|
Dear Acton-Boxborough Families and Community Members,
We are writing to share the results of the School Committee’s vote regarding the reorganization of our elementary schools. After careful planning and community feedback, the Committee has reached a final decision on the new geographic boundaries and enrollment policies that will shape our district’s future.
The Final Plan: Scenario 7
The School Committee has officially adopted Scenario 7 as our new elementary school geographic boundary map. These new boundaries will go into effect on July 1, 2026. This plan was selected to better balance student enrollment and ensure that every school in our district has the resources and space needed to provide a high-quality education.
You can view the new boundaries and search for your specific address using our interactive map here:
Enrollment Policy and "Flex Zones"
To maintain balanced class sizes over time, the district is introducing Flex Zones. These are specific geographic areas where new students may be assigned to one of two schools based on where space is available.
Purpose: Flex Zones allow the district to manage enrollment year-round and avoid overcrowding at any single school. Placement: Every home in a Flex Zone has a "geographic default" school. If a change is needed to balance class sizes, the district will first look for families who volunteer to move to the alternate school. Siblings: The district remains committed to keeping siblings together. Siblings will not be separated unless a parent specifically requests it.
Additional details about the Flex Zone Logistics are available on the AB Forward Website
Grandfathering for Current Students
We understand that stability is important for our students. The Committee has approved a grandfathering plan to minimize disruption:
Eligible Students: 1. Acton students currently attending Blanchard and 2. Students in the Scenario 7 Expanded Blanchard zone will be grandfathered into their current schools. Scope: This applies to students currently enrolled in grades K-5 during the 2025-26 school year. New Students: Grandfathering does not apply to incoming Kindergarteners or new students registering after June 30, 2026. These students will be assigned based on the new geographic maps.
Note for Impacted Families: Families who fall into these grandfathered groups will receive a separate, direct email from the district with specific details regarding their student’s placement. Please look for this follow-up communication, as you will need to respond to that email by Thursday, April 16th.
Extraordinary Circumstances
We recognize that some families may face unique or extraordinary circumstances they believe the district should consider while finalizing school placements. To ensure a fair and consistent process, we have provided a guide outlining what may qualify as an extraordinary circumstance and instructions on how to submit a formal request for consideration.
Detailed information about submitting an Extraordinary Circumstances Request can be found on the AB Forward Website and a specific form will be sent to you through ParentSquare
Later today, all elementary families will receive a link in ParentSquare to submit a request for extraordinary consideration if needed. Requests are due by May 1st and will be processed by June 1st.
Looking Ahead
We are committed to a transparent and supportive transition. We have a family webinar scheduled for Tuesday, April 14th and will provide additional updates at that time. A webinar link will be sent to families on Tuesday afternoon. If you would like to submit a question in advance of the webinar for our consideration, you can use the link below. In the interest of time during the webinar, we will be focused on questions related to implementation of the reorganization. We recognize some families may have questions or concerns regarding the process of arriving at this decision and those questions may be directed to either the Superintendent or School Committee directly.
Submit a Question for the April 14th Webinar
These changes are a significant step in ensuring long-term stability for our schools. We are committed to supporting our families through this transition over the coming year. Thank you for your continued engagement and support of our students.
Sincerely,
Peter Light
Superintendent of Schools
| 
