-
10:40a.m. - March 13, 2025 Update
Good morning Pittsfield Public Schools Community, As of today, March 13, 2025 , Pittsfield Public Schools (PPS) continues to receive reports and concerns related to recent events. In collaboration with our School Resource Officers (SROs) and the Pittsfield Police Department , we thoroughly investigate each report to ensure the safety of our school community. As of 10:21 a.m. , the Pittsfield Police Department has determined that all reported concerns are connected to yesterday’s online posts , and there are no new substantiated threats at this time. In addition, there seems to be some false information being spread on social media related to yesterday’s (March 12, 2025) event. To clarify, neither the District Emergency and Safety Coordinator nor the Superintendent were informed of the social media threat until the morning of March 12, 2025. We were NOT notified during the night. On March 12, 2025 , the first notification came from a parent and a staff member at approximately 7:20 a.m., followed by the Superintendent being informed at approximately 7:30 a.m.. In our first communication yesterday, the phrase “last night” referred to the time that we were told the threat occurred , NOT when we were made aware of it. I sincerely appreciate the parent who reached out to me directly with this concern, allowing us to address it and provide a response to everyone. We will keep the entire community informed if any new information becomes available. Joseph Curtis Superintendent of the Pittsfield Public Schools [Thursday, Mar 13 at 10:41 AM] Very minor clarifications have been added. No substance has changed.
Thursday, Mar 13 2025
-
4:42p.m. - ADDITIONAL Update Related to Taconic High...
Good Evening Pittsfield Public Schools Community, We extend our sincere gratitude to the Pittsfield Police Department for their thorough and ongoing investigation into the recent social media post that raised concerns within our school community at Taconic and Pittsfield High School. Their swift response and dedication to ensuring the safety of our students and staff have been truly commendable. As reported earlier today, the Pittsfield Police Department confirmed that the online social media post in question depicted an Orbeez gun, a type of toy gel blaster. Officers conducted several home visits today to gather information and assess the situation. Their commitment to a comprehensive and detailed review reinforces the importance of collaboration between law enforcement, schools, and families in maintaining a secure learning environment. School leaders are taking decisive action and have begun implementing strict disciplinary consequences for individuals involved in this incident. Additionally, any incidents that may involve legal implications will require direct involvement from the Pittsfield Police Department (PPD). Law enforcement will assess each case as necessary and determine any further legal steps in accordance with established protocols. As an added precaution, PPD has committed to increasing their presence at both high schools tomorrow morning by assigning additional officers. This measure is being taken out of an abundance of caution to provide reassurance to students, staff, and families while reinforcing our shared commitment to school safety and security. We appreciate the partnership and support of the Pittsfield Police Department and the continued cooperation of our school community in prioritizing safety. Joseph Curtis Superintendent of the Pittsfield Public Schools
Wednesday, Mar 12 2025
-
IMPORTANT Update Related to Taconic High School and ...
