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X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.arpsparents.com
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for SOS Amherst
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250509T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250509T093000
DTSTAMP:20260417T143134
CREATED:20250504T162427Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250504T162427Z
UID:3310-1746777600-1746783000@www.arpsparents.com
SUMMARY:Cuppa' Joe with Paul: FY26 Budget (in person)
DESCRIPTION:This event features Amherst Town Manager Paul Bockelman\, Treasurer/Collector Jennifer LaFountain\, and Clerk of the Council Athena O’Keefe. This is an opportunity for residents to learn about and discuss the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget. The budget includes all aspects of Town operations including Municipal\, Schools\, Library\, and Capital for July 1\, 2025 through June 30\, 2026. \nView all FY26 Budget Information. \nThe “Cuppa’ Joe with Paul” events are monthly and rotate locations around Town. Each time\, Paul is joined by a different Town department head or official who provides insights into their area of focus. Residents and others are welcome to share their concerns\, offer suggestions\, or just get to know each other. \nQuestions or accommodations needed? Contact us at (413) 259-3002 or via email at townmanager@amherstma.gov \n\nFriday\, May 9 from 8:00 to 9:30 am at the outdoor patio of the Bangs Community Center (Rain Location: Room 101).
URL:https://www.arpsparents.com/event/cuppa-joe-with-paul-fy26-budget-in-person/
LOCATION:Bangs Community Center\, 70 Boltwood Walk\, Amherst\, 01002
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250508T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250508T110000
DTSTAMP:20260417T143134
CREATED:20250422T123301Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250422T123301Z
UID:3263-1746694800-1746702000@www.arpsparents.com
SUMMARY:Finance Committee Meeting discussing elementary and regional school budgets (virtual; public comment)
DESCRIPTION:Finance Committee Meeting discussing the Elementary Schools and Regional Schools budgets – with school leadership in attendance. \nIn May\, the Finance Committee Meeting goes through each section of the Town Budget section by section and leadership from various departments attend to answer questions – 5/8 is the schools portion of these meetings. Link to agenda with zoom link here. This is a virtual only meeting. There is a public comment period. \n  \nVirtual Meeting: https://amherstma.zoom.us/j/82249233706 \nLIST OF TOPICS: \n\nCall to Order\, review agenda\nPublic Comment:\nFY26 Budget Review:\n\nRegional Schools\nElementary Schools\n\n\nItems not anticipated by the Chair 48 Hours in advance\nAdjourn
URL:https://www.arpsparents.com/event/finance-committee-meeting-discussing-elementary-and-regional-school-budgets-virtual-public-comment/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250505T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250505T223000
DTSTAMP:20260417T143134
CREATED:20250422T122856Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250501T114542Z
UID:3261-1746469800-1746484200@www.arpsparents.com
SUMMARY:Town of Amherst Public Hearing on the FY26 Budget (in person & virtual; public comment)
DESCRIPTION:The Town Manager will present his budget at the Town Council meeting. The budget will be here when available: https://www.amherstma.gov/3584/Upcoming-Budget \n  \n\nTown Council\n\nMonday\, May 5\, 2025\nRECEIVED: 4/30/25\, 5:14 pm. LIST OF TOPICS: Click “More Details” for List of Topics \n\n\n\n\nIn person: Town Hall\, Town Room. 4 Boltwood Ave. Amherst\, MA 01002 \nZoom: https://amherstma.zoom.us/j/81266533669 \nPhone: (646) 876-9923; enter webinar ID 812 6653 3669 \n\nCall to Order\nAnnouncements\nHearings – None\nGeneral Public Comment – Residents are welcome to express their views for up to 3 minutes\, at the discretion of the Town Council President\, based upon the number of people who wish to speak. The Council will not engage in a dialogue or comment on a matter raised during General Public Comment. Public comments are not reflective of the opinions of the Town Council.\nConsent Agenda – None\nResolutions and Proclamations – None\nPresentations and Discussion – None\nAction Items\n\nFiscal Year 2026 Budget\, Capital Inventory\, and Capital Improvement Program – Presentation and Referral to Finance Committee\nAcceptance of Roads as Public Ways: Palley Village Place – Declaration of Intent\n\n\nAppointments – None \nCommittee and Liaison Reports\n\nBudget Coordinating Group\nCommunity Resources Committee\nElementary School Building Committee\nFinance Committee\nGovernance\, Organization\, and Legislation Committee\nJones Library Building Committee\nTown Services and Outreach Committee\nLiaison Reports: Amherst Affordable Housing Trust\, Board of Health\, Commission for Persons with Disabilities\, Community Preservation Act Committee\, Community Safety and Social Justice Committee\, Conservation Commission\, Council on Aging\, Energy and Climate Action Committee\, Human Rights Commission\, Transportation Advisory Committee\n\n\nApproval of Minutes – None\nTown Manager Report\nTown Council Comments\n\nPresident Report\nFuture Agenda Items\nCouncilor Comments\n\n\nTopics Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chair 48 Hours in Advance of the Meeting\nExecutive Session – None\nAdjourn
URL:https://www.arpsparents.com/event/town-of-amherst-public-hearing-on-the-fy26-budget/
LOCATION:Amherst Town Hall\, 4 Boltwood Ave.\, Amherst
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250505T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250505T090000
DTSTAMP:20260417T143134
CREATED:20250318T205613Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250505T105214Z
