Superintendent’s Report to the School Committee, 12/17/25

Model UN Team Competes at St. John’s Prep

Masconomet DECA Team Achieves Unprecedented Success at DECA District 3 Career Development Conference: 80 Students Qualify for State Conference

The Masconomet DECA chapter had a strong showing at this year’s District 3 Career Development Conference, held on Wednesday, December 11, and Thursday, December 12, at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Danvers.

With more than 1,450 students from eleven schools competing in over 50 marketing, finance, hospitality, and entrepreneurship events, Masconomet stood out in both participation and performance. This year, 215 Masco students took the stage at Districts—and an impressive 80 students earned a spot at the DECA State Career Development Conference, taking place March 12 through March 14 in Boston. This milestone reflects the hard work, professionalism, and perseverance our students consistently demonstrate.

At Districts, team and series competitors completed a 100-question exam in November and delivered a roleplay—solving real-world business scenarios in front of a judge. Project competitors conducted in-depth research, developed written papers, and presented their solutions during the conference.

DECA is a co-curricular organization that prepares high school students for college and career success by fostering leadership, communication, critical thinking, and community engagement. Now in its eighth year at Masconomet, our chapter includes nearly one-quarter of the school’s student body. The program is led by Business Teachers Bryan Duplissie and Madison (Estes) Marc-Aurele, along with Business/Computer Science Teacher Jennifer Richard. The support of the Business and Computer Science Department and school administration continues to play a crucial role in our students’ achievements.

MASCO DECA District 2025 Winners 

PlaceCategoryName
1Entrepreneurship SeriesWill Allen
1Travel & Tourism Marketing Team Decision MakingAngelica Kotsiras / Anna Musial
1Buying and Merchandising OperationsJack Engel / Kai Hird / Kuin Hird
1Finance OperationsKaeley Forde / Hannah Mitchell
1Franchise Business PlanJordyn Fallis / Samia Lalikos
1Hospitality and Tourism Professional Selling EventKathleen Daly
PlaceCategoryName
2Principles of MarketingIsabella D’Addario
2Sports and Entertainment Marketing SeriesJack Kotsiras
2Buying and Merchandising Team Decision MakingCharlie Francis / Ryan Richardson
2Business Services OperationsDelilah Katsos / Hudson Rollins
2Sports & Entertainment Marketing OperationsLuke Fiedler / JJ Mckenna / Jonathan Pinelli
2Start-Up Business PlanAlessia Ross / Grace Ross
2Professional Selling EventSophia Carson
PlaceCategoryName
3Buying and Merchandising Team Decision MakingElise Clapp / Genevieve Clapp
3Travel & Tourism Marketing Team Decision MakingClara Emig / Evelyn Emig
3Business Services OperationsAva Gauvain / Maggie Llewellyn
3Hospitality & Tourism OperationsAyla Geraghty-Sari / Nicolle Sofronas
3Sports & Entertainment Marketing OperationsJohn Caron / Braden Gregerick / Akash Menon
3Community Giving ProjectColby Junge
3Sales ProjectJohn Green / Nathaniel Mroczek / Chester Thompson
3Integrated Marketing Campaign ServiceAva LeBlanc
3Financial ConsultingCaitlin Kohn
PlaceCategoryName
4Principles of MarketingMegan Mills
4Entrepreneurship SeriesArjun Shreyakar
4Entrepreneurship Team Decision MakingRania Aboujja / Lidia Alberta
4Travel & Tourism Marketing Team Decision MakingSilas Harrison / Lincoln Sandler
4Hospitality & Tourism OperationsJana Buisir / Tessa Rossi
4Sports & Entertainment Marketing OperationsTara Thompson
4Community Awareness ProjectClaudia Corsini / London Gray
4Innovation PlanTyler Johnson / Owen Quinn
4Hospitality and Tourism Professional Selling EventSadie Ludmar
PlaceCategoryName
5Automotive Services Marketing SeriesAlex Barrera
5Hotel and Lodging ManagementAnnabelle Leblanc
5Finance OperationsNatasha Bhatia / Madison Gibeau / Elizabeth Shoemaker
5Business Growth PlanColin Doherty / Danny Karas / Sam Richardson
5Innovation PlanAdam Mouhawil / Dylan Skladany
5Integrated Marketing Campaign ProductRachel Bushey / Gianna Martin / Stella Siewko
6Automotive Services Marketing SeriesLucien Raymond
6Hotel and Lodging ManagementAlejandro Rave
6Business Services OperationsAlex Cantalupo / Nino Stefanelli
6Hospitality & Tourism OperationsEmerson Odoardi / Ava Whitman
6Business Solutions ProjectRia Kundaliya / Adelyn Ventura
6Career Development ProjectAnna Gustafson / Maya Hunter
6Franchise Business PlanMia Antonakes / Charlotte Caron / Avery Casey

Parent Coffee Schedule

This year, we will again be hosting as series of parent coffees on Friday mornings at 8:30 AM. These coffees are an opportunity for members of the public to meet with school principals, members of the District Administrative Team and me to ask questions and discuss issues that concern the Masconomet District. Our next scheduled Parent Coffees will be held at the Middle School on December 19 and at the High School on January 16. All Parent Coffees are from 8:30 to 9:30 AM. Parents should report to the main office of their respective schools to check in for the parent coffee.

Please click here for the list of Principal’s Coffee Dates for the 2025-2026 School Year.

Community Notices

Stay in Touch with Masconomet

District Communications and Quick Reference Guide

Have a question or concern and don’t know where to start? The District Communications and Quick Reference Guide will get you in touch with the right person at Masconomet.

How We Communicate

“How We Communicate” outlines our District’s communication methods.