Good Morning Pittsfield Public Schools Community, We sincerely appreciate your patience as we work to provide a thorough and accurate update . We understand the importance of timely communication, and we apologize for the delay. However, it is essential that we exercise the utmost diligence in verifying all details before sharing any information. Our priority is to ensure that the information we provide is comprehensive, accurate, and responsibly communicated to keep our school community fully informed. The Pittsfield Police Department has confirmed that the online social media post in question depicted an Orbeez gun, a type of toy gel blaster . As of right now, the Pittsfield Police Department has determined that there is no current threat to the school community. As a result, both Taconic High School and Pittsfield High School have lifted their hold-in-passing procedures, allowing normal movement throughout the buildings to resume. We appreciate the swift response from the Pittsfield Police Department, as well as the cooperation and vigilance of our students, staff, and families. We remain deeply appreciative of our students and staff for their ongoing vigilance and commitment to maintaining a safe school environment. Their quick actions and willingness to report concerns immediately to a school staff member or the Pittsfield Police Department play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of our entire school community. By staying alert and proactive, our students and staff help foster a culture of awareness and responsibility, reinforcing the importance of open communication and collective safety efforts. We encourage everyone to continue reporting any suspicious activity or concerns without hesitation, as every report contributes to maintaining a secure and supportive learning environment for all. Joseph Curtis Superintendent of the Pittsfield Public Schools
Wednesday, Mar 12 2025
-
March 9, 2025 Superintendent's Update
Superintendent's Update Pittsfield Public Schools March 9, 2025 In this issue: 🏀🎉 Congratulations THS Boys & PHS Girls Basketball Teams! 🎉🏀 Taconic Boys Basketball 🔥🏀 Huge congratulations to the Taconic Boys Basketball team on their 63-56 victory over Latin Academy! The Thunder fought hard and secured their spot in the MIAA Finals! Your dedication, teamwork, and hustle are truly inspiring—one step closer to the ultimate goal! PHS Girls Basketball 🏀💜 The Generals dominated in the Elite 8, securing a 77-31 victory over Old Rochester! An incredible team effort punched our ticket to the MIAA Final Four! Shoutout to our players, coaches, and fans for the relentless energy and support—one step closer to the ultimate goal! Elementary Trimester 2 Report Cards ✅ By March 14, 2024 – Elementary families will receive Trimester 2 report cards. March 14, 2025 • Half Day of School for Students There will be a half day of school for students on Friday, March 14, 2025. Educators and administrators will engage in professional learning sessions in the afternoon. This time is dedicated to enhancing our teaching practices, collaborating on new strategies, and continuing our commitment to providing the best possible education for our students. We appreciate your understanding and support as we work to strengthen our school community. High school students will be dismissed at 10:50 a.m. Middle school students will be dismissed at 11:00 a.m. Elementary school students will be dismissed at 11:45 a.m. Next half day of school: April 4 📢 Pittsfield Families! It’s Time for Pre-K & Kindergarten Registration! 🎒✏️ Pittsfield Public Schools is hosting in-person registration for Pre-K and Kindergarten students who will: ✅ Turn 5 before Sept. 1, 2025 ✅ Turn 4 before Sept. 1, 2025 ✅ Turn 3 before Sept. 1, 2025 📍 Registration Dates & Locations: 📆 Conte Community School – March 18, 4:00-6:00 PM 📆 Crosby Elementary School – March 19, 4:00-6:00 PM 📆 Egremont Elementary School – March 25, 4:00-6:00 PM 📆 Morningside Community School – April 1, 4:00-6:00 PM 📄 Required Documents: 🔹 Birth certificate 🔹 Proof of residence (utility bill, mortgage, or rental agreement) 🔹 For Kindergarten: Valid ID, last physical exam, immunization records, and proof of occupancy For more details, contact 📧 chealy@pittsfield.net or 📞 413-499-9500 EXT. 1018 Pre-Kindergarten Registration for 2025-2026 Children entering Pre-Kindergarten must be 4 years old on or before September 1, 2025 for our 4 year old classrooms OR Children