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# SOS Amherst

Support Our Schools Amherst

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://www.arpsparents.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [FY27 Budget Presentation](https://www.arpsparents.com/5-4-26-fy27-budget/) - Here is the Town Manager’s FY27 Budget presentation from 5/4/26: https://www.amherstma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/86319/FY27-Budget-Presentation—final And here is the meeting recording; the presentation starts about 51:30 into the meeting after public comment. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BQ7vtiiCBxc&t=9751s Town FY27 Budget webpage: https://www.amherstma.gov/3584/Upcoming-Budget
- [School Budgets - Summary update](https://www.arpsparents.com/5-4-26-update/) - Just a brief update on where we are with the school budgets. The Regional Schools (ARMS & ARHS) Budget is fairly non-controversial and likely to be approved by all four towns. Leverett has already approved and Pelham and Shutesbury will hold their Town Meetings on 5/9. The Amherst Finance Committee is in the process of
- [School Committee passes Elementary School FY27 budget](https://www.arpsparents.com/school-committee-fy27-budget/) - On 3/31/26, the Amherst (Elementary) School Committee passed a budget that looks much like the one originally presented by the district administration but with the following changes: It retains the 4.5 Specials Teaching positions that were initially proposed to be cut It retains the 2 Math Coach and 0.5 Interventionist positions that were initially proposed to be cut It eliminates 1%
- [Elementary budget vote 3/31/26 - submit comments by 3pm](https://www.arpsparents.com/elementary-vote-3-31-26/) - Amherst Elementary Budget (Pre-K to 6th): The Elementary Budget process has been much less straightforward than the one at the Region this year. As best as I can follow, here is where we are. There is a final budget meeting on Tuesday, 3/31 at 8pm (details below): On 3/3, the School Committee sent budget guidance to the District Administration, but in that
- [***URGENT***State Advocacy needed by 3/31](https://www.arpsparents.com/state-action-3-31-26/) - On 3/31 the MA Legislature Joint Committee on Ways and Means will hold a hearing on the FY27 Budget. School funding advocates from around Massachusetts are organizing to provide both oral and written testimony to the Committee. Based on the priorities outlined by both Project 211 and the Massachusetts Teachers Association, below is a letter template for those who
- [Amherst Elementary Budget Hearing background](https://www.arpsparents.com/amherst_elementaryfy27/) - On Tuesday 3/17 at 6:30 PM the Amherst Elementary School Committee will hold its annual budget hearing for the FY27 Budget. The Meeting will take place in the Town Room at Town Hall and is also available via Zoom (https://zoom.us/j/95934675913?pwd=aNZ7EBh3GVDaBEXbM6vWbXsSyaNKOW.1). This is the public’s chance to weigh in on the FY27 budget and the changes that will result from the
- [ARMS roof success!](https://www.arpsparents.com/arms-roof-success/) - ARMS roof funding success! Thanks to community efforts, the Regional School Committee, the Amherst Finance Committee, and the Amherst Town Council, funds were allocated for a full roof replacement on the Amherst Regional Middle School this summer. Thank you to all who advocated to make this happen for our kids. (It was not easy.)
- [Roof passes Finance/Budget Projections Revised/Upcoming Meetings](https://www.arpsparents.com/fy27projections/) - Roof passes Finance/Budget Projections Revised/Upcoming Meetings ARMS Roof – At Tuesday’s Finance Committee meeting, the Finance Committee unanimously recommended using $1.6 million in free cash for repairing the ARMS auditorium roof. This request now moves back to Town Council for a final vote on 3/9. Assuming it passes, this means that the ENTIRE roof will be fixed this summer!
- [Advocacy Alert - ARMS roof (2/23)](https://www.arpsparents.com/arms-roof-alert/) - Please show up in-person or virtually Monday 2/23 at 6:30 to make public comment at Amherst Town Council asking that the Town Manager allocate a portion of the free cash to repair the auditorium roof at ARMS. Right now this portion of the roof will NOT be repaired this summer when the rest of the roof is. Please share
- [Update from 2/2/26 Town Council Meeting](https://www.arpsparents.com/2-2-26/) - Thanks to all of you who attended the 2/2/26 Town Council meeting, in-person or virtually, or sent written public comments. The recording is here. State Legislative Update: Senator Jo Comerford and Mindy Domb gave a legislative update that included a section on K-12 education. The bottom line is that there is nothing happening on that front
- [Summary update](https://www.arpsparents.com/summary-january-2026/) - Please save the date Monday 2/2 for an Amherst Town Council meeting that will include Amherst’s state representatives. Details to follow but we need to mobilize for this regarding the Amherst Elementary and Regional funding for next year. Amherst Elementary Schools – Preliminary numbers show a $2 million deficit which would translate to roughly 20 positions. There is no
- [Jan 2026 summary update](https://www.arpsparents.com/jan-2026-summary-update/) - Quick summary update Regional Budget: On 1/10/26, the Regional Schools held a Four Towns Meeting with elected representatives from Amherst, Leverett, Shutesbury and Pelham. The presentation is here. The bottom line is that the cost to operate ARMS and ARHS is more than the towns are able/willing to pay at this time. There is no final number but
- [Another quick way to advocate for state funding for schools](https://www.arpsparents.com/state-advocacy-april-2025/) - Another quick way to advocate for state funding for schools - now There are two more state hearings coming up, and our legislators need to hear that public school funding is a critical concern. Please consider submitting public comment for both (you can use the same email). April 3rd, 12 p.m. – Hearing on how to allocate
- [FY27 Budget draft - not good](https://www.arpsparents.com/fy27-budget-draft/) - Budget season is beginning and it’s not looking good. On Tuesday 12/9/25 at 6:30pm the Regional School Committee will see a draft version of the FY27. The draft presentation of the budget can be found here and it looks pretty grim. These are preliminary numbers but the cost of providing level services (the same programs and services
- [Monday 11/17/25 Rally at Town Hall!](https://www.arpsparents.com/11-17-25-rally/) - Please join us on Monday 11/17 to advocate for more money for our schools from the Town of Amherst. We will rally at 6pm at Town Hall and make public comment at the meeting at 7pm. More details below. Town Council Forum on the Budget: On Monday 11/17 at 7pm, the Town Council will hold the annual
- [State Advocacy opportunity - listening session](https://www.arpsparents.com/state-advocacy-alert-nov-2025/) - The Massachusetts Association of Regional Schools is making a plea for more people to speak up for changes to state funding. There is a listening session on Thursday 11/6 4:30 – 6:30 in Greenfield that some Amherst families are planning to attend. If you can’t attend, there is also a virtual session on 11/18 (registration is
- [**State Advocacy Alert** -- Nov 18 hearing](https://www.arpsparents.com/state-advocacy-alert-nov-18/) - We are at a critical moment right now where we really need advocacy for state funding reform. Please consider either showing up to the virtual hearing on November 18th (registration required – instructions below) and/or submitting written testimony (address below). Several of the SOS Amherst community members went to the public listening session in
- [Annual Town Manager evaluation - due 10/30](https://www.arpsparents.com/annual-town-manager-evaluation/) - Every year, the Town Council invites the public to submit written comments as part of the Town Manager’s evaluation. Comments are due by midnight, Thursday October 30th. Although he is not directly involved in developing the budget for the schools, the Town Manager has a lot of impact on how much funding reaches the schools. We hope that you
- [FY27 Budget Chart](https://www.arpsparents.com/fy27-budget-chart/) - This handy chart and a lot of other info can also be found on our Resources page.
