family goes without essential resources.
Open for the 2025/2026 School Year!
Celebrating everyday greatness! Is there a Nashoba teacher or staff member out there who you think deserves some special recognition? Send a Nashoba Notable Award their way! Fill out the form below and thank a Nashoba employee today!
Nashoba Notable Awards thank Nashoba employees for supporting students, families, and their school communities in all ways great and small.
Employees will receive a certificate that includes a brief explanation from the nominator of why they are Nashoba Notable. This form is open to everyone. Students, families, staff and community members can send a Nashoba Notable Award to any Nashoba employee. There is no limit to the number of Nashoba Notable Awards someone may receive. Thank a Nashoba employee today!