UID:2976-1746432000-1746435600@www.arpsparents.com
SUMMARY:Coffee with State Rep. Mindy Domb – 1st Monday of the month
DESCRIPTION:Please advocate to Amherst’s state Rep Mindy Domb at her monthly coffee gatherings at The Works in downtown Amherst. \nMore info is here: https://www.arpsparents.com/advocate-to-your-state-reps-now/
URL:https://www.arpsparents.com/event/coffee-with-state-rep-mindy-dombs-1st-monday-of-the-month-2/
LOCATION:The Works\, 48 N. Pleasant St\, Amherst
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250504T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250504T143000
DTSTAMP:20260417T143134
CREATED:20250501T115110Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250501T115559Z
UID:3292-1746363600-1746369000@www.arpsparents.com
SUMMARY:District 3 Meeting with George Ryan and Hala Lord (in person)
DESCRIPTION:Sunday May 4th 1-2:30 pm – District 3 Meeting with George Ryan and Hala Lord at Hickory Ridge (find your district here if you are not sure) \n\nDistrict 3 Meeting – In-Person at Hickory Ridge\n\nSunday\, May 4\, 2025\nLIST OF TOPICS: Welcome and Introductions; Presentation by Assistant Fire Chief Steve Gaughan; Presentation by David Ziomek\, Assistant Town Manager/Director of Conservation and Development; Councilor updates on key topics (including Manager’s FY26 Budget\, School Budgets\, Proposed Transportation and Parking Commission\, Road and Sidewalk Repairs\, Bangs Center upgrades\, HS Track Reorientation & Repair…); Questions and Comments. \n\n\n\n\nThis is an in-person District 3 Meeting on Sunday\, May 4\, 2025 at 1:00 PM taking place at Hickory Ridge Conservation Area (191 West Pomeroy Lane\, Amherst\, MA 01002). \n\n 
URL:https://www.arpsparents.com/event/district-3-meeting-with-george-ryan-and-hala-lord/
LOCATION:Hickory Ridge\, 191 West Pomeroy Lane\, Amherst\, MA\, 01002\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250501T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250501T200000
DTSTAMP:20260417T143134
CREATED:20250430T115422Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T115422Z
UID:3284-1746124200-1746129600@www.arpsparents.com
SUMMARY:Meet with your District 2 Councilors (virtual only)
DESCRIPTION:Do you live in District 2?  Share your concerns about our elementary and regional schools’ ongoing budget crises and upcoming teacher layoffs with Lynn and Pat\, your District 2 Councilors. They have sidewalks on their agenda but not schools. Help change the narrative so our representatives know what is most important to us so that our public schools can survive and thrive! \n——– \nJoin Town Councilors Pat De Angelis and Lynn Griesemer for District 2 Meeting Thursday\, May 1 from 6:30 to 8:00 pm via Zoom (https://amherstma.zoom.us/j/88632449587). District meetings are an opportunity for residents of this district to meet their councilors\, hear town updates\, and share views on public issues. \nAgenda items for this meeting include:\n1. Welcome and Introductions\n2. Presentation by Department of Public Works regarding Road and Sidewalk Replacement and Repair\n3. Discussions about: Grantwood Area\, Heatherstone Area\, and other Areas in District 2\n4. Additional Questions and Discussions \nNot sure what district you live in? Check out this map and enter your address: https://arcg.is/G4jLL0
URL:https://www.arpsparents.com/event/meet-with-your-district-2-councilors-virtual-only/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250428T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250428T203000
DTSTAMP:20260417T143134
CREATED:20250404T114713Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250428T111605Z
UID:3183-1745865000-1745872200@www.arpsparents.com
SUMMARY:Town Council Meeting (in person & virtual) -  regional school budget on agenda
DESCRIPTION:In person: Town Hall\, Town Room. 4 Boltwood Ave. Amherst\, MA 01002 \nZoom:  https://amherstma.zoom.us/j/89889190786 \nPhone: (646) 876-9923; enter webinar ID 898 8919 0786 \n\nCall to Order\nAnnouncements\nHearings – None\nGeneral Public Comment\nConsent Agenda\nResolutions and Proclamations – Consent Agenda\n\n2025 Jewish American Heritage Month Proclamation\n\n\nPresentations and Discussion – None\nAction Items\n\nAmherst-Pelham Regional Schools FY26 Debt Authorization \nAmherst Black Reparations Committee Charge\nFY26 Water and Sewer Rates and Amendments to Water and Sewer Regulations – Consent Agenda\nProposed Fiscal Stabilization and Planning Task Force – Carried over from March 24 and April 7\nMemo and Proposed Four Towns Fiscal Sustainability Task Force\nLong-Term Public Way Request: Mobile Market – Consent Agenda\n\n\nAppointments – None \nCommittee and Liaison Reports\n\nBudget Coordinating Group\nCommunity Resources Committee\nElementary School Building Committee\nFinance Committee\nGovernance\, Organization\, and Legislation Committee\nJoint Capital Planning Committee\nJones Library Building Committee\nTown Services and Outreach Committee\nLiaison Reports: Amherst Affordable Housing Trust\, Board of Health\, Commission for Persons with Disabilities\, Community Preservation Act Committee\, Community Safety and Social Justice Committee\, Conservation Commission\, Council on Aging\, Energy and Climate Action Committee\, Human Rights Commission\, Transportation Advisory Committee\n\n\nApproval of Minutes – Consent Agenda\n\nApril 7\, 2025 Regular Meeting\n\n\nTown Manager Report\nTown Council Comments\n\nPresident Report\nFuture Agenda Items\nCouncilor Comments\n\n\nTopics Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chair 48 Hours in Advance of the Meeting\nExecutive Session – None\nAdjourn\n\nMeeting materials are posted here https://www.amherstma.gov/DocumentCenter/Index/7275; materials may be added or changed up through and after the meeting date.
