Superintendent's April 2026 Update

April is a busy month of transition and growth, but it’s also a time when our school calendar is filled with opportunities to say "thank you." From the first bell to the final bus ride home, our schools rely on a dedicated team of professionals who go above and beyond for our students.

This month, we are honored to celebrate five distinct groups of educators and staff members who make our learning community whole.

1. The Heartbeat of the Classroom: Paraprofessional & IA Appreciation Day (April 1st)

We kick off the month by honoring our Instructional Assistants and Paraprofessionals. These educators are the ultimate "utility players." Whether they are providing one-on-one academic support, fostering inclusion for students with diverse needs, or being the emotional anchor for a child having a tough day, their impact is immeasurable. They don't just teach curriculum; they teach confidence.

2. The Gateway to Discovery: School Librarian Appreciation Day (April 4th)

On April 4th, we celebrate our School Librarians. Our media centers are more than just rooms full of books; they are hubs of innovation, research, and imagination. Our librarians are the guides who help students navigate the digital world, spark a lifelong love of reading, and provide a safe place for every student to explore new ideas.

3. The Architects of Culture: National Assistant Principals Week (April 6–10)

During the second week of April, we recognize our Assistant Principals. Often working behind the scenes, APs are the bridge between vision and reality. They wear countless hats—mentor, disciplinarian, scheduler, and cheerleader. By supporting teachers and building meaningful relationships with students, they ensure our school culture remains vibrant, safe, and focused on growth.

4. The Hub of the School: Administrative Professionals Day (April 22nd)

On April 22nd, we turn our attention to our School Administrative Assistants. Often the first face you see and the first voice you hear, these professionals are the masters of multitasking. From managing complex schedules and attendance to being the calm problem-solvers in the front office, they ensure our schools run smoothly so that learning never has to stop.

5. The Safest Ride in Town: School Bus Driver Appreciation Day (April 28th)

We wrap up our month of gratitude on April 28th by honoring our School Bus Drivers. For many students, their driver is the very first school representative they see in the morning and the last one they see in the afternoon. Managing a vehicle while ensuring the safety of dozens of children is a massive responsibility, and our drivers do it with incredible care and dedication.

Why They Matter

These roles might look very different on paper, but they share a common mission: supporting the whole child.

• The Librarian feeds the mind.

• The Instructional Assistant empowers the student.

• The Assistant Principal guides the culture.

• The Admin Assistant organizes the environment.

• The Bus Driver ensures the journey is safe.

Without these dedicated individuals, the "magic" of a school day simply wouldn't happen. They are the unsung heroes who work behind the scenes and in the trenches to make sure every student feels seen, safe, and supported.

Join Us in Saying Thank You!

This April, we encourage our families and students to take a moment to acknowledge these vital team members. A simple handwritten note, a warm "good morning," or a quick email of thanks goes a long way in recognizing the heart they put into their work.

"A school is not just a building; it is a community built on the dedication of people who care."

To our IAs, Librarians, Assistant Principals, Admin Assistants, and Bus Drivers: We see you, we value you, and we are so grateful you are part of our team. Happy Appreciation Month!

To our TFHS Seniors: can you feel the shift in the air? The finish line isn’t just a date on the calendar anymore—it’s officially in sight.

As we flip the calendar to April, the Class of 2026 enters the final stretch. With June 5 fast approaching, every day counts. This is the season of "lasts"—the final performances, the last home games, and those closing moments in the halls you’ve called home for four years.

Finish Strong

While "Senioritis" is a real temptation as the weather warms up, now is the time to lean in:

• Protect Your Progress: Keep your eyes on those final credits; you’re almost there!

• Capture the Moments: Sign the yearbooks and thank the mentors who helped you reach this milestone.

• Balance the Busy: Between prom and finals, remember to breathe and enjoy the celebration.

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To Our Senior Families

We share your pride as we approach the big day. Check out Senior Events Guide below for all the essential details.

Class of 2026, let’s make these final weeks legendary!