- [Keywords for Nov Elections](https://www.arpsparents.com/keywords-for-nov-elections/) - Endorsements: Please do your research about candidates rather than relying solely on endorsements. Some candidates have chosen to not engage with endorsements at all because they have been divisive in the past. Other candidates have declined to be endorsed by specific groups for various reasons. A number of candidates declined to be endorsed by Amherst Forward,
- [#1 ask -- Vote for who votes on funding our schools!](https://www.arpsparents.com/vote-fall-2025/) - Find out what candidates say about our public schools in the League of Women Voters 2025 Voting Guide here. League of Women Voters’ forum for districts 1,2,3,4 on 10/15/25: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OKWs3PEVzvg Do candidates express doubt, negativity, or minimize our schools’ need for additional funds? Do candidates say very little or nothing at all about schools? Or, Do candidates commit
- [FY26 Budget approved -- Parents needed to run for Town Council in the Fall](https://www.arpsparents.com/elementor-3421/) - On Monday June 16, 2025 the Amherst Town Council approved the FY26 Budget. It includes the 4.81% increase in funding for the Regional Schools and a 5% increase for the Elementary Schools, 1% ($269,704) of which is being considered as one-time funds which will not be included in the calculation for next year. As a
- [June updates](https://www.arpsparents.com/june-2025/) - Lots of info - Show up June 16 for budget vote; YOU can run for open seats this fall on Town Council & the School Committee Quick recap: The budget for the Regional Schools has been approved by all four member towns. See the SOS post here for a refresher on that budget and what we know about positions
- [It could have been worse...and we can still be much better](https://www.arpsparents.com/we-can-be-better/) - While the final budgets for the schools don’t provide everything the school superintendent requested for next year, there are fewer student facing cuts than there could have been. There continues to be a long overdue need for an overhaul in town council to change the culture to full transparency and enthusiastic financial support for excellent public
- [Budget Analysis by SOS Amherst - More transparency, fairness needed](https://www.arpsparents.com/fy26-budget-analysis/) - On May 5, 2025, Amherst Town Manager Paul Bockelman gave his presentation of the FY26 Budget. Recording here. Presentation here. FY26 Budget here. FY Capital Improvement Plan here. Today, Dr. Xi and the District Finance Director, Shannon Bernacchia appeared at the Finance Committee meeting to answer questions about the budget requests (Video recording here). A longer summary is after
- [Town of Amherst Budget: Schools get less than requested](https://www.arpsparents.com/fy26-budget-is-now-available/) - The Town Manager’s budget book is out and includes a 4.81% increase for the Region and a 5% increase for the Elementary Schools, as recommended by the Town Council. The amount for the Elementary Schools is less than the 6% increase voted by the School Committee. The budget is here: https://www.amherstma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/78496/FINAL-BUDGET-BOOK–5-1-25 Where are we
- [Summary of Recent Meetings](https://www.arpsparents.com/summary-of-recent-meetings/) - Town Council Meeting – Monday 4/28 There was a lengthy discussion of two separate proposals to form committees/working groups related to the long-term fiscal stability of the school districts. One was submitted by Councilor Ana Devlin Gauthier and the other by Council President Lynn Griesemer and Councilor Cathy Schoen. Discussion starts around the one hour mark of the video. Here are
- [April & May final school budget push](https://www.arpsparents.com/april-may-push/) - What’s next and Thank you! Thank you so much to everyone who came out on 4/13/25 to the SOS/LWV Community Conversation on School Funding – we had some great energy and lots of ideas for how to move forward and will have more to share on that soon. Save the Date – Monday May 12th 6:30pm will be
- [2-4 pm Sunday 4/13 Community Conversation](https://www.arpsparents.com/4-13-25-community-conversation/) - Reminder that tomorrow (Sunday April 13th), we will be holding our Community Conversation on School Funding in conjunction with the Amherst League of Women Voters. 2-4pm at Crocker Farm. Please enter via Shays Street Entrance (see attached map for parking location). Over the past year, we have been told “NO” a lotNo – The schools can’t have more moneyNo –
- [Update on School Budgets](https://www.arpsparents.com/april-update-on-school-budgets/) - Update on School budgets At the 4/10/25 Town Council meeting, after a lot of convoluted and confusing discussion, the Council took three votes relevant to the schools’ budgets. Video here. Details below but it seems like there is a fairly broad consensus that the Town Councilors want to give a 4.81% increase to the Regional Schools (this is
- [April Action Needed! 4/7, 4/28 and more](https://www.arpsparents.com/next-step-actions-april-2025/) - What: Town Council Meeting When: Monday April 7th, 6:30 PMWhere/How: In person at Town Hall or via ZoomAnd/or email your Town CouncilorsWhat 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
- [Town says No to supporting regional school budget](https://www.arpsparents.com/town-says-no-to-regional-school-budget/) - Amherst council decision forces regional school district back to drawing board on next year’s budget Amherst council decision forces regional school district back to drawing board on next year’s budget https://www.gazettenet.com/Amherst-Town-Council-rejects-assessment-adjustment-for-regional-schools-budget-possibly-sending-spending-plan-back-to-committee-60237758
- [Rally at Town Council Monday 3/24 at 6pm](https://www.arpsparents.com/rally-3-24-25/) - CRITICAL ACTION - Show up for our schools Monday 3/24 @ 6pm Monday’s Town Council Meeting is a critical time to show up for our schools! SOS Amherst is rallying on Monday at 6:00 pm at Town Hall – and heading to the Town Council meeting immediately after – Join us! Rally Monday March 24th
- [Middle school roof crisis - Sign petition (también en español)](https://www.arpsparents.com/arms-roof-petition/) - Middle School Roof Crisis! Read & sign the petition here (by Friday March 21). More info is here: https://www.arpsparents.com/arms-roof-crisis/ Petición Crisis del Techo Escuela Secundaria aquí. ARMS student petition is here!
- [Order SOS Yard Signs here](https://www.arpsparents.com/order-sos-yard-signs-post/) - Order your SOS Amherst Yard Sign here.
- [Support our Schools Rally Success!](https://www.arpsparents.com/support-our-schools-rally-success/)
- [3/10/25 Town Council  meeting summary](https://www.arpsparents.com/3-10-25-town-council/) - “We can’t just stand here and ring our hands because we have a state funding crisis. We need to do what we can do.” – Town Councilor Ana Devlin Gauthier, 3/10/25 Town Council Mtg. Two actions you can take today! 1. Email Councilor Devlin Gauthier (devlingauthiera@amherstma.gov) to thank her for her support (details below) 2.
- [3/11/25 Regional School Committee meeting summary](https://www.arpsparents.com/3-11-25-regional-summary/) - On 3/11/25 the Regional School committee rejected the initial budget with $1,391,998 in deficits, asking Dr. Xi to instead bring them a budget with a $997,000 deficit. This budget would restore the two Counselor positions at ARHS and four out of five of the ARMS teacher positions. It would keep the team model intact at ARMS. Video here. The
- [How to get involved with SOS Amherst (now)](https://www.arpsparents.com/how-to-get-involved/) - We are just regular parents, juggling kids and jobs, trying to work together to get our kids what they deserve. What has SOS Amherst been up to? – The answer is A LOT, and we need your help. See something you want to get more active in helping with – just say the word! Have an
- [Summary of to do's and info - lot's going on NOW](https://www.arpsparents.com/summary-of-to-dos/) - Upcoming Opportunities to advocate for school funding to the TOWN: Monday March 10th, 6:30 – Town Council Meeting – In-person, or via Zoom. Agenda and Zoom link can be found here. Friday March 14th, 8:00-9:30 am – Cuppa’ Joe with Town Manager Paul Bockelman and Public Health Director Kiko Malin – Futura Coffee Roasters – we need to start
- [Advocate to your state reps now](https://www.arpsparents.com/advocate-to-your-state-reps-now/) - There are several bills proposed to the Massachusetts legislature that have the potential to bring hundreds of thousands of dollars into our schools budget this year. This funding won’t alleviate our current school budget shortfall, but it could make an important difference, saving needed programs and positions. The reason this funding is available is that there’s a
- [Take Action](https://www.arpsparents.com/take-action/) - Do Something! Here is how to take Action What’s next? We need the School Committees to reject at least some of these reductions and vote budgets higher than the amount that the Town of Amherst has indicated it would support. They did this last year for the Regional Schools – and hopefully they will do it
- [Get the roof fixed!](https://www.arpsparents.com/fix-the-roof-now/) - Will it take an injury to get the middle school roof fixed? These photos were taken by a 13 year old kid at Amherst Regional Middle School on Tuesday, February 25th, 2025.
