From The Vice Chair's Desk

Dearest gentle readers,

It is with great satisfaction that I welcome you to the month of February, a time when winter, much like persistent gossip, refuses to take its leave. Though our fair district has already endured two snow days (a modest triumph, to be sure), fate has spoken through a most unlikely oracle. Yes, the groundhog has seen his shadow, and with it comes the promise of an extended winter. One must brace accordingly.

At present, the final day of school for most of our institutions is set for June 17, 2026. However, astute observers will note an exception. Salemwood School, owing to an unfortunate power disruption dating back to October 15, 2025, must remain in session one additional day. Thus, Salemwood students shall conclude their academic season on June 18, 2026.

In light of this prolonged chill, allow me to offer a gentle yet earnest reminder: please ensure your students are dressed suitably for the weather. Winter shows little mercy for forgotten coats or bare hands. Warm coats, hats, and gloves are not optional adornments but essential armor.

Should any family find themselves in need of cold weather gear, help is readily available. Many of our schools maintain closets filled with generously collected coats, hats, and gloves. I would be delighted to assist you in locating these resources. Do reach out to me directly at jspadafora@maldenps.org

After all, dear readers, it takes a community to keep its young scholars warm, well prepared, and ready to weather whatever winter—and rumor—may yet deliver.

Yours truly,
Lady Spadafora ✒️

Black History Month has always held deep personal meaning for me. It is a time to reflect not only on history books and well-known figures, but on the everyday stories of perseverance, joy, and excellence that are often left untold. It is also a time to ensure that our students see themselves reflected in the history we teach and the communities we celebrate.

Malden Public Schools will come together for a district-wide Black History Month Celebration on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at the Ferryway School Gymnasium. This evening is an invitation to our entire community to learn, connect, and celebrate together.

The event will feature student performances, community groups, informational booths, and a keynote speaker. Each element is intentionally designed to highlight the richness of Black history and culture while uplifting the voices and talents of our students. Creating spaces like this matters. When students see their identities honored and their stories valued, it sends a powerful message that they belong.

Black History Month began as an effort to ensure that Black contributions were not erased or overlooked. Nearly a century later, that purpose remains just as important. Events like this help move history off the page and into lived experience, reminding us that Black history is not separate from American history. It is foundational to it.

Families, staff, students, and community members are encouraged to attend and participate. Those who RSVP by February 6 will receive a free event t-shirt while supplies last.

I hope you will join us for an evening of learning, celebration, and community as we honor the past, recognize the present, and inspire the next generation.

Malden is once again coming together to celebrate the Lunar New Year with the 17th Annual Malden Lunar New Year Celebration, hosted by Chinese Culture Connection in partnership with the City of Malden. This year marks the Year of the Horse, a symbol of energy, resilience, and forward movement—fitting themes as we gather to honor culture, tradition, and community.

The celebration takes place on Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Malden High School and features a full day of cultural experiences for all ages.

From 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, families can enjoy the Lunar New Year Fair, which includes traditional Chinese street food, cultural photo opportunities, Chinese calligraphy, Chinese knots, dough sculptures, and interactive lantern riddles. Local vendors and community organizations will also be on site, offering additional activities and opportunities to learn more about Chinese culture and traditions.

A special highlight of this year’s event is the USPS Lunar New Year Stamp Unveiling Ceremony, recognizing the cultural significance of the holiday on a national level and underscoring the importance of representation and inclusion.

From 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, the celebration continues with festival performances, featuring martial arts, a fashion show, poetry recitals, a Peking Opera medley, classical and contemporary music, traditional dance, and performances by local youth. The program showcases both Eastern and Western artistic influences, reflecting the diversity and vibrancy of Malden’s community.

This annual celebration has become a beloved tradition in Malden, welcoming residents from across the city and beyond to come together in the spirit of learning, celebration, and connection. Admission is free, and all are encouraged to attend.

The Malden School Committee will meet on Monday, February 2, 2026, at Malden City Hall, Council Chambers. The meeting begins at 6:00 PM.

We are pleased to welcome Malden Reads, who will introduce their 2026 community book selection. We will also recognize Director of Guidance, Erin Craven, who has been named Administrator of the Year by the Massachusetts School Counselors Association.

Community members are encouraged to attend in person or remotely.

Live on Microsoft Teams, or

Live on UMA (MATV) via YouTube

✨ Welcome to Our New Malden SEPAC Board Members! ✨

Please join me in welcoming the newest members of the Malden SEPAC Board:

• Amanda Spartichino, President

• Isabel Delacruz, Vice President

• Michele Ferguson, Treasurer

• Keli Pereira, Secretary

We are excited for the leadership, dedication, and fresh perspectives this incredible team brings.

A heartfelt thank you to our outgoing board members for your time, commitment, and unwavering advocacy for our special needs students. YOU have made a lasting impact!

I look forward to the important work ahead and am honored to continue serving as the liaison to SEPAC. 💙

So often, we pour from our own cups without ever stopping to refill them. Between caring for our families, managing work, and holding everything together, self-care can feel like the first thing we push aside.

Join us at The Toyary for a special after-hours Mom’s Night Out designed to help you pause, breathe, and reconnect with yourself. In this relaxed and interactive workshop, you’ll explore how the words you use with yourself shape how you feel, think, and move through your day. Through simple, meaningful activities, you’ll learn how small shifts in language can bring more ease, confidence, and compassion into everyday life.

This evening is also a wonderful chance to connect with other moms, whether you bring a friend or come ready to meet new ones. Light snacks and refreshments, including wine and seltzer, will be provided.

Thursday, February 12, 2026
5:30–7:00 PM | The Toyary
Cost: $40

The workshop will be led by Cäcilia Wyman, a former educator and mindset expert with over 16 years of experience, who believes that changing how we talk to ourselves can truly change everything—especially for busy moms.

Give yourself permission to step away for a couple of hours. You deserve it. 💗