School Principals’ Blogs

Both our Middle and High School Principal’s publish weekly blogs with information from their schools.  For more school-specific info, please see the High School Principal’s Masco Memo and the Middle School Principal’s Weekly Update.

Masconomet’s Strategic Plan, 2023-2028

Masconomet 2025-2026 Strategic Initiative Goals

Masconomet’s Portrait of a Learner

Designed with WordPress

Superintendent’s Report to the School Committee, 12/3/25

Masconomet Cheerleading Wins State Championship

Congratulations to our Cheerleading Team for winning the State Championship in the “Small Co-Ed Division” at the 2025 Massachusetts School Administrators Association’s Fall Cheerleading Championships. The competition was held on Saturday, November 22nd at Worcester State University. The team posted a 95.3 score, which was 1.4 points ahead of second place Duxbury High School. The team was escorted home on Saturday evening by our local public safety departments and was honored with a “Rolling Rally” through the halls of the High School on the morning of November 24th. The video of the winning routine is below.

Masconomet High School’s “Days of Giving” begins December 8th

Every year, the Masconomet Peer Leaders sponsor “Days of Giving at Masconomet High School,” which focuses on giving and building community!  The Peer Leaders are again seeking donations of gifts and/or gift cards for adolescents aged 12 and up. This age range is specifically chosen to ensure that all children have a merry and bright holiday season. All collected items will go directly to students and families in the Tri-Town! Collection of donations will take place outside of the High School Library starting Monday, December 8th and ending on Friday, December 12th. 

All 9th graders and Peer Leaders will have their December meeting during M-block on Wednesday, December 3rd in the auditorium to kick off this event.

To continue with the month-long event, Peer Leading will also be sponsoring the following activities:

  1. Holiday-themed spirit week: Monday, December 15th – Tuesday, December 23rd.
  2. Holiday Door Decorating Contest: A competition amongst M-blocks to decorate the best door based on an assigned holiday theme!

High School Musical, December 4, 5, & 6

Parent Coffee Schedule

This year, we will again be hosting as series of parent coffees on Friday mornings at 8:30 AM. These coffees are an opportunity for members of the public to meet with school principals, members of the District Administrative Team and me to ask questions and discuss issues that concern the Masconomet District. Our next scheduled Parent Coffees will be held at the Middle School on December 19 and at the High School on December 12. All Parent Coffees are from 8:30 to 9:30 AM. Parents should report to the main office of their respective schools to check in for the parent coffee.

Please click here for the list of Principal’s Coffee Dates for the 2025-2026 School Year.

Community Notices

Stay in Touch with Masconomet

District Communications and Quick Reference Guide

Have a question or concern and don’t know where to start? The District Communications and Quick Reference Guide will get you in touch with the right person at Masconomet.

How We Communicate

“How We Communicate” outlines our District’s communication methods.

School Principals’ Blogs

Both our Middle and High School Principal’s publish weekly blogs with information from their schools.  For more school-specific info, please see the High School Principal’s Masco Memo and the Middle School Principal’s Weekly Update.

Masconomet’s Strategic Plan, 2023-2028

Masconomet 2025-2026 Strategic Initiative Goals

Masconomet’s Portrait of a Learner

Designed with WordPress

Superintendent’s Report to the School Committee, 11/19/25

Professional Learning – Faculty-Led Workshops 

Our educators recently completed the first round of Faculty-Led Workshops, and the participant response has been very positive. These professional learning opportunities empowered faculty to learn directly from their colleagues, strengthening collaboration and reinforcing the expertise within our own community.

Special thanks to the following Masconomet educators for building leadership capacity and facilitating these workshops:

Ellen Sheehy, Library Media Specialist

Al McCarthy, Instructional Technology Specialist, High School Computer Science Teacher

Ursina Amsler, Middle School Art Teacher

Madison Marc-Aurele, High School Business Teacher

Jennifer Richard, High School Business Teacher

Ben Hodges, Director of Digital Learning, Business and Computer Science Department Chair, 

Ai Li, Chinese/ELL Teacher

Jenna Gagnon, High School English Teacher

Christian LeBlanc, Middle School English Teacher

Nick Parianos, High School Wellness Teacher

These workshops reflected a wide range of professional interests and needs, including Technology Integration Tools, Self-Care, AI, Sheltered English Immersion, English Book Club, CPR/AED, and Paraeducator E-Learning. 

We are excited to share that the next round of professional learning workshops will resume on January 14, 2026, with several outside partners joining in as well. 

High School Musical, December 4, 5, & 6

Middle School Holiday Food Drive

The Masconomet Middle School Student Council is holding a Food Drive beginning on Monday, November 10th thru Wednesday, November 26th.

Many in the tri-town area are in need of support and rely on the donations of local citizens to fill the pantries during the holiday season.  If you can make a donation of any size the student council and the community at large greatly appreciate it!

Donation boxes will be located in most classrooms as well as in the main office area.  Student council members will be available each morning to total up each donation and will attribute the gathering to a team so that we can crown a champion.

Who will Receive Donations?

  • Trinity Church Food Pantry – Topsfield, MA
  • First Church Congregational Food Pantry – Boxford, MA
  • Acord Food Pantry – Hamilton, MA

Donations can also be made directly thru Amazon at the following link –

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/genericItemsPage/VU6Z62GT7H0P

If you would like to donate online please send a print out of your receipt with your student so that we can add it to the total!

Goals

Our primary goal is to provide food and personal hygiene items to those in need during this incredibly difficult time.  Any support that you and your family can provide would be greatly appreciated!

Prizes!

The winning M-Block will be awarded the most sought after trophy in the North Shore, the Canley Cup! (They will also have a party).

