Chicopee Public Schools News

Dec 1, 2025 · Chicopee Public Schools

The Superintendent's Newsletter Issue No. 15

The Superintendent's Newsletter

Issue No. 15 ❄️ ☃️

December 1, 2025

Welcome to the fifteenth issue of The Superintendent’s Newsletter! As we step into December, the excitement across Chicopee Public Schools is unmistakable. This time of year brings a spirit of celebration, reflection, and community — and our schools have certainly embraced it.

From joyful seasonal activities to standout accomplishments in and out of the classroom, our students and staff continue to shine. Our athletics teams, in particular, have had an exceptional season, showcasing hard work, talent, and teamwork that make our district proud.

December also offers a special opportunity to appreciate the diverse traditions, cultures, and celebrations observed throughout our community. No matter how you mark this time of year, we are grateful for the unity and kindness that continue to define Chicopee Public Schools.

Let’s take a look at the latest highlights and happenings as we wrap up 2025 with energy, gratitude, and momentum for an even stronger year ahead!

Welcoming Our New Director of Secondary Education

It is with great excitement that we welcome Dr. Natasha Halfkenny as the new Director of Secondary Education for Chicopee Public Schools.

Dr. Halfkenny joins us with more than twenty years of experience as an educator, leader, scholar, and advocate for equity-centered learning. Her career has been defined by a deep commitment to uplifting inner-city youth and expanding opportunities for students from historically marginalized communities.

Beginning her journey as an educator in Lexington and later in Boston, Dr. Halfkenny went on to earn her Doctor of Education in International Higher Education Administration from Northeastern University. Her early work as an English Language Arts and Civics teacher shaped her belief in inclusive, culturally responsive classrooms where every student is seen, valued, and challenged.

Most recently, as principal of the Maurice J. Tobin School, Dr. Halfkenny championed instructional excellence, community partnership, and social-emotional wellness. She implemented culturally proficient curricula, supported efforts to diversify staffing, and fostered a school culture rooted in high expectations for all learners.

In her new role, Dr. Halfkenny will help oversee and guide curriculum, instruction, assessment, and professional learning across grades 6–12. Her leadership will be integral in ensuring that Chicopee’s secondary schools continue to grow as equitable, rigorous, and student-centered learning environments.

Dr. Halfkenny brings to Chicopee Public Schools a powerful blend of expertise, vision, and heart. Her dedication to equity, her commitment to student success, and her record of empowering educators make her an exceptional addition to our leadership team.

Please join us in warmly welcoming Dr. Natasha Halfkenny to Chicopee Public Schools. We look forward to the impactful leadership she will bring to our secondary programs.

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.

A Season of Success Across Chicopee

This season has been an extraordinary one for athletics across Chicopee Public Schools, with three of our teams earning major achievements, building community pride, and showcasing the talent, dedication, and determination of our student-athletes.

CHS Cheerleading: Champions Once Again

The Chicopee High School Cheerleading Team has made school history this year, marking a powerful return to postseason success. For the first time in more than five years, the team advanced from league competition to the Regional Championship — and they did not stop there.

At Regionals, the cheerleaders earned the title of Fall 2025 Division II Western Massachusetts Champions and secured a spot in the MSAA State Tournament. Their achievement is a reflection of unwavering discipline, passion, and countless hours of hard work. The team has also shared their excitement with the community, hosting a special performance at Dupont Middle School to highlight their routine ahead of states.

CHS Boys Soccer: A Historic Run

The Chicopee High Boys Soccer team has put together a postseason to remember. The Pacers captured the Western Mass Championship, earning a historic win over Pope Francis and bringing home a major title for the program. Their momentum continued into the state tournament with hard-fought victories, including a thrilling 3–2 overtime win against Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School and a decisive 4–1 victory over Hanover.

Their deep tournament run energized the entire city — from spirited school send-offs to community celebrations — as students, staff, families, and first responders rallied behind the Pacers every step of the way. Their teamwork, resilience, and determination have made Chicopee incredibly proud.

CCHS Colts Football: Undefeated and Unstoppable

Over at Chicopee Comprehensive High School, the Colts Football Team has delivered a remarkable season of their own. Entering the Massachusetts State Tournament undefeated, the team received an unforgettable send-off complete with cheers from students, families, Mayor John Vieau, Chicopee Fire and Police, and supporters from across the community.

