Family Newsletter | May 1, 2026
Dr. Jennifer O'Neill
joneill@norton.k12.ma.us
@joneill727
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Superintendent’s Message
As we look ahead to Teacher Appreciation Week (May 4–8), I want to take a moment to recognize the incredible educators across our district. While the week is traditionally focused on “teachers,” we know it truly takes all educators- classroom teachers, paraprofessionals, specialists, counselors, nurses, administrators, and support staff to create a safe, supportive, and engaging learning environment for our students.
We are grateful for the care, dedication, and professionalism our staff bring to their work each day, and for the positive impact they have on our students and school community. Thank you as well to our families for joining us in recognizing and celebrating our staff. Your support and partnership mean a great deal.
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FY27 Budget Update
On Monday evening, the Norton Finance Committee voted unanimously to support an additional $400,000 for Norton Public Schools in the Town Manager’s proposed FY27 budget. We are grateful for the Finance Committee’s advocacy and support in recognizing the needs of our schools. This is a positive step forward; however, it does not yet bring us to a level-service budget. The proposal will next go before the community for a vote at the Annual Town Meeting on May 18.
Our team is actively working to close the remaining gap between this proposal and our initial request. This includes carefully reviewing enrollment trends, class sizes, staffing changes due to retirements and resignations, and identifying opportunities to restructure where possible. Our goal is to preserve programs and minimize impact on students. While we will need to make some staffing adjustments, we anticipate limited reductions (approximately five positions) and will manage within the resources available.
In addition, we have made the difficult decision to transition our special education transportation services into our existing contract with our transportation provider, effective July 1. This change reflects the operational demands of managing daily transportation logistics, including dispatching, maintenance, and coverage. We are deeply appreciative of the dedication and care our current drivers have shown to our students and families over the years.
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Curriculum Corner: Electric Boat Hiring Event
Several Norton High School seniors recently participated in a hiring event with Electric Boat, held at Attleboro High School on April 8, 2026. In preparation, each student developed a resume and completed an online application before traveling to AHS for a formal interview with company representatives. Dressed for success and well-prepared, all nine participating students received job offers.
This opportunity was part of a growing partnership with Electric Boat, a leading designer and builder of nuclear-powered submarines for the U.S. Navy, currently experiencing significant workforce growth. Of the nine students offered positions, six have accepted full-time roles with the company, while another pursued a related opportunity with a local electrical business.
Students accepting positions will begin careers with competitive starting wages (minimum $24/hour) and access to a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, and paid training. Positions span a variety of skilled trades, offering strong career pathways directly out of high school.
This is an outstanding example of the meaningful, real-world opportunities available to our students and the impact of strong school-to-career partnerships.
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SUN Bucks Open for Applications
SUN Bucks, the federal food benefit program once known as Summer EBT, is returning for summer 2026. SUN Bucks provides a $120 lump-sum summer benefit per school-aged child for income-eligible families. The program is administered by the state Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) in partnership with DESE and with assistance from schools.
SUN Bucks income eligibility standards are the same as those for the National School Lunch Program (NSLP). As such, all enrolled students identified as meeting the income eligibility standards for free or reduced-price lunch during school year 2025-26, either through an NSLP household paper application or direct certification, are automatically eligible for SUN Bucks. Students identified as homeless, migrant, runaway or participating in Head Start are also automatically eligible. Students who do not meet the aforementioned criteria can apply for SUN Bucks benefits through DTA by visiting www.DTAConnect.com. |
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Keeping Kids Safe & Secure Online – Free Virtual Webinar for Adults
Members of the United States Attorney’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations Child Exploitation and Computer Forensics Group, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children will be hosting an important virtual webinar focused on protecting children in today’s digital world. This Project Safe Childhood presentation is designed to raise awareness about the risks children face online and provide practical guidance for adults on how to help keep them safe.
Date: Thursday, May 7, 2026
Time: 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Registration required (Log-in begins at 6:00 pm)
Topics covered will include:
Social Media 101 & Digital Footprint -
Protecting Against Online Predation, including:
Gaming-related risks Types of sextortion (sexually motivated, financially motivated, and violence/control motivated) Generative Artificial Intelligence
Victim Support & Resources
This is a valuable opportunity for parents, caregivers, and community members to learn how to better safeguard children online. Don’t miss it!
Please register in advance to attend.
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Mock Crash Simulation at Norton High School
Every two years, the Norton Police and Fire Departments and Active Minds collaborate to present a powerful mock crash simulation for our Junior and Senior students. This impactful event is designed to educate students and encourage safe decision making as we approach Prom and Graduation season. The event is scheduled for Wednesday, May 20th at 10:00 am and will take place in the Junior Lot parking area at Norton High School.
During the simulation, first responders will recreate the realistic and often tragic consequences of unsafe choices. Students will observe emergency personnel as they demonstrate critical response procedures, including extricating injured occupants, providing medical treatment, investigating the cause of the crash, and collecting evidence. This immersive experience serves as a meaningful reminder of the importance of making responsible decisions and prioritizing safety, especially during this exciting time of year. |
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May 1st
Norton High School Term IV Warning Notices Grade 12
May 6th
School Committee Meeting
May 7th
Norton Middle School Term III Progress Reports
May 15th
Norton High School Term IV Warning Notices Grades 9-11
May 18th
Town Meeting
May 20th
Early Release/Professional Development
School Committee Meeting
May 25th
Schools Closed
June 3rd
School Committee Meeting
June 9th
Class of 2026 Graduation
June 17th
Last Day Little Lancers
June 18th
Last Day Kindergarten
Early Release Norton High School (Exams)
June 19th
Schools Closed
June 22nd
Early Release Norton High School (Exams)
June 23rd
Early Release Districtwide
Last Day Grades 1-12+
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Virtual Backpack
Explore here to find e-flyers on events, offerings and more in our community.
To submit a flyer to the Virtual Backpack, please contact Pam Anderson at pamelaanderson@norton.k12.ma.us.
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