I read with interest the recent article, “Charlemont to review work of School
Sustainability Committee,” and appreciate the desire of these Charlemont residents to ensure that any future vote on the direction of our schools is well-informed and thoughtfully considered. 

At the same time, it may be helpful to give community members some context about how the sustainability work has proceeded to date. The goal of this work is to create a long-term operating model for the Mohawk Trail and Hawlemont Regional School Districts that will provide a robust education for our students at a price our towns can afford. Since its formation in January 2024 with representatives from all eight towns, the 2D8T (2 Districts 8 Towns) Steering Committee has met regularly in open public meetings. Public participation has been consistently encouraged, and public comment periods have been included in all meeting agendas, providing opportunities for anyone to raise questions, critique assumptions or shape the work in real time.

While concerns about the committee’s findings (the recommended Plan of Action can be found at www.2districts8towns.org) and the consultants’ financial modeling are now being voiced publicly by a group of Charlemont citizens, neither the Steering Committee nor its consultants have received direct, substantive critiques of the underlying modelling from members of the Charlemont community during the process itself. Nor has the Steering Committee heard (from those opposed to the Plan of Action in Charlemont or elsewhere) alternatives that address the daunting fiscal challenges of maintaining four separate elementary schools — particularly in light of our towns’ own fiscal challenges and stagnant state education aid.

None of this is to suggest that independent review or additional local discussion is inappropriate. In fact, continued scrutiny and dialogue are essential when communities are weighing decisions of this magnitude. However, it is also important to acknowledge that the 2D8T process was designed to be collaborative and iterative, with space for town officials and community members to engage early and offer feedback as the work unfolded.

As Charlemont moves forward with its own advisory committee, I hope this next phase includes not only careful review of past work, but also active engagement, clear communication of concerns, and constructive contributions to potential solutions. That approach will best support a transparent process and a well-informed decision for the Charlemont community and all eight towns.

Martha Thurber, co-chair 2D8T Steering Committee, chair Mohawk Trail Regional School District School Committee

Buckland