North Middlesex Regional School Committee faces public backlash over potential Ashby school closure

The North Middlesex Regional School Committee convened on February 26, 2025, to address pressing issues regarding the future of local schools, particularly the potential closure of Ashby Elementary School (AES). The meeting began with procedural matters, including the approval of the consent agenda, which was passed without the minutes from the previous meeting due to their unavailability.

Public communications were a significant focus of the meeting, with several community members expressing their concerns about the proposed school closures. Patrick Lyden, a parent from Ashby, raised questions about the lack of a comprehensive closing study for AES, Spalding, and Squannacook. He emphasized the importance of following established policies to ensure informed decisions regarding school closures.

Tara Smith, another Ashby resident, voiced her apprehension about the financial decisions being made by the committee, highlighting a consistent budget shortfall over the past five years. She questioned the impact of closing AES, which she argued would not adequately address the district's financial issues while potentially harming students.

Shelley Jones, a working mother, shared her struggles with the current bus schedules and the potential consequences of closing the only school in Ashby. She conducted a poll indicating that a significant majority of parents would consider leaving the district if AES were closed, raising concerns about the long-term implications for the community.

Sharon Whittier, representing the staff at AES, provided an impact statement detailing the school's history and its role in the community. She highlighted the academic achievements of AES and the potential negative effects on students' emotional well-being and academic performance if the school were to close.

Carla De Lima, a parent of an AES student, shared her personal experience and the positive impact the school has had on her child's development. She expressed concerns about the logistical challenges and emotional distress that a school closure would cause for families.

The meeting concluded with a clear sense of urgency regarding the decisions facing the committee. Community members urged the committee to reconsider the implications of closing AES, emphasizing the need for thorough analysis and community involvement in the decision-making process. The next scheduled meeting is set for April 10, 2025, where further discussions on these critical issues are expected.