entering Pre-Kindergarten must be 3 years old on or before September 1, 2025 for our 3 year old classrooms Pre-K Online registration will begin on Wednesday, January 1, 2025. Spaces are limited, you must register by May 1, 2025 to be considered for the school based lottery which will occur on May 15, 2025. To Register Your Child: Click here for access, or scan the QR code on the left. If using a computer: Go to www.pittsfield.net. Scroll down to Registration, located under Helpful Links on the right. Click on the Pre-K Registration. Complete the form, including the required documents. Submit! Your APPLICATION is NOT complete until all required documentation are submitted and you have received a confirmation email from chealy@pittsfield.net Required Documents to Register for the Pre-K Lottery: ● Birth Certificate ● Proof of residence (current utility bill, rent/lease agreement) ● Completed Pre-Kindergarten Lottery Application Any questions, you can reach out to Carrie Healy at (413) 499-9500 ext. 1018, (413) 200-0633, chealy@pittsfield.net IMPORTANT: Follow-Up on Recent PowerSchool Data Breach PowerSchool has indicated that they are reaching out to individuals affected by the recent global data breach. As part of their response, they are offering two years of free credit monitoring. For details on how to enroll in this free service if you choose, please visit their FAQ page for more information. https://www.powerschool.com/security/sis-incident/notice-of-united-states-data-breach/ PPS FY26 Budget Materials All materials and resources from the FY26 work presented at school committee meetings will be posted to the district website at www.pittsfield.net - -Departments and Services - Business Office. Click here to view that website. Pittsfield High and Taconic High School Graduations This year both the Taconic High and Pittsfield High School graduations will be held at Tanglewood. Taconic High School - Friday, June 6, 2025 at 3:30p.m. Pittsfield High School - Sunday, June 8, 2025 at 4:00p.m. Indentification Required When Entering Any Pittsfield Public School Important Announcement: Identification Required for Entry into Pittsfield Public Schools For the safety and security of all students, staff, and visitors, Pittsfield Public Schools requires all individuals to present valid identification when entering any school building. This policy ensures we maintain a safe and secure environment for our school community. Please be prepared to show your ID at the main entrance upon arrival. We appreciate your cooperation in helping us prioritize safety and security across our district. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this policy, please contact your school’s main office. Thank you for your understanding and support in keeping our schools safe! 2024-2025 Pittsfield Public Schools Instructional Priority In grades 4, 6, and 9 ELA educators will develop well-structured lessons with the district’s ELA HQIM, Into Reading and Into Literature, in order to intentionally plan supports for students with disabilities so that all students will access higher order thinking tasks and increase their grade-level reading skills (comprehension & fluency). PPS Cell Phone Regulations For parents, guardians, caregivers, and students, the PPS School Committee has passed new regulations for cell phones, earbuds, and smartwatches. Please click here for more information. Our Mission Pittsfield Public Schools, in partnership with students, families, and the community, empowers all students to thrive and build a more equitable and just world. PPS Events CalendarPPS 24-25 School Year CalendarPPS District WebsitePPS Athletics Website Important Links Food Menus Click here to access all food menus for breakfast and lunch, elementary and secondary. Job Postings Available Job Openings within PPS Quick Links Bullying Reporting Form Bus Ticket Transportation Forms Contacting the Pittsfield Public Schools District Policy and School Handbook Directory Elementary Standards Based Report Card Resources High School Chromebook Replacement Process PPS School Safety Committee Report PPS School Safety & SRO presentation School Crossing Guards Secondary Honor Rolls School Committee Meetings and Resources SRO Memorandum of Agreement SRO Memorandum of Agreement One Page Summary Start and Ending School Times 24-25 Cafeteria Charging Policy 24-25 Lifetouch Photo Dates 24-25 School Open House & Conference Schedule 24-25 school year calendar 25-26 school year calendar 26-27 school year calendar
