

Student & Family Update
April 29, 2022

Feb 28th, 2025
Good afternoon everyone,
It was great to see everyone back after February break and it was even better to see that our Girl's Ski team were victorious for the third consecutive year at States this past week. See the Athletics News section for more information.
Families of current Grade 6 students who will be coming to MTRS in August, please look out for an email with lots of news about upcoming news and activities in relation to starting in Grade 7. Please also find a link to the information here.
Late Bus for Spring Sports: This starts on March 17th and runs to May 30st.
Hawley is in need of another representative for the Mohawk Trail Regional School District School Committee. People who may be interested, but need more information or have related questions, may reach out to MTRS Principal Chris Buckland in the first instance
Please read on for information and news related to our busy school. This includes:
- MTRS students are taking part in an IT Pathway at GCC
- MS Band went to FCTS
- Student Council Spring Dance
- MCAS information for students and families
- Annual Health Screenings start on March 3rd
- Student Council updates
- Accuplacer testing took place for Juniors and Seniors interested in Dual Enrollment at GCC
- Math Teachers visited NHS to learn more about Integrated Math
- Student Led Conference information for April 2nd (12-3:30)
- Events for the Class of 2025!
- Library news
- District updates
- AP Brault's culture corner
- SEPAC updates
- Student Services updates
If you are reading this newsletter on a phone or laptop, don't forget to click on "read entire message" in order to see the complete newsletter.
Finally, we do our best to convey information to our community from a variety of sources, lots of them community rather than school based organizations. Unfortunately we are not able to share images and posters with live links through Smore but always ensure there is an email for inquiries. If you would like an e-copy of a poster with live links, please feel free to reach out to the office directly.
Have a wonderful weekend
Best
Chris
Important Dates & Information
Upcoming dates
- March 6th - CPR and First Aid training for Grade 10
- March 15th: Spring Dance 7-9pm
- April 2nd: SLC for grades 7,8,9,10,11,12 (11:30 dismissal for all students!)
- April 9: NHS Induction Ceremony
- April 10: Ice Cream Social and information for Rising Grade 7
- April 17: Spring Music Concert
- April 18th: Middle School Careers Fair
- April break: 21-25th
- May 2 & 3rd: Spring Musical
- May 15th: District Music Concert
- May 17th: Prom
- May 22nd: Career Pathways Exposition at GCC for MTRS Juniors
- May29th: Smithsonian Celebration, Pathways Panels and Senior Awards evening (The new version of Celebration of Learning)
- May 30th: Class of 2025 Graduation
- June 9th: Step up day for grade 6
- June 6th: Grade 8 Semi-Formal
- June 16th: Tentative last day of school for students (this may change based on snow days!)
MCAS and AP schedule for 2024/25
District (Calendar for 24/25)
Live Solar Panel Energy Information
Twin Lakes has taken over from Suzor as our IT company. support@twinlakesconsulting.zendesk.com
Quarter 3: 45 Days
First Day: Wed January 22, 2024
Last Day: Tues April 1, 2024
Q3 progress report grades close on: Tuesday, February 25, 2024
Q3 progress report grading window: Monday, February 24 - Monday, March3, 2024
Q3 progress reports will be available in Aspen Tuesday, March 4, 2024
Q3 grading window: Monday, March 31 - Tuesday April 8 at 11:59 p.m
Q3 report cards will be available in Aspen: Wednesday, April 9th, 2024
Middle School MTRS students participated in the Franklin County Band Festival
Students in middle school band went to greenfield high school to participate in the Franklin county band festival. There were multiple schools from Franklin county in attendance for a total of about 115 students. We spent all morning rehearsing than performed for students of Greenfield high at noon
Quote from Anneke “it was cool playing with all those people it inspired me to try and play more”
MTRS students joined the FC Band Festival
Over 115 students participated
We spent all morning rehearsing then performed for students of greenfield high at noon
MTRS students participate in a new IT Pathway at GCC
Pathway Exploration in IT
Starting Saturday, March 1, five MTRS students will be participating in Greenfield Community College's IT for Healthcare training program. The course is described as, “This is a 6-week, non-credit, hybrid course where participants will gain essential IT skills for entry-level help desk support tailored for healthcare environments. Upon completion, participants will be prepared to take the CompTIA ITF+ exam. Once certified, participants will be prepared for jobs in hospitals and medical practices as a Help Desk Support Specialist, Desktop Support Technician or Advanced Administrative Assistant.”
