The Common
Dear Nashoba Community,
Recently the Nashoba Regional School Committee voted to approve two required policies, IKF: Graduation Requirements and IKFE: Competency Determination, for submission to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. The changes in graduation requirements will apply to our current Freshman and Sophomores as they have time in their current course of studies to meet the requirements. The Competency Determination policy applies to all students and is a gap measure while the State of Massachusetts develops, debates, and passes new legislative requirements. Below is an artificial intelligence summary of the two policies with links to the policies.
Summary:
Policy IKF outlines Nashoba’s graduation requirements and affirms our commitment to preparing students for college, careers, and civic life. To graduate, students must complete a rigorous, well-rounded program aligned with MassCore expectations, earn at least 90 credits, and meet state and district competency requirements. The policy includes two key updates: a requirement for four years of mathematics and a two-year world language sequence in the same language. These expectations are designed to strengthen academic skills, promote healthy habits, and develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Academic advisors support students in planning a course of study that aligns with their strengths and goals while upholding the high standards of a Nashoba education.
Policy IKFE explains how Nashoba determines that students have demonstrated the knowledge and skills required for graduation following the voter-approved removal of MCAS as a competency determination requirement in Fall 2024. Rather than relying on MCAS, the policy establishes that students demonstrate mastery in English language arts, mathematics, and science by successfully completing district-certified coursework aligned with the Massachusetts curriculum frameworks, with U.S. History included beginning with the Class of 2027. Students show mastery by earning full credit in required courses and meeting established performance expectations through end-of-course assessments, capstone or portfolio projects, or other approved measures. This approach ensures that graduation decisions are based on a student’s body of work and demonstrated learning over time. The policy is intended as a temporary, gap measure to provide clarity and consistency while the Governor’s Office and state leaders develop a permanent, statewide competency determination framework for Massachusetts.
On a different note, we will be adjourning for winter vacation at the end of day on Tuesday, December 23rd. I hope the vacation is filled with fun and great memories for you all. Happy Holidays!
Peace,
Kirk Downing (He/Him)
Superintendent
Whole Phonics Author, Jill Lauren, Visits MRE; Students Share Samples of Their Own Writing!
Students in Mrs. Hanyaloglu's class at MRE kicked off their morning with a Zoom visit from Whole Phonics author Jill Lauren. Whole Phonics is a series of decodable readers, purchased and implemented through the district’s PRISM I Grant, that helps build strong foundational literacy skills for our students.
During the virtual visit, students were given time to ask questions about the writing and illustrating process. Lauren shared how an idea in her head turns into a book and explained the seven steps her illustrator follows to bring the class’s much-loved character, Zac, to life.
The most exciting part of the visit? Five students had the chance to read aloud books they had published themselves in class. Lauren offered kind and encouraging feedback, focusing on making the students feel like real authors.
The NRSD Family Information Hub
Last week, we launched our NRSD Family Information Hub, a virtual space designed to give families quick and easy access to Teaching and Learning resources. Within the Hub, families can explore our curriculum resources, learn more about how student progress is reported across all grade levels, and discover how Portrait of a Nashoba Graduate competencies are integrated from Kindergarten through graduation.
Pre-Kindergarten Open House, Scheduled for January 14th
Families with children entering Pre-K for the 2026-2027 school year are invited to attend our Pre-Kindergarten Open House. This event is a great opportunity to meet our Pre-K teachers and explore your child’s future classroom. Families may choose to attend in person or virtually. Registration is required. To learn more and to register, please click the link below.
In-Person Session, 9:00-10:30am
Drop in anytime to visit Pre-K classrooms in Bolton, Lancaster, and Stow.
Virtual Session, 2:30pm
Join us for a program overview and lottery information. The meeting link will be emailed to registered families on the day of the event.
Have Questions About Special Education? The NRSD SEPAC Can Help!
What is NRSD SEPAC?
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 Does This By:
Listening to families, our students and caregivers
Participating in the planning, development, and evaluation of the school district's special education programs
Advising the district on matters that pertain to the education and safety of students with disabilities
Providing family-to-family support and networking
Hosting presentations
Making recommendations for professional development
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!