Food Items Wish List

Please click on the following LINK to find a list of the food items that we are seeking during our food drive.

Thank you for your support!

Youth Risk Behavior Survey Administered Today

The Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) was administered today to all grades at Masconomet during M-Block. The YRBS is administered at Masconomet every other year by the Tri-Town Council. Separate surveys containing developmentally appropriate questions were administered at the Middle and High Schools. The YRBS is designed to monitor priority health risk behaviors that contribute to the leading causes of death, disease, injury, and social problems among youth. Questions in these anonymous surveys measured youth demographics, substance use, protective factors, depression, personal safety, and sexual health. YRBS results will be analyzed by the Tri-Town Council’s Youth Action Advisory Board (YAAB) and will be presented publicly next fall. The results of these surveys are used by Masconomet administration and faculty to develop programming to meet student needs.

Parent Coffee Schedule

This year, we will again be hosting as series of parent coffees on Friday mornings at 8:30 AM. These coffees are an opportunity for members of the public to meet with school principals, members of the District Administrative Team and me to ask questions and discuss issues that concern the Masconomet District. Our next scheduled Parent Coffees will be held at the Middle School on November 21 and December 19 and at the High School on December 12. All Parent Coffees are from 8:30 to 9:30 AM. Parents should report to the main office of their respective schools to check in for the parent coffee.

Please click here for the list of Principal’s Coffee Dates for the 2025-2026 School Year.

School Cancellation Notification Procedures

As we enter the winter season and the possibility of inclement weather, I wanted to share with you our procedures for communicating school cancellations and delayed openings.   

School cancellation or delayed opening announcements will first be communicated through “passive” means, such as Instagram and local news media outlets and then later through direct telephone contact through our Blackboard Communication System.

Once the decision is made to cancel or delay the start of school, it will be communicated through the following outlets:

Direct Contact Communications through Blackboard via telephone and email should be sent out prior to 8:30 PM if a decision to close or delay school has been reached on the evening prior or at 6:00 AM if a decision is made on the morning of the cancellation or delayed opening.

All Media Communications will be sent out as soon as a decision has been made regardless of the time, and should be before 5:30 AM on the morning of the cancellation/delay.

Instagram:  follow @masconometsuper.  This will always be the first place for school cancellation and delayed opening announcements.

Masconomet Website on the home page under “Superintendent News and Announcements.” www.masconomet.org

Community Notices

Stay in Touch with Masconomet

District Communications and Quick Reference Guide

Have a question or concern and don’t know where to start? The District Communications and Quick Reference Guide will get you in touch with the right person at Masconomet.

How We Communicate

“How We Communicate” outlines our District’s communication methods.

School Principals’ Blogs

Both our Middle and High School Principal’s publish weekly blogs with information from their schools.  For more school-specific info, please see the High School Principal’s Masco Memo and the Middle School Principal’s Weekly Update.

Masconomet’s Strategic Plan, 2023-2028

Masconomet 2025-2026 Strategic Initiative Goals

Masconomet’s Portrait of a Learner

Designed with WordPress

Superintendent’s Report to the School Committee, 11/5/25

MSBA Invites Masconomet into Feasibility Study Phase for Roof Replacement and HVAC Conversion Project

On Wednesday, Oct. 29, the Board of Directors of the Massachusetts School Building Authority invited Masconomet Middle School and Masconomet High School into the schematic design phase its Accelerated Repair Program. The Masconomet Regional School District submitted a proposal in April to replace the roof, and convert the heating/cooling systems to heat pumps at the Middle and High Schools. The Accelerated Repair Program supports improving learning environments for children and teachers, reducing energy use, and generating cost savings for districts.

The roof and heating/cooling systems have been identified as in need of repair or replacement for several years. The roof was last replaced in 2001, with an expected 20-year lifespan. The District completed extensive short-term repairs to the roof in 2019 that were expected to last approximately five years. 

Inconsistent heating/cooling has greatly interrupted the District’s ability to create conditions conducive to learning. The two current boilers in the Middle School are approximately 60 years old and in danger of failing. The High School’s boilers were installed in 2001. The lack of a functioning HVAC control system also hinders the ability to maintain appropriate classroom temperatures.

Replacing the current HVAC system with heat pumps will eliminate current issues with inconsistent heating and add the ability to provide air conditioning to all classroom spaces. Furthermore, new building systems will reduce energy costs and support ongoing conservation efforts. The project is expected to extend the life of the building for at least another 20 years.

“The District has been doing its best to keep up, but these systems are failing. Assistant Superintendent Jeff Sands and HVAC Technician Keith Starosciak have worked tirelessly to ensure our HVAC systems have remained operational. We’ve been very fortunate to have not had a catastrophe such as losing a boiler in the winter, where we would have to close school for multiple days,” Superintendent Michael Harvey said. “I would like to thank Mr. Sands and Mr. Starosciak for their work in developing our Statement of Interest submittal to the MSBA.  We’re grateful that the MSBA has accepted us into the Accelerated Repair Program, which will help us address these issues and be able to concentrate on education once again.”

 By entering the program, Masconomet can expect MSBA grant funding to significantly reduce the impact on taxpayers.

Voters in Boxford, Middleton, and Topsfield will be asked to support the funding for the schematic design phase at their spring Annual Town Meetings.  If approved, the District will develop schematic drawings and cost estimates for the roof replacement and HVAC work over the next 14 months.

8th Grade Parent Night at Masconomet High School on 11/13

On Thursday, November 13th, we invite parents of prospective 9th grade students to attend our annual 8th Grade Open House. This event is designed to help students and families joining the Masconomet Regional High School for the 2026–2027 school year to learn more about what we have to offer.