The first day will include an overview of course schedule and expectations, gauging digital literacy of each student, two hardware lab activities (dissecting and rebuilding computers) and lunch.
MTRS guidance counselor Linda Desarro and GCC's Director of Career and Technical Instruction Sara Finck have worked together to make this training program available to MTRS students. Thanks to both of them for their efforts on behalf of our students!
Another Polar Plunge?
Yes! Members of the MTRS Student Council will take part in a second polar plunge of the season - this time in the Atlantic Ocean off Cape Cod on March 5th when they attend the Mass Association of Student Councils conference. Some members already participated in a polar plunge pool at Greenfield High School. Both efforts benefit the Special Olympics. Students have a goal to raise $100 each.
If you would like to support one or more of the students, the link below will take donors to the team page. Once there click the “roster” tab to find the individual students - seniors Adrian Grant and Palmer King, junior Cammie Thompson, and sophomore Landon Clark.
https://fundraise.specialolympicsma.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=donordrive.team&teamID=8397
It is MCAS season!
We are about to head into MCAS testing season and I wanted to communicate our school expectations to students and families. This information has previously been shared by email and also in previous newsletter editions.
It is the expectation of the district that all students take MCAS tests that they are scheduled for as these assessments provide valuable insight into student progress in core content areas. I hope that the information below helps provide clarity around when MCAS testing takes place and how, even though MCAS is no longer a graduation requirement, we still expect students to take MCAS tests during their time at MTRS.
What is MCAS?
MCAS stands for Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System, which is a set of standardized tests that assess how well students are learning the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks. The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) develops and administers the MCAS. The MCAS helps teachers, parents, and students understand where students are excelling and where they need help. It also holds schools and districts accountable for their progress on the assessment.
In which grades and subjects are students expected to take MCAS?
Testing typically takes place during March - June and the schedule is shared on the website and directly with students and families directly. It is also shared below. The following grade levels take MCAS tests at MTRS in the following subjects:
- Grade 7: ELA and Math
- Grade 8: ELA, Math, Science and Civics
- Grade 9: Biology
- Grade 10: ELA and Math
What happens before testing and on testing days?
- In addition to the schedule being available on the website and in the newsletter, students and families will be reminded the week before testing and told where and when they should report to.
- Students should ensure that their chromebooks are fully charged and should report to their assigned testing rooms.
- Testing times range from 1 hour to 2 1/2 hours and students can continue beyond these times to the end of the school day should they wish to do so.
- Students who miss a testing session will have a make-up test session scheduled.
What happened on the MCAS ballot on November 5th?
Voters removed passing the MCAS exams in high school as a required measure of competency to graduate high school. This means that while students will still take MCAS, they do not need to pass it in order to graduate from high school. The law now requires students to pass high school coursework equivalent to that tested by MCAS to demonstrate competency, along with meeting local graduation requirements, to receive a diploma. This means, students will need to meet MTRS graduation requirements, which includes passing rigorous courses in math, ELA, and science.
Will high school students be required to take the MCAS in 2025 and beyond?
It is the expectation of the school, district and state that all students take all of the MCAS tests administered in grades 3-8 and 10, along with a science MCAS test in high school. At MTRS the high school science MCAS offered is typically biology in 9th grade. Participation in the MCAS is required by federal and state law and the ballot question did not change this requirement. DESE's accountability system will continue to use assessment participation rates (and the resulting achievement and growth data) in its annual determinations made through the district and school accountability system. This means, schools and districts will continue to be evaluated by student participation and performance on MCAS. These exams also give educators important information about the efficacy of our curriculum and teaching practices.
Do high school students still need to earn a Competency Determination (CD) in order to graduate?
High school students will still need to earn a CD in order to graduate. Since 2003, the CD has been based on achieving qualifying scores on relevant MCAS tests. After the November vote, CD is now based on "satisfactorily completing coursework that has been certified by the student's district."
What does "satisfactorily completing coursework that has been certified by the student's district" mean?
