Blumer Book Awards honor students; Newton Schools Foundation announces $215,000 allocation
November 04, 2025 | Newton Public Schools, School Boards, Massachusetts
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Superintendent Nolan introduced Dr. Erwin Blumer, Superintendent Emeritus, who addressed the community and framed the award book selection. Committee members then read citations and congratulated recipients from Newton North and Newton South, including Cindy Chow, Shiaowei Qu, Amani Arunga, Jasper Hay and Ira Singh, for academic distinction, leadership and community service.
Later in the meeting representatives of the Newton Schools Foundation, co‑presidents Karen Manning and Karen Carroll Bennett, described the foundation's mission and announced a $215,000 allocation to support educator‑driven grants and districtwide programs. Administration thanked the Foundation for funding major district professional development and highlighted the foundation's partnership with district liaisons.
The committee approved the consent agenda— which included acceptance of the Newton Schools Foundation donations—by an 8–0 recorded vote.
Why it matters: Student recognitions highlight district academic and civic achievements; the Foundation's allocation provides flexible funding for classroom innovation and professional development across the district.
Next steps: The district will publicize award recipients and the Foundation will continue fundraising and community events (Foundation calendar events and appeals were announced at the meeting).
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