#ClassOf2026 #SeniorCountdown #FinishStrong

The Gill-Montague Regional School Committee has officially voted to continue its participation in the School Choice Program for the 2026-2027 academic year. This program provides an opportunity for students residing in surrounding towns to attend schools within the Gill-Montague Regional School District (GMRSD).

Application and Enrollment Details

Applications for both intra- and inter-school choice are now available for interested families. Priority is given to intra-district families who apply by May 31, as well as to applicants who already have siblings enrolled in the district.

The district has approved several openings across various grade levels:

• Gill Elementary: Grades K-5 (openings ranging from 2 to 5 seats per grade).

  
  

• Hillcrest & Sheffield: Grades K-5 (openings ranging from 1 to 10 seats per grade).

  
  

• Great Falls Middle School: 10 seats available for each grade (6-8).

  
  

• Turners Falls High School: 10 seats available for each grade (9-12).

  
  

Important Dates and Deadlines

To be considered, completed application packets must be submitted by 4:00 p.m. on Friday, May 29, 2026. The following timeline will guide the selection process:

• April 1st: Available school choice slots are officially announced on the GMRSD website.

  
  

• June 1st: Deadline for the first drawing, which will be held at the district office at 12:00 p.m..

  
  

• July 1st & August 1st: Subsequent drawings will occur if additional seats become available.

  
  

How to Apply

Applications can be downloaded from the GMRSD School Choice website or requested by calling 413-863-9324. Submissions should be sent to Tara McCarthy at the GMRSD Central Office (35 Crocker Avenue, Turners Falls, MA 01376) or via email at tara.mccarthy@gmrsd.org.

Additional Information

• Tours: Families interested in learning more about our schools can schedule a tour by contacting the respective school principal.

  
  

• Transportation: Parents or guardians are responsible for providing and paying for daily transportation to and from school.

  
  

• Selection Process: If applications exceed the number of available seats, a random drawing will be conducted to determine placement and establish a waiting list.

  
  

The Gill-Montague Regional School District remains committed to a non-discriminatory selection process, ensuring equal opportunity for all applicants regardless of race, religion, gender identity, or academic performance.

We are proud to celebrate our seniors who have earned the prestigious John and Abigail Adams Scholarship. This merit-based award provides a tuition credit for up to eight semesters at any Massachusetts state college or university.

To qualify, these students demonstrated academic mastery by scoring in the top 25% of the district on their MCAS exams. This achievement is a testament to their years of hard work, discipline, and intellectual curiosity.

A Shared Success

While the students put in the effort, this milestone also reflects the dedication of our teachers who challenged them and the families who supported them every step of the way.

To our scholars: This award is a well-deserved recognition of your potential. Whether you are heading to a UMass campus or a state university, we know you will continue to do great things.

Congratulations to the Class of 2026 Adams Scholarship winners!

What happens when you ask second graders to reimagine their learning environment? You get a masterclass in innovation, empathy, and bold design.

Recently, Ms. Rice’s second-grade class took on the role of lead architects, designing their "dream schools" and presenting their blueprints to district administrators. As Superintendent, I had the privilege of hearing their formal "pitches," and I was struck by how seriously they approached the task.

The students didn't just suggest fun ideas; they provided compelling arguments for how their designs would help students learn and feel better. Key themes from their presentations included:

• Vibrant Learning: Use of rainbow colors to spark energy and joy.

• Immersive Literacy: "Book mazes" that make getting lost in a story a physical reality.

• Active Breaks: Integrated climbing spaces to keep bodies moving and brains sharp.

• Mental Wellness: Dedicated "calming areas" designed for peace and reflection.

These young visionaries reminded us that the best school designs prioritize both play and peace. Their variety of ideas and persuasive delivery proved that our students have a deep understanding of what it means to feel seen and supported at school.

Thank you, Ms. Rice’s class, for sharing your brilliance and reminding us to always dream big!