URL:https://www.arpsparents.com/event/public-hearing-on-the-regional-budget/
LOCATION:Amherst Town Hall\, 4 Boltwood Ave.\, Amherst
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250413T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250413T160000
DTSTAMP:20260417T143134
CREATED:20250325T112625Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250413T142558Z
UID:3096-1744552800-1744560000@www.arpsparents.com
SUMMARY:Community Conversation on School Funding (in person)
DESCRIPTION:On Sunday April 13\, 2-4 pm at Crocker Farm Elementary School\, Support Our Schools (SOS) Amherst and the League of Women Voters will hold a Community Conversation on School Funding. \nThis is an opportunity for community members to come together to learn from one another about the current challenges around school funding in Amherst\, and to have an open\, collaborative conversation about how we can work together toward a shared goal of sustained\, equitable funding for our schools. Children’s activities and childcare will be available. \nOver the past year\, we have been told “NO” a lot\n\n\nNo – The schools can’t have more money\nNo – The Town can’t change anything about its budgeting process\nNo – You can’t say that you feel Councilors don’t care about our kids because that’s “uncivil”\nNo – You can’t say that education should be prioritized because that’s pitting one need against another\nNo – You can’t have more than two minutes to make a public comment\n\nOn Sunday\, we hope to move past some of these “NOs\,” to talk about why we bump up against so much resistance\, and how we can move forward!\n\n  \nSupport Our Schools (SOS) Amherst is a group of volunteers helping each other to understand issues and get involved in adequately funding our public schools. We aim to increase community knowledge of public school and municipal budgeting\, as well as state funding for public schools\, with the goal of ensuring more equitable funding for our schools. https://www.arpsparents.com \nThe League of Women Voters promotes political responsibility through its Voter Service and Citizen Education activities. Members register voters\, organize candidates’ forums\, publish voting guides and disseminate general information on the legislative process and the function of government on the local\, state\, and national levels. Voter Service and Citizen Education are designed to provide citizens with unbiased\, factual information as a basis for reaching their own decisions.  League Action is based on member study and agreement on selected issues and involves concerted efforts to achieve public policies consistent with League positions. The League neither supports nor opposes any political party or candidate for office. The League is a political but nonpartisan 501c4. The League encourages members to participate fully in the party of their choice as individuals. To learn more go to https://www.lwvamherst.org/. \n  \nParking map:
URL:https://www.arpsparents.com/event/community-conversation-on-school-funding-in-person/
LOCATION:Crocker Farm Elementary School\, 280 West Street\, Amherst\, MA
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250407T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250407T203000
DTSTAMP:20260417T143134
CREATED:20250309T151610Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250404T120025Z
UID:2859-1744050600-1744057800@www.arpsparents.com
SUMMARY:Town Council Meeting (please show up!)
DESCRIPTION:What: Town Council Meeting \nWhen:  Monday April 7th\, 6:30 PM\nWhere/How: In person at Town Hall or via Zoom\nAnd/or email your Town Councilors\nWhat to ask: Change the budget guidelines to direct the Town Manager to include the amount requested by the schools in the FY26 budget and vote yes to the Regional Schools budget as passed by the School Committee. These budgets restore the most essential positions and still require deep cuts – they are a fraction of what our schools need and the Town can afford it.\n\nOn Monday April 7th\, Town Council will continue its discussion of Councilor Ana Devlin Gauthier’s proposal to increase the percentage for the schools for FY26 by amending the budget guidelines. As far as the Elementary School budget goes\, unless the Council amends the guidelines\, the Town Manager can give the schools a lower budget amount than requested\, and the Council can’t increase it. So\, this is important. Please see the awesome attached graphic Geneva made to illustrate our current situation and where we go from here.\n\nAlso on the agenda is the Regional Schools budget – it seems that this budget really should go directly to the Town Council as they\, and not the manager\, are the “appropriating authority”.  It looks like they are scheduling a public hearing on the Regional Budget for Monday April 28th – so please save that date!\n\nMany of us already showed up in person or via Zoom\, but it appears that we just have to keep reminding them that we still care – so if you are able\, please try to join Monday’s meeting in-person or via Zoom to make a comment and/or directly email your District Councilors (plus at large Councilors) before Monday. Find all the resources you need on the SOS Website. There is a public hearing about CPA funds at the beginning of the Council meeting\, so public comment could start closer to 7-7:30\, but please be alert as the Council President has been known to flip the agenda.\n\n\n\n\n  \n  \n 
URL:https://www.arpsparents.com/event/town-council-meeting-advocacy-needed/
LOCATION:Amherst Town Hall\, 4 Boltwood Ave.\, Amherst
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250407T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250407T090000
DTSTAMP:20260417T143134
CREATED:20250318T204700Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250318T204934Z
UID:2972-1744012800-1744016400@www.arpsparents.com
SUMMARY:Coffee with State Rep. Mindy Dombs - 1st Monday of the month
DESCRIPTION:Please advocate to Amherst’s state Rep Mindy Domb at her monthly coffee gatherings at The Works in downtown Amherst. \nMore info is here: https://www.arpsparents.com/advocate-to-your-state-reps-now/
URL:https://www.arpsparents.com/event/coffee-with-state-rep-mindy-dombs-1st-monday-of-the-month/
LOCATION:The Works\, 48 N. Pleasant St\, Amherst
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250402T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250402T203000
DTSTAMP:20260417T143134
CREATED:20250328T111102Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250328T111129Z
UID:3140-1743620400-1743625800@www.arpsparents.com
SUMMARY:ARPS School Committee Challenges and Successes (virtual - free registration required)
DESCRIPTION:ARPS School Committee Challenges and Successes\n\nWednesday\, April 2\, 2025\nJoin in conversation with Amherst School Committee Chair Jennifer Shiao and Secretary Deb Leonard on the top issues facing local schools. How are diversity\, equity and inclusion programs being handled in Amherst\, given the new directives from Washington? \n\n\n\n\nEvent Details: \nWednesday\, April 2\n7:00 to 8:30 pm\nZoom \nRegister at lwvamherst.org to to hear directly from elected School leadership and ask questions about your concerns. \nSponsored by the League of Women Voters of Amherst Racial Justice Committee.
