Hathaway PTA donates $83K for ADA compliant playground equipment installation

Portsmouth School District is set to enhance its educational framework with a proposed school calendar for the 2025-2026 academic year, which includes significant changes aimed at improving student and staff experiences. During the recent School Committee meeting, Superintendent discussed the draft calendar, which is expected to be finalized in the upcoming meeting after community feedback.

Key highlights of the proposed calendar include an orientation day for staff on August 26, followed by a full day of orientation for students in grades K, 5, and 9 on August 27. All other students will begin classes on August 28. The calendar also reintroduces six early release days for professional development, a practice that had been paused in recent years. These early release days are strategically placed throughout the school year to provide teachers with dedicated time for professional development while minimizing disruptions to the academic schedule.

In addition to the calendar discussions, the committee addressed a significant donation from the Hathaway Parent Teachers Association (PTA) aimed at enhancing playground accessibility. The PTA has pledged $83,000 for the installation of ADA-compliant equipment at Hathaway School, which will ensure that all students, regardless of physical ability, can enjoy the playground facilities. This initiative reflects a long-term commitment to inclusivity and has been unanimously supported by the PTA.

The proposed changes to the school calendar and the playground enhancements are expected to foster a more supportive and engaging environment for both students and staff. The committee will continue to gather community input before finalizing the calendar, with the last day of school projected for June 17, 2026. These developments underscore the district's ongoing efforts to adapt to the needs of its community and enhance educational experiences for all students.