In order to graduate from MTRS, students need to pass their scheduled classes in Science typically offered in grade 9 and ELA and Math in grade 10 or the equivalent, as well as fulfilling MTRS Graduation requirements. For example, students typically must pass biology in 9th grade in order to meet the science competency determination. However, there are many other courses that fulfill the requirement, and competence could be demonstrated by passing chemistry, physics, anatomy, AP coursework, or other rigorous lab sciences offered at MTRS. Similarly, in math, students will need to pass Algebra and Geometry or more rigorous courses. In ELA, they would need to pass 10th grade English or more rigorous ELA courses.
What is the impact of the new law on students who have not earned a CD before the date that the new law goes into effect?
As of the date the new law takes effect, students who have not yet earned the CD would be eligible to do so through "satisfactorily completing coursework that has been certified by the student's district." Guidance on certification will be forthcoming.
Why will students in High school continue to take MCAS at MTRS?
- Strong performance on 2 or more MCAS tests in high school makes students eligible for the Adam's scholarship, which offers 4 years of in-state tuition to a state university
- Educators and administrators use the test results to help them assess the efficacy of their curriculum and instruction, and to make improvements to their own practices. We want to see what is working and what needs improvement.
- It is required by state and federal law that students in MCAS grades (3-8, high school) participate in MCAS tests.
You can explore more fully the Dese update on MCAS testing: Link
More general information about MCAS for families can be found here: Link
News from Nurse Donna
Health Screenings to start next week!
Beginning on March 3rd, the Health Office will begin conducting the mandated Massachusetts health screenings unless we have received documentation that it was done by an outside provider. This includes vision, hearing, height & weight and SBIRT (a drug and tobacco screening and education program). Grades 7 and 10 will have all of the mentioned screenings done. Also, grades 7, 8 and 9 will have postural screenings. Any new students to the district that do not have documentation of the screenings will also be screened.
If you do not want your child to participate in these screenings, please notify the Health Office in writing that you would like to opt your child out.
It is important to understand the long term health concerns regarding weight. Overweight and underweight children are at risk for a variety of health problems, making early identification of their weight status important. Eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia and binge eating can result in both serious long-term health problems and poor school performance. Overweight and obesity in children and adolescents are risk factors for a variety of serious health conditions such as Type 2 Diabetes and cardiovascular disease. It is good to discuss any concerns with their PCP.
Please call the Health Office at 413-625-9811 ext. 1318 with any questions.
Athletics News
GIRLS ALPINE SKI DYNASTY CONTINUES!
While the rest of the Commonwealth tried their very best to slow down our Lady Warrior Alpine Skiers this past Tuesday at the MIAA State Championships in Charlemont, when it was all said and done, their efforts were in vain. When the dust settled, our ladies were able to hoist their 3rd overall State Championship in 4 years! Led by junior Addie Loomis (2nd GS, 3rd Slalom) 8th grader Lydie Pinkham (11th GS, 10th Slalom) and senior Sofiya Slocik-Gritzner (43rd GS, 35th Slalom) the Warriors were able to defeat the field by over 3 full seconds.
SENIOR WRESTLER LOGAN MOORE GOES OUT IN STYLE!
Our Mohawk Trail wrestling team made their annual trip to Williamstown last week to compete in the D3 Western Massachusetts Championships, and they did not come home empty handed. Senior Logan Moore stole the show as he cruised through the 157 pound weight class to capture his first ever Western Massachusetts Championship, and the school’s first since 2022. This victory caps off a successful senior campaign for Logan, as he also was able to eclipse the 100 career victory mark earlier in the season! Other medalists included 8th grader Wade Purington (6th, 120#) and 7th grader Derek Pazmino (5th, 132#).
SPRING SPORTS REGISTRATION IS OPEN!!!
While winter sports are now wrapping up, it is time to start thinking about selecting a spring sport for your student-athletes! Registration is currently open and can be found on the school website at https://mtrs.mtrsd.org/athletics. This spring we will be offering boys and girls..
-Track and Field
-Tennis
-Softball
-Baseball
Please remember that in order to participate in extracurricular athletics, students must have an up-to-date physical on file in the nurse's office (last 13 months), have completed their Concussion Baseline Test (taken during registration), and be in good academic standing. For more information regarding spring sports, reach out to District Athletic Director Greg Lilly HERE.
Our Lady Warrior Alpine Skiers this past Tuesday at the MIAA State Championships in Charlemont
Our ladies were able to hoist their 3rd overall State Championship in 4 years!