The air in the gym was electric this past Thursday as the Gill-Montague school community gathered for our annual Elementary Math Night. This year, we traded in our traditional calculators for top hats and tightropes, transforming the space into a high-energy, circus-themed mathematical extravaganza!

From the moment the "curtain" rose, it was clear that our students, parents, and staff were ready to step into the center ring. With hundreds of attendees filling the hall, the energy was proof that when you combine learning with a little bit of spectacle, everyone wins.

Highlights from the Midway

The evening was packed with "Circus-Calculations" that challenged the mind and delighted the senses. Students navigated a variety of booths, proving that math is much more than numbers on a page—it’s the secret behind every great circus act.

A Community Under the Big Top

What made the night truly "spectacular" wasn't just the games, but the incredible turnout. Seeing teachers, administrators, and families huddled over math puzzles together was a wonderful reminder of the strong support system surrounding our learners.

"It was amazing to see my daughter so excited to solve a word problem just because it involved a clown and a canon," laughed one local parent. "The creativity the staff put into this really made the concepts click."

Thank You to Our Ringmasters

A massive thank you goes out to the dedicated staff and volunteers who worked behind the scenes to coordinate the logistics, decorations, and curriculum-aligned activities. Your passion for making math accessible and fun is what makes our district so special.

To the students and parents who attended: thank you for bringing your curiosity and enthusiasm. You proved that math isn't something to fear—it's something to celebrate!

Following the School Committee meeting on April 14, the district has taken a significant step toward securing the future of our school facilities. The Committee voted unanimously to approve the specific language required by the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) for our upcoming project submissions.

Strengthening Our Partnership

This week the district will officially submit a Statement of Interest (SOI) for Hillcrest Elementary. This submission will accompany our existing interest in Sheffield Elementary, ensuring that our district remains a priority for state funding and modernization support.

Looking Ahead: Our Strategic Vision

This dual submission is part of a broader, long-term strategy to provide the best possible environment for our students while remaining fiscally responsible. Key updates include:

• Campus Consolidation: As part of our long-term master plan, the district is moving forward with an application for the eventual closure of Hillcrest Elementary.

• A Modern Footprint: Under this plan, Hillcrest will not be the surviving building. Instead, we are focusing our efforts on a centralized, state-of-the-art facility that can better serve our entire elementary population under one roof.

What Happens Next?

Now that the SOIs have been submitted with the required board approval, we enter the MSBA’s review period. While these processes take time, this recent vote ensures we are "at the table" for state reimbursement and professional guidance.

We look forward to sharing more details as we receive feedback from the state and continue our work in building a sustainable future for our students and the community. Please see an additional article in this newsletter regarding the School Building Committee we need to form.

Since moving into the Director of Pupil Services role just nine months ago, Kristin has made an immediate and profound impact. She stepped into her role during a critical transition period, immediately taking on the challenge of leading a comprehensive state-mandated integrated monitoring review with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). Through meticulous data organization and the implementation of transparent action plans, she navigated this complex process with precision, ensuring district compliance while keeping the focus firmly on student outcomes.

Beyond her technical expertise, Kristin is celebrated for her "visionary leadership" and her ability to build trusting, caring relationships across the GMRSD community. She has been instrumental in addressing historical challenges, including:

• Rebuilding Trust: Prioritizing clear communication and demonstrating deep competence to staff, students, and families.

• Systemic Improvement: Streamlining evaluation protocols and implementing co-teaching models to better meet diverse student needs.

• Collaborative Leadership: Serving as a vital thought partner for district leaders, bridging instructional, operational, and ethical considerations.

  
  

Kristin’s journey from special education teacher to assistant principal at Sheffield to award-winning director is defined by her belief that every student deserves access to high-quality, individualized instruction. She is a transformative leader who sees obstacles as opportunities to create a more equitable path forward for all learners.

Please join us in congratulating Kristin Dietz on this well-deserved recognition! We are fortunate to have her expertise and compassion guiding our Pupil Services department.