During the evening, you will hear from the principal, meet department heads, and explore some of the many clubs, activities, and athletic teams available at Masconomet.

Track Replacement and Softball and Tennis Facility Upgrade Project Update

Earlier this week, Asst. Superintendent Jeff Sands and I met with the design team from Vision Sports Design to review the latest draft design for renovations to our outdoor track, softball fields and tennis courts.  These plans include elements to address handicap access issues around the stadium and bring our softball facilities in line with baseball.  The plans will be reviewed with the School Committee’s Capital and Budget Working Group on November 21st and with the full School Committee this winter. 

Parent Coffee Schedule

This year, we will again be hosting as series of parent coffees on Friday mornings at 8:30 AM. These coffees are an opportunity for members of the public to meet with school principals, members of the District Administrative Team and me to ask questions and discuss issues that concern the Masconomet District. Our next scheduled Parent Coffees will be held at the High School on November 14 and at the Middle School on November 21. All Parent Coffees are from 8:30 to 9:30 AM. Parents should report to the main office of their respective schools to check in for the parent coffee.

Please click here for the list of Principal’s Coffee Dates for the 2025-2026 School Year.

School Cancellation Notification Procedures

As we enter the winter season and the possibility of inclement weather, I wanted to share with you our procedures for communicating school cancellations and delayed openings.   

School cancellation or delayed opening announcements will first be communicated through “passive” means, such as Instagram and local news media outlets and then later through direct telephone contact through our Blackboard Communication System.

Once the decision is made to cancel or delay the start of school, it will be communicated through the following outlets:

Direct Contact Communications through Blackboard via telephone and email should be sent out prior to 8:30 PM if a decision to close or delay school has been reached on the evening prior or at 6:00 AM if a decision is made on the morning of the cancellation or delayed opening.

All Media Communications will be sent out as soon as a decision has been made regardless of the time, and should be before 5:30 AM on the morning of the cancellation/delay.

Instagram:  follow @masconometsuper.  This will always be the first place for school cancellation and delayed opening announcements.

Masconomet Website on the home page under “Superintendent News and Announcements.” www.masconomet.org

Community Notices

Stay in Touch with Masconomet

District Communications and Quick Reference Guide

Have a question or concern and don’t know where to start? The District Communications and Quick Reference Guide will get you in touch with the right person at Masconomet.

How We Communicate

“How We Communicate” outlines our District’s communication methods.

School Principals’ Blogs

Both our Middle and High School Principal’s publish weekly blogs with information from their schools.  For more school-specific info, please see the High School Principal’s Masco Memo and the Middle School Principal’s Weekly Update.

Masconomet’s Strategic Plan, 2023-2028

Masconomet 2025-2026 Strategic Initiative Goals

Masconomet’s Portrait of a Learner

Designed with WordPress

Superintendent’s Report to the School Committee, 10/22/25

Masconomet Students Goss and Turco Featured in Boston Globe Article on Best Buddies Walk

Congratulations to Masconomet sophomore Matthew Goss and senior Olivia Turco on being featured in the October 16th edition of the Boston Globe in the article “Boxford teens walk in friendship for Best Buddies.” Matthew and Elizabeth participated on the “Matthew’s Troops” fundraising team in the Best Buddies Friendship Walk in Boston this past weekend. Both students are also active in our local Masconomet Best Buddies Chapter, which is facilitated by high school teacher Kevin Carens. Here’s a link to the article: https://www.bostonglobe.com/2025/10/16/metro/best-buddies-friendship-walk-boston-2025/?p1=BGSearch_Overlay_Results

Matthew Goss and Olivia Turco. photo: Boston Globe

DESE Hosts Public Comment Session on Chapter 70 Funding at Masconomet on 10/23

The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education will be conducting public listening sessions on the Chapter 70 Budget Formula this fall.  The first session will be here in the Masconomet Auditorium on Thursday, October 23rd from 4:30-6:30 PM.  More info on the sessions, including the process for speaking during the session or submitting written comments, can be found here:  https://www.doe.mass.edu/finance/chapter70/fy2026-local-contribution-study.html

State Reps. Ramos and Nguyen to present at Masconomet Middle School

State Representative Adrianne Ramos is scheduled to speak with our 7th graders on 10/23 and State Representative Tram Nguyen will speak to our 8th graders on 10/30 during M-Block. Both Representatives will be speaking to students about public service and community involvement.

Middle School Parent Teacher Conferences on 10/30

Conferences will take place on October 30 from 2:30-6:50pm. The link for parents to schedule conferences was sent out from the Middle School last week. Please call the Middle School Main Office with questions.

Internet Safety Presentation for Parents on 11/4

8th Grade Parent Night at Masconomet High School on 11/13

On Thursday, November 13th, we invite you to attend our annual 8th Grade Open House. This event is designed to help students and families joining the Masconomet Regional High School for the 2026–2027 school year to learn more about what we have to offer.

During the evening, you will hear from the principal, meet department heads, and explore some of the many clubs, activities, and athletic teams available at Masconomet.

We look forward to seeing you that evening! Please keep an eye out for more details regarding the evening.

Message Regarding Special Education Reductions at US Department of Education

As the impact of the Government Shutdown continues to unfold, we are hearing more and more stories about government layoffs, specifically at the United States Department of Education.  You may have seen the Boston Globe article regarding mass layoffs at the Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP).

We will continue to monitor the impact of the situation and make decisions about what is best for our students.  We want to assure you that despite what is happening on the federal level, we maintain our highest commitment to the students of the Tri-Town and Masco, and their legal right to an education.  We have a long history of providing an excellent educational experience through other turbulent times and we will work to continue that history.