Girls Basketball finished a great season earlier this week!
Student Led Conferences are coming!
April 2nd: 12-2:30pm
General information about SLC
What is a Student-led-conference?
Student-led-conferences (SLC) are at the heart of our shift to standards based teaching and learning. They provide students with more ownership of their learning experiences at MTRS.
Rather than reviewing letters/ numbers on a report or progress card, SLCs provide students with an opportunity to lead a 15 minute conversation about their progress towards proficiency in habits of learning and content-based skills.
Students will be using the assessment criterion that we shared earlier in the year.
They also enable students to reflect on their learning experiences to date and to set goals for the rest of the school year.
Does my student have to do an SLC?
SLC are based in an advisory class, which is scheduled for each student every day. Advisory is a graduation requirement and student participation in SLC is expected and contributes to the pass/fail (credit/no-credit) for the course at the end of the year.
SLCs are scheduled 1 x a year for grade 7 and 2 x a year for grades 8-12 Students must participate in SLCs in order to pass the Advisory class, in addition to attendance and participation.
If a student is absent or unwell when their SLC is scheduled, they will make this up when they return.
Who will be at the Student-led-conference?
Students will lead their own conference as it is their opportunity to talk about their experiences at MTRS as well as their goals for the rest of the year and beyond high school.
We would like to invite care providers and families to be an integral part of every student’s journey and to try to be present at the SLC - in-person or virtually.
Your student’s advisory teacher will be present. As advisory groups meet every day for a year, advisory teachers have the best overall insight into habits of learning and academic progress of each of their students. They can help support students as they lead their conference.
When will the Student-led-conferences take place?
SLC #2 for Grades 7-12 will take place on April 2nd, 2024 from 12 - 3:30pm
Where will the Student-led-conference take place?
If you are in-person, please arrive at school 10 minutes before your scheduled time and someone will bring you to the advisor’s room.
If you are meeting virtually, please log in to the google meet 5 minutes before your scheduled time.
What is the difference between SLS #1 and SLC #2?
SLC#1: A chance for the student to reflect on their strengths, growths and challenges in the first semester, to reflect on their discoveries as a learner during the year so far and to set some habits and academic goals for the second semester. It is also an opportunity for students to talk through current post-high school plans.
SLC #2: A chance for the student to reflect on challenges and successes of the year, to set goals for the year ahead and to revisit and possibly change post-high school plans.
What is the schedule for the S2 Student-led-conferences?
Students will be dismissed from school at 11:30 am after lunch. They will take their bus home and then either come back in to school with a caregiver to complete their SLC in person or take part in their SLC virtually with their caregiver.
Students who return to the building with a caregiver for an SLC are expected to leave campus with their caregiver after their SLC has taken place.
Only students with SLC scheduled between 12-12:30 will be permitted to wait in the lobby if their caregiver is coming into school. They will be expected to leave campus with them after their SLC has concluded.
How do I schedule my SLC?
After February break, advisory teachers will start to reach out to caregivers and families by email to schedule conferences of 15 minutes per student (in-person or virtual) on the above days.
What if I have children in multiple grades?
We will start to schedule appointments so care providers will be able to arrange times convenient for them during the SLC window.
What if 15 minutes is not enough time?
Advisors can help care providers/ families set up a subsequent appointment to meet with themselves or specific content teachers at a later date.
What will happen if I am unable to attend in person or virtually?
We understand that not everyone can be available in-person or virtually during the school day. If you are unable to attend, your student will still conference with their advisory teacher.
As we continue to develop our Student-led conference process, we will look at ways to have early afternoon/ early evening conferences as a way for all families and care providers to have the opportunity to be a part of the process.
What if I have more questions?
Please reach out to your students' advisor in the first instance. Your grade-level guidance counselor will also be able to help:
Grades 7 and 8: truggeri@mtrsd.org
Grades 9-12: ldessaro@mtrsd.org
Professional Development for Math Team as we move to Integrated Math in 25-26
This past Wednesday, February 25th, Laura Rubinaccio (7th grade math teacher), Brandi Masselli (middle school math specialist), Sarah Jetzen (Curriculum Coordinator) and myself spent the day observing Northampton High School’s math department. During this visit, we were able to see Integrated Mathematics in action, which will be next year’s math program. Key components of their program include the integration of algebra and geometry, Building Thinking Classroom practices, mixed-level grouping, and rigorous instruction. In addition to observing classrooms, teachers shared the process of moving to this program and how they collaborate in order to make a cohesive math experience for their students. We left feeling grateful for this professional networking opportunity, and their willingness to share materials and experience with us. Many thanks to Northampton High School’s math department for hosting us, and supporting us through our math program transition.