- [Budgets now available - Things are bad](https://www.arpsparents.com/budgets-now-available/) - The budgets are out:The Elementary Schools budget contains $1,561,314 worth of reductions and impacts the following positions: (Budget Book Part 1, Budget Book Part 2)Three Special Education Teacher positions (one at each of Crocker Farm, Fort River and Wildwood) eliminatedOne Special Education Reading Teacher position eliminatedOne Building Blocks/AIMS Teacher position eliminatedOne Crocker Farm Kindergarten Teacher position eliminated One Wildwood General
- [Lots going on](https://www.arpsparents.com/lots-going-on/) - Lots to catch up on and pay attention to this month Budget deficits remain in the $1-1.5 million range (down from $2 because health insurance has been negotiated down from the 19.9% increase reported). This is over 1 million each for the elementary schools and the regional schools budgets. Next Town Council Meeting – Monday 2/24
- [Amherst families try to correct the combative narrative around school funding](https://www.arpsparents.com/sos-amherst-responds/) - Amherst families try to correct combative narrative around school funding This weekend, Amherst District 3 Councilor and newly elected Council Vice President George Ryansent an update on the Regional Schools budget to constituents on his mailing list. The full text of hisstatement is included below. Unfortunately, Councilor Ryan’s update contains a number of inaccuracies, as well
- [This is who is voting on budgets](https://www.arpsparents.com/who-votes-on-budgets/) - This is who is voting on budgets Recap of this week –Town Council Meeting 1/27 – You can watch the recording here.Finance Committee: Council President Lynn Greisemer appointed Councilors: Mandi Jo Hanneke, Robert Hegner, Cathy Schoen, Andrew Steinberg, Ellisha Walker (these are the same Councilors as the prior term). You can see more details here in terms of who
- [Actions you can take](https://www.arpsparents.com/actions-you-can-take/) - Actions you can take Ongoing Action Item – Tell Town Council that our schools matter to you, that they are currently NOT sufficiently funded and that another year of cuts will be devastating. Contrary to the narrative that is often coming from the Town Council, our school budget cuts and elimination of staff positions have actually
- [Recap from 1/28 school committee meeting](https://www.arpsparents.com/recap-from-1-28-school-committee-meeting/) - Recap of 1/28 school committee meeting Amherst School Committee/Regional School Committee Meeting 1/28 – You can watch the recording here. Public Comment – A number of commenters spoke in support of Dr. Xi and the work she is doing, including staff representing the LGBTQIA+ Caucus and the Black Caucus. Presentation on Strategic Planning – The School Committees heard a
- [Elementary schools face over $1.4 million in cuts](https://www.arpsparents.com/elementor-2550/) - Amherst Elementary Schools budget to cut over 10 positions At last night’s Amherst School Committee meeting (video here), Dr. Xi and Interim Finance Director Shannon Bernacchia presented a budget update (attached) for the Amherst (elementary) Schools for next year. The elementary budget is currently $1,478,143 over budget for next year. This will likely necessitate the elimination of 8-9 teachers, 1 clerical
- [Still Facing Massive Cuts](https://www.arpsparents.com/massive-cuts/) - Still facing massive cuts -- more than 50 staff may be lost Updates: At the 1/14/25 Regional School Committee Meeting (watch here), Dr. Xi and her team provided a budget update for the Regional Schools (middle and high school). The exact deficit amount isn’t yet known as the four towns that fund the Regional Schools are still determining funding for
- [Still a large budget deficit for next school year](https://www.arpsparents.com/still-a-deficit/) - There is still a $2.4 million+ school funding gap for next year 12/16/24 Town Council Meeting: Video recording is here. Town Council approved the FY26 Financial Guidelines which give the schools a 3% increase over the FY25 numbers and does not include the total amount the Region received last year in the base for FY26. These
- [Dr. Xi's presentation](https://www.arpsparents.com/dr-xis-presentation/) - Check out Superintendent Xi's presentation! 12/17/24 joint school committee meeting: The meeting between the Amherst School Committee and the Regional School Committee was packed with discussion and information and is really worth watching. Dr. Xi presented her entry plan findings, detailing some of the challenges she found in the district and some initial recommendations. Other important topics
- [Public Comment needed tonight 12/16](https://www.arpsparents.com/public-comment-tonight/) - Your public comment needed tonight (12/16/24) ***TONIGHT*** The final Town Council Meeting of 2024 will be Monday December 16 at 6:30 PM. Join APEA members to tell Amherst Town Council that our schools are important. Join in-person at Town Hall, via Zoom or Submit a Written Public Comment. Ask the Town Council to prioritize our schools in the FY26 Financial
- [Four Towns Meeting summary](https://www.arpsparents.com/four-towns-meeting-summary/) - Four Towns Meeting Summary Four Towns Meeting SummaryAt the 12/14 Four Towns Mtg, Dr. Xi presented updated budget projections for the 2025-2026 school year for the Regional Schools. With the new updates, the projected deficit has decreased but still stands at approximately $1 million. Dr. Xi and School Committee members did a great job of advocating
- [Our schools need you before the holiday break!](https://www.arpsparents.com/school-budget-meetings-before-winter-break/) - 12/14, 12/16 & 12/17 - Add our schools to your holiday to do list Upcoming events & Action Items: Attend Dr. Xi’s Listening Lounge on Friday 12/13 at 4:30 and/or submit a question for the Listening Lounge. This could be a good opportunity to express concern about the state of our facilities and/or encourage Dr. Xi to request
- [Waiting for Superintendent & Town Manager](https://www.arpsparents.com/waiting-for-superintendent-town-manager/) - We're waiting for the Superintendent & Town Manager, and 12/16 Where do things stand? The Amherst Finance Committee is still working on finalizing the FY26 Financial Guidelines, and will discuss again Tuesday 12/10 3-5PM. As of right now, the Financial Guidelines do not include the $355,400 that the Regional Schools received last year in their base for calculating this
- [School superintendent to request town surplus funds & more; deficit still looms (11/19/24)](https://www.arpsparents.com/school-superintendent-to-request-town-surplus-funds-more-deficit-still-looms/) - School District will request capital funds from Amherst but this money won't help close operating budget deficit At the 11/19/24 Amherst School Committee Meeting, School Committee Members and Dr. Xi discussed the need to put together a request for approximately $500,000, or half of the amount of the surplus that the Town Council held off on appropriating
- [Some councilors still won't prioritize our schools (11/18/24)](https://www.arpsparents.com/prioritize-our-schools/) - Thanks so much to everyone who advocated for our public schools last night, in-person, via Zoom and by submitting written comments. Thirty people spoke at the budget hearing last night (in person and on zoom) and of those, twenty-nine spoke in support of prioritizing our public schools. It seems like the message about prioritizing the schools
- [11/8 Finance Committee Summary](https://www.arpsparents.com/11-8-24/) - 11/8 Finance Committee Recording: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DbiWf08TEqE The Finance Committee decided to postpone a vote on the surplus appropriations until their next meeting (next Friday 11/15 at 10:00 AM) because they first want to discuss the budget guidelines for FY26 and get some more information. If you can, watch the last 20 minutes of the meeting, starting at the
- [The needle is moving...slowly. Make a public comment 11/18!](https://www.arpsparents.com/needle-moving/) - The needle is starting to move on how the Amherst Town Council and Finance Committee is talking about school funding, which is great! The Finance Committee spent a good deal of the last meeting talking about school funding and debating whether it is possible to appropriate more money to the schools and change the way
- [Nervous about making a public comment? Learn how quickly.](https://www.arpsparents.com/public-comment/)
- [Read these notes - the process is nuts! 11/12/24 Regional School Committee](https://www.arpsparents.com/elementor-2365/) - Link to recording – 1:55:00 time stamp for discussion on FY26 budget planning and surplus allocation https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aHW0I02sZQU At the meeting, Regional School Committee Members made the following observations: Amherst had $5 million remaining in free cash at the end of the year after obligations and most of it is going to the capital stabilization fund.