If you have specific questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to your program coordinator or the Student Services Offices.

Parent Coffee Schedule

This year, we will again be hosting as series of parent coffees on Friday mornings at 8:30 AM. These coffees are an opportunity for members of the public to meet with school principals, members of the District Administrative Team and me to ask questions and discuss issues that concern the Masconomet District. Our next scheduled Parent Coffees will be held at the Middle School on October 24 and November 21 and at the High School on November 14. All Parent Coffees are from 8:30 to 9:30 AM. Parents should report to the main office of their respective schools to check in for the parent coffee.

Please click here for the list of Principal’s Coffee Dates for the 2025-2026 School Year.

Community Partner Notices

Stay in Touch with Masconomet

District Communications and Quick Reference Guide

Have a question or concern and don’t know where to start? The District Communications and Quick Reference Guide will get you in touch with the right person at Masconomet.

How We Communicate

“How We Communicate” outlines our District’s communication methods.

School Principals’ Blogs

Both our Middle and High School Principal’s publish weekly blogs with information from their schools.  For more school-specific info, please see the High School Principal’s Masco Memo and the Middle School Principal’s Weekly Update.

Masconomet’s Strategic Plan, 2023-2028

Masconomet 2025-2026 Strategic Initiative Goals

Masconomet’s Portrait of a Learner

Designed with WordPress

Superintendent’s Report to the School Committee, 10/8/25

Thank You To Our Middle School Science Teachers

In 2019, a group called OpenSciEd developed an open-sourced, high-quality, standards-based science program for grades 6-8. Last year, Masconomet Middle School was fortunate to receive a generous $44,700 grant from the One8 Foundation to support our adoption of the OpenSciEd curriculum over the next three years. This funding provides us with hands-on science materials as well as professional learning opportunities for both educators and administrators. 

We are especially grateful to the following teachers who recently attended a four-day Curriculum Launch in preparation for bringing OpenSciEd to our 7th and 8th-grade classrooms:

Grade 7:Grade 8:
Michael SuretteTimothy Brown
Deborah WescottPatrick Hogan
Caitlin Wrobel

As a result of their commitment, our teachers now possess a strong understanding of the OpenSciEd approach and pedagogy. This preparation ensures that students will experience science learning that is both rigorous and authentic.

Tri-Town Council Presents “The Secret Lives of Teen and Tweens” by John Mattleman

On Thursday, October 9 at 7:00 PM, the Tri Town Council presents speaker Jon Mattleman’s “The Secret Lives of Teens and Tweens”  in the Masco Auditorium. This is a Parent / Caring Adult Program. Mattleman’s presentation will provide insight into what’s going on in adolescent brains, the complexity of their lives (including anxiety, depression, suicide), what they do/say and why, and how caring adults can better support them.

The Tri-Town Council will also host an Open Gym in the Masconomet Field House from 7-9 PM on October 9th. Open to middle and high school youth, it’s a chance to get together and shoot hoops, play games, or just hang out.

Turf Field Update

Masconomet’s application for a permit to construct two artificial turf fields on our campus was reviewed at the Boxford Conservation Commission’s September 18th meeting. Stantec, the District’s designer on the project, has responded to all of the questions in the peer review study conducted at the Conservation Commission’s request by engineering firm Williams and Sparges. The Conservation Commission would now like the District to document its requirements for PFAS-free materials in the artificial turf. The project is due to be back before the Conservation Commission at its October 16th meeting.

Masconomet Music Parents Electronic Recycling Fundraiser, Saturday October 18th

PSAT for Masconomet 11th Grade, Wednesday October 15th

The Preliminary SAT, also known as the PSAT/NMSQT (National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test), is a practice version of the College Board SAT exam. This year, Masconomet will offer the PSAT to all current Juniors (class of 2027) on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, in the Field House. Juniors are automatically registered for the PSAT, and the Masconomet School District provides the exam at zero cost to families. Please check your email for additional information.

Middle School Parent Parent Conferences, Thursday October 30th

Middle School Parent Conferences will take place on October 30 from 2:30-6:50pm. Counselors will contact parents of struggling students to schedule appointment times and the general signups will open on October 16 at 6pm. A link will be sent to all parents and caregivers for the general signups.

Parent Coffee Schedule for October

This year, we will again be hosting as series of parent coffees on Friday mornings at 8:30 AM. These coffees are an opportunity for members of the public to meet with school principals, members of the District Administrative Team and me to ask questions and discuss issues that concern the Masconomet District. Our Parent Coffees this month will be held in the High School on October 17 and in the Middle School on October 24 from 8:30 to 9:30 AM. Parents should report to the main office of their respective schools to check in for the parent coffee.

Please click here for the list of Principal’s Coffee Dates for the 2025-2026 School Year.

Stay in Touch with Masconomet

District Communications and Quick Reference Guide

Have a question or concern and don’t know where to start? The District Communications and Quick Reference Guide will get you in touch with the right person at Masconomet.

How We Communicate

“How We Communicate” outlines our District’s communication methods.

School Principals’ Blogs

Both our Middle and High School Principal’s publish weekly blogs with information from their schools.  For more school-specific info, please see the High School Principal’s Masco Memo and the Middle School Principal’s Weekly Update.

Masconomet’s Strategic Plan, 2023-2028

Masconomet 2025-2026 Strategic Initiative Goals

Masconomet’s Portrait of a Learner

Designed with WordPress

Superintendent’s Report to the School Committee, 9/24/25

Upcoming Tri-Town Council Programs

Well Creativity Workshops: a guided youth program exploring the connection between creativity and wellness. This is a new workshop series, which is being piloted this fall in conjunction with our PhotoVoice program. The workshops are for middle or high school youth and will meet on 4 Wednesdays after school 1:30-3:30 at Tri-Town Council. The first is Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22 and the second is Nov. 5, 12, 19, Dec. 3. 