URL:https://www.arpsparents.com/event/arps-school-committee-challenges-and-successes-virtual-free-registration-required/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250331T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250331T200000
DTSTAMP:20260417T143134
CREATED:20250330T214341Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250330T214341Z
UID:3154-1743444000-1743451200@www.arpsparents.com
SUMMARY:Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee (in person)
DESCRIPTION:They will discuss the budget for next year and the assessment method (how the budget is divided up among the four towns). They are expecting a representative from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) to join them. According to Dr. Xi last week\, DESE has recently informed the Regional School district that they must use the regional assessment method detailed in the regional agreement\, and not this alternate method they have been using for the last several years. So\, this meeting should provide more information on what’s next for the Regional School Budget. The School Committee has invited members of the Town Council\, Finance Committee and town governments from Leverett. Shutesbury and Pelham to join as members of the audience. \n\nThe meeting will be in-person and also livestreamed. There is no public comment but if Town Councilors are there\, it would be great to have some caregivers in the audience to remind them that we are there.\n\nFor more info on the background of all of this\, see the Gazette article from a few days ago.\n\n\n\nAmherst-Pelham Regional School Committee\nMonday\, March 31\, 2025\n6:00 PM\nIn-Person Meeting\nLibrary at ARHS\nThis meeting will be shown via live-stream on Amherst Media (Channel 15)\nPosted 3/27/25 at 1:00pm\n 
URL:https://www.arpsparents.com/event/amherst-pelham-regional-school-committee-in-person/
LOCATION:Amherst Regional High School library
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250328T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250328T170000
DTSTAMP:20260417T143134
CREATED:20250318T204314Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250318T204314Z
UID:2969-1743177600-1743181200@www.arpsparents.com
SUMMARY:State Rep Mindy Domb Amherst office hours (in person)
DESCRIPTION:Please advocate to Amherst’s state Rep Mindy Domb this March. \nMore info is here: https://www.arpsparents.com/advocate-to-your-state-reps-now/ \n \nThe 3rd Hampshire District includes the Hampshire County towns of Amherst and precincts 1 and 2A of Granby.
URL:https://www.arpsparents.com/event/state-rep-mindy-domb-amherst-office-hours-in-person/
LOCATION:Jones Libary\, 43 Amity St\, Amherst
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250326T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250326T203000
DTSTAMP:20260417T143134
CREATED:20250325T191727Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T191727Z
UID:3101-1743013800-1743021000@www.arpsparents.com
SUMMARY:Amherst School Committee Meeting (elementary schools)
DESCRIPTION:Amherst School Committee\nWednesday\, March 26\, 2025\n6:30 PM\nIn-person meeting at Amherst-Pelham Regional High School library (side entrance)\, 21 Mattoon St.\nThis meeting will be shown via live-stream on Amherst Media (Channel 15)\nPublic comment can be emailed to SCpubliccomment@arps.org or left by voicemail (under 3 minutes) at 413-362-1891 by 3 PM on the day of the meeting.\nPosted 3/20/25 at 4:15 PM\n\n\n\n\n1. MEETING OPENING/STANDING AGENDA ITEMS\n\n\nA. Call to Order\n\n\nB. Public Comment\n\n\n\n\n\n\n2. NEW AND CONTINUING BUSINESS\n\n\nA. FY26 fees: Preschool\, musical instrument rental\, school meals\nThis Agenda Item Contains an Attachment.\n\nB. FY26 Operating Budget\nThis Agenda Item Contains an Attachment.\n\n\n\n\n\n3. MEETING CLOSING\n\n\nA. Future Agenda Planning\n\n\nB. Adjourn
URL:https://www.arpsparents.com/event/amherst-school-committee-meeting-elementary-schools/
LOCATION:Amherst Regional High School library
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250325T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250325T203000
DTSTAMP:20260417T143134
CREATED:20250325T191531Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T191911Z
UID:3099-1742927400-1742934600@www.arpsparents.com
SUMMARY:Amherst Regional School Committee Meeting (middle & high schools)