- [Take Action -- Make a Public comment 11/8/24](https://www.arpsparents.com/take-action-make-a-public-comment/) - We have a time-sensitive opportunity for you to advocate for school funding, Friday November 8th, 9:00 AM at the Amherst Finance Committee Meeting. You can join by Zoom and make a public comment at the beginning of the meeting or send public comment via email, as below. The meeting was only announced on November 5th. The Finance Committee will be discussing how to spend the town’s FY24
- [Wait, Amherst has a cash surplus?!](https://www.arpsparents.com/wait-amherst-has-a-cash-surplus/) - Yes, thanks to deep investigation by an SOS Amherst parent we now know the following: “In the FY24 budget, the projections slightly underestimated revenue, leading to a roughly 5.9% surplus in the Town budget (roughly $5.75 million). These monies came from various sources, including investment interest, underspending on staffing due to vacancy, and construction bids
- [11/4/24 Financial Indicators meeting](https://www.arpsparents.com/11-4-24-finance/) - Video Recording: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QkIQCAGU3lQ&t=15421sFinancial Indicators Presentation: https://www.amherstma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/75345/FY26-Financial-Indicators-Projection-Presentation-1142024-FINAL-2 SOS Amherst Summary of the Meeting: On 11/4, the Amherst Town Council, Amherst Finance Committee, Regional School Committee, Amherst School Committee and Library representatives met to view a presentation regarding the financial status of the town, and how it will impact next year’s budget. The Town Manager’s initial projection for the Regional Schools does
- [10/22/24 District 5 Committee Meeting](https://www.arpsparents.com/10-22-district5/) - 10/22/24 Amherst District 5 Meeting Thanks to all of you who attended and spoke in support of the schools’ budgets. Parents spoke about their concerns about the schools, the changes they have seen over the years, anecdotal information about friends and neighbors who have chosen to leave our schools, and also highlighted concerns about special
- [10/22/24 School Committee Meeting](https://www.arpsparents.com/10-22-school-committee/) - 10/22/24 Amherst-Pelham Regional Schools Committee Meeting Amherst Superintendent Dr. Xi said that the towns have indicated that the additional $355,440 allocated to the region for FY25 is likely to be included in the base for FY26’s calculations which is good news. This will by no means close the budget gap but it will certainly help. Dr. Xi
- [9/17/24 Amherst School Committee](https://www.arpsparents.com/9-17-24-amherst-school-committee/) - Link to Minutes
- [9/26/24 Amherst Budget Coordinating Group Meeting:](https://www.arpsparents.com/9-26-amherst-budget-coordinating-group-meeting/) - Amherst Town Council and the Town Manager indicated that they do not want to see the extra 2% ($355,440) increase the Regional Schools received last year included in their base for this year. Dr. Xi and the Regional School Committee would like to see the base included, so that the percentage increase for FY26 will
- [9/28/24 Four Towns Meeting](https://www.arpsparents.com/9-28-four-towns/) - 9/28 Four Towns Meeting: Dr. Xi indicated that one option she is looking at for reducing the budget is combining grades 7-12 in the current high school building. Town and school officials again discussed whether they would make the $355,440 part of the base for FY26, and why costs are outpacing funding. View the presentation
- [10/15/24 Amherst School Committee Meeting](https://www.arpsparents.com/oct15/) - 10/15/24 Amherst School Committee Meeting:Amherst Elementary Schools facing a $1,413,694 deficit for FY26 due to loss of ESSR funds, increasing employee health insurance costs (up 13%) and increasing transportation costs.There is no information yet on where the cuts would come from. On 11/4 the Town of Amherst will tell the district what % increase in

## Pages

- [Home SOS Amherst](https://www.arpsparents.com/) - Support our Schools with SOS Amherst Information and action steps for the communityto Support Our Schools by getting involved in fully funding the Amherst and Amherst Regional School Districts. Check Out What is Happening 10/22/24 School Committee Meeting 10/22/24 Amherst-Pelham Regional Schools Committee Meeting Amherst Superintendent Dr. Xi said that... 10/22/24 District 5 Committee
- [Resources](https://www.arpsparents.com/resources/) - Resources Public Comments Are you nervous about making public comment? Check out our explainer for all the info you need! Check out SOS Amherst’s Youtube Channel for short informative clips! SOS Amherst Cathy
- [News / Opinions](https://www.arpsparents.com/news/) - News / Opinions Click on the titles below to open the links. Concerns mount over Amherst elementary school budget cuts (3/26/26) Regional School Committee Approves FY27 Budget and School Choice (3/26/26) Amherst School Committee Hears Passionate Testimony, Presses for Details on FY27 Budget (3/20/26) School Committee, Staff, Parents, and Students Are Unhappy with Elementary School
- [ARMS roof crisis](https://www.arpsparents.com/arms-roof-crisis/) - Amherst Regional Middle School Health & Safety Risks from the Leaking Roof Funding has been committed for full roof replacment! The full roof will be replaced in the summer of 2026! Thank you to the advocacy of parents and others, and the leadership of the Amherst Finance Committee (especially Chair Cathy Schoen) for making the funding allocations
- [Events](https://www.arpsparents.com/events/)
- [FAQs](https://www.arpsparents.com/faqs/) - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) How can I help? Stay informed as we make our way through the budget process.Check back here or follow us on Instagram. (https://www.instagram.com/sosamherst) for updates.You can also join us in our Google Group where we share information and ideas around budget equity and advocacy (email sosamherst@gmail.com to be added) How did we get
- [Updates from Public Meetings](https://www.arpsparents.com/updates/) - Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form. Email Name NameFirstLastEmail *Submit FY27 Budget Presentation May 5, 2026 Here is the Town Manager’s FY27 Budget presentation from 5/4/26: https://www.amherstma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/86319/FY27-Budget-Presentation—final And here is the meeting recording; the presentation starts about 51:30 into the meeting after public comment. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BQ7vtiiCBxc&t=9751s Town FY27 Budget webpage: https://www.amherstma.gov/3584/Upcoming-Budget Read More School Budgets -
- [11/4/25 Amherst Town Elections](https://www.arpsparents.com/11-4-25-town-elections/) - Are you a resident of Amherst, MA? Then your vote matters in the Town Elections on Tuesday, November 4th! Like to vote in person?Vote early October 27th, – October 31st at Town Hall. Schedule here.Vote on election day (November 4th) – Find your polling place here Like to vote by mail? You can vote by
- [Order SOS Yard Signs](https://www.arpsparents.com/order-sos-yard-signs/) - Order your Support Our Schools yard sign here Complete this form to order your very own yard sign. And order some for your friends too!
- [About](https://www.arpsparents.com/about/) - about us 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.

## Events

- [Cuppa Joe with Town Manager Paul Bockelman and Finance Director Sean Mangano: The FY27 Budget (in person)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/cuppa-joe-with-town-manager-paul-bockelman-and-finance-director-sean-mangano-the-fy27-budget/) - The public is invited to Town Manager Paul Bockelman and Town Finance Director Sean Mangano for coffee and conversation about the Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) Budget. This will be the second Cuppa’ Joe with Paul “After Hours” event. The goal is to host some of these community sessions on weeknights, rather than just the traditional
- [Finance Committee, School Committee, and Superintendent meeting (virtual)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/finance-committee-school-committee-and-superintendent-meeting-virtual/) - Joint meeting of the Town Council and Finance Committee On Thursday May 7th at 3pm, the Finance Committee will meet with Dr. Xi and School Committee Chairs who will answer questions about the School Budgets. Questions were sent to the Schools in advance two weeks ago. This meeting is on Zoom. Zoom: https://amherstma.zoom.us/j/82235023800 Phone: (646)
- [Public Form on proposed FY27 Budget (in person and virtual)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/public-form-on-proposed-fy27-budget-in-person-and-virtual/) - Monday, May 11 will be the Public Forum on the Budget. This is an opportunity for members of the public to weigh in on the proposed budget, including allocations for the schools. PLEASE consider attending, in person or virtually, and asking for our schools to receive adequate funds. Here is the Town Manager’s FY27 Budget
- [FY27 Budget Presentation - Town Council meeting (in person & virtual)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/fy27-budget-presentation-town-council-meeting-in-person-virtual/) - The Town Manager of Amherst will post his proposed budget Friday, May 1. Among other important things, it will include the amount allocated for both regional and elementary schools. The Town Manager will give a formal presentation of the proposed budget Monday May 4 during the Town Council meeting. Agenda: https://www.amherstma.gov/Calendar.aspx?EID=35301&month=5&year=2026&day=3&calType=0 In person: Town Hall,
- [Amherst School Committee Meeting - Elementary Budget Vote (hybrid; comment by 3pm)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/amherst-school-committee-meeting-elementary-budget-vote-hybrid-comment-by-3pm/) - The School Committee will meet on Tuesday 3/31 at 8pm (after the Regional Meeting) in the ARHS Library and via Zoom, to finalize the budget. Per the Town of Amherst Charter, the School Committee must send a budget to the Town Manager by 4/1 so they have to come to a decision on Tuesday night. There is
- [FY27 Budget VOTE - Amherst School Committee (Hybrid Meeting)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/fy27-budget-vote-amherst-school-committee-hybrid-meeting/) - LIST OF TOPICS: 1. Meeting Opening: 1A. Call to Order; 2. New and Continuing Business: 2A. FY27 Budget Discussion and Vote; 3. Meeting Closing: 3A. Adjourn. RECEIVED: 3/27/26 at 4:02 p.m. Location: Amherst-Pelham Regional High School library (side entrance), 21 Mattoon St. Amherst, MA 01002 or Virtual Public Access: https://zoom.us/j/98690610689 Note: Members of the public may attend
- [Amherst School Committee (in person and virtual; public comment)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/amherst-school-committee-in-person-and-virtual-public-comment/) - Amherst School Committee, Hybrid Meeting Tuesday, March 24, 2026 6:30 PM **NOTE: VIRTUAL OPTION, AND ARHS LOCATION TO ACCOMMODATE REGIONAL SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING AT 6 PM ** Amherst-Pelham Regional High School library (side entrance), 21 Mattoon St. Virtual Public Access: https://zoom.us/j/99549366983?pwd=XgJSj239j7bIGAxMBMJqbEK6izQ4B4.1 Note: Members of the public may attend virtually via Zoom, by phone by calling
- [Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee - FY27 Budget vote (in person; public comment)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/amherst-pelham-regional-school-committee-fy27-budget-vote-in-person-public-comment/) - Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee Tuesday, March 24, 2026 6:00 PM In-Person Meeting Library at ARHS Public 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. This meeting
- [Office hours with State Rep Mindy Domb](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/office-hours-with-state-rep-mindy-domb/) - Open office hours Location: Town Hall, First Floor Meeting Room Mindy Domb, State Representative
- [Amherst Elementary School Committee budget hearing (in person and zoom; public comment)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/amherst-elementary-school-committee-budget-hearing-in-person-and-zoom-public-comment/) - On Tuesday 3/17 at 6:30 PM the Amherst Elementary School Committee will hold its annual budget hearing for the FY27 Budget. The Meeting will take place in the Town Room at Town Hall and is also available via Zoom (https://zoom.us/j/95934675913?pwd=aNZ7EBh3GVDaBEXbM6vWbXsSyaNKOW.1). This is the public's chance to weigh in on the FY27 budget and the changes that will result from
- [Amherst Finance Committee Meeting (virtual; no public comment)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/amherst-finance-committee-meeting-virtual-no-public-comment/) - Meeting name: Amherst Finance Committee Date and time: Tues, Mar 17 1:00 - 3:00 Location: Virtual Virtual meeting URL: https://amherstma.zoom.us/j/87481974364 Link to agenda: https://www.amherstma.gov/Calendar.aspx?EID=34994&month=3&year=2026&day=13&calType=0 Why this meeting matters: One of the agenda items is the finance committee discussing the four towns meeting that happens on Saturday.