On Thursday, October 9 at 7:00 PM, the Tri Town Council presents speaker Jon Mattleman’s “The Secret Lives of Teens and Tweens”  in the Masco Auditorium. This is a Parent / Caring Adult Program. Mattleman’s presentation will provide insight into what’s going on in adolescent brains, the complexity of their lives (including anxiety, depression, suicide), what they do/say and why, and how caring adults can better support them.

The Tri-Town Council will also host an Open Gym in the Masconomet Field House from 7-9 PM on October 9th. Open to middle and high school youth, it’s a chance to get together and shoot hoops, play games, or just hang out.

Turf Field Update

Masconomet’s application for a permit to construct two artificial turf fields on our campus was reviewed at the Boxford Conservation Commission’s September 18th meeting. Stantec, the District’s designer on the project, has responded to all of the questions in the peer review study conducted at the Conservation Commission’s request by engineering firm Williams and Sparges. The Conservation Commission would now like the District to document its requirements for PFAS-free materials in the artificial turf. The project is due to be back before the Conservation Commission at its October 16th meeting.

Masconomet Education Foundation (MEF)

MEF is looking for parent volunteers! If you’re looking for a way to get to know Masco and make a difference in your child’s school experience, please consider getting involved with MEF. Through MEF, you will have the opportunity to work directly with teachers, department heads, principals, the superintendent, and other administrators to raise funds that directly benefit our students. These funds support enriching experiences like field trips, guest speakers, and new technology that enhance student learning.

MEF is always seeking new volunteers and would love to share more about the incredible programs they’ve supported over the years. For more information on MEF, please ego to www.mascoef.org  If you’d like to get involved, send an email to info@masconometeducationfoundation.org

Please considering joining Masconomet Parent Activities Committee (PAC)

Masconomet Parent Activities Committee (“PAC”) is the high school and middle school’s parent organization designed to sponsor activities and events that will enhance the educational and extra-curricular needs of our students by helping the teachers and faculty with various activities. PAC provides Tri-Town families the option to be involved by donating and/or volunteering at PAC sponsored events throughout the academic year. PAC cannot operate unless we get more parents to join.

PAC is currently looking fill the following positions on its board:

  • President
  • Vice-President
  • Secretary

PAC also needs a middle school parent rep and a grade 11 parent rep as well as parent volunteers during various events throughout the year.

If you are interested in learning more about PAC please reach out to freshman class rep, Tara Donnell- tarah02135@yahoo.com or senior class rep. Kathleena Scarpato -katscarp@gmail.com.

Stay in Touch with Masconomet

District Communications and Quick Reference Guide

Have a question or concern and don’t know where to start? The District Communications and Quick Reference Guide will get you in touch with the right person at Masconomet.

How We Communicate

“How We Communicate” outlines our District’s communication methods.

School Principals’ Blogs

Both our Middle and High School Principal’s publish weekly blogs with information from their schools.  For more school-specific info, please see the High School Principal’s Masco Memo and the Middle School Principal’s Weekly Update.

Masconomet’s Strategic Plan, 2023-2028

Masconomet 2025-2026 Strategic Initiative Goals

Masconomet’s Portrait of a Learner

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Superintendent’s Report to the School Committee, 9/10/25

Welcome Back!

We’ve had a great opening to the 2025-2026 school year. Teachers returned to work on Monday, August 25. They participated in our all-district meeting, met with their principals and department heads, and had time to complete annual required trainings and set up their classrooms.

On Tuesday, August 26, we welcomed our incoming 7th and 9th grade students for orientation. Ninth grade student orientation is led by our Peer Leaders, who are upper grade students trained to help ninth graders with the transition to high school. Peer leaders are assigned a small group of ninth grade students to meet with throughout the school year. Thanks to High School Teacher Mike Kelsen for coordinating our peer leader program.

At the Middle School, 7th grade students begin the process of transitioning from students from their hometown elementary schools to becoming Masconomet students. The 7th grade began their orientation by meeting with their M-Block class to learn about school policies. They then participated in a scavenger hunt designed to teach them the building’s layout and then in a “Poison River” team building game. The 7th grade ended the day assembling toiletry kits that were donated and received a swag bag for themselves courtesy of the Masconomet Parent Activities Committee (PAC).

All students officially began the school year on Wednesday, August 27, where all classes met in a modified half-day schedule. On Thursday, August 28, we ran a “Monday” schedule to make up for the Labor Day Holiday. After returning from the long weekend, the High School held its Back to School Night on Thursday, September 4. Our opening of school activities will conclude on Thursday, September 11 with the Middle School’s Back to School Night at 6:00 PM.

Masconomet September 11 Memorial

Thanks to the members of the Boxford, Middleton, and Topsfield Fire Departments, student government representatives and High School Principal Katie DiNardo for giving their time yesterday afternoon to set up Masconomet’s September 11th Memorial on the front lawn of the school. The memorial was originally coordinated by Masconomet students Cole O’Malley, Nate Hopper and Olivia O’Malley (no relation to Cole) in 2006.  For the past 19 years, the Flag Memorial has continued as an annual tradition at Masconomet to remember those killed in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. Both the Middle and High Schools will also be observing a moment of silence to commemorate the day.

Parent Communications Guide

Masconomet always seeks to promote good communication – with parents, the Towns, and within and among the schools themselves. To this end, our Executive Leadership Team has developed a Problem–Solver and Communications Guide, which is intended to help us foster effective communication through putting members of the community in touch with the best person to answer their specific question.  The guide can also be accessed from the front page of the Masconomet Website under the “About Our District” heading.