DESCRIPTION:Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee\nTuesday\, March 25\, 2025\n6:30 PM\nIn-Person Meeting\nLibrary at ARHS\nPublic comment can be emailed to SCpubliccomment@arps.org by 3 p.m. on the day of the meeting. Public comment can also be left by voicemail (under 3 minutes) at 413-362-1891 by 3 p.m. on the day of the meeting.\nThis meeting will be shown via live-stream on Amherst Media (Channel 15)\nPosted 3/18/25 at 6:30pm\n  \n\n1. Meeting Opening and Standing Business\n\n\nA. Call to Order\n\n\nB. Public Comment\n\n\nC. Executive Session\n\n\nD. Chair’s Update\n\n\nE. School Committee Announcements/Subcommittee Updates\n\n\nF. Approve Minutes\n\n\nG. Superintendent’s Update\n\n\n\n\n\n\n2. New and Continuing Business\n\n\nA. Middle School Facilities Update\n\n\nB. BRIM Procedures Update\n\n\nC. FY26 Fees – Discussion & Vote\nThis Agenda Item Contains an Attachment.\n\nD. BAN Interest – Vote\nThis Agenda Item Contains an Attachment.\n\nE. Budget Task Force – Discussion\nThis Agenda Item Contains an Attachment.\n\nF. Long Range Fiscal Impacts Task Force – Discussion\nThis Agenda Item Contains an Attachment.\n\n\n\n\n\n3. Meeting Closing\n\n\nA. Accept Gifts
URL:https://www.arpsparents.com/event/amherst-regional-school-committee-meeting/
LOCATION:Amherst Regional High School library
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250325T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250325T133000
DTSTAMP:20260417T143134
CREATED:20250318T203820Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250318T205111Z
UID:2966-1742905800-1742909400@www.arpsparents.com
SUMMARY:State Rep. Mindy Domb Amherst office hours (in person)
DESCRIPTION:Please advocate to Amherst’s state Rep Mindy Domb this March. \nMore info is here: https://www.arpsparents.com/advocate-to-your-state-reps-now/ \n \nThe 3rd Hampshire District includes the Hampshire County towns of Amherst and precincts 1 and 2A of Granby.
URL:https://www.arpsparents.com/event/state-rep-mindy-domb-office-hours-in-amherst-in-person/
LOCATION:Amherst Survival Center\, 138 Sunderland Road\, Amherst
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250324T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250324T203000
DTSTAMP:20260417T143134
CREATED:20250309T151420Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250321T174950Z
UID:2857-1742841000-1742848200@www.arpsparents.com
SUMMARY:Town Council Meeting (public comment - in person & virtual)
DESCRIPTION:Town of Amherst\nRegular Town Council Meeting\nMonday\, March 24\, 2025\, 6:30 p.m.\nTown Room\, Town Hall \n  \nVirtual Public Access: https://amherstma.zoom.us/j/81607142246 \nAgenda \nNote: Members of the public may attend virtually via Zoom\, by phone by calling phone (301) 715-8592\, enter webinar ID: 816 0714 2246\, or in person. \nThe meeting will also be live broadcast on Amherst Media channel 17 and https://amherstmedia.org/live-stream \n  \n\nSOS Amherst will rally immediately before this meeting. \nSummary of issues are here: https://www.arpsparents.com/rally-3-24-25/
URL:https://www.arpsparents.com/event/town-council-meeting-3/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250324T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250324T183000
DTSTAMP:20260417T143134
CREATED:20250321T112829Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250321T112829Z
UID:3082-1742839200-1742841000@www.arpsparents.com
SUMMARY:Support Our Schools Rally!
DESCRIPTION:If you only can come to one thing\, this is it!  Attend and make sure to make your public comment in person\, virtually\, or via email. \nDetails here: https://www.arpsparents.com/rally-3-24-25/ \n 
URL:https://www.arpsparents.com/event/support-our-schools-rally/
ORGANIZER;CN="SOS Amherst":MAILTO:SOSAmherst@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250324T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250324T120000
DTSTAMP:20260417T143134
CREATED:20250309T151852Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250309T152002Z
UID:2861-1742814000-1742817600@www.arpsparents.com
SUMMARY:MA Public Hearing on Local and School Aid (in person at UMass)
DESCRIPTION:The Massachusetts Joint Committee on Ways and Means will hold a public hearing on local and school aid on Monday March 24th\, 11 am\, at the Campus Center on the UMASS Campus. Attend and advocate for equitable school funding that won’t leave out communities like Amherst\, especially reform to the charter tuition reimbursement formula.
