Acton-‐Boxborough Regional School District Superintendent’s Office 16 Charter Road Acton, MA 01720 978-‐264-‐4700 w ww.abschools.org
Glenn A. Brand, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools
February 27, 2017 Dear Acton-Boxborough Families, In diverse communities like ours, these are rather unsettled times as a result of the increasing public dialogue, images and events across our country. As your superintendent, I want to assure you that the Acton-Boxborough Regional School District is a community where we uphold the deepest commitment to respect the cultural, religious, and other differences among us. This holds true for our students, families, staff and all of those connected throughout our schools and programs. Most importantly, we do not, under any circumstances, tolerate hate, bias or bigotry in our school buildings or on our grounds. To further underscore these beliefs, we have recently solidified this commitment within our new strategic plan that includes a core value of equity and a mission centered around developing “…engaged, well-balanced learners through collaborative caring relationships.” Our district has a clear policy (Policy JBA Prohibition of Harassment) that specifically prohibits discrimination or harassment of both students and staff because of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, active military/veteran status, ancestry, or national or ethnic origin. In addition, students who are homeless, or of limited English-speaking ability, are protected from discrimination in accessing the course of study and other opportunities available through the schools. As a district we believe in protecting the human rights and dignity of all of our students and are committed to enrolling and educating all students regardless of their background or immigration status. As a public school district within the state of Massachusetts, we will also continue to protect the rights of students who are transgender, regardless of federal action around the issue. This commitment is supported by existing state statute and prohibits discrimination against students and families. Additional information regarding the protections around gender identity can be found in Massachusetts’ An Act Relative to Gender Identity. The pride that we take in our success as a school system is much deeper, and much more important, than simply scores, grades, and colleges attended. Our pride must continue to come from this unwavering commitment to tolerance and ensuring that we respect the relationships that bind us together as one caring and inclusive community. Our entire staff, as well as leaders throughout our district, work daily to ensure that all of our students, their families and our staff feel safe, valued and respected. For additional supports or resources, families should reach out directly to their child’s school counselor, or to one of the Community Service Coordinators listed below for each town: Acton:
Laura Ducharme
Boxborough: Lauren Abraham
Phone: 978-929-6651 Email:
[email protected] Phone: 978-264-1730 Email:
[email protected]
Yours in education, Glenn A. Brand
At ABRSD, our mission is to develop engaged, well-‐balanced learners through collaborative, caring relationships. WELLNESS -‐ EQUITY -‐ ENGAGEMENT