Wayne Kermenski
Mohawk Trail and Hawlemont District Math Coach
What is IM?
Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II (AGA) are integrated, so that concepts can be frequently reviewed and built on. Additionally, concepts in Algebra and Geometry are interwoven in order to make connections between the two traditionally separate maths.
What does the research say?
“Exposure to relevant applications of algebra integrated with statistics and geometry throughout a high school student’s learning of mathematics will help instill more meaning and sense making in his or her algebra experience and lay a foundation for transition options to college mathematics.”
“90 percent of the rest of the world teaches mathematics by using an integrated approach.” In general, U.S. students do not perform as well in math as other countries.
In Transition to Common Core, Some High Schools Turn to ‘Integrated’ Math Ed. Week
“A study published in the Journal for Research in Mathematics Education last year tracked students over three years and found that those who were being taught with an integrated-math
curriculum outperformed their counterparts who were in a traditional sequence.”
Mohawk Trail’s Core Math Program Components.
Comprehensive and meets all CCSS-MA for each grade-level or course.
Students collaborate, persevere and take risks in class
Inquiry-based. Students solve meaningful and complex problems.
Meets the needs of all learners.
- Scaffolding and extensions are present.
- Heterogeneous classes through 10th grade
- Choice of different pathways after 10th grade
5. Integrated Building Thinking Classroom practices
6. Standards-based teaching and learning principles
7. Curriculum is well organized making it efficient for math and SPED teachers to implement and collaboratively work together.
How does Integrated Math support our math program components and students better?
Links Algebra and Geometry, and in turn both reinforce and support each other by seeing the same concepts in multiple contexts. (Component 4)
Reduces the learning lost from Algebra I to Algebra II found in the current AGA model. (Component 4)
Introductory Algebra and Geometry concepts are taught in IM I, which provides more learning opportunities before more difficult concepts in Algebra and Geometry are introduced in IM II and III. (Component 4)
IM can be implemented in a semester or year long course. AGA is not compatible with semester-long courses. (Component 1)
Partnership with local schools, such as NHS, who have already designed a comprehensive IM program that we can use. (Component 7)
Local Districts with IM Pathways have strong MCAS Performance
Comparing the scope and sequence between Algebra I, Geometry and Algebra II vs Integrated Math.
Also have a look at the Ed sub cttee - IM presentation for specific details about unit sequence or visit Open Up Resources at https://access.openupresources.org/curricula
Visit Massachusetts Common Core State Math Standards at (https://www.doe.mass.edu/frameworks/math/2017-06.pdf), specifically pages 111-156 and 167
Events for the Class of 2025
Seniors, the countdown is on!
Make sure that you are aware of what you need to do in order to graduate. Ms Desarro has already met with you all and you should reach out with any questions.
Please note the following events that are for and involve you all:
Prom - Saturday 5-17
Senior Send off - Weds 21st May (2:10- seniors walk around the building, everyone comes out and cheers)
Senior Soak - Thursday 22nd May: 1:50-2:18 parking lot
Last Day - Friday May 23rd Senior sign off form needs to be completed and returned to students (This will be issued on Monday 19th May)
Memorial Day - Mon 26th May
Finals and rehearsals for Awards/ Graduation - Tuesday 27th May and Wednesday May 29th, 10-12 am
Elementary school visit and MTRS staff cookout - Wednesday 28th May
Awards Event & slide show - Thursday 29th May (5-7)After the Smithsonian event in the library: Junior class to organise food
Graduation Celebration - Friday May 30th 6-8pm indoors at MTRS (auditorium)
Many of these dates have been on the calendar since May of 2024 and you should check in with Class Advisor Mr Leowolf with any questions
Finally, please note that in order to graduate, you need to have paid up your class dues. Please email me/ come and speak with me if you have any questions: cbuckland@mtrsd.org
AP Brault's Culture Corner
Welcome back to school! Wow, have Thursdays been weird this year! Every year there is a “day of the week” it seems for weather delays and cancellations! We know that this causes a disruption in students and families but safety is definitely first!