Escorted out of the city “in style,” the Colts traveled to Wrentham to take on King Philip Regional High School, backed by the full spirit and pride of Chicopee. Their success this season reflects exceptional preparation, teamwork, and commitment — a true testament to the athletes and coaching staff.

Across all three programs, our student-athletes have demonstrated excellence, sportsmanship, and pride in their schools and city. We congratulate the players, cheerleaders, coaches, and families who make moments like these possible. Chicopee Public Schools celebrates each of you — and we look forward to even more success in the seasons ahead!

United Way Youth Leaders in Action Program

The Chicopee Public Schools Career Internship Program proudly partnered with the United Way of Pioneer Valley (UWPV) to launch the pilot Youth Leaders in Action Career Pathways Program, giving students hands-on experience in community leadership and nonprofit careers.

This fall, seven students from Chicopee Comprehensive High School and Chicopee High School participated in the pilot, completing at least six volunteer hours at the United Way Food Pantry in Springfield. Guided by mentor Samara Smith of UWPV and supported by the Chicopee College & Career Centers, students gained meaningful, hands-on volunteer experience that directly contributed to food security efforts across the Pioneer Valley.

“It was a positive experience and I really liked helping at the food pantry, and the staff and volunteers were really nice,” said Leisha Caraballo, a CHS senior. “I feel like I made a difference.”

Designed to empower high school students through community engagement, leadership development, and career exploration, the 10-week program helped participants build essential skills while deepening their understanding of local needs. Students created mock grant proposals, explored how to fund and staff community initiatives, and engaged in professional development and civic learning opportunities. They also heard from guest speakers, designed their own nonprofit concepts through business planning, and experienced the day-to-day operations of a working nonprofit organization.

The dedication and enthusiasm of Chicopee’s student leaders highlight the powerful impact youth can make when given the tools, mentorship, and opportunities to lead. Chicopee Public Schools looks forward to continued collaboration with the United Way of Pioneer Valley as the Youth Leaders in Action initiative grows.

Photo: Chicopee High interns Leisha Caraballo & Maame Asante volunteer at the United Way Food Pantry on Veterans Day.

Girls In Trades

21 CCHS students attended the 10th Anniversary Massachusetts Girls in Trades Western Conference & Career Fair. This event brought together female CTE students and educators from across the state to learn about and explore careers in the union construction trades.

Students participated in an interactive career fair, attended workshops led by tradeswomen, and heard from dignitaries during a speaking program moderated by MA Girls in Trades Student Officers. Educators also took part in a workshop focused on the apprenticeship model.

We were honored to have our students represent CCHS at such an inspiring and meaningful event.

Families Step Into the Rhythm at Our Salsa & Bachata Night!

What a fun and energetic evening we had learning Salsa and Bachata with instructor Roshay! Thank you to all the families who came out to enjoy the class and spend time moving, learning, and laughing together. 💃🕺

We had a wonderful turnout, and it was great to see so many CPS community members participating and embracing the spirit of Family Engagement Month. Events like this highlight the joy of coming together as a community—and we look forward to offering more opportunities just like it!

CHS Student Leadership Conference

Through a collaboration with Connecting Activities, Chicopee High students and College & Career Counselor Natasha Muriel joined the

River East STC Student Leadership Conference that was recently held at Springfield College. Students participated in interactive workshops and connected with peers. The event built confidence and empowered students to lead with impact!

Athletics Leadership Conference

Student-athletes from over 40 PVIAC schools participated in our annual Leadership Conference at the Basketball Hall of Fame! A special thanks to Dr. Kochanek and her Springfield College Graduate Students for an excellent workshop on "Leading through Challenging Times."

Stefanik Families Celebrate at Multicultural Friendsgiving & Bingo for Books Night

Our Family and Community Engagement (FACE) Department, together with Stefanik Elementary School, recently hosted a heartwarming Multicultural Friendsgiving Celebration and Bingo for Books Night—an evening that beautifully showcased the diversity and togetherness within our school community.

Families brought delicious dishes from their own cultures and traditions, creating a vibrant shared meal that filled the space with warmth, connection, and learning. Guests also enjoyed cultural music, a lively game of bingo featuring multicultural books as prizes, and a “Thankful Tree” activity where families reflected on what they’re grateful for.

