Retirement celebration for beloved educator Lorraine Buchanan

In a recent government meeting, the retirement of Lorraine Buchanan, a dedicated early childhood paraprofessional at Stefanik School, was highlighted. After 27 years of service, Buchanan has been recognized for her significant impact on students and staff alike, with her kindness and commitment to education leaving a lasting legacy. The administration expressed heartfelt congratulations and gratitude for her contributions to the school community.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the ongoing professional development of Chicopee public school staff, with approximately 30 employees participating in various educational programs over the summer. This initiative aims to enhance the skills of educators to better serve students.

The curriculum subcommittee, led by Mister Barcelona, provided an update focusing on the holistic development of students, emphasizing social-emotional learning and discipline expectations. The discussion included strategies for improved communication with families regarding both academic and emotional support for students.

Furthermore, the policy and human resources subcommittee proposed revisions to district policies to align with new Massachusetts Association of School Committees (MASC) recommendations. The committee is set to adopt these policies, which cover areas such as technology use and digital resources, ensuring they are up-to-date for the upcoming school year.

Lastly, the facility subcommittee reviewed the capital improvements priorities list, although specific details from that discussion were not disclosed during the meeting. Overall, the meeting underscored the commitment of the school district to enhance educational practices and support for both staff and students.