On a similar note, we are attempting to have middle school students go outside at lunch as much as possible. The ice has curtailed this some but on days we can go out, proper outerwear is imperative. We have coats and other warm weather wear available in our Caring and Sharing Room. Either a caregiver or a student can speak with a school counselor or myself about this option.
March also brings MCAS testing. Make sure you see the information in this newsletter and in separate emails that have been sent home.
District Corner
2025 Pioneer Valley Excellence in Teaching Award Recipient: Colrain Central’s Grace Ahrensdorf
Grace Ahrensdorf has been selected by a committee of the Mohawk Trail and Hawlemont Regional School Districts staff as a 2025 Pioneer Valley Excellence in Teaching Award Winner.
Members of the nomination committee asked districts’ teachers and staff for input about their colleagues. Many names and reasons were put forward, however Grace’s excellence as a kindergarten teacher at Colrain Central was expressed with glowing praise. Colleagues shared that Grace has special strengths including providing direct, clear instructions, making learning genuinely fun, supporting group dynamics, and offering clear, consistent boundaries within which her students are able to engage together as a group as well as with the larger school community. During a professional development day, Grace once remarked "I am always looking for more time to sing with my group" and shared how she has begun using songs to facilitate transitions within the classroom setting. This speaks to her thoughtful nature and why she is perfectly suited for the grade she teaches. Her students are confident members of the school community and were the first group to participate during monthly "All School Meetings" in which the 5- and 6-year-olds sang a song in front of the entire school. This speaks to the confidence Grace is able to instill in her students. She makes it look effortless but, in reality, is the result of a great deal of effort and consideration. Her students know what to expect from her and what is expected of them, which sets them up for success while they are members in her class and as they transition into older grades.
Grace is also an active member of the Colrain Central PTO and is always ready to provide help for various activities, from planning to execution. Her friendliness and ability to meet families where they are builds strong relationships between the parent and school dynamic. The focus with which she is able to speak on any given student's classroom performance is a great asset to her class and to the school as a whole.
Her classroom is one other teachers have been invited to observe as an example of strong curriculum implementation. She's also someone who is always looking to improve her practice.
She has high expectations for her students' learning and she very lovingly pushes them to achieve success.
Grace will be honored alongside other recipients at an in-person banquet at the Log Cabin in Holyoke on Wednesday, April 30 and will receive other expressions of recognition and gratitude.
Thank you, Mrs. Ahrensdorf, for everything you bring to your classroom, your colleagues, this building and community. Congratulations!
Sustainability Study Community Sessions
The first community session took place at Buckland Shelburne Elementary on Tuesday, February 25 and was attended by about 50 individuals both in person and online. The Greenfield Recorder covered the gathering. Community members have more opportunities to hear about the models being considered for a more sustainable future. Dates are open to all community members:
● March 6, all virtual meeting, Google Meet, 6:30-8 pm (virtual only)
● March 11, Sanderson Academy, 5:30-7:00 pm
● March 19, Hawlemont Regional School, 6:30-8 pm
● March 20, Mohawk Trail Regional School, 6:30-8 pm
● March 26, Colrain Central School, 6:30-8 pm
Community members are encouraged to learn more about the Sustainability Study by visiting www.2districts8towns.org. The website includes reports that have been written by BERK12, presentations to the Steering Committee and other groups, and the project work plan. Slide decks, Frequently Asked Questions and a series of informational briefs on topics such as class size, best practices, and moving grade six to middle school are also available.
Zoom links and a registration link for the community meetings are also posted on the website. For more information, contact Project Manager Jake Eberwein, jakeeberwein@gmail.com.
FY26 Budget Approved by the School Committees
Public hearings followed by special school committee meetings have taken place for both the Mohawk Trail and Hawlemont Regional School Districts regarding the FY26 budgets. Both entities have passed the proposed FY26 budgets.
The Mohawk Trail Regional School District’s all funds budget sits at $27,222,601 with an operating assessment of $14,391,898. The Hawlemont Regional School District’s all funds budget sits at $3,162,277 with an operating assessment of $1,666,456.
