District News
Oct 22, 2025 · Chicopee Public SchoolsCCHS CTE Info NightAttention Class of 2030 families!Join us for CTE Info Night at Chicopee Comprehensive High School to explore the wide range of Career and Technical Education programs available — including Culinary Arts, Carpentry, Graphic Design, Information Technology, and much more.Date: November 6, 2025Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PMLocation: Student CafeteriaCome see how Chicopee Comp helps students gain real-world skills and hands-on experience for future success.
Oct 21, 2025 · Chicopee Public SchoolsCHS Pathways Info NightAttention Class of 2030 families!
Join us for Pathways Info Night at Chicopee High School on Wednesday, November 5th, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM in the CHS Auditorium (Community Entrance).
Learn about the exciting career-focused Pathway Programs available to students — from Business and Health Sciences to Graphic Communications, TV/Video Production, and more.
Discover how Chicopee High helps students explore their interests and gain hands-on experience for future success!
Oct 17, 2025 · Chicopee Public SchoolsJoin the City for a Spooktacular Night!🎃👻 Get ready for a Spooktacular night in Chicopee! 👻🎃
Join the City of Chicopee for some Halloween fun at Szot Park on Wednesday, October 23rd from 4:00–7:00 PM!
There will be treats, costumes, and plenty of spooky surprises for kids of all ages. 🕸️🦇
Szot Park – 687 Front St., Chicopee, MA
Wednesday, October 23 | ⏰ 4:00–7:00 PM
Don’t miss out on this fun community tradition — bring your family and friends for a frightfully good time! 🎃🧙♀️
Oct 10, 2025 · Chicopee Public SchoolsReminder: 2025-2026 Chicopee Suburban Basketball Tryouts2025-2026 Chicopee Suburban Basketball Tryouts soon! Participants MUST be pre-registered. Follow the QR code to www.chicopeerec.com to do so. With questions contact the Parks Department at 594-3481.
- Sep 30, 2025 · Chicopee Public SchoolsThe Superintendent's Newsletter Issue No. 13
The Superintendent's Newsletter
Issue No. 13 🕷️
September 30, 2025Welcome to the thirteenth issue of The Superintendent’s Newsletter! October has arrived, bringing cooler days, colorful leaves, and plenty of excitement across Chicopee Public Schools. The first weeks of the school year are behind us, routines are taking shape, and our classrooms are buzzing with learning and creativity.This season is a perfect time to celebrate student accomplishments, highlight staff achievements, and enjoy the many events and traditions that make fall such a special time in our schools.Let’s jump into the latest updates and happenings from around the district as we continue to make this a successful 2025–2026 school year!Welcoming Our New Educational Stability Coordinator
We are excited to welcome Lexus McCollaum as our new Educational Stability Coordinator, who officially joined us on September 29th. A proud Chicopee Comp graduate, Lexus will be continuing the important work of supporting some of our most vulnerable students and families, including those experiencing homelessness and foster care. We are thrilled to have her back in Chicopee Public Schools and look forward to the positive impact she will bring to our community.Lexus graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice in 2022 and earned her Master’s in Social Work in 2025. She previously worked at the Center for Human Development, where she served as both an ETO Specialist and ADA Coordinator. In these roles, she supported families living in homeless shelters across Hampden County, ensuring accessibility, tracking program data, and coordinating services for individuals experiencing housing instability. Her strong background in advocacy and student support makes her a wonderful addition to our district team.And now for a few fun facts to get to know Lexus:- Favorite TV show: New Girl
- Coffee or tea? Coffee all the way!