At Gill-Montague Regional School District, our mission is to provide every student with a high-quality, equitable education that prepares them for a bright future. To stay true to this mission, we continually evaluate our programs to ensure that our resources—specifically our talented educators—are positioned where they can have the greatest impact on student success.

Recently, there has been some community discussion regarding the staffing of our English Learner (EL) program. We would like to take this opportunity to clarify our plans for the upcoming school year and share the data-driven reasoning behind these adjustments.

Commitment to Our Bilingual Students

First and foremost, we want to address a common concern: The district is not eliminating EL services at the high school level. Our bilingual and multilingual students are a vital part of our school community. We remain fully committed to meeting all Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) standards and federal requirements. Every student currently receiving EL support will continue to have access to dedicated instruction, advocacy, and testing accommodations.

The Need for Balance

The core of our recent decision is equity. Currently, our EL teacher caseloads are significantly unbalanced, creating a "gap" in how support is distributed across the district.

To illustrate the necessity of this shift, consider our current enrollment distribution:

• One teacher is currently supporting 21 students.

• Two teachers are supporting 9 students each.

• One teacher is supporting only 5 students.

Operating with such a wide disparity (where one educator is responsible for more than four times the students of another) is not an efficient or fair way to serve our children.

The Path Forward: A Three-Teacher Model

By transitioning to a model where our total EL student population is distributed across three dedicated teachers, we are creating a more sustainable and balanced environment. This realignment allows us to:

1. Ensure Fair Support: No single teacher is overburdened, and every student receives consistent attention.

2. Maintain High Standards: All "Tier 1" instructional requirements and legal protections remain firmly in place.

3. Practice Fiscal Responsibility: As stewards of taxpayer resources, we must ensure our staffing levels reflect actual enrollment while still providing top-tier services.

We are proud of the progress our EL students continue to make, and we are confident that this more balanced approach will strengthen the quality of support for all students across the district.

I am deeply honored to share the news that I have been invited to continue serving as your Interim Superintendent for the upcoming school year.

Stepping into this role has been a privilege, and the opportunity to extend my service to this incredible community is one I accept with both gratitude and a sharp focus on our future. While my title remains "Interim," my commitment to our students, staff, and families is absolute.

Building the Bridge to 2027

Our district is currently navigating a season of significant transition. My primary goal for this extended tenure is to provide stability and momentum. We aren’t just "holding the fort"; we are actively building a solid, resilient foundation that will set our next permanent leader up for immediate success.

Whether a permanent successor is named for the 2027-2028 school year or sooner, I am dedicated to ensuring:

• Operational Excellence: Streamlining our processes to ensure resources reach the classroom efficiently.

• Strategic Continuity: Keeping our current initiatives on track so no student’s progress is stalled during the transition.

• Community Trust: Maintaining transparent communication as we prepare for the next chapter of leadership.

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Looking Ahead

I truly believe that the best way to shepherd this district is to lead with heart and clarity. I look forward to another year of collaborating with our talented educators and engaging with our dedicated parents. Together, we are ensuring that when the new permanent leader arrives, they will inherit a district that is thriving, organized, and ready to soar.

Thank you for your continued support and for the trust you place in me every day.

Tari N. Thomas

April is Autism Acceptance Month, a time dedicated to shifting the conversation from "awareness" to acceptance and inclusion. In our district, we recognize that neurodiversity—the beautiful variety in how human brains function—is one of our greatest strengths.

Our classrooms are filled with students who think, learn, and experience the world in unique ways. This month, we celebrate our autistic students, staff, and family members for the unique perspectives they bring to our school community.

What Does Acceptance Look Like in Our Schools?

Inclusion isn't just about being in the same room; it’s about ensuring every student feels they truly belong. Here is how we are putting that commitment into practice:

• Valuing Different Communication Styles: We recognize that "speaking" is only one way to communicate. Whether through technology, sign language, or written word, every student’s voice matters.

• Sensory-Friendly Spaces: Many of our classrooms now utilize "calm-down kits" or designated quiet zones to help students regulate their sensory needs throughout the day.