We extend our appreciation to Dee from Island Spice and Kenny from Kiyomi for generously donating their renowned cuisine, adding even more flavor to this special gathering.

Events like this remind us of the power of community and the importance of celebrating the rich backgrounds of our CPS families.

Chicopee Celebrates Record Success at the SkillsUSA Fall Leadership Conference 🥇🥈🥉

Chicopee Public Schools had an incredible showing at the 2025 SkillsUSA Fall Leadership Conference, with students from both Chicopee Comprehensive High School and Chicopee High School earning top awards, leadership recognitions, and medals across multiple categories. This year marked our strongest district-wide performance to date, reflecting the dedication, talent, and rising leadership of our CTE/Pathways students.

From powerful presentations to creative technical projects, community service work, and leadership challenges, our students stepped up to the plate and knocked it out of the park! Chicopee Comp students earned numerous gold, silver, and bronze medals, highlighted by standout performances from Gracelyn Jarry (Gold – Service Project Presentation; Bronze – Service Project Video), Iliana Birriel (Gold – Technical Skills Poster; Silver – Technical Skills Presentation), and Preston Jurczyk, who took home two gold medals in addition to earning the prestigious MVP Award, given to only 2% of competitors statewide. Catarina Carlos was also recognized with the highly selective Rising Star Award, another top leadership honor.

Comp students continued to impress with strong silver-medal finishes by Blake Stetson, Nathan Lapite, Mark Samoylich, and Zoey Piedra, while several students—Mark Babich, Melissa Montell, Mark Samoylich, Zoey Piedra, Coraliz Rodriguez, and Preston Jurczyk—earned their Leadership Pins.

Chicopee High School’s CTE Pathway students also made their mark, bringing home multiple medals of their own, including a gold, and showcasing the kind of confidence, teamwork, and dedication that continue to strengthen their growing SkillsUSA chapter. Their enthusiasm and Pacer pride were evident throughout the conference and added to the district’s collective success.

Together, students from both high schools demonstrated what leadership, preparation, and pride look like—lifting one another up and representing Chicopee with excellence. We are proud of every competitor for their commitment to growth and achievement, and we look forward to watching our SkillsUSA chapters continue to rise to the top.

❄️ Let it Snow… Let’s Play Bingo! ❄️

Join our Family & Community Engagement Team for a district-wide Candy Bar Bingo Night on December 3rd from 6:00–7:30 PM at Fairview Elementary School!

Bring a full-size candy bar to exchange for your bingo board, then play for a chance to win sweet prizes. 🍫

All CPS families are welcome!

Upcoming Community Meeting with Dr. Ware

Dr. Marcus Ware is inviting Chicopee community members to join him for a new round of Community Meetings this fall and winter. These sessions are an opportunity for open conversation about our schools — what’s working well, where we can grow, and how we can continue to build trust and collaboration across our district.

Your voice truly matters. Whether you’re a parent, guardian, staff member, or community partner, your experiences and ideas help guide meaningful progress in Chicopee Public Schools.

The next session is Thursday, December 4th, and will continue through January 2026, with both morning and evening options available to fit your schedule.

Please note that while meeting locations are designated by ward, everyone is welcome to attend at the location or time that is most convenient for them.

*A limited number of children's coats will be available at these meeting for those in need.

Upcoming December Meeting:

Wards 1 & 8

📅 Thursday, December 4th, 2025

📍 CCHS — Conference Room (AM) / Cafeteria (PM)

🕘 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM & 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM

Important December Dates and Observances

Dec. 5:

Professional Development (No School - District-wide)
Parent Conferences (Grades Pre K - 5)

Dec. 8-12:

Inclusive Schools Week

Dec. 14-22:

Hanukkah

Dec. 24 - Jan. 2:

Winter Vacation (No School - District-wide)

Dec. 25:

Christmas Day (Schools and Offices Closed)

Dec. 26 - Jan. 1:

Kwanzaa

Nov 26, 2025 · Chicopee Public Schools
Happy Thanksgiving! 🦃🏈
Happy Thanksgiving, Chicopee Public Schools!

We wish our entire CPS community a safe, joyful, and restful holiday filled with gratitude and time well spent with loved ones.

And as always, Thanksgiving in Chicopee means one thing—the annual Sword Game is tomorrow! Kickoff is at 10:15 a.m. at Szot Park, and we’d love to see a crowd of friendly faces cheering on both of our teams.