- Early bird or night owl? Definitely a night owl
- Cats or dogs? Dogs
- Go-to comfort meal: Chick-fil-A crispy nuggets with mac and cheese
- Best trip so far: Hawaii
- Proudest accomplishment: Earning her Master’s degree in Social Work
Please join us in giving Lexus a warm Chicopee Public Schools welcome!CPS Spotlight ✨
In this section, we aim to highlight and celebrate the many positive activities, achievements, and initiatives taking place across our school district. It serves as a way to recognize the hard work of students, staff, and the community, showcasing successes in academics, sports, arts, and service projects.35th Annual Springfield Puerto Rican Parade 🇵🇷We were proud to join the City of Chicopee and the Mayor’s Office in marching in the 35th Annual Springfield Puerto Rican Parade on Sunday, September 14!Superintendent Ware, the Chicopee High School Pacers Band, and the Majorettes Team proudly represented CPS as part of the city’s delegation, celebrating culture, community, and pride.A big thank-you to the City of Springfield for inviting us to be part of this special celebration, and to our incredible students and staff for bringing your talent, energy, and school spirit to the parade. ¡WEPA!Chicopee Day at The Big E 🎡Everyone had a fantastic time at Chicopee Day at The Big E!Thank you to all of our families who came out to show their Chicopee pride and to our amazing students who represented CPS in the parade. It was a great day to celebrate our community together — we’re already looking forward to next year!Belcher HVAC Funding 💵We are pleased to share that Senator Jake Oliveira has successfully secured $100,000 in funding through Fair Share to support HVAC upgrades at Belcher School. This funding, which is part of the current supplemental budget process, will play an important role in improving the learning environment for Belcher’s students and staff.This investment reflects a strong commitment from our state leaders to the needs of our schools and supports our ongoing capital improvement efforts. We are grateful to Senator Oliveira and his team for advocating for Chicopee Public Schools and look forward to seeing this move through the final stages of the budget process.Chicopee Family Survey Fall 2025
Our district truly values your feedback. We are surveying all Chicopee Public Schools families to better understand your perceptions of your child’s school and our district as a whole. Your input is essential as we work to provide high-quality, rigorous learning experiences that support every student and prepare them for success in college, career, and life.This year’s Family Survey will once again be administered through Panorama Education. The survey is completely anonymous - your responses will not be linked to you or your child. It takes about 10 minutes to complete and will give us valuable insight as we continue to improve our schools and district.You may complete the survey online anytime before Friday, October 17, 2025 on a computer, tablet, or smartphone by visiting:Click the green “Take the Survey” button next to your child’s school. If you have children in more than one school, you’re encouraged to complete the survey for each school.Thank you in advance for your time and thoughtful feedback. If you have any questions, please contact Abbey Tenczar, Director of Counseling, at atenczar@cpsge.org.Suicide Awareness & Prevention for Caregivers & Communities
Join us for an important conversation on how to recognize risk factors, dispel myths, and support youth who may be struggling.📅 Tuesday, October 21🕠 5:30–7:00 PM ET | 3:30–5:00 PM MT🎤 Facilitated by Roddia Hill, PsyD (Tier 3 Director at TRAILS)Together, we can make a difference. 💜Important October Dates and Observances
National Principals Month #ThankaPrincipalBullying Prevention Awareness MonthBreast Cancer Awareness MonthDown Syndrome Awareness MonthHispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15 through Oct. 15)Oct. 1:- Yom Kippur Begins
Oct. 2:- School Custodian Appreciation Day
Oct. 6:- National Coaches Appreciation Day
Oct. 13:- Indigenous People's' Day (Schools and Offices Closed)
- National School Lunch Week (Oct. 13-17)
Oct. 16:- National Boss's Day
Oct. 20:- National School Bus Safety Week (Oct. 20-24)
- Diwali
Oct. 31:- Teacher Collaboration (Early Dismissal - Pre K - 5 only)
- Halloween
Sep 29, 2025 · Chicopee Public Schools🏊♂️ Join the Chicopee Amberjacks Swim Team! 🏊♀️The Chicopee Amberjacks are recruiting new swimmers!
They're a competitive swim team that is part of the PVSL and they welcome swimmers from Chicopee and surrounding towns.
✅ Who can join?
• Swimmers ages 5–18 who can swim unassisted
• Athletes from Chicopee and nearby towns
✅ What do we do?
They teach the fundamentals of swimming, refine all competitive strokes, and build a positive, team-oriented environment.
📅 Registration is now open!
Complete the registration form here:
🔗 Register Now
📧 Questions? Email Amberjacksswim@gmail.com or visit ChicopeeAmberjacks.org.