• Strengths-Based Learning: Instead of focusing solely on challenges, our educators work to highlight the deep interests and specialized talents that many neurodivergent students possess.

• Peer Advocacy: We are teaching our students to be "inclusion allies"—learning how to support their classmates and celebrate the different ways their friends might play or socialize.

Moving Forward Together

Acceptance means moving beyond the idea that there is one "right" way to think or learn. By embracing neurodiversity, we create an environment where every student is empowered to be their authentic self.

We encourage families to use this month as a starting point for conversations at home about kindness, patience, and the value of differences. When we build a culture of acceptance, every student wins.

#AutismAcceptance #NeurodiversityMatters #EveryStudentSucceeds

Building a school is a monumental task that shapes a community for generations. As the Gill-Montague Regional School District (GMRSD) and the Town of Montague prepare to move forward with the proposed Sheffield/Hillcrest building project, we are entering a crucial phase that requires local expertise, passion, and oversight.

We are seeking dedicated community members to serve on the School Building Committee (SBC). This committee will be the primary body responsible for monitoring our project, ensuring it meets the educational needs of our students while addressing the facility needs of the Sheffield and Hillcrest schools with a solution that reflects the values of our district.

What is the School Building Committee?

The SBC is established to guide the planning, design, and implementation of school construction projects, specifically those seeking partnership and funding from the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA). Per state regulations (963 CMR 2.10(3)), the committee must be a diverse group of local officials and community members who bring specific skill sets to the table.

This committee acts in an advisory capacity, with members serving in either voting or non-voting roles to ensure the project remains on track and fiscally responsible to the taxpayers of our member towns.

Who Are We Looking For?

While many members of the committee are designated by their professional roles—such as the Superintendent and local officials—we are looking for volunteers from the Town of Montague to fill the following specific positions:

• 3 Community Members (Voting/Advisory): Individuals with professional experience in architecture, construction, and/or engineering.

• 2 Gill-Montague Public School Parents from Montague (Voting/Advisory): To provide the essential perspective of families currently in the district.

• 2 Gill-Montague Public School Staff Members (Non-voting/Advisory): To offer insight into the daily educational needs of our educators and students.

Commitment and Requirements

Serving on the SBC is a significant but rewarding commitment. The total timeline for this project is estimated at 5–7 years. The schedule includes:

• A minimum of one meeting per month.

• The potential for additional meetings as necessary during critical project phases.

• Adherence to Massachusetts Open Meeting Law and Public Records Law.

How to Apply

If you are interested in being part of this vital work for the future of Montague’s schools, please submit your application via email.

To apply, email Tara McCarthy at tara.mccarthy@gmrsd.org with the following information:

1. Full Name, Email, Address, and Phone Number.

2. Your background, including specific skills or interests that would help the School Committee evaluate your application.

3. Clearly indicate which category you wish to be considered for: (Parent, Staff, or Architecture/Construction/Engineering)

Important Deadlines:

• Application Deadline: Friday, June 26, 2026

• Interviews: The School Committee will hold a joint meeting over the summer to review letters of interest and determine next steps.

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We thank you in advance for your thoughtful consideration of being part of this very important work. For more information on the state requirements for building committees, you can visit the MSBA website.

Welcome! We are glad you are here, adding a different perspective and new optimism to our mission to prepare every single one of our students, exceedingly well, for higher learning in the 21st century.

Phillip Pitelli, 6th grade Mathematics at GFMS

We are always looking for qualified faculty and staff to serve our students and make a positive contribution to our schools. If you have the qualifications we are looking for, we invite you to complete the employment application. We look forward to hearing from you!

https://www.gmrsd.org/human-resources

We are looking for Instructional Assistants, substitutes at a variety of levels and departments as well as athletics coaches.

35 Crocker Avenue,

Turners Falls, MA 01376

Email: tari.thomas@gmrsd.org
Website: www.gmrsd.org