URL:https://www.arpsparents.com/event/ma-public-hearing-on-local-and-school-aid-in-person-at-umass/
LOCATION:UMass Campus Center\, 1 Campus Center Way\, Amherst\, 01002
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250320T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250320T183000
DTSTAMP:20260417T143134
CREATED:20250218T141451Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250318T162031Z
UID:2697-1742495400-1742495400@www.arpsparents.com
SUMMARY:Amherst School Committee will vote on the Elementary School Budget (in person & public comment )
DESCRIPTION:RESCHEDULED Amherst School Committee\nThursday\, March 20\, 2025\n6:30 PM\nIn-Person Meeting\nLibrary at Amherst-Pelham Regional High School\, 21 Mattoon St.\nThis meeting will be shown via live-stream on Amherst Media (Channel 15)\nPublic comment can be emailed to SCpubliccomment@arps.org by 3 p.m. on the day of the meeting. Public comment can also be left by voicemail (under 3 minutes) at 413-362-1891 by 3 p.m. on the day of the meeting.\nPosted 3/18/25 at 9:35 AM
URL:https://www.arpsparents.com/event/amherst-school-committee-will-vote-on-the-elementary-school-budget/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250316T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250316T170000
DTSTAMP:20260417T143134
CREATED:20250309T151203Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250309T151203Z
UID:2853-1742137200-1742144400@www.arpsparents.com
SUMMARY:District 1 Meeting (in person only)
DESCRIPTION:Find your district here. \n\nDistrict 1 Meeting\n\nSunday\, March 16\, 2025\nLIST OF TOPICS: Welcome by Councilors Freke Ette and Cathy Schoen – Introduce topics; Update on FY26 Budget; Update on New Elementary School Construction and Timeline; Special Guest: David Ziomek\, Assistant Town Manager / Director of Conservation & Development: Puffers Pond and Mill River Recreation Area: Open Discussion; What else is on your mind? Open discussion: questions\, answers\, comments: Potential topics for next District meeting? Zoning? Status of Proposed large development in Leverett/North Amherst Kittredge Properties \n\n\n\nNorth Amherst Library Community Room \nSunday\, March 16\, 2025 \n3:00 PM to 5:00 PM \nFree and open to the public. \nSpecial guest: David Ziomek\, Assistant Town Manager / Director of Conservation and Development
URL:https://www.arpsparents.com/event/district-1-meeting-in-person-only/
LOCATION:North Amherst Library Community Room\, 8 Montague Road\, Amherst\, 01002
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250314T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250314T093000
DTSTAMP:20260417T143134
CREATED:20250309T150438Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250309T151243Z
UID:2848-1741939200-1741944600@www.arpsparents.com
SUMMARY:Cuppa' Joe with Town Manager Paul Bockelman (in person only)
DESCRIPTION:We need to start showing up at these meetings to bring up the situation our schools are in\, and to counter the narrative that a lot of community members have about our schools (overspending\, wasting money\, etc.) \nA major barrier is many of us with kids in the school system also work full-time and our perspective is not heard at these events.
URL:https://www.arpsparents.com/event/cuppa-joe-with-town-manager-paul-bockelman-and-public-health-director-kiko-malin/
LOCATION:Futura Coffee Roasters\, 73 Cowls Rd\, Amherst\, 01002
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250311T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250311T223000
DTSTAMP:20260417T143134
CREATED:20250218T141353Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250309T145231Z
UID:2695-1741717800-1741732200@www.arpsparents.com
SUMMARY:Regional School Committee will vote on the Middle/High School Budget (in person & virtual)
DESCRIPTION:Will discuss the FY26 Budget – if you have specific questions or concerns that you would like School Committee members to ask/discuss\, communicate to them prior to this meeting (RegionalSchoolCommittee@arps.org) \n  \n— \n  \nIn person: Town Hall\, Town Room. 4 Boltwood Ave. Amherst\, MA 01002 \nZoom: https://amherstma.zoom.us/j/88484775377 \nPhone: (646) 876-9923; enter webinar ID 884 8477 5377 \n\nCall to order\nAnnouncements\nHearings – None\nPublic comment\nConsent Agenda\nResolutions and Proclamations – None\nPresentations and Discussion – None\nAction Items\n\nPercent for Art Bylaw: Elementary School Building Project\nReferral of Community Preservation Act Funding Recommendations to Finance Committee\nProposed Acceptance of Statute enabling Amherst to install and operate school bus violation detection monitoring systems\nProposed Adoption of Local Option changes for Veteran Property Tax Exemptions pursuant to the HERO Act\nProposed Bylaw outlawing public urination\n\n\nAppointments\n\nTown Manager Appointments\n\nCommission for Persons with Disabilities: James Kruidenier\, for a term to expire June 30\, 2028; Ian Rhodewalt and Myra Ross\, for terms to expire June 30\, 2027; Seren Derin and Cody Rooney\, for terms to expire June 30\, 2026; Elysse Link\, for a term to expire June 30\, 2025; and Pamela Nolan Young\, ex-officio\n\n\nTown Council Appointments\n\nDepartment of Public Works and Fire/EMS Station Building Committee – Recommendation to the Town Manager\n\n\n\n\nCommittee and Liaison Reports\n\nBudget Coordinating Group\nCommunity Resources Committee\nElementary School Building Committee\nFinance Committee\nGovernance\, Organization\, and Legislation Committee\nJoint Capital Planning Committee\nJones Library Building Committee\nTown Services and Outreach Committee\nLiaison Reports: Amherst Affordable Housing Trust\, Board of Health\, Community Preservation Act Committee\, Community Safety and Social Justice Committee\, Conservation Commission\, Council on Aging\, Disability Access Advisory Committee\, Energy and Climate Action Committee\, Human Rights Commission\, Transportation Advisory Committee\n\n\nApproval of minutes\n\nJune 24\, 2024 Regular Meeting\nJuly 17\, 2024 Regular Meeting\nJanuary 27\, 2025 Regular Meeting\n\n\nTown Manager Report\nTown Council Comments\n\nPresident Report\nFuture Agenda Items\nCouncilor Comments\n\n\nTopics not anticipated by the chair 48 hours in advance of the meeting\nExecutive Session – None\nAdjourn\n\nMeeting materials are posted here https://www.amherstma.gov/DocumentCenter/Index/7092; materials may be added or changed up through and after the meeting date.