Sep 8, 2025 · Chicopee Public SchoolsGrand Opening of The Hub at Market SquareThe Grand Opening of The Hub at Market Square (former Public Library) is happening this Saturday in Chicopee!Saturday, September 13th31 Springfield St., Chicopee, MAThe day will feature a variety of free community events:11:00 AM – Ribbon Cutting Ceremony12:00–2:30 PM – Live Music by Presz & Perry12:00–4:00 PM – Outdoor Market & Historic Gallery Walk (vendors, food trucks, bookmobile, face painting & more)12:30 PM – Board Breaking & Slime Making (Master Lee’s Taekwondo)1:30 PM – Crafts & DIY Snack Bags (Boys & Girls Club)2:30 PM – Zumba Class (Fitnessse Dance Center)4:00 PM – Screening of “Vestiges” by ChicopeeTV with behind-the-scenes content, bloopers, Q&A, and free popcornJoin us in celebrating community, culture, and creativity at Chicopee’s newest gathering space.
- Aug 29, 2025 · Chicopee Public SchoolsThe Superintendent's Newsletter Issue No. 12
The Superintendent's Newsletter
Issue No. 12 🎒
August 29, 2025Welcome to the twelfth issue of The Superintendent’s Newsletter! The first day of school has officially arrived, and with it comes a new year filled with opportunities, growth, and shared experiences. Whether you’re returning to Chicopee Public Schools or joining our community for the very first time, we are thrilled to have you with us on this journey.As our classrooms, hallways, and campuses come alive with energy once again, we look forward to celebrating student successes, supporting staff achievements, and keeping you informed every step of the way. Here’s to a great start to the 2025–2026 school year!Let’s take a look at the latest updates and happenings around the district.A Strong Start to the School Year
As we welcomed students back to classrooms this week, the energy and momentum of the new school year is already in full swing. In the days leading up to the first day, Chicopee Public Schools have been bustling with activity—from our New Educator Orientation, to Convocation at Bellamy Middle School, to districtwide professional development sessions.Convocation 2025 marked the official launch of the school year for staff, built around our Strategic Plan theme: “A Place to Belong, a Future to Build.” This year’s program opened with inspiring contributions from our students. The CHS AFJROTC Color Guard presented the colors, including members of the same team that made history earlier this month as the first all-female Color Guard to present at Gillette Stadium. Chicopee High junior Sydney Benoit then delivered a stirring performance of the National Anthem, setting the tone for the day. Later in the program, senior Diana Maldonado showcased her talent with a moving rendition of “Once Upon a December” from Anastasia, embodying the creativity and spirit of our school community.In place of a keynote address, this year’s Convocation featured a community panel discussion that brought together voices from every corner of Chicopee:- Mayor John L. Vieau, speaking to the city’s role in supporting safe, thriving schools.
- State Representative Shirley Arriaga, reflecting on her experiences as both a legislator and former Chicopee educator.
- Dr. Marcus L. Ware, Superintendent of Chicopee Public Schools, grounding the discussion in our Strategic Plan.
- Tara Furkey, Bellamy Middle School Consumer Science teacher, representing the voice of educators.
- Omar Irizarry, parent and state leader in behavioral health initiatives, sharing insights on family and community engagement.
- Yariel Irizarry, recent Chicopee Comp graduate, offering a student’s perspective on belonging and meaningful learning.
Together, panelists explored our district’s five strategic priorities—Caring and Respectful Places to Learn, Empowering and Valuing Students and Staff, Academics that Inspire, Family and Community Connections, and Effective Operations and Equitable Resources—through the lens of our shared values: Respect, Joy, Belonging, and Growth.Following Convocation, educators engaged in districtwide professional development, collaborating on curriculum, instructional practices, and strategies to ensure strong, supportive learning environments from the very first day.As we move forward into the school year, our focus is about more than academics—it is about fostering belonging while preparing every student to build a bright future. With the school year now underway, we are excited to carry this vision forward into a year filled with Respect, Joy, Belonging, and Growth.Meet Officer James LaFlamme – Bellamy’s New SRO!
The first day of school isn’t just for students! This year, we’re excited to welcome Officer James LaFlamme as the new School Resource Officer (SRO) at Bellamy Middle School. In addition to Bellamy, Officer LaFlamme will also support Fairview Elementary and Streiber Elementary.Officer LaFlamme joined the Chicopee Police Department in 2017, serving as both a patrol officer and in the training division before stepping into his new school role. He’s eager to meet students and families, help keep our schools safe, and build positive connections throughout the year.And since we know students like to share fun facts about themselves at the start of school, Officer LaFlamme joined in! Here’s a little about him:- Age: 42
- Favorite Subject: History
- Favorite Color: Blue
- Favorite Food: Sandwiches
- Favorite Movie: Forrest Gump
- Favorite Song: What I've Done
- Favorite Activity: Landscaping
- Goal: “To be the best dad/husband I can be.”