Tickets are available here: https://gofan.co/event/5366811?schoolId=MA23936
Nov 25, 2025 · Chicopee Public Schools
Chicopee High Athletics Winter Tryouts Info 2025-2026
Nov 25, 2025 · Chicopee Public Schools
Chicopee Comp Athletics Winter Tryouts Info 2025-2026
Nov 17, 2025 · Chicopee Public Schools
Community Meetings With The Superintendent Begin Tomorrow!
Join the Conversation: Community Meetings Begin Tomorrow! 📣

Dr. Marcus Ware is once again inviting Chicopee community members to join him for a new round of Community Meetings this fall and winter. These sessions create space for open, honest conversation about our schools—what’s working well, where we can grow, and how we can continue building trust and collaboration across the district.

Your voice truly matters. Whether you’re a parent, guardian, staff member, or community partner, your experiences and ideas help guide meaningful progress in Chicopee Public Schools.

The first round of meetings begins Tuesday, November 18th and continues through January 2026, with both morning and evening options available to fit your schedule.

Please note that while meeting locations are designated by ward, everyone is welcome to attend at the location or time that is most convenient for them.

Upcoming November Meeting (Wards 2, 4, & 5):

🗓 Tuesday, November 18th, 2025
📍 Chicopee Public Library – Community Room
⏰ 9:15–10:45 AM & 5:30–7:00 PM

We hope to see you there—your voice makes all the difference.
Nov 6, 2025 · Chicopee Public Schools
Pacers Boys Soccer Tickets for Saturday!
❤️💛⚽️ PACERS WIN IT IN OVERTIME! ⚽️💛❤️

The Chicopee High Boys Soccer team came out on top in their first-round Massachusetts State Championship match, defeating Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School 3–2 in overtime!

Next up, the Pacers will face Hanover High School this Saturday, November 8th at 11:00 AM — at home!

📍 Location: Szot Park Soccer Complex

🎟️ Tickets: Purchase online via https://gofan.co/event/5308525?schoolId=MA23936 or visit GoFan.co and search Chicopee High School

Let’s pack Szot Park again and cheer on our Pacers as they continue their incredible playoff run!

Go Pacers!
Nov 4, 2025 · Chicopee Public Schools
CHS Pacers Boys Soccer State Playoffs Tomorrow!
After winning the Western Mass Championship, our Chicopee High Pacers Boys Soccer team kicks off the State Playoffs at home tomorrow — Wednesday, November 5th at 4:45 PM — against Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School!

📍 Location: Szot Park Soccer Complex
687 Front Street, Chicopee, MA 01020

🎟️ Tickets:
Adults – $5 | Students/Seniors – $3

Purchase online: https://gofan.co/event/5275810?schoolId=MA23936

(Your phone is your ticket!)

Let’s pack Szot Park and cheer on our Pacers as they continue their incredible postseason run!

💛🏆 Go Pacers!

Oct 31, 2025 · Chicopee Public Schools

The Superintendent's Newsletter Issue No. 14

The Superintendent's Newsletter

Issue No. 14 🦃 🍂

October 31, 2025

Welcome to the fourteenth issue of The Superintendent’s Newsletter! As October comes to a close and we turn the page to November, the crisp autumn air and colorful New England landscapes remind us how quickly the seasons — and the school year — move along. From festive fall celebrations to impressive academic and extracurricular achievements, it’s been a lively and inspiring month across Chicopee Public Schools.

November offers a moment to reflect and give thanks — for our dedicated staff, hardworking students, and supportive families who make our district such a special community.

Let’s take a look at the latest highlights and happenings from around the district as we continue building momentum toward a strong and successful 2025–2026 school year!

City Spooktacular 👻

Thank you to everyone who joined in the excitement at this year’s City of Chicopee Spooktacular! The evening was filled with creativity, laughter, and plenty of community spirit as families, students, vendors, staff, and city officials came together in droves to celebrate this cherished Chicopee tradition.

Our Chicopee Public Schools FACE (Family and Community Engagement) Team had a fantastic time connecting with families and handing out candy, while Chicopee Fresh kept the crowd energized with frightfully flavorful bites from their food truck. Even with all the spooky disguises, it was the smiles that stood out most!