The Problem–Solver and Communications Guide provides parents and community members with the appropriate contacts at Masconomet for a number of common issues, such as academics, attendance, student records and special education/student services.  Because problems and concerns are best addressed at the source, we suggest that parents should always begin at this step.  For example, the chain of communication for a concern about a grade on an assignment would be to begin with the teacher who assigned the grade, then to the appropriate Department Head, and then to the Principal or Assistant Principal. If the concern is not resolved, the last step in this process would be the Superintendent.  If you have a question about a topic that is not listed on the Problem–Solver and Communications Guide, the best place to start is the main office of either the Middle or High Schools where our administrative assistants will then direct you to the appropriate person in the District.

Capital Plan Updates:

HVAC and Roof Replacement Project: In March of 2025, the School Committee approved the submission of Statements of Interest with the Massachusetts School Building Authority’s Accelerated Repair Programs to replace our current HVAC system with heat pumps and replace the roof. One Statement of Interest was submitted for the high school and one for the middle school. Asst. Superintendent Jeff Sands, HVAC Technician Keith Starosciak and I participated in a conference call with the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) on July 28 and the three of us hosted a team from MSBA to conduct a site visit at Masconomet on August 21st. 

The MSBA expects to issue invitations to school districts to participate in the Schematic Design Phase of the Accelerated Repair Project at the end of October. There are 96 applications before the MSBA in this round of funding. Because of the large number of applications, they will be staggering the commencement dates for districts that have been invited into the Schematic Design phase.  If we are invited, this could allow us to potentially seek approval to borrow funds for designer and owner’s-project manager services at next May’s annual town meetings.  If we are not invited to participate in this round of funding, the next window for submitting an application will be in the spring of 2027.

Electrification Study: In May of 2025, Boxford, Middleton and Topsfield Town Meetings approved the funding for Masconomet to conduct a study on the feasibility of electrifying our building HVAC systems. Jeff Sands and Keith Starosciak kicked off this project this week by hosting a team from CMTA. The current plan is for CMTA to issue a draft report in early January.

Track and Softball Renovation Project: Boxford, Topsfield and Middleton Town Meetings also approved the funding for a study to re-design our softball facilities and replace the track Bunker Stadium. On August 20, Asst. Superintendent Sands, Athletic Director Daileanes and I hosted a design team from Vision Sports Design to kick-off this project. Vision Sports Design plans to have draft designs and costs estimates to us by the end of October.

Press Box Lift Replacement: Last fall, the Boxford Building Inspector closed the second floor of the press box at Bunker Stadium because the lift to the second floor was not functioning. Last May, Boxford, Middleton and Topsfield Town Meetings approved the funding to replace the lift. This August, temporary scaffolding was installed that includes public address and scoreboard controls, and space for football coaches. This will allow athletic games to be held at the Bunker Stadium this fall. The press box lift is scheduled to be replaced in spring of 2026.

Turf Field Project: The turf field project application for a permit is still before the Boxford Conservation Commission. On August 13, the District’s project designer, Stantec, submitted its response to comments from the Boxford Conservation Commission’s peer review firm, Williams and Sparges. Stantec received a response to these comments on September 2 and is currently working on a response to this review. This response should be ready in time for the Boxford Conservation Commission’s next meeting on September 18.

On September 4, I was notified by Ross Povenmire, the Boxford Conservation Agent, that the $18,000 District had paid for Williams and Sparges peer review services had run out and that we are now $5500 in arrears. Mr. Povenmire also informed me that Williams and Sparges anticipates an additional $2000 will be needed to complete the peer review work. This is the first update we’ve received relative to the cost of the peer review since the District paid the initial $18,000 in February of 2025. The School Committee has appropriated the additional funding so our permit application may continue.

Parent Coffees

This year, we will again be hosting as series of parent coffees on Friday mornings at 8:30 AM. These coffees are an opportunity for members of the public to meet with school principals, members of the District Administrative Team and me to ask questions and discuss issues that concern the Masconomet District. Our Parent Coffees this month will be held in the High School on September 19 and in the Middle School on September 26 from 8:30 to 9:30 AM.

Please click here for the list of Principal’s Coffee Dates for the 2025-2026 School Year.

Superintendent’s Contract

Two weeks ago, I informed the Masconomet School Committee that I do not want to renew my contract as Superintendent of the Masconomet Regional School District after my current contract expires on June 30, 2026.  After six years, it has become clear to me that my professional goals and the goals of the Masconomet District are not aligned.  I will continue to work with everyone within the district to support students, faculty and community members through this school year. 

Stay in Touch with Masconomet

District Communications and Quick Reference Guide

Have a question or concern and don’t know where to start? The District Communications and Quick Reference Guide will get you in touch with the right person at Masconomet.

How We Communicate

“How We Communicate” outlines our District’s communication methods.

School Principals’ Blogs

Both our Middle and High School Principal’s publish weekly blogs with information from their schools.  For more school-specific info, please see the High School Principal’s Masco Memo and the Middle School Principal’s Weekly Update.

Masconomet’s Strategic Plan, 2023-2028

Masconomet 2025-2026 Strategic Initiative Goals

Masconomet’s Portrait of a Learner

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Superintendent’s Report to the School Committee, 7.30.25

New Website Launch

We are excited to announce the launch of our new website, hosted by Finalsite. The re-designed website will elevate our district’s online presence and make it easier for parents, students, and community members to find important information. 

