The Common
Dear Nashoba Community,
This week’s school committee meeting marked an important step in the FY26 Budget development process, with the committee voting to approve the FY26 Proposed Budget. This process, which began in January, has been challenging as we faced a budget deficit that was larger than in recent memory and significant increases to special education services (non-salary), insurance and benefits, and school choice and tuition charter costs. While the budget has been approved by the school committee, it is not yet final. Each of our three towns will vote on the budget following their Annual Town Meetings in May, marking the final step in the approval process.
At this juncture, I would like to express our appreciation to the town administrators, select boards, and finance committees of Bolton, Lancaster, and Stow. Their engagement and communication throughout this budget season demonstrates the strong partnership between the district and the towns in supporting our education goals and in meeting the needs of each and every student.
I encourage everyone, both within and outside of the school district, to stay engaged with the work that we have done. All previous FY26 budget versions, presentation slides, and school committee recordings are available on our FY26 Budget Development site. Additionally, our Finance and Operations Center offers more information on the budget process, previous budgets, the Regional Agreement, and more.
In other news, construction of our new high school is progressing. As Consigli nears completion of the steel erection process, we are excited to invite the community to sign the final beam that will be placed. We will host a signing event at the current NRHS high school for all interested community members on Saturday, May 17th, 2025 between 10:00am and 12:00pm. You can catch up on the project's progress with our most recent video update.
Peace,
Kirk Downing (He/Him)
Superintendent
Pi Day, which is celebrated annually on March 14th, was first recognized in 1988 when physicist Larry Shaw organized the event to make mathematics more relatable and fun. The date was chosen because it represents the first three digits of pi when written out.
This Pi Day, we would like to acknowledge the Nashoba Math Team for their successful performance in the Worcester County Math League! The team wrapped up the season with a strong finish, securing a top spot in their division during the final meet of the year. Throughout the season, the team finished in the top four overall, with all five members of Team #1 earning spots in the top 25 scorers for the division, with one student finishing fourth overall!
As a final reminder, the Innovation Pathways Program will be hosting virtual office hours next Wednesday, March 19th, 2025, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. These office hours will focus on the incoming Class of 2029 and will provide an opportunity for families to ask questions about the application process, program structure, and what to expect during freshman year. To participate, please fill out the form below. For one-on-one meetings, you can contact our Innovation Pathways Coordinator directly at bhannigan@nrsd.net.
Upcoming Events for Nashoba SEPAC
Up next, SEPAC will host their SEPAC Business Meeting on April 8th, 2025. The event will run between 6:30pm - 8:00pm. SEPAC stands for the Special Education Parent Advisory Council. SEPAC is a volunteer organization made up of parents/guardians of students with disabilities (IEPs and 504 plans) or other special education needs in Stow, Bolton and Lancaster. Check the 2024-2025 SEPAC Calendar of Events below to access the meeting link, along with all other upcoming events!
Helpful Tips for Seasonal Allergies
As the Cold and Flu Season winds down, the Allergy Season is gearing up. Health Offices do not have allergy medications as standing orders, so if your children take medications for seasonal allergies, they will need to be taken at home. But, medication is not the only intervention against allergies!
Below are some tips that may help to Nip Seasonal Allergies in the Bud!
Reduce exposure to allergy triggers by:
Wearing a light layer outside and removing it when you come inside
Washing your hands and face after being outside
Keep an eye on high pollen counts
If pollen counts are high, consider masking while outside
If counts are up, consider closing windows and doors to keep pollen outside
Rinse out the sinuses
Consult your medical provider about additional treatments if current treatments are not working
For additional information on seasonal allergies please see the resources provided by The Mayo Clinic.
Positions Available!
Are you looking for a way to earn extra income while maintaining a flexible schedule? Do you want a role that aligns with your child's school hours, or are you a former teacher looking to stay connected to education?
Consider becoming a substitute—opportunities are available! Thank you for considering this meaningful way to support our school. Learn more here!
Nashoba Notable Award! Thank a Nashoba Employee!
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!
