District Newsletter: November 2025

Manchester Essex Regional High School Named as DESE 2025 School of Recognition

Superintendent Pam Beaudoin and Principal Julie Sgroi are pleased to announce that Manchester-Essex Regional High School has been named as 2025 School of Recognition by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

Schools of Recognition designated by the DESE are those that demonstrate meaningful and substantial progress towards accountability targets, which are set at the local level for all schools to ensure they continue to improve and grow academically.

One of 61 educational institutions across the Commonwealth to receive such an honor, growth at Manchester-Essex Regional High School has been recognized from the 2024-2025 academic year through a progression of advanced course work completion, growth in mathematics performance among students, and decreased chronic absences.

“Only a few dozen schools in Massachusetts each year are lucky enough to receive such an honor,” said Principal Sgroi. “I am glad that the effort of our staff to improve the learning experience for our students is being recognized, and I hope this is a sign of things to come for Manchester-Essex Regional High School.”

State accountability ratings are calculated annually through a multi-year ratings system. Manchester-Essex Regional High School was scored as 64 percent, designated as “substantial” progress by the DESE. Strengths and growth were shown across the board in English, mathematics, and science classes.

“This recognition is proof of all the hard work everyone at Manchester-Essex Regional High School has been putting in,” said Superintendent Beaudoin. “Not only does this show our growth as a school community, but it also displays our commitment to continued improvement as we progress our students through academics towards graduation.”

 

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