Sunday, Mar 09 2025
-
March 2, 2025 Superintendent's Update
Superintendent's Update Pittsfield Public Schools March 2, 2025 In this issue: 2025 PPS February Vacation Literacy Academy 📚✨ Hands-on learning in action at the February Literacy Academy at Reid Middle School! From interactive activities to creative projects, students are having a blast while strengthening their reading and writing skills. 📝🔍 Elementary Report Card & Secondary Progress Reports Mark your calendars! 🗓️ ✅ By March 7, 2024 – Secondary families will receive Quarter 3 progress reports. ✅ By March 14, 2024 – Elementary families will receive Trimester 2 report cards. Daylight Saving Time begins this coming weekend! 🌞 Set your clocks ahead one hour before bed on Saturday, March 9 (or at 2 AM on Sunday, March 10). Yes, we lose an hour of sleep, but we gain more daylight in the evenings! ☀️ Longer, brighter days are ahead. March 14, 2025 • Half Day of School for Students There will be a half day of school for students on Friday, March 14, 2025. Educators and administrators will engage in professional learning sessions in the afternoon. This time is dedicated to enhancing our teaching practices, collaborating on new strategies, and continuing our commitment to providing the best possible education for our students. We appreciate your understanding and support as we work to strengthen our school community. High school students will be dismissed at 10:50 a.m. Middle school students will be dismissed at 11:00 a.m. Elementary school students will be dismissed at 11:45 a.m. Next half day of school: April 4 IMPORTANT: Follow-Up on Recent PowerSchool Data Breach PowerSchool has indicated that they are reaching out to individuals affected by the recent global data breach. As part of their response, they are offering two years of free credit monitoring. For details on how to enroll in this free service if you choose, please visit their FAQ page for more information. https://www.powerschool.com/security/sis-incident/notice-of-united-states-data-breach/ PPS FY26 Budget Materials All materials and resources from the FY26 work presented at school committee meetings will be posted to the district website at www.pittsfield.net - -Departments and Services - Business Office. Click here to view that website. Pre-Kindergarten Registration for 2025-2026 Children entering Pre-Kindergarten must be 4 years old on or before September 1, 2025 for our 4 year old classrooms OR Children entering Pre-Kindergarten must be 3 years old on or before September 1, 2025 for our 3 year old classrooms Pre-K Online registration will begin on Wednesday, January 1, 2025. Spaces are limited, you must register by May 1, 2025 to be considered for the school based lottery which will occur on May 15, 2025. To Register Your Child: Click here for access, or scan the QR code on the left. If using a computer: Go to www.pittsfield.net. Scroll down to Registration, located under Helpful Links on the right. Click on the Pre-K Registration. Complete the form, including the required documents. Submit! Your APPLICATION is NOT complete until all required documentation are submitted and you have received a confirmation email from chealy@pittsfield.net Required Documents to Register for the Pre-K Lottery: ● Birth Certificate ● Proof of residence (current utility bill, rent/lease agreement) ● Completed Pre-Kindergarten Lottery Application Any questions, you can reach out to Carrie Healy at (413) 499-9500 ext. 1018, (413) 200-0633, chealy@pittsfield.net Pittsfield High and Taconic High School Graduations This year both the Taconic High and Pittsfield High School graduations will be held at Tanglewood. Taconic High School - Friday, June 6, 2025 at 3:30p.m. Pittsfield High School - Sunday, June 8, 2025 at 4:00p.m. Indentification Required When Entering Any Pittsfield Public School Important Announcement: Identification Required for Entry into Pittsfield Public Schools For the safety and security of all students, staff, and visitors, Pittsfield Public Schools requires all individuals to present valid identification when entering any school building. This policy ensures we maintain a safe and secure environment for our school community. Please be prepared to show your ID at the main entrance upon arrival. We appreciate your cooperation in helping us prioritize safety and security across our district. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this policy, please contact your school’s main office. Thank you for your understanding and support in keeping our schools safe! At the conclusion of high school sports events... As the winter sports season is here, we remind all spectators that, following athletic events, buildings and lobbies will be cleared. As the sport event is ending, announcements will be made to encourage spectators to arrange rides promptly. 2024-2025 Pittsfield Public Schools Instructional Priority In grades 4, 6, and 9 ELA educators will develop well-structured lessons with the district’s ELA HQIM, Into Reading and Into Literature, in order to intentionally plan supports for students with disabilities so that all students will access higher order thinking tasks and increase their grade-level reading skills (comprehension & fluency). PPS Cell Phone Regulations For parents, guardians, caregivers, and students, the PPS School Committee has passed new regulations for cell phones, earbuds, and smartwatches. Please click here for more information. Our Mission Pittsfield Public Schools, in partnership with students, families, and the community, empowers all students to thrive and build a more equitable and just world. PPS Events Calendar PPS 24-25 School Year Calendar PPS District Website PPS Athletics Website Important Links Food Menus Click here to access all food menus for breakfast and lunch, elementary and secondary. Job Postings Available Job Openings within PPS Quick Links Bullying Reporting Form Bus Ticket Transportation Forms Contacting the Pittsfield Public Schools District Policy and School Handbook Directory Elementary Standards Based Report Card Resources High School Chromebook Replacement Process PPS School Safety Committee Report PPS School Safety & SRO presentation School Crossing Guards Secondary Honor Rolls School Committee Meetings and Resources SRO Memorandum of Agreement SRO Memorandum of Agreement One Page Summary Start and Ending School Times 24-25 Cafeteria Charging Policy 24-25 Lifetouch Photo Dates 24-25 School Open House & Conference Schedule 24-25 school year calendar 25-26 school year calendar 26-27 school year calendar
Sunday, Mar 02 2025
-
🏀🔥 WMASS Semifinal Alert! 🔥🏀 Thursday, February 20th
🏀 🔥 WMASS Semifinal Alert! 🔥 🏀 Get ready, Pittsfield! We’re thrilled to host the WMASS Semifinal Game at 7:00 PM on Thursday, February 20th at Taconic High School, featuring an electrifying intercity game between the Pittsfield High Generals and The Taconic Thunder! ⚡ 💥 This highly anticipated game is expected to sell out quickly, and we want to make sure everyone has a chance to support our amazing student-athletes! 🎟️ 📢 TICKET INFO: 🎟 Pre-Sale (Students Only) – Available from 9 AM - 1 PM at Pittsfield & Taconic High Schools 🎟 General Sale – Remaining tickets will be sold at Taconic High School from 3 PM until game time (or until sold out) 🚪 IMPORTANT GAME DAY INFO: ✅ Doors open at 6:00 PM ✅ Entry through FRONT DOORS ONLY 🚪 ✅ Valid ticket required for entry ✅ Parking only in marked spots 🚗 🚫 No backpacks allowed 👫 Middle school students must be accompanied by an adult 🚫 No re-entry
Wednesday, Feb 19 2025
-
February 17-21, 2025 Students and Staff Will Be On F...
Pittsfield Public Schools February 17-21, 2025 Students and staff will be on February vacation. The Mercer Administration building will be closed on Monday, February 17, 2025 in observance of President's Day. PPS Events Calendar PPS 24-25 School Year Calendar PPS District Website PPS Athletics Website Important Links Food Menus Click here to access all food menus for breakfast and lunch, elementary and secondary. Job Postings Available Job Openings within PPS Quick Links Bullying Reporting Form Bus Ticket Transportation Forms Contacting the Pittsfield Public Schools District Policy and School Handbook Directory Elementary Standards Based Report Card Resources High School Chromebook Replacement Process PPS School Safety Committee Report PPS School Safety & SRO presentation School Crossing Guards Secondary Honor Rolls School Committee Meetings and Resources SRO Memorandum of Agreement SRO Memorandum of Agreement One Page Summary Start and Ending School Times 24-25 Cafeteria Charging Policy 24-25 Lifetouch Photo Dates 24-25 School Open House & Conference Schedule 24-25 school year calendar 25-26 school year calendar 26-27 school year calendar
Friday, Feb 14 2025
-
Stepping Down from the Position of Superintendent of...
