Manchester Memorial Elementary School Receives Flutie Foundation Grant to Install Communication Board

A new communication board planned for the Manchester Memorial Elementary School playground will help students of differing abilities to better express themselves during outdoor play.

The school has received a generous donation from the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism, which supports those living along the autism spectrum and their families through a variety of programs and initiatives. Former Boston College and New England Patriots quarterback Doug Flutie and his family started the foundation after son Dougie Jr. was diagnosed with childhood disintegrative disorder (CDD), a very rare autism spectrum disorder, at age 3.

School Speech-Language Pathologist Katie Fortier led the funding effort. Students who use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) face significant challenges during outdoor activities including needing to carry their personal devices with them.

The communication board allows students who rely on AAC devices to interact with peers and staff during recess more independently.

“We’re thrilled to be able to offer this resource to our students,” said Principal John Willis. “I was so excited when Mrs. Fortier brought this idea forward — and even more excited to partner with an amazing organization like the Flutie Foundation. I am proud of the growth our students have made, and this will help level the playing field even more.”

Manchester Memorial Elementary is exploring funding options to install two more boards – one for each playground – to ensure equitable access during outdoor time.

About the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism

The Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism was established to help people and families affected by autism live life to the fullest. The Foundation supports programs and initiatives that provide opportunities for people with autism to lead active lifestyles and build their voice in the community.

School Committee Newsletter October 23, 2025

District Newsletter: October 2025

MERHS Senior Luke Chrzanowski Commended by National Merit Scholarship Corporation

 

Superintendent Pam Beaudoin and Manchester Essex Regional High School Principal Julie Sgroi are pleased to share that senior Luke Chrzanowski has been named as a Commended Scholar by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC).  Chrzanowski was recognized as part of the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program for his exceptional academic promise. Commended Scholars were among the top 50,000 highest scorers on the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, also known as the Preliminary SAT. As a Commended Scholar, Chrzanowski received a Letter of Commendation from the NMSC and the school district.  "I am thrilled to see Luke acknowledged for his dedication and hard work. He truly deserves this honor," said Principal Sgroi.  About National Merit Scholarship Corporation Since its founding, NMSC has recognized over 3.4 million students and provided some 451,000 scholarships worth over $1.8 billion. The honors awarded by NMSC to exceptionally able students are viewed as definitive marks of excellence. Recipients of Merit Scholarship® awards, Achievement Scholarship® awards, and corporate-sponsored Special Scholarships have increased the nation’s respect for intellectual accomplishments and have contributed significantly to its talent pool of future leaders.

Essex Elementary Students All Smiles at 16th Annual Happy As A Clam Fun Dash and 5K

The annual Happy As A Clam Fun Dash and 5K kicks off its 16th year at Essex Elementary. (Photo Courtesy Manchester Essex Regional School District via Friends of Essex Elementary)

Superintendent Pam Beaudoin and Principal Kimberly Provost are pleased to share that Essex Elementary students recently participated in the 16th annual Happy As A Clam Fun Dash and 5K, kicking off the first month of the new school year with fitness and fun.   The Friends of Essex Elementary School recently hosted this year's event on Friday, Sept. 12. More than 100 students took part in either the fun dashes or 5K, with support from staff and parents who lined the course to cheer them on.   The event featured the Shucky the Clam mascot and a variety of food trucks, including The Lunch Lady and Whoo(pie) Wagon. Bay State Race Services assisted with course organization and timing.   Each student received a commemorative T-shirt and had the opportunity to run either the 5K or the fun run.   Prizes were awarded to the female and male first-place finishers of the 5K as well as the overall winning team. Winners included Michael Watson of North Andover and Kimberly Fitzgerald of Fairbanks, who each received a $100 gift card, and Team Notch North, Micheal Watson, Alex Trotsky and Dan Chruniak, that received a $200 gift card.    First-grade students in Mrs. Dwyer's class also proudly earned the coveted Clam Cup for having the highest participation in the Fun Dash.   The purpose of the event is to bring students, families, and staff together while promoting wellness, school spirit, and outdoor activity.   This year's event was made possible thanks to support from local sponsors, including Buckley Tree Care, Beauport Ambulance Service Inc., Trionic Group, Jungle, Red Barn Architecture, Coating Systems Inc., Ashley Fuel Inc., Body Builders Inc., Lahey Health, Pediatric Health Care Associates, Boston Children's Primary Alliance, Downriver Ice Cream, Ramsey Marine & Dock, Essex County OB/GYN, C.K. Pearl, The James Pub & Provisions, Barn Dog, YMCA, and Crockers Boat Yard.    "Thank you to the Friends of Essex Elementary School for organizing such a fantastic event and to everyone who came out to run, dash, or cheer — we’re already looking forward to next year," said Principal Provost.

 

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Essex Elementary students, parents, and volunteers participate in the District's 16th Annual Happy As A Clam 5K. (Photo Courtesy Manchester Essex Regional School District via Friends of Essex Elementary)

Essex Elementary students give the event mascot, Shucky the Clam, a hug during this year's Happy As A Clam Fun Dash and 5K. (Photo Courtesy Manchester Essex Regional School District via Friends of Essex Elementary)

Students start their fun dash at the 16th Annual Happy As A Clam race. (Photo Courtesy Manchester Essex Regional School District via Friends of Essex Elementary)

Two elementary students head to the starting line of the Essex Elementary Happy As A Clam Fun Dash. (Photo Courtesy Manchester Essex Regional School District via Friends of Essex Elementary)