Ludlow School Committee Approves Italy Trip, Keeps 110 School Choice Slots

School Committee · Meeting of February 24, 2026

Ludlow School Committee honored three Grinspoon Teaching Award nominees, approved a northern Italy student trip, and voted to hold its school choice cap at 110 slots. Superintendent Dr. Tiano presented ninth-grade English teacher Stephanie Fernandes, seventh-grade social studies teacher Kevin DaSilva of Barrett Middle School, and pre-K teacher Crystal Rigo of East Street Elementary, all nominated by peers for the Pioneer Valley-wide Harold Grinspoon Teaching Award.

East Street Principal Christine LaMouge reported that students needing substantial reading support dropped from 56 to 16 at mid-year, and kindergarten math proficiency rose to 74 percent. Assistant Superintendent Mrs. Santos told the committee that 74 of 110 available school choice slots are filled for the current year, generating $5,000 per student through Chapter 70; the committee voted 5-0 to maintain the 110-slot cap for 2026-27.

Final approval was granted unanimously for a 25-student culinary tour to northern Italy departing April 24. Dr. Stratton, chair of the superintendent search committee, said six finalist interviews were complete and finalist names were expected to be transmitted to the chairman by week's end, with the committee adjourning into executive session to prepare for non-union personnel negotiations.

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Source: the School Committee meeting of February 24, 2026, reported from the official video recording and transcript.