IT Department Member, Matthew Riley, has worked diligently to ensure that all content from the old site has been reviewed, transferred, and brought up to date to align with the new structure and functionality. The redesigned site features a modern, mobile-friendly layout, enhanced navigation, a stronger search tool, and dedicated sections for each school. The homepage showcases the district’s news and events, providing visitors with the latest updates and important information.   The re-designed website will go live on Friday, August 1st at the same address:  www.masconomet.org

Turf Field Update

As I last updated the School Committee in June, Stantec was awaiting a response from the Boxford Conservation Commission’s Peer Reviewer.  This response was delivered to Stantec on June 24th.  Additionally, the Boxford Conservation Agent, Peer Reviewer and Stantec conducted another site visit to Masconomet to review wetland delineations on July 9th.  Stantec is due to submit its response to the Peer Reviewer’s comments and to the site visit on July 31st and has asked for a continuance of our hearing until the Boxford Conservation Commission’s August 7th meeting.  This will likely be extended to August 21st to allow for all members of our team to be present. The Boxford Conservation Commission’s meeting agenda are posted here: https://www.boxfordma.gov/AgendaCenter

MSBA Roof and HVAC Project Update

On Monday, July 28, Asst Superintendent Jeff Sands, HVAC Technician Keith Starosciak and I participated in a conference call with a team from the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) regarding our application for a building-wide heat pump conversion and roof replacement project.  On this call, we learned the MSBA is reviewing our application and will conduct a site visit to Masconomet later in August.  We also learned that the MSBA Board of Directors will be making decisions regarding inviting school districts into the “Feasibility Study” phase of the project in late October of 2025.  The MSBA is currently reviewing 96 project applications in this two-year funding round.  Because of the large number of applications, they will be staggering the commencement dates for districts that have been invited into the “Feasibility Study” phase.  This would allow us to potentially seek approval to borrow funds for the feasibility study at next May’s annual town meetings.  If we are not invited to participate in this round of funding, the next window for submitting an application will be in the spring of 2027.

Superintendent’s Report to the School Committee, 6.18.25

Congratulations to Our Retiring Educators

On Friday, June 13th, we celebrated the retirement of eight faculty members. Congratulations to Middle School Math Teacher Lois Afrow, Student Services Administrative Assistant Elaine Cavatorta, High School Math Teacher Alyssa Hardy, Middle School Assistant Principal Gavin Monagle, High School Math Teacher Rich Schonewald, Athletics Department Administrative Assistant Jan Smallman, Special Education Professional Nancy Walker and Special Education Paraprofessional Amelia Wallace. These eight educators represent a combined total of nearly 150 years of experience serving the students of Masconomet. On behalf of the entire Masconomet School Community, I wish them the best as they enter into this next phase of their journey! For more information on our retirees, please go to: https://mascosuper.school.blog/2025/06/16/congratulations-to-masconomets-retiring-educators/

Displays of Masconomet History Installed by Social Studies Department

After 15 years in storage, the Killam Collection of Prehistoric Native American Artifacts is back on display at Masconomet High School!  The collection was on display from the early 1960’s to the 1990’s, again after the school was rebuilt in 2001, and it has made a triumphant return this week.  In collaboration with Social Studies teachers, AP US History students researched, curated and created a permanent display of these artifacts, as well as the history of the Killam family and of their donation of these objects.   Gratitude to Robin Seigel of the Boxford Historical Documents Center for her support and expertise in all of our projects!  We look forward to collaborating with the Masconomet Educational Foundation to create permanent signage and displays to supplement the excellent work the students have started.  Please explore the exhibit next time you visit the high school main office. 

AP U.S. History students created a mural exploring: “Who was Masconomet?” that is now displayed on the second floor of the high school.  Students learned about the Native American legacy of our area and why the school was named after this leader of the Agawam.  Did you know that Masconomet’s name means, “He who overpowered a black bear?”  We look forward to continuing to learn about and explore Masconomet’s local legacy in the coming year as we install more permanent exhibits around the district honoring our namesake.

AP U.S. History students created a display chronicling the evolution and development of our regional school district using original documents, brochures and artifacts collected through the years.  Artifacts include a brochure of recommended curriculum in 1959: Juniors in high school should take Stenography and Bookkeeping and Seniors were to take Glee Club and Commercial Law and Salesmanship. Explore this engaging permanent display of the history of our school from 1959-2001 in the main entrance of Masconomet High School!  

Turf Field Project Update

I wrote to you last winter that on February 6th the Masconomet Regional School District submitted a notice of intent to the Boxford Conservation Commission to construct two turf fields on its campus.  The Boxford Conservation Commission retained the firm Williams and Sparges to provide a peer review of our application and to advise the Conservation Commission in its decision on the project.  Williams and Sparges provided Stantec, our design firm, with its comments on our application on April 2nd.  Stantec reviewed these comments and submitted a detailed response to the Boxford Conservation Commission on April 24th.  Williams and Sparges provided their response to Stantec’s April 24th document on June 24th. Stantec will be submitting a response to this document with the goal of making the Conservation Commission’s July 10th meeting. The Boxford Conservation Commission’s meeting agenda are posted here: https://www.boxfordma.gov/AgendaCenter

The Conservation Commission is also seeking letters from the community regarding the project. If you would like to submit a letter of support for the project, please send it to the Boxford Conservation Commission c/o Ross Povenmire at rpovenmire@town.boxford.ma.us.

For more information regarding the Masconomet Turf Field Project, please go to:  https://www.masconomet.org/Page/1036

pages-from-turf-update-mtg-2024_01_31_school-committee-meeting_finalDownload

Have a Great Summer!

I would like to wish everyone a safe and happy summer. School will resume from summer vacation for all students on Wednesday, August 27.