February 13, 2025 Good morning Pittsfield Public Schools Families, It is with a profound mix of emotion and gratitude that I share my decision to step down as Superintendent of Pittsfield Public Schools, effective June 30, 2025. For those who know me, you understand that every decision I’ve made throughout my career has been guided by one unwavering principle: doing what I believe is in the best interest of our students. Their well-being, growth, and success have always been at the center of my work, my heart, and my soul. I want to be unequivocally clear that no supervisor has requested or prompted this decision. This is a choice I am making independently because I firmly believe it is the right time and the right decision for me, for the district, and for the community I deeply care about. As I reflect on my journey with Pittsfield Public Schools, which began over three decades ago, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude for the experiences that have shaped my career and my life. When I walked into my first classroom at Conte Community School in 1994, I could never have imagined the incredible path ahead—one filled with opportunities, challenges, and countless moments of celebration The thousands of students, families, and staff members I have had the privilege of working with have profoundly shaped my life in ways that words cannot express. Through every interaction, challenge, and success, I have gained invaluable lessons, perspectives, and connections that have left a lasting impact on me as a professional but most importantly as a human. Simply put, I grew into an adult professional and most importantly a father all during my time with the Pittsfield Public Schools. Throughout my time in the district, from teacher, to technology professional development specialists, to Community Coordinator, to principal, to Deputy Superintendent and finally to Superintendent, I have been blessed to work alongside extraordinary educators, staff, and community members who share a deep commitment to our students.Together, we have navigated unimaginable difficulties and celebrated milestones that many thought were not possible. These shared experiences have been both humbling and fulfilling beyond any measure. In the coming months, my priority will be to ensure a seamless transition as the district prepares to welcome its next leader. I continue to remain deeply committed to advancing our shared goals stated in our strategic plan, actively pursuing the possibility of a new school for the Westside, supporting the district restructuring process as directed by the PPS School Committee, and most importantly, remaining strongly dedicated to the essential daily work that drives our mission forward. Serving as your Superintendent has been the honor of a lifetime. Pittsfield Public Schools and the City of Pittsfield will forever hold a special place in my heart. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of this remarkable journey. I will carry this time in my life very close to my heart.. May God and this community bring mercy, strength, and support to the person who sits here next. Joseph Curtis, Superintendent of the Pittsfield PublicSchools
Thursday, Feb 13 2025
-
Two Hour Delay - Thursday, February 13, 2025
Pittsfield Public Schools Two Hour Delay - Thursday, February 13, 2025 Two Hour Delay, Thursday February 13, 2025 Good morning PPS Families and Staff Members, Due to light drizzle creating icy and glazed conditions, especially on side roads, we will proceed with caution and implement a two-hour delay today, Thursday, February 13, 2025. High School Reporting Time: 9:25a.m. Middle School Reporting Time: 9:35a.m. Elementary School Reporting Time: 10:45a.m. There will be no A.M. Half Day PreK classes. The Mercer Administration Building will open at 9a.m. Thank you Joseph Curtis Superintendent of the Pittsfield Public Schools
Thursday, Feb 13 2025
-
Update: Monday, February 10, 2025 - Internet Has Bee...
Pittsfield Public Schools Update: Monday, February 10, 2025 - Internet Has Been Restored Update: Internet Has Been Restored Internet service has now been fully restored at all Pittsfield Public School locations. Phones and all other systems are now fully operational. PPS Events Calendar PPS 24-25 School Year Calendar PPS District Website PPS Athletics Website Important Links Food Menus Click here to access all food menus for breakfast and lunch, elementary and secondary. Job Postings Available Job Openings within PPS Quick Links Bullying Reporting Form Bus Ticket Transportation Forms Contacting the Pittsfield Public Schools District Policy and School Handbook Directory Elementary Standards Based Report Card Resources High School Chromebook Replacement Process PPS School Safety Committee Report PPS School Safety & SRO presentation School Crossing Guards Secondary Honor Rolls School Committee Meetings and Resources SRO Memorandum of Agreement SRO Memorandum of Agreement One Page Summary Start and Ending School Times 24-25 Cafeteria Charging Policy 24-25 Lifetouch Photo Dates 24-25 School Open House & Conference Schedule 24-25 school year calendar 25-26 school year calendar 26-27 school year calendar
Monday, Feb 10 2025