As we are heading into Halloween night, we remind everyone to stay safe on the roads and in neighborhoods tonight—whether you’re out celebrating, passing out treats, or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home. Parents and guardians, if your child is going out, take a moment to review safety tips and plan a route with a designated meeting spot if needed. The last thing anyone wants is an accident to spoil the fun. Wishing all a safe and enjoyable night!

CPS Spotlight ✨

Family Cooking Night at Belcher School

Chicopee FRESH and the CPS Family and Community Engagement (FACE) Team recently joined forces to host a fun and flavorful Family Cooking Night at Belcher School! Families rolled up their sleeves to make their own enchilada casseroles using almost entirely local ingredients — including fresh corn tortillas from Mi Tierra Tortillas, produce from Czajkowski Farm, cheddar from Cabot Creamery, onions from Bardwell Farm, and apple cider from Atkins Farms.

In addition to cooking, families enjoyed seasonal activities such as pumpkin painting (with pumpkins supplied by Plainville Farm) and dried bean art for a creative fall touch. Special guests included Superintendent Dr. Marcus Ware, Assistant Superintendent Carol Kruser, and Abby Getman-Skillicorn from Mass Farm to School, who all joined in on the fun.

It was a wonderful evening filled with food, family, and community spirit. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated and to the staff and volunteers who made this event happen!

CHS Boys Soccer 🏆

CONGRATULATIONS to our Chicopee High Boys Soccer team on winning the Western Mass Championship! The Pacers battled hard and came out on top against Pope Francis, marking a historic win for the program. We couldn’t be prouder of their effort, teamwork, and determination. Way to go, Pacers. Now take it all the way!

Congratulations to our Director of Athletics Sean Mackin!

We’re proud to share that Sean Mackin has been selected as the recipient of the 2025 NIAAA Distinguished Service Award “Inside the Field of Athletics.” This prestigious national honor is presented to just one individual each year in recognition of exceptional leadership, years of dedicated service, and outstanding contributions to athletic administration at the local, state, and national levels.

This well-deserved recognition highlights Mr. Mackin’s unwavering commitment to supporting student-athletes, advancing school athletics, and fostering excellence across all Chicopee Public Schools programs. Congratulations, Sean, on this remarkable achievement!

CHS Pathways Info Night

Join us for Pathways Info Night at Chicopee High School on 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!

CCHS CTE Info Night

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, 2025

Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Location: Student Cafeteria

Come see how Chicopee Comp helps students gain real-world skills and hands-on experience for future success.

Community Meetings with Dr. Ware Return This Fall

Dr. Marcus Ware is once again inviting Chicopee community members to join him for a new round of Community Meetings this fall and winter. These sessions are an opportunity for open conversation about our schools — what’s working well, where we can grow, and how we can continue to build trust and collaboration across our district.

Your voice truly matters. Whether you’re a parent, guardian, staff member, or community partner, your experiences and ideas help guide meaningful progress in Chicopee Public Schools.

The first round of meetings begins Tuesday, November 18th, and continues through January 2026, with both morning and evening options available to fit your schedule.

Upcoming November Meeting:

Wards 2, 4, & 5

📅 Tuesday, November 18th, 2025

📍 Chicopee Public Library, Community Room

🕘 9:15 AM – 10:45 AM & 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM

Important November Dates and Observances

National Career Development Month

National Scholarship Month

Nov. 2:

Daylight Saving Time Ends

Nov. 3:

National School Psychology Week (Nov. 3–7)

Nov. 4:

Professional Development (No School - District-wide)

Municipal Election Day

Nov. 8:

National STEM and STEAM Day

Nov. 11:

Veterans Day (Schools and Offices Closed)

Nov. 13:

World Kindness Day (#MakeKindnessTheNorm)

Nov. 15:

America Recycles Day

Nov. 17:

National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week (Nov. 17–23)

American Education Week (Nov. 17–21) #AEW2025

Nov. 19:

Education Support Professionals Day

Nov. 20:

World Children’s Day

National Parent Involvement Day

Nov. 21:

Substitute Educators Day (#SubstituteEducatorsDay)

Nov. 26:

Day Before Thanksgiving (Schools and Offices Closed)

Nov. 27:

Thanksgiving Day (Schools and Offices Closed)

Nov. 28:

Day After Thanksgiving (Schools and Offices Closed)

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