School Committee approves $383K donation for Thoreau Playground project

The Concord-Carlisle Joint School Committee made significant strides in enhancing school facilities and addressing student policies during their meeting on April 30, 2025. A key highlight was the acceptance of a substantial donation of $383,357.54 from the Thoreau Parent-Teacher Group (PTG) for playground improvements. This funding, praised by committee members for its impact, will support the development of a new playground, with additional fundraising efforts anticipated.

Committee members expressed gratitude for the hard work of the fundraising team, particularly recognizing Courtney Ward and Christina Asparoo for their leadership. Their efforts have not only secured this donation but have also fostered community engagement around the project.

In addition to the playground funding, the committee began discussions on a new cell phone policy for students in grades Pre-K through 8. Current guidelines prohibit cell phone use during school hours, but the committee acknowledged the need for a formal policy to support these rules. They reviewed the Massachusetts Attorney General's recommended "bell to bell" policy, which outlines expectations for cell phone use across different age groups. The committee aims to draft a policy that aligns with the existing handbook while allowing for necessary exceptions, such as for medical reasons.

The committee plans to finalize the cell phone policy by the end of the school year, ensuring it is in place for the upcoming fall term. This proactive approach reflects the committee's commitment to creating a focused learning environment while adapting to the evolving needs of students and families.

Overall, the meeting underscored the importance of community support in enhancing educational facilities and the necessity of clear policies to guide student behavior in a technology-driven world.