- [Special Town Council and Finance Committee Meeting - Four Towns](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/special-town-council-and-finance-committee-meeting-four-towns/) - In person in the ARMS Library. Elected officials from all four towns will meet to get an update on the Regional budget and discuss their contributions for FY27. No public comment but the public can attend and observe. Call to Order Welcome and Introductions FY27 Regional School Committee Draft Budget Presentation Discussion and breakout groups
- [Regional School Committee Hearing (Advocacy opportunity in person)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/regional-school-committee-hearing-on-next-years-budget-public-comments/) - This is the meeting at which members of the community can react to proposed budget cuts for next year and advocate for the budget! The draft budget is available here. The draft budget closes a $1.1 million dollar gap through a combination of moving positions to revolving funds, applying more in reserves, and changing and
- [Rural Schools Week - State Advocacy Opportunity](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/rural-schools-week-state-advocacy-opportunity/) - Rural Schools Week - State Advocacy Opportunity - FRIDAY, 3/13/26, 5:45-7:15 PM in the PELHAM ELEMENTARY SCHOOL GYMNASIUM (see attached flyer for more info or an email from Wren from 3/7). Learn about state advocacy and what you can do. Rural School aid is especially important for the Regional Budget and has been underfunded for
- [Town Council Meeting (vote on ARMS middle school roof)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/town-council-meeting-vote-on-arms-middle-school-roof/) - Monday March 9th at the Amherst Town Council meeting, they should be approving the additional $1.6 million in free cash for the auditorium portion of the ARMS roof. This has been recommended by the Finance Committee. The report from the Finance Committee is available here. Town of Amherst Regular Town Council Meeting Monday, March 9, 2026, 6:45
- [Amherst School Committee - Elementary (in person and virtual; public comment)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/amherst-school-committee-elementary-in-person-and-virtual-public-comment/) - Amherst School Committee (Elementary) Meeting Tuesday 2/24 6:30 PM - Agenda includes a FY27 Budget Update as well as an update on the K-6 Restructuring. This meeting will take place ***at Town Hall*** and not at ARHS and in big news...YOU CAN JOIN VIA ZOOM!!! People have been asking for this option and Dr. Xi and the School Committee have made it happen.
- [Amherst Finance Committee: discussion on fully funding the ARMS roof (virtual)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/amherst-finance-committee-discussion-on-fully-funding-the-arms-roof-virtual/) - Meeting name: Amherst Town Council Date and time: Tuesday, Feb 24, 1:00 Location: Virtual Virtual meeting URL: https://amherstma.zoom.us/j/82147444151 Link to agenda: https://www.amherstma.gov/Calendar.aspx?EID=34897&month=2&year=2026&day=20&calType=0 On 2/23/26 the Amherst Town Council voted to refer the request for $1.6 million in free cash for the ARMS auditorium roof to the Finance Committee. Finance will now consider the auditorium roof request at
- [Town Council Meeting -- Advocacy needed for ARMS roof!](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/town-council-meeting-advocacy-needed-for-arms-roof/) - Please show up in-person or virtually Monday 2/23 at 6:30 to make public comment at Amherst Town Council asking that the Town Manager allocate a portion of the free cash to repair the auditorium roof at ARMS. Right now this portion of the roof will NOT be repaired this summer when the rest of the roof is. Please share
- [Amherst Town Council meeting - with state reps & public comment (in person and virtual)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/amherst-town-council-meeting-with-reps-domb-comerford-in-person-and-virtual/) - SOS Amherst invites you to the Amherst Town Council meeting on Monday, February 2nd at 6:30 PM to advocate for our schools during public comment. The situation is urgent: ARPS is facing a $4-5 million budget shortfall—close to 3 times worse than last year. This could mean the loss of dozens of teacher and staff positions. This level
- [Joint School Committee (at Town Hall)  - public comment](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/joint-school-committee-at-town-hall/) - Due to the School Districts being closed today, tonight's Joint School Committee meeting of the Amherst, Regional and Pelham School Committees has been moved to the Amherst Town Hall, in the Town Room. 4 Boltwood Avenue, Amherst. 6:00 PM **UPDATED LOCATION** Amherst Town Hall Town Room 4 Boltwood Ave, Amherst MA **Due to
- [December School Budget meetings](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/december-school-budget-meetings/) - Visit the school committee calendar for schedule. Visit town council website for schedule. Email SOSAmherst@gmail.com if you are available to assist our calendar updating efforts.
- [Cuppa' Joe with New Finance Director](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/cuppa-joe-with-new-finance-director/) - SOS Amherst supporters needed to attend and ask for SOLUTIONS to prevent school budget cuts. Not minimizing the issues or blaming the schools or the state. They need to know we are paying attention and showing up. ----- Cuppa' Joe with Paul and New Finance Director Sean Mangano Friday, November 14, 2025 Coffee and conversation
- [Budget rally at Town Hall!](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/budget-rally-at-town-hall/)
- [**Public forum on Budget** Town Council Meeting (attend this one)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/public-forum-on-budget-town-council-meeting-attend-this-one/) - More info To Be Announced. Live streamed: https://www.amherstma.gov/Calendar.aspx?EID=34342&month=11&year=2025&day=17&calType=0 -- It is critical to attend and/or provide comments at this Public Funding on the Budget. We will hear about the amount of surplus funds are available last year, and many other details, and this is the most important local advocacy of the year.
