Townsend parents protest school closures and demand revote on Spaulding's future

In a recent meeting of the North Middlesex Regional School District (NMRSD) School Committee, emotions ran high as parents voiced their concerns over proposed school closures and the impact on their children’s education. The meeting, held on February 6, 2025, drew a crowd eager to discuss the future of local schools, particularly Spaulding Elementary and Ashby Elementary.

One parent expressed frustration over the abrupt changes in plans regarding school closures. After a previous public meeting, many families believed they had a clear understanding of the situation: Spaulding would close, and students would be redirected to Squawancook. However, the latest developments revealed that Ashby would remain open while Spaulding would still close, leading to the unsettling prospect of sending young children from Townsend to Ashby for kindergarten and first grade. The parent urged the committee to reconsider the decision, emphasizing the logistical challenges and emotional toll on families with multiple children.

Another speaker, Tara Smith from Ashby, highlighted the district's ongoing financial struggles, noting a consistent negative net position of $7 million over the past five years. She questioned the effectiveness of a proposed $600,000 budget adjustment, suggesting it was merely a temporary fix rather than a sustainable solution to the district's financial woes.

The discussions underscored a growing concern among parents about the future of their children’s education and the need for transparency and community involvement in decision-making processes. As the committee navigates these complex issues, the voices of concerned parents serve as a reminder of the profound impact these decisions have on families and the community at large. The meeting concluded with a call for further consideration of the proposed changes, leaving many attendees hopeful for a resolution that prioritizes the needs of students and families.