Latest news with #SoniaDinnall
Yahoo
02-06-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Springfield Public Schools opens diploma requests for former students affected by past MCAS rules
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – Springfield Public Schools is now accepting diploma eligibility requests from former students who previously received a Certificate of Attainment instead of a high school diploma due to past MCAS graduation requirements. The change comes in response to the passage of Massachusetts Ballot Question 2 on November 5, 2024, which altered the Competency Determination (CD) requirement for high school graduation statewide. Amherst Regional Middle School appoints new principal In alignment with the new policy, Springfield Public Schools has revised its graduation criteria for students in the classes of 2003 through 2024. Eligible former students must have earned passing grades in English 9 and English 10, Algebra 1 or Algebra 2, and Geometry, and at least one laboratory-based core science course such as Biology, Chemistry, or Introductory Physics. In addition to these academic benchmarks, students must have also met all other local graduation requirements in place at the time they attended, as outlined in the district's Pupil Progression Plan. 'If you or someone you know received a Certificate of Attainment due to MCAS testing requirements and believe you now meet the updated criteria, we encourage you to apply,' said Superintendent Dr. Sonia Dinnall. The district is urging eligible individuals to review the updated guidelines and submit a request at WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
14-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
US Department of Agriculture slashes two federal programs that fund local food banks, schools
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – The US Department of Agriculture is slashing two federal programs that support local food banks and schools. The USDA's decision to cut these programs has caused more than $1 billion in federal spending to come to a halt. This comes at a time when food banks, pantries and schools are seeing an increased need. Local school districts are expressing concern over the recent announcement from the US Department of Agriculture. The department decided to cut $660 million to the Local Food for Schools program. Springfield Public Schools tells 22News that this funding allowed them to prioritize purchasing from local farms, which typically comes at a higher cost than wholesale purchasing. In a statement to 22News, the superintendent of Springfield Public Schools Dr. Sonia Dinnall said, 'while we are disappointed that the funding that helped us source food locally is dissolving, we want to reassure families that there will be no change to the quality, variety, or cost of school meals,' said Dr. Dinnall. Dinnall goes on to say, 'without it, we will continue serving fresh and nutritious meals but will source some items from regions other than local farms. For example, instead of purchasing potatoes from a variety of local farms, we may now source them from a single wholesaler, such as Idaho dedication to nutritious meals remains strong, and we will continue seeking ways to support local farms whenever possible.' Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program is also being cut, which was expected to provide about $500 million to local food banks. The Martin Luther King Jr Family Services Springfield President, Shannon M. Rudde, isr also sending us a statement that reads, 'These are our neighbors, people we see and interact with daily, and we have already had to make difficult decisions due to the overwhelming demand at our pantry. This is not the time to cut back. We will collaborate with other food providers to advocate for a more strategic and sustainable path forward,' said Rudder. The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts is expected to not be affected by the cuts to the Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program. But they told 22News, they're looking forward to working with the congressional delegation to make this a permanent program in the upcoming debates of the US Farm Bill to help other food banks who are experiencing the cuts. There is also potential worry of a government shutdown leading to cuts in SNAP benefits, creating a greater need for food assistance. 'Well, you know, life is already really difficult for a lot of people. You know, prices for basic needs are high still. Especially housing and food. And everyone is feeling the pinch. Working families and modest incomes,' said Executive Director for the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts, Andrew Morehouse. Lorraine's Soup Kitchen and Pantry in Chicopee, that served more than 35,000 meals last year alone,e also showing concern. 'We're hoping this doesn't happen. Yes. Because, you know, I mean, it's not only us. It's all over the country that this is going to happen. So it's going to be huge,' said Lorraine's Soup Kitchen & Pantry Executive Director, Kim Caisse. Congress must pass a bill to fund the federal government before midnight on Friday, otherwise the government will be forced to shut down immediately. WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
04-03-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Springfield educators receive Excellence in Teaching awards
