MENDON — Superintendent Dr. Maureen Cohen is pleased to share that the Mendon-Upton Regional School District has been awarded $30,000 through the Massachusetts FY26 Hate Crime Prevention Grant Program.
The state funding will support the district’s efforts to prevent hate crimes and reduce incidences of bias, helping students and staff implement programs and policies that foster a safe, inclusive, and supportive educational environment. The funding supports educator training, student engagement and community outreach, contributing to a safe, inclusive environment.
Assistant Superintendent Cheryl Kirkpatrick applied for the grant on behalf of the school district, and wrote it in collaboration with Anne Corron, Principal of Miscoe Hill Middle School, and Nick Cuomo, Assistant Principal. The Mendon Police Department also supported the grant application.
“Our middle school students are at an age where they are learning the importance of being respectful, responsible, and safe community members.” Principal Coron said. “We are grateful that this grant will support us in helping them create the kind of community at Miscoe Hill where all students feel a sense of belonging.”
“This grant will also allow us to provide meaningful programming and resources to help our staff work with students to ensure school is a respectful, welcoming place for everyone,” Assistant Superintendent Kirkpatrick said. “We are committed to ensuring that every student feels safe, valued, and respected in our schools throughout the Mendon-Upton Regional School District.”
The $30,000 awarded to the Mendon-Upton Regional School District is part of an overall $1.01 million in state grants awarded to a total of 38 school districts across Massachusetts to prevent hate crimes and reduce incidents of bias.
The grant funding can be used to support evidence-based curriculum, professional development for educators and staff, and collaboration with local organizations experienced in preventing hate and bias. It can also help improve policies and procedures for reporting and responding to incidents, strengthening both student and staff awareness and preparedness.
“We want to make sure that students know that in Massachusetts they are all welcome at school and supported by our incredible educators and staff,” said Gov. Maura Healey. “The Hate Crimes Prevention Grants provide our local schools with the resources and tools to prevent hate and create safe environments for students and their families.”
Superintendent Dr. Cohen expressed thanks to the state for its support on this crucial matter.
“This funding is an investment in the well-being and growth of our students,” Superintendent Cohen said. “It allows us to take proactive steps to prevent bias and hate, strengthen our school community, and ensure that every student in Mendon-Upton has the opportunity to learn in a safe and inclusive environment.”
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