- [**Advocacy Alert** - State Funding Hearing (virtual)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/advocacy-alert-state-funding-hearing-virtual/) - Finally we have the opportunity, as Amherst and regional parents and community members, to advocate for our public school funding at the state level. THIS is the chance we have been waiting for! Register for the virtual state funding hearing here. See more info at in this post: https://www.arpsparents.com/state-advocacy-alert-nov-18/
- [District 1 meeting (in person)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/district-1-meeting-in-person/) - LIST OF TOPICS: Presentation by Planning Board: Potential Overlay Zoning for North Amherst Apartment Complexes: Potential Overlay to Allow Increased Density and Building Heigh for Student Housing: Puffton Village, Brandywine Areas: Presentation of Maps and Concepts; Discussion: Questions and Comments; Suggestions for Future Agenda Items. ------- For SOS Amherst supporters, this is a great
- [Candidates debate  - At-Large and District 1 (in person & virtual)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/candidates-debate-at-large-and-district-1-in-person-virtual/) - The Amherst Current will host two Town Council debates. The first debate, featuring At-Large and District 1 candidates, will be Friday, October 24 from 6:30 to 8:30 PM in Room 101 of the Bangs Community Center and on Zoom. All four at-large candidates–Andrew Churchill, Allegra Clark, Mandi Jo Hanneke, and Ellisha Walker–plus District 1 candidates
- [Candidates debate - Districts 2, 3, 4, and 5  (in person & virtual)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/candidates-debate-districts-2-3-4-and-5-in-person-virtual/) - The Amherst Current is hosting two debates. The second debate will be Monday, October 27 from 7:30 to 9:30 PM in the Bangs Center’s Large Activity Room and on Zoom, featuring candidates from Districts 2, 3, 4, and 5*. District 2 candidates Jason Dorney and Lynn Griesemer, District 3 candidates Patrick Drumm and George Ryan,
- [District 5 meeting](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/district-5-meeting/) - District 5 Meeting - Bob Hegner and Ana Devlin Gauthier are holding a District 5 meeting on Sunday October 19th at 10am - it seems to be TBD whether it is in-person or via Zoom but we will update here when known. Not sure what district you are in? Check out the map here or look up
- [Town Council Meeting (with vote on ARMS roof) - in person and virtual](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/town-council-meeting-with-vote-on-arms-roof-in-person-and-virtual/) - Town of Amherst Regular Town Council Meeting Monday, October 6, 2025, 6:45 p.m. Town Room, Town Hall Virtual Public Access: https://amherstma.zoom.us/j/84640970670 Agenda Note: Members of the public may attend virtually via Zoom, by phone by calling phone (301) 715-8592, enter webinar ID: 846 4097 0670, or in person. The meeting will also be live
- [Candidate Forums -- School Committee & At Large Council](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/candidate-forums-school-committee-at-large-council/) - Thursday, October 23, 2025 The League of Women Voters is sponsoring 2 forums to learn the candidates for elective offices in Amherst. Candidate Forums: Wednesday, Oct 15 – Districts 1, 2, 3 & 4 Candidates Thursday, Oct 23 – At-Large Candidates School Committee Candidates Each forum will be preceded by a 30-minute “Meet and Greet
- [Candidate Forums - District 1, 2, 3 & 4](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/candidate-forums-for-elective-offices-in-amherst/) - Wednesday, October 15, 2025 The League of Women Voters is sponsoring 2 forums to learn the candidates for elective offices in Amherst. Candidate Forums: Wednesday, Oct 15 - Districts 1, 2, 3 & 4 Candidates Thursday, Oct 23 - At-Large Candidates School Committee Candidates Each forum begins with a meet and greet the candidates and
- [Info Session about Running for Town Council & Committees (virtual)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/info-session-about-running-for-town-council-committees-virtual/) - Thursday June 26th, 7:30 PM - SOS Info Session on running for office in Amherst: Join us to learn about running for office in Amherst, and how you can support candidates. We’ll talk about the election timeline, how to get on the ballot, what support candidates need, and more. We will also talk about the
- [Amherst Town Council Meeting (in person & virtually)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/amherst-town-council-meeting-in-person-virtually/) - Town of Amherst Regular Town Council Meeting Monday, June 16, 2025, 6:30 p.m. Town Room, Town Hall Virtual Public Access: https://amherstma.zoom.us/j/88065831293 Note: Members of the public may attend virtually via Zoom, by phone by calling phone (301) 715-8592, enter webinar ID: 880 6583 1293, or in person. The meeting will also be live broadcast on
- [Finance Committee Public Hearing on the Budget (virtual only; Public comment needed)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/finance-committee-public-hearing-on-the-budget-virtual-only/) - Details TBA
- [Coffee with State Rep. Mindy Domb – 1st Monday of the month](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/coffee-with-state-rep-mindy-dombs-1st-monday-of-the-month-2/) - Please advocate to Amherst’s state Rep Mindy Domb at her monthly coffee gatherings at The Works in downtown Amherst. More info is here: https://www.arpsparents.com/advocate-to-your-state-reps-now/
- [Cuppa' Joe with Paul: FY26 Budget (in person)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/cuppa-joe-with-paul-fy26-budget-in-person/) - 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,
- [Finance Committee Public Hearing on the Budget (virtual only; public comment)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/finance-committee-public-hearing-on-the-budget-save-the-date/) - Thursday May 8th 9-11 am - Finance Committee Meeting discussing the Elementary Schools and Regional Schools budgets - with school leadership in attendance. Zoom link here. Public comments in support of the school budget can be made at the beginning of the meeting. Virtual Meeting: https://amherstma.zoom.us/j/82249233706 LIST OF TOPICS: Call to Order, review agenda Public Comment: FY26 Budget Review:
- [District 3 Meeting with George Ryan and Hala Lord (in person)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/district-3-meeting-with-george-ryan-and-hala-lord/) - 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) District 3 Meeting - In-Person at Hickory Ridge Sunday, May 4, 2025 LIST OF TOPICS: Welcome and Introductions; Presentation by Assistant Fire Chief Steve Gaughan; Presentation by David Ziomek, Assistant Town Manager/Director
- [Town of Amherst Public Hearing on the FY26 Budget (in person & virtual; public comment)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/town-of-amherst-public-hearing-on-the-fy26-budget/) - 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 Town Council Monday, May 5, 2025 RECEIVED: 4/30/25, 5:14 pm. LIST OF TOPICS: Click "More Details" for List of Topics In person: Town Hall, Town Room. 4 Boltwood Ave. Amherst, MA 01002 Zoom: https://amherstma.zoom.us/j/81266533669 Phone:
- [Meet with your District 2 Councilors (virtual only)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/meet-with-your-district-2-councilors-virtual-only/) - 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
- [Town Council Meeting (in person & virtual) -  regional school budget on agenda](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/public-hearing-on-the-regional-budget/) - In person: Town Hall, Town Room. 4 Boltwood Ave. Amherst, MA 01002 Zoom: https://amherstma.zoom.us/j/89889190786 Phone: (646) 876-9923; enter webinar ID 898 8919 0786 Call to Order Announcements Hearings – None General Public Comment Consent Agenda Resolutions and Proclamations – Consent Agenda 2025 Jewish American Heritage Month Proclamation Presentations and Discussion – None Action Items Amherst-Pelham Regional Schools
- [Town Council Public Forum on the Capital Improvement Plan ](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/town-council-public-forum-on-the-capital-improvement-plan/) - Town Council Public Forum on the Capital Improvement Plan - The Town Council is required to hold a public forum on the annual Capital Improvement Plan - this plan is the mechanism for distributing the 10.5% of our taxes that is set aside each year - over $6 million dollars - and that is used for
- [Finance Committee Meeting discussing elementary and regional school budgets (virtual; public comment)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/finance-committee-meeting-discussing-elementary-and-regional-school-budgets-virtual-public-comment/) - Finance Committee Meeting discussing the Elementary Schools and Regional Schools budgets - with school leadership in attendance. In 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
- [Community Conversation on School Funding (in person)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/community-conversation-on-school-funding-in-person/) - 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. This is an opportunity for community members to come together to learn from one another about the current challenges around school funding in Amherst, and
- [Town Council Meeting (please show up!)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/town-council-meeting-advocacy-needed/) - What: Town Council Meeting When: Monday April 7th, 6:30 PM Where/How: In person at Town Hall or via Zoom And/or email your Town Councilors What 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
- [Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee (in person)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/amherst-pelham-regional-school-committee-in-person/) - 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
- [ARPS School Committee Challenges and Successes (virtual - free registration required)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/arps-school-committee-challenges-and-successes-virtual-free-registration-required/) - ARPS School Committee Challenges and Successes Wednesday, April 2, 2025 Join 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? Event Details: Wednesday, April 2 7:00 to
- [Amherst Regional School Committee Meeting (middle & high schools)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/amherst-regional-school-committee-meeting/) - Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee Tuesday, March 25, 2025 6:30 PM In-Person Meeting Library at ARHS Public 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. This meeting
- [Amherst School Committee Meeting (elementary schools)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/amherst-school-committee-meeting-elementary-schools/) - Amherst School Committee Wednesday, March 26, 2025 6:30 PM In-person meeting at Amherst-Pelham Regional High School library (side entrance), 21 Mattoon St. This meeting will be shown via live-stream on Amherst Media (Channel 15) Public comment can be emailed to SCpubliccomment@arps.org or left by voicemail (under 3 minutes) at 413-362-1891 by 3 PM on the
- [Town Council Meeting (public comment - in person & virtual)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/town-council-meeting-3/) - Town of Amherst Regular Town Council Meeting Monday, March 24, 2025, 6:30 p.m. Town Room, Town Hall Virtual Public Access: https://amherstma.zoom.us/j/81607142246 Agenda Note: 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. The meeting will also be live
- [Support Our Schools Rally!](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/support-our-schools-rally/) - 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. Details here: https://www.arpsparents.com/rally-3-24-25/
- [Coffee with State Rep. Mindy Dombs – 1st Monday of the month](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/coffee-with-state-rep-mindy-dombs-1st-monday-of-the-month-3/) - Please advocate to Amherst’s state Rep Mindy Domb at her monthly coffee gatherings at The Works in downtown Amherst. More info is here: https://www.arpsparents.com/advocate-to-your-state-reps-now/
- [State Rep. Mindy Domb Amherst office hours (in person)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/state-rep-mindy-domb-office-hours-in-amherst-in-person/) - Please advocate to Amherst's state Rep Mindy Domb this March. More info is here: https://www.arpsparents.com/advocate-to-your-state-reps-now/ The 3rd Hampshire District includes the Hampshire County towns of Amherst and precincts 1 and 2A of Granby.