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – Twenty-one Springfield Public Schools educators have been selected as recipients of the 2024 Pioneer Valley Excellence in Teaching awards, recognizing their outstanding contributions to students, schools, and the community. The award winners will be celebrated during the Springfield School Committee meeting on April 10, and later at a regional banquet at the Log Cabin in Holyoke on May 13. Six Holyoke educators awarded for excellence in teaching The annual awards, presented by the Harold Grinspoon Charitable Foundation, honor educators across western Massachusetts who demonstrate dedication, innovation, and leadership in their schools. The initiative is supported locally by the Irene E. & George A. Davis Foundation, among other community partners. 'We are grateful to the Harold Grinspoon Charitable Foundation and the Irene E. & George A. Davis Foundation for their unwavering support, which has made this award a lasting tradition within Springfield Public Schools,' said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Sonia Dinnall. 'To the Pioneer Valley Excellence in Teaching Class of 2024 — congratulations! Your dedication fuels the belief that every student has the power to succeed. This honor reflects the impact you make every day. Embrace it with pride, knowing that you are educating to empower and inspiring the future.' 2024 Springfield Public Schools Award Recipients: Gina Lamoureux, Elias Brookings Elementary School, Grade 1 Special Education Stephanie Roszko, Elias Brookings Elementary School, Math Instructional Leadership Specialist Patricia Clark, Frank H. Freedman Elementary School, Grade 3 Classroom Teacher Grace Ribeiro, German Gerena School, Grade 5 ELA Teacher Anne Carmichael, Hiram L. Dorman Elementary School, Grade 5 ELA Teacher Jared Leone, John J. Duggan Academy, Grade 11/12 History and Law Teacher Lisa Gagnon, Liberty Elementary School, K-2 Special Education (LINKS) Megan Kieselback, Lincoln Elementary School, Grade 2 Classroom Teacher Jennifer Jones, Lincoln Elementary School, Grade 1 Classroom Teacher Laura Rapa, Rebecca M. Johnson Elementary School, Grade 3 Classroom Teacher Jamie Pirog, Roger L. Putnam Vocational Technical Academy, Geography Teacher Yaveiska Alicea-Figueroa, Roger L. Putnam Vocational Technical Academy, ELA Teacher Erika Cruz, Special Education Department, K-12 Behavioral Specialist Kathryn Hakanson-Stacy, Springfield Central High School, MLL Algebra Teacher Michael Bagge, Springfield Central High School, AP Biology Teacher James MacKay, Springfield Central High School, Algebra I Teacher Emma Giordano, Van Sickle Academy, Grade 8 ELA Teacher Morgan Healy, Van Sickle Academy, Grade 7 Adjustment Counselor Sandra Robinson, White Street School, Grade 5 Classroom Teacher Takara Weir, William N. DeBerry Elementary School, Grade 2 Classroom Teacher New Teacher Awardee: Natalie Rauh, Hiram L. Dorman Elementary School, Grade 3 Classroom Teacher Each award recipient will receive a $250 check, an engraved plaque, and additional benefits such as tuition incentives from several local colleges and universities, including: Elms College Bay Path University Mount Holyoke College Springfield College Western New England University Westfield State University University of Massachusetts Other perks include a WGBY membership, providing access to a wide range of digital educational resources, and a complimentary three-month membership to the Springfield Jewish Community Center or a regional YMCA. The awards program, now a longstanding tradition in the district, is made possible through the support of several local organizations and sponsors, including American International College, Arrha Credit Union, Country Bank, and Meyers Brothers Kalicka. 'These educators are making a lasting difference in the lives of their students and the success of Springfield Public Schools,' Dinnall said. 'Their hard work and dedication continue to inspire us all.' WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
03-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Springfield Public Schools to host job fair
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – For those seeking a career in public education, Springfield Public Schools has many opportunities for qualified applicants. Parents, educators to protest against potential job cuts in Belchertown school district The department is hosting a job fair on March 15 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at MGM Springfield. Available job openings include teachers, paraprofessionals, security officers, and crossing guards. 'Whether you have a degree and years of experience or you're looking for a new career path, this job fair is an opportunity to find a meaningful role where you can make a real impact on students and the community,' said Superintendent of Springfield Public Schools Dr. Sonia Dinnall. 'Our district is beautifully diverse, and we are committed to building a learning community that reflects the brightest and best. We're excited to welcome job seekers to downtown Springfield on March 15.' Attendees can apply in person and speak directly with recruiters and hiring teams to discuss salaries, benefits, and career opportunities. 'MGM Springfield is proud to support Springfield Public Schools in its mission to recruit dedicated professionals who will make a lasting impact on students,' said Jennifer McGrath, Director of Philanthropy and Community Engagement at MGM Springfield. 'This partnership reflects our shared commitment to strengthening the local workforce and investing in the future of our community.' WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
27-02-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Springfield International Women's Day event to honor educators
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP)– Several women involved with the Springfield Public Schools will be recognized for their efforts at an event sponsored by the Springfield Women's Commission. 'Women Educating and Inspiring Generations' is the theme of the International Women's Day and Women's History Month event that will highlight the honorees' contributions to education, mentorship, and leadership and embody the spirit of inspiration and empowerment in the City. Fundraiser event being held in honor of 22News Anchor Ciara Speller's father Honorees are: Dr. Sonia Dinnall, Superintendent of Schools Catherine Mastronardi, President of the Springfield Federation of Para Professionals Tracy Little-Sasanecki, President of the Springfield Education Association Aiyanna Rodriguez, Youth Leader at the High School of Commerce The event will be held on Thursday, March 6 at 3:30 p.m. at Springfield City Hall, Room 220. For more information, contact Springfield City Councilor Kateri Walsh, Chair of the Springfield Women's Commission, at: kwalsh@ or call 413-787-6170. WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