URL:https://www.arpsparents.com/event/regional-school-committee-will-vote-on-the-middle-high-school-budget/
LOCATION:Amherst Town Hall\, 4 Boltwood Ave.\, Amherst
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250310T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250310T203000
DTSTAMP:20260417T143134
CREATED:20250309T150155Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250309T150155Z
UID:2846-1741631400-1741638600@www.arpsparents.com
SUMMARY:Town Council Meeting (in person & virtual)
DESCRIPTION:In person: Town Hall\, Town Room. 4 Boltwood Ave. Amherst\, MA 01002 \nZoom: https://amherstma.zoom.us/j/88484775377 \nPhone: (646) 876-9923; enter webinar ID 884 8477 5377 \n\nCall to order\nAnnouncements\nHearings – None\nPublic comment\nConsent Agenda\nResolutions and Proclamations – None\nPresentations and Discussion – None\nAction Items\n\nPercent for Art Bylaw: Elementary School Building Project\nReferral of Community Preservation Act Funding Recommendations to Finance Committee\nProposed Acceptance of Statute enabling Amherst to install and operate school bus violation detection monitoring systems\nProposed Adoption of Local Option changes for Veteran Property Tax Exemptions pursuant to the HERO Act\nProposed Bylaw outlawing public urination\n\n\nAppointments\n\nTown Manager Appointments\n\nCommission for Persons with Disabilities: James Kruidenier\, for a term to expire June 30\, 2028; Ian Rhodewalt and Myra Ross\, for terms to expire June 30\, 2027; Seren Derin and Cody Rooney\, for terms to expire June 30\, 2026; Elysse Link\, for a term to expire June 30\, 2025; and Pamela Nolan Young\, ex-officio\n\n\nTown Council Appointments\n\nDepartment of Public Works and Fire/EMS Station Building Committee – Recommendation to the Town Manager\n\n\n\n\nCommittee and Liaison Reports\n\nBudget Coordinating Group\nCommunity Resources Committee\nElementary School Building Committee\nFinance Committee\nGovernance\, Organization\, and Legislation Committee\nJoint Capital Planning Committee\nJones Library Building Committee\nTown Services and Outreach Committee\nLiaison Reports: Amherst Affordable Housing Trust\, Board of Health\, Community Preservation Act Committee\, Community Safety and Social Justice Committee\, Conservation Commission\, Council on Aging\, Disability Access Advisory Committee\, Energy and Climate Action Committee\, Human Rights Commission\, Transportation Advisory Committee\n\n\nApproval of minutes\n\nJune 24\, 2024 Regular Meeting\nJuly 17\, 2024 Regular Meeting\nJanuary 27\, 2025 Regular Meeting\n\n\nTown Manager Report\nTown Council Comments\n\nPresident Report\nFuture Agenda Items\nCouncilor Comments\n\n\nTopics not anticipated by the chair 48 hours in advance of the meeting\nExecutive Session – None\nAdjourn\n\nMeeting materials are posted here https://www.amherstma.gov/DocumentCenter/Index/7092; materials may be added or changed up through and after the meeting date.
URL:https://www.arpsparents.com/event/town-council-meeting-in-person-virtual/
LOCATION:Amherst Town Hall\, 4 Boltwood Ave.\, Amherst
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250305T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250305T140000
DTSTAMP:20260417T143134
CREATED:20250228T223215Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250228T223215Z
UID:2778-1741176000-1741183200@www.arpsparents.com
SUMMARY:Town of Amherst - Budget Coordinating Group (virtual only - public comments)
DESCRIPTION:Budget Coordinating Group\nWednesday\, March 5\, 2025\n12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m.\nVirtual Meeting https://amherstma.zoom.us/j/81893457664  \nNote: There will be no in person public access at this meeting. Members of the public may attend virtually via Zoom\nhttps://amherstma.zoom.us/j/81893457664 or by phone by calling phone (646) 931 3860\nenter webinar ID 81893457664 \nAgenda: \nCall to Order\n Updates\no FY26 Budget Projections\no Health Insurance Rates\n Free Cash/Excess & Deficiency\no Town of Amherst\no Amherst Regional Public School District\n Major Initiatives\no Amherst Regional/Elementary Schools (school consolidation and transition\, etc.)\no Town of Amherst (major capital projects)\n Regional Assessment Method – update\n Operating Budget Override – procedure and options\n Individual Group Comments\no Library\no School Districts\no Town of Amherst\n Public Comment\n Next Meeting Topics\n Topics Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chair 48 Hours in Advance of the Meeting\n Adjourn\nMeeting materials are posted here; /DocumentCenter/Index/7073 materials may be added or changed up\nthrough and after the meeting date.