- [Coffee with State Rep. Mindy Dombs - 1st Monday of the month](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/coffee-with-state-rep-mindy-dombs-1st-monday-of-the-month/) - Please advocate to Amherst’s state Rep Mindy Domb at her monthly coffee gatherings at The Works in downtown Amherst. More info is here: https://www.arpsparents.com/advocate-to-your-state-reps-now/
- [State Rep Mindy Domb Amherst office hours (in person)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/state-rep-mindy-domb-amherst-office-hours-in-person/) - Please advocate to Amherst’s state Rep Mindy Domb this March. More info is here: https://www.arpsparents.com/advocate-to-your-state-reps-now/ The 3rd Hampshire District includes the Hampshire County towns of Amherst and precincts 1 and 2A of Granby.
- [Amherst School Committee will vote on the Elementary School Budget (in person & public comment )](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/amherst-school-committee-will-vote-on-the-elementary-school-budget/) - RESCHEDULED Amherst School Committee Thursday, March 20, 2025 6:30 PM In-Person Meeting Library at Amherst-Pelham Regional High School, 21 Mattoon St. This meeting will be shown via live-stream on Amherst Media (Channel 15) Public comment can be emailed to SCpubliccomment@arps.org by 3 p.m. on the day of the meeting. Public comment can also be left
- [MA Public Hearing on Local and School Aid (in person at UMass)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/ma-public-hearing-on-local-and-school-aid-in-person-at-umass/) - 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.
- [Cuppa' Joe with Town Manager Paul Bockelman (in person only)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/cuppa-joe-with-town-manager-paul-bockelman-and-public-health-director-kiko-malin/) - 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.) A major barrier is many of us with kids in the school system also work full-time and our
- [District 1 Meeting (in person only)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/district-1-meeting-in-person-only/) - Find your district here. District 1 Meeting Sunday, March 16, 2025 LIST 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
- [Town Council Meeting (in person & virtual)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/town-council-meeting-in-person-virtual/) - In person: Town Hall, Town Room. 4 Boltwood Ave. Amherst, MA 01002 Zoom: https://amherstma.zoom.us/j/88484775377 Phone: (646) 876-9923; enter webinar ID 884 8477 5377 Call to order Announcements Hearings - None Public comment Consent Agenda Resolutions and Proclamations - None Presentations and Discussion - None Action Items Percent for Art Bylaw: Elementary School Building Project Referral of
- [Regional School Committee will vote on the Middle/High School Budget (in person & virtual)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/regional-school-committee-will-vote-on-the-middle-high-school-budget/) - 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) -- In person: Town Hall, Town Room. 4 Boltwood Ave. Amherst, MA 01002 Zoom: https://amherstma.zoom.us/j/88484775377 Phone: (646) 876-9923; enter webinar ID 884 8477 5377
- [Town of Amherst - Budget Coordinating Group (virtual only - public comments)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/town-of-amherst-budget-coordinating-group-virtual-only-public-comments/) - Budget Coordinating Group Wednesday, March 5, 2025 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m. Virtual Meeting https://amherstma.zoom.us/j/81893457664 Note: There will be no in person public access at this meeting. Members of the public may attend virtually via Zoom https://amherstma.zoom.us/j/81893457664 or by phone by calling phone (646) 931 3860 enter webinar ID 81893457664 Agenda: Call to Order 
- [2/26 Amherst Regional School Committee Budget Forum (Virtual & in person -- IMPORTANT to make Public Comments)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/2-26-amherst-regional-school-committee-budget-forum-in-person-public-comment/) - This is the budget hearing for the middle and high school. Link to presentation. 6:30 PM In-Person Meeting & Virtual Library at ARHS Public 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
- [State level advocacy with MARS (virtual)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/state-level-advocacy-with-mars-virtual/) - Senator Lewis has introduced two critical bills to strengthen public education funding: SD.1912: An Act to Ensure Adequate and Equitable Funding for Public Education SD.1237: An Act Increasing the Commonwealth’s Share of the Education Foundation Budget If successful, these bills will eventually provide much-needed financial relief to school districts across the Commonwealth. However, it will
- [Amherst School Committee Elementary Schools Budget Hearing (IMPORTANT to make Public Comments)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/amherst-school-committee-budget-hearing-public-comment/) - Amherst School Committee will hold their annual ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS budget hearing on Thursday February 27th at 6:30 PM in the ARHS library. This budget hearing is the main opportunity for the public to weigh in on the Amherst Schools budget for next year. The Elementary Schools budget contains $1,561,314 worth of reductions and impacts the following positions: (Budget
- [Rally to Support Our Schools!](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/rally-to-support-our-schools/) - Rakk
- [District 4  Meeting (in person only)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/district-4-meeting-in-person-only/) - Attention residents of District 4 - Please attend this District 4 Meeting on Sunday 2/23, 3:30-5 at the Amherst Police Department Community Room. We need to keep the schools front and center at every town meeting. All you have to do is show up and ask a question or make a comment in support of
- [District 2 Meeting (virtual only)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/district-2-meeting-virtual-only/) - Join via Zoom: https://amherstma.zoom.us/j/88632449587 Find your district # on this map: https://www.amherstma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/44829/Districts--Precincts-Map---Updated-April-2022?bidId= Find your town councilors here: https://www.amherstma.gov/3676/Meet-Your-Town-Council
- [2/10 Town Council (in person and virtual)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/2-10-town-council-in-person-and-virtual/) - Details will be provided when they become available.
- [Finance Committee Meeting (Virtual with Public Comment)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/finance-committee-meeting-virtual-with-public-comment/) - Call to Order, review agenda Elect Chair and Vice Chair Public Comment: The time limit for each comment is 3 minutes per person, unless the Chair sees a substantial number of people wishing to speak and limits comments to 2 minutes; comments must be limited to matters within the jurisdiction of the committee; comments must be made in a peaceable manner Updates 1st Quarter Financials Health Insurance Projections Cherry Sheet Projections School
- [Budget Coordinating Group (Virtual only)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/budget-coordinating-group-virtual-only/) - Call to Order Election of Chair and Vice-Chair Presentations and Discussion Updated FY26 Budget Projections Report on Budget Status: Library School Departments Town Discussion Public Comment Topics Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chair 48 Hours in Advance of the Meeting Adjourn Virtual Meeting https://amherstma.zoom.us/j/83071315031 Note: There will be no in-person public access at this meeting. Members of
- [Regional Schools Four Towns Meeting (in person; no public comment)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/regional-schools-meeting-in-person-no-public-comment-but-can-email-reps/) - Regional Schools Four Towns Meeting - Saturday February 8th 9:00-11:00 AM in the ARMS library. At this meeting, officials from Amherst, Leverett, Shutsebury and Pelham will discuss funding for the Regional Schools for next year, including the total amount of funding to provide and how to break down the funding among the four towns. Ahead
- [Amherst Regional School Committee (in person & virtual; 3 min public comment)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/amherst-regional-school-committee-in-person-3-min-public-comment/) - Amherst Regional School Committee joint meeting with Amherst School Committee, Tuesday 1/28 6:30 PM, ARHS Library https://go.boarddocs.com/ma/arps/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=DCZKN552A0E1 Public 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.
- [Amherst Town Council (in person or virtual; 3 min public comment)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/amherst-town-council-in-person-or-virtual-3-min-public-comment/) - Amherst Town Council Meeting Monday 1/27 6:30 PM, Town Hall or by Zoom Note: Members of the public may attend virtually via Zoom, by phone by calling phone (301) 715-8592, enter webinar ID: 894 3661 9923, or in person. The meeting will also be live broadcast on Amherst Media channel 17 and https://amherstmedia.org/live-stream 1. Call
- [School Committee meeting (in person with live streaming, and public comments)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/school-committee-meeting-in-person-with-live-streaming-and-public-comments/) - LIST OF TOPICS: Joint meeting of Pelham, Regional, and Amherst School Committees Public comment; Academic calendar for 2025-2026; Superintendent's Entry Plan findings; Adjourn Pelham School Committee; Adjourn Regional School Committee; Superintendent's Update including FY26 budget, 6th-grade move, Fort River capacity, redistricting; Capital needs - review of process; Chair's report; Member reports; Warrants and gifts; Review
- [Superintendent Xi's Listening Lounge (virtual and/or submit a question before)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/superintendent-xis-listening-lounge-live-virtual-and-or-submit-a-question-before/) - Attend Dr. Xi’s Listening Lounge on Friday 12/13 at 4:30 and/or submit a question for the Listening Lounge. This could be a good opportunity to express concern about the state of our facilities and/or encourage Dr. Xi to request part of the Town of Amherst’s surplus for the schools or ask what the status is of this. Access the
- [Four Towns Meeting (in person only - no public comments)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/four-towns-meeting-in-person-only-no-public-comments/) - Four Towns Meeting 12/14 9:00 AM in the ARMS Library: Representatives from Amherst, Pelham, Shutesbury and Leverett will meet to discuss funding for the Regional Schools. There is no public comment at this meeting, but members of the public are welcome to attend – and it’s always good to let our public officials know we are paying attention
- [Town Council Meeting](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/town-council-meeting-2/) - Save the date – January 13, 2025 6:30 PM will be the first Town Council Meeting of 2025. Full 2025 meeting schedule available here.
- [Finance Committee (virtual and public comments)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/finance-committee-virtual-and-public-comments/) - Finance Committee Meeting 12/17/24 3-5PM. Join via Zoom. Ask the Finance Committee to consider the ongoing needs of our schools in their selection of a funding model for the four planned major capital projects in town. In 2025, the Amherst Finance Committee and Amherst Town Council will continue discussing and eventually vote on the Funding Model for the four
- [Town Council Meeting (virtual and in person)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/town-council-meeting-virtual-and-in-person/) - The final Town Council Meeting of 2024 will be Monday December 16 at 6:30 PM. Let's continue to tell Amherst Town Council that our schools are important to us! Join in-person at Town Hall, via Zoom or Submit a Written Public Comment. Ask the Town Council to prioritize our schools in the FY26 Financial Guidelines and include the Region's full amount in the
- [Finance Committee meeting - public comments accepted (Virtual only)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/finance-committee-meeting/) - The Finance Committee will take up creating the budget guidelines for FY26 at their meeting on Friday 11/22 at 9:00 AM. This is another potential opportunity to voice support for our schools and ask that the Town of Amherst find a way to better support education in Amherst. Learn how to make a public comment here: https://www.arpsparents.com/public-comment/
- [Town Council Meeting](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/town-council-meeting/) - The Amherst Town Council will meet on Monday 12/2 at 6:30 PM and vote on the budget guidelines as prepared by the Finance Committee. Save the date! Advocacy may be needed!
- [Amherst Town Council Public Meeting on Budget (in person and virtual)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/amherst-town-council-public-meeting-on-budget/) - HOW TO TAKE ACTION: Make a public comment at the 11/18 Town Council Meeting at 6:30 PM, in-person in the Town Room at Town Hall or via Zoom: https://amherstma.zoom.us/j/89382473012 Can't attend the meeting? Submit a public comment to the Town Council online. Take a few minutes to complete the SOS Amherst Survey to provide feedback on why our schools are important
- [11/8 Finance Committee Meeting (Virtual)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/11-8-finance-committee-meeting-virtual/) - Finance Committee Friday, November 8, 2024 https://amherstma.zoom.us/j/85166756344 LIST OF TOPICS: Review Agenda; Public Comment: The time limit for each comment is 3 minutes per person, unless the Chair sees a substantial number of people wishing to speak and limits comments to 2 minutes; comments must be limited to matters within the jurisdiction of the committee;
- [Amherst Town Council Meeting and Financial Indicators Presentation (in person and virtual)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/amherst-pelham-regional-school-committee-at-the-amherst-town-council-financial-indicators-meeting/) - Amherst Town Council Meeting and Financial Indicators Presentation (with Amherst School Committee, Regional School Committee, Finance Committee, Budget Coordinating Group, and Jones Library Trustees) In-Person Meeting, Town Room, Town Hall Virtual Public Access: https://amherstma.zoom.us/j/82918600562 Note: Members of the public may attend virtually via Zoom, by phone by calling phone (301) 715-8592, enter webinar ID: 829
- [Fiscal Sustainability Subcommittee (virtual)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/fiscal-sustainability-subcommittee-virtual/) - Fiscal Sustainability Subcommittee Monday, October 21, 2024 6:00 PM Virtual MeetingGoogle Meet: https://meet.google.com/ihj-rjju-srq Posted October 17 2024 @ 3:00pm
- [School Equity Advisory Committee](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/school-equity-advisory-committee/) - School Equity Advisory Committee Wednesday, October 30, 2024 5:30 - 7:30pm In-Person Meeting Library at Amherst-Pelham Regional High School, 21 Mattoon St. Posted 10/15/24 @ 3pm
- [Budget & Audit Subcommittee](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/budget-audit-subcommittee/) - Budget & Audit Subcommittee Wednesday, October 23, 2024 Virtual meeting Budget & Audit Subcommittee Wednesday, October 23 · 6:00 – 7:00pm Google Meet joining info Video call link: https://meet.google.com/vmh-yffy-dpo Or dial: ‪(US) +1 413-853-2186‬ PIN: ‪610 254 141‬# Posted 10/19/2024 at 9:50 a.m.
- [Amherst District 5 Meeting](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/amherst-district-5-meeting/) - District 5 Meeting District 5 Councilors: Ana Devlin Gauthier & Robert Hegner Tuesday, October 22, 2024 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM Via ZOOM: https://amherstma.zoom.us/j/83466742140 AGENDA Welcome Presentation on Waste Hauler Bylaw Updates on Council Work Open Discussion / Public Comments Items Not Anticipated 24 Hours Before the Meeting Adjourn To join by phone: Please click the link
- [Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee joint meeting with Union 26 (in person)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/amherst-pelham-regional-school-committee-joint-meeting-with-union-26-in-person/) - Tuesday, October 22, 2024 6:30 PM In-Person Meeting Library at ARHS This meeting will be shown via live-stream on Amherst Media (Channel 15) Public 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.
- [Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/amherst-pelham-regional-school-committee/) - 6:30 PM In-Person Meeting Library at ARHS Public 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. This meeting will be shown via live-stream on Amherst Media
- [Amherst School Committee](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/amherst-school-committee/) - Please click the link below to join the webinar: https://amherstma.zoom.us/j/87600497567 Or One tap mobile : +13052241968,,87600497567# US +13092053325,,87600497567# US Or Telephone: Dial(for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location): +1 646 876 9923 US (New York) +1 646 931 3860 US Webinar ID: 876 0049 7567 To raise hand you need to
- [Four Towns meeting (1st of 3)](https://www.arpsparents.com/event/four-towns-meeting-1st-of-3/) - The purpose of this meeting is to start budget and funding discussions among the Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee and town officials from Amherst, Pelham, Shutesbury and Leverett for the 2025-2026 school year. See up to date details on the Town Calendar. ------------- Why does this meeting matter? Amherst regional budget fears prompt early four-towns meeting

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