If you or your child need to reach Officer LaFlamme, he can be contacted during school hours at 413-594-3527 or by email at bellamysro@cpsge.org.We’re excited to have Officer LaFlamme as part of our school community — be sure to say hello if you see him around campus!Welcome Vice Principal Crump - Chicopee High's New Grade 11 VP
We are pleased to welcome Mr. Dondre Crump as the new Grade 11 Vice Principal at Chicopee High School. A proud Springfield native, Mr. Crump brings a wealth of experience as an educator, leader, and community advocate dedicated to fostering inclusive, student-centered environments. His career began as a paraprofessional and later as a computer science and technology teacher, where he also served as Lead Technology Coordinator. With a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Worcester State University and a background as Dean of Students, he has developed a strong foundation in student engagement, restorative practices, and leadership. Beyond the classroom, Mr. Crump has been active in athletics as both a player and coach, using sports as a platform for mentorship and growth. Known for his calm presence, commitment to equity, and passion for empowering students, he looks forward to inspiring CHS students to reach their full potential.Welcome Bellamy’s New Vice Principal, Mr. Chris Meffen
We are pleased to welcome Mr. Chris Meffen as the new Vice Principal at Bellamy Middle School. With 15 years of experience in education, he has served as a health and physical education teacher, dean of students, and administrator in Springfield. Mr. Meffen is committed to creating an environment that fosters growth, inclusion, and excellence, and his leadership style is both compassionate and purposeful. His goal at Bellamy is to support students and staff in reaching their full potential, academically and personally.Outside of school, Mr. Meffen is an avid Boston sports fan, proudly holding New England Patriots season tickets for the past eleven years and spending many fall weekends in Foxboro cheering on the team. In addition, he enjoys umpiring baseball, covering games from middle school to varsity levels throughout the spring and summer.CPS Spotlight ✨
In this section, we aim to highlight and celebrate the many positive activities, achievements, and initiatives taking place across our school district. It serves as a way to recognize the hard work of students, staff, and the community, showcasing successes in academics, sports, arts, and service projects.Pizza with the Principals at Bowe SchoolBowe Elementary students and families kicked off the new school year with a warm welcome at Pizza with the Principals! This special event gave families the opportunity to meet Mrs. Roman-Davis, Bowe’s new Principal, and Dr. Forward, the Vice Principal.Held on August 15th in the Bowe School playground, the afternoon was filled with community connection, conversations, and of course—delicious pizza. Families also received free backpacks to help students start the year prepared and excited for learning.Events like these highlight the strong sense of community at Bowe and across Chicopee Public Schools, where building relationships and supporting one another are always at the heart of what we do.Fairview Hits the Road!Fairview Elementary recently “hit the road” to connect with families and celebrate the start of a new school year! On Monday, August 25th, staff gathered at Rivers Park to welcome students and families back.The event featured free backpacks for those in need and a raffle for gift cards, adding some extra excitement for the first day of school. Most importantly, it was a chance for Fairview staff to reconnect with families, share smiles, and build community spirit before the school year kicked off.Thank you to Mrs. Pete, Ms. Sullivan, and the Fairview team for bringing families together and starting the year on such a positive note!Family Academy: Social Media Applications – Safe and Risky Use
The Family and Community Engagement (FACE) Department, in collaboration with the Hampden County District Attorney’s Office, is hosting an important Family Academy session for families of middle and high school students.📍 Dupont Middle School, 650 Front St📅 Tuesday, September 23rd at 6:30 PMThis event will cover:- An overview of popular social media platforms
- Safe vs. risky online behavior
- How predators may present themselves online
- Ways parents can monitor and guide their child’s social media use
The District Attorney’s Youth Advisory Board will join as panelists, sharing their experiences, perspectives, and answering questions.We encourage families to join us for this valuable opportunity to learn strategies for keeping students safe and responsible in today’s digital world.Important September Dates
Sept. 1:- Labor Day (Schools and Offices Closed)
Spet. 2:- First Day of School (Grades Pre-K - K)
Sept. 24:- Teacher Collaboration (Early Dismissal - Pre-K - 5 Only)
Events
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No events for October, 2025
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