URL:https://www.arpsparents.com/event/town-of-amherst-budget-coordinating-group-virtual-only-public-comments/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250304T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250304T183000
DTSTAMP:20260417T143134
CREATED:20250227T125247Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250227T125418Z
UID:2752-1741113000-1741113000@www.arpsparents.com
SUMMARY:State level advocacy with MARS (virtual)
DESCRIPTION:Senator Lewis has introduced two critical bills to strengthen public education funding: \n\nSD.1912: An Act to Ensure Adequate and Equitable Funding for Public Education\nSD.1237: An Act Increasing the Commonwealth’s Share of the Education Foundation Budget\n\nIf successful\, these bills will eventually provide much-needed financial relief to school districts across the Commonwealth. However\, it will likely be a few years before any formula changes are complete. If an interim solution is not provided\, districts and municipalities will be forced to continue cutting essential services and programs just to survive. \nMARS has been working with the Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents (MASS)\, the Massachusetts Association of School Business Officials (MASBO)\, the Massachusetts Teachers Association (MTA)\, and the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) to develop a K-12 funding proposal that we believe will bring much-needed relief to school districts and municipalities for FY 26. The proposal can be found here: K-12 Funding Proposal. \nWe encourage you to review this proposal and to join us on March 4\, 2025\, at 6:30 PM for a Zoom meeting. We will discuss the details and rationale behind each item in the proposal. We will also talk about advocacy steps that need to be taken to get the necessary attention from the state legislature and send a clear and consistent message that additional K-12 funding is imperative in FY 26. \nYou can register to join the Zoom meeting by following this link: Project 211 + 21: Uniting to Advocate for Increased K-12 Education Funding Once you have registered\, you will receive an email with a link to join the meeting.
URL:https://www.arpsparents.com/event/state-level-advocacy-with-mars-virtual/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250304T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250304T200000
DTSTAMP:20260417T143134
CREATED:20250218T215423Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250218T215904Z
UID:2702-1741113000-1741118400@www.arpsparents.com
SUMMARY:District 2 Meeting (virtual only)
DESCRIPTION:Join via Zoom: https://amherstma.zoom.us/j/88632449587 \nFind your district # on this map: https://www.amherstma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/44829/Districts–Precincts-Map—Updated-April-2022?bidId= \nFind your town councilors here: https://www.amherstma.gov/3676/Meet-Your-Town-Council
URL:https://www.arpsparents.com/event/district-2-meeting-virtual-only/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250301T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250301T173000
DTSTAMP:20260417T143134
CREATED:20250226T000424Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250226T000424Z
UID:2735-1740843000-1740850200@www.arpsparents.com
SUMMARY:Rally to Support Our Schools!
DESCRIPTION:Rakk
URL:https://www.arpsparents.com/event/rally-to-support-our-schools/
LOCATION:Downtown Amherst\, Main Street and N. Pleasant
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250227T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250227T183000
DTSTAMP:20260417T143134
CREATED:20250122T125558Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250226T221238Z
UID:2556-1740681000-1740681000@www.arpsparents.com
SUMMARY:Amherst School Committee Elementary Schools Budget Hearing (IMPORTANT to make Public Comments)
DESCRIPTION:Amherst School Committee will hold their annual ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS budget hearing on Thursday February 27th at 6:30 PM in the ARHS library.   \nThis budget hearing is the main opportunity for the public to weigh in on the Amherst Schools budget for next year. \n \n\n\n\nThe Elementary Schools budget contains $1\,561\,314 worth of reductions and impacts the following positions: (Budget Book Part 1\, Budget Book Part 2)\n\nThree Special Education Teacher positions (one at each of Crocker Farm\, Fort River and Wildwood) eliminated\nOne Special Education Reading Teacher position eliminated\nOne Building Blocks/AIMS Teacher position eliminated\nOne Crocker Farm Kindergarten Teacher position eliminated\nOne Wildwood General Education Teacher position eliminated\nOne Caminantes Paraeducator position eliminated\nOne ELL Paraeducator position eliminated\nOne Crocker Farm Kindergarten Paraeducator position eliminated\nAll specials/band/orchestra teachers reduced from full time to .9\n3.4 Central Office positions reduced/eliminated\n\n\n\n\n\n6:30 PM\nIn-Person Meeting and virtual at https://meet.google.com/fbb-fwur-odp\nLibrary at ARHS\nPublic comment can be emailed to SCpubliccomment@arps.org by 3 p.m. on the day of the meeting. Public comment can also be left by voicemail (under 3 minutes) at 413-362-1891 by 3 p.m. on the day of the meeting.\nThis meeting will be shown via live-stream on Amherst Media (Channel 15) \n 
URL:https://www.arpsparents.com/event/amherst-school-committee-budget-hearing-public-comment/
LOCATION:Amherst Regional High School library
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250226T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250226T183000
DTSTAMP:20260417T143134
CREATED:20250216T142455Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250227T131252Z
UID:2648-1740594600-1740594600@www.arpsparents.com
SUMMARY:2/26 Amherst Regional School Committee Budget Forum (Virtual & in person -- IMPORTANT to make Public Comments)
DESCRIPTION:This is the budget hearing for the middle and high school. \nLink to presentation. \n \n  \n6:30 PM\nIn-Person Meeting & Virtual\nLibrary at ARHS\nPublic comment can be emailed to SCpubliccomment@arps.org by 3 p.m. on the day of the meeting. Public comment can also be left by voicemail (under 3 minutes) at 413-362-1891 by 3 p.m. on the day of the meeting.\nThis meeting will be shown via live-stream on Amherst Media (Channel 15) \n  \n \nJoin virtually: Click the video button or use the meeting info below.\nhttps://us06web.zoom.us/j/84262479348?pwd=wiupL3QGBTpZdSJ9s9O095omU40zKD.1\nMeeting ID: 842 6247 9348\nPasscode: 5f7xWV
URL:https://www.arpsparents.com/event/2-26-amherst-regional-school-committee-budget-forum-in-person-public-comment/
LOCATION:Amherst Regional High School library
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR