Hillside School Board Celebrates Literacy Initiative Amidst Community Concerns and Staffing Challenges

Overview: The recent Hillside School Board meeting highlighted the district’s commitment to literacy improvement through a new reading mentoring program, acknowledged community concerns over social media portrayals, and addressed staffing challenges with 16 current teaching vacancies. Acknowledging achievements and ongoing initiatives, the board emphasized the importance of community engagement and innovative educational practices.

Grand Marais Library Board Plans to Resume Annual Director Evaluations After Four-Year Hiatus

Overview: The Grand Marais Library Board meeting primarily focused on the decision to resume annual evaluations of the Library Director, a practice that has been on hold since 2019. Additionally, the board discussed essential maintenance updates, financial collaborations with other libraries, and set the 2025 calendar for board meetings and holiday closures.

Littleton Library Board Discusses Staffing Needs and Plans for Future Initiatives

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Littleton Library Board of Trustees focused on addressing staffing needs, planning for future community events, and considering updates to library policies and infrastructure. The board emphasized the necessity of additional staffing and the organization of upcoming activities.

Shutesbury Secures $56,000 Digital Equity Grant Amid Rising Service Tickets and Contract Talks

Overview: The Shutesbury Broadband Committee meeting centered on securing a Digital Equity Grant from the Massachusetts Broadband Institute (MBI), an increase in service tickets, and discussions about contract renewals with their broadband provider. These topics highlight the town’s ongoing efforts to enhance digital access and manage its broadband infrastructure effectively.

East Longmeadow Library Board Celebrates Increased Patronage and Launches New Fundraising Efforts

Overview: The East Longmeadow Library Board meeting highlighted a notable rise in library patronage, driven by increased programming and strategic outreach efforts, as well as the launch of several innovative fundraising initiatives by the Friends of the Library. The meeting, attended by several board members and the Library Director, covered a range of topics, from programming success to upcoming community events.