Individual towns will vote on the school budgets at their Town Meetings this spring. Budget materials may be found on the Business Services page of the Districts website.
If you have questions or are looking for more information you may contact William Lataille, Assistant Superintendent of Business and Finance at wlataille@mtrsd.org.
Student Services updates!
Accuplacer testing took place this week
Please see the latest Student Services updates
Finding One’s Place
On Tuesday, February 25, about 20 MTRS students sat for the Accuplacer test. This test “helps colleges and workforce training providers gauge student readiness for required coursework and identify areas where students may need additional support to succeed.” In our case, students sitting for the test are seniors who plan to attend Greenfield Community College as first-year college students in the fall. Additionally, students in ninth, tenth, and eleventh grades are also sitting for the test because of their interest in enrolling in the dual enrollment program with GCC. Dual enrollment allows high school students to take college credit courses that count for both high school and college credit. If you or your student have questions about dual enrollment, requirements, college, or other related topics, please reach out to the MTRS Student Services staff Robin Jenkins rjenkins@mtrsd.org or Linda Desarro, ldesarro@mtrsd.org
Library updates!
Please see our March newsletter
How can you get involved at MTRS?
We want to hear your voice!
Hawley is in need of another representative for the Mohawk Trail Regional School District School Committee.
People who may be interested, but need more information or have related questions, may reach out to MTRS Principal Chris Buckland in the first instance
Local Education Council (LEC)
This meets virtually every second Wednesday of the month between 3:45 and 4:30pm. More information can be found here. The next meeting will take place on March 12th
The virtual joining information is as follows:
Meeting ID
Phone Numbers
(US)+1 813-435-9650
PIN: 741 012 215#
Principal Drop-ins
As was the case last year, I will hold regular virtual office hours. You don’t need an appointment to come and talk with me and share your thoughts on what goes on at MTRS. I will try to be available for the whole 60 minutes but can't always guarantee it at our busy school. The next drop in will take place on March 14th: 8:00 to 9:00 a.m.
Meeting ID: meet.google.com/jtz-yhet-ipo
Phone Number: (US)+1 (813) 773-5581
PIN: 636 883 303
Special Education Updates
Mohawk Trail SEPAC Member and Parent
Please read this letter from the district to families receiving special education services
Do you have a question about your child, their services, or resources specific to your needs? If you or someone you know would like to be added to the private list and receive emails and event notifications, please send an email to: MOHAWKSEPAC@gmail.com Please indicate your email, title (such as parent of a student with IEP/504), District, Interested Party or other)
Disclosure: SEPAC maintains the list of contacts and keeps the information private. This email is maintained by a parent and volunteer. Our goal is to respond in a timely manner. We will get back to you as soon as we can. Thank you in advance for your patience and understanding.
School Trip for Summer 2026
Students, are you able to attend Field Trips and come to the school dance?
There are a lot of upcoming non-sporting extracurricular events planned for the remainder of the year and I wanted to make sure that students and families are aware of expectations for students in relation to participation.
In order to participate, students must be in:
Good behavioral standing - no more than 3 conduct referrals between the date the permission slip is sent home and the day before the field trip/ event.
Good academic standing - not owing work or have unauthorised absences from school & classes (does not include work missed due to approved absences)
Students who are unable to participate in events will be provided academic work to complete during their regular schedule and will be expected to attend school, if the planned event takes place during the school day.
This information will be included in permission forms that caregivers are asked to sign and return.
Please see the section from the student handbook in relation to eligibility for sports:
P35
Participation And Eligibility
MTRS offers a variety of team sports in middle school, varsity and junior varsity interscholastic athletics. To be eligible to participate in sports, students must complete an annual physical, be in good academic standing, pay user fees, complete a baseline concussion assessment and sign an athletic contract. Fall sports include cross-country, field hockey, and football, girls’ volleyball, soccer, and golf. Winter sports include alpine (downhill) skiing, basketball, cross-country (Nordic) skiing, indoor track, and wrestling. Spring sports include baseball, tennis, softball, and track and field. Students interested in participating in athletics should contact Greg Lilly, Athletic Director, at ext. 1310.
Chris Buckland
Email: cbuckland@mtrsd.org
Website: www.mtrs.mohawktrailschools.org
Phone: 413-625-9811
Facebook: facebook.com/mohawktrailregional
MTRSD Director of Communications