BArT Awarded Grant Funding to Address Hate Crime Prevention

Print Story | Email Story
ADAMS, Mass. — Berkshire Arts and Technology Charter Public School (BArT) has been selected for the Healey-Driscoll Administration's program to prevent hate crimes and reduce incidences of bias in schools.
 
"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. 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," said Governor Healey.
 
BART has received $40,000 to help strengthen their ongoing work to foster a safe, inclusive, and respectful school community. It will support specialized training for staff and continued funding for the DEIB office. It enables the school to further invest in evidence-based curriculum and diverse library resources, expand student programs, and bring in speakers who reflect a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. Together, these efforts will deepen belonging, promote understanding, and help prevent hate and bias in schools and across the region.
 
"Our students have the right to feel safe and secure at school. These grants will help protect our school environments from hate and ensure that students are in the best environment to learn," said Representative Ken Gordon, Co-Chair of the Joint Committee on Education.

Tags: BArT,   

If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.

Adams Boba Tea & Gift Shop Announces Closure

Staff Reports

ADAMS, Mass. — Owner of 57 Park Street, Lea King, announced she was retiring and clearing out her gift and boba tea shop.

King moved to Berkshire County eight years ago, first renovating and reopening the historic Wigwam in North Adams with her partner, Wayne Gelinas, and then the gift shop in Adams. She saw the boba tea shop as a way to bring some of her culture to the community.

King opened the shop in March 2023 and reopened it in the summertime for people to enjoy drinks and buy local gift items.

"Over the past three seasons I've loved making boba tea and smoothies, teaching people about boba pearls, and chatting with everyone who stopped by. Many customers even became friends, which made this little shop extra special," she wrote. Over the next few weeks I’ll be clearing out the shop, and everything will be priced below cost. If you enjoy a bargain or would like to stop by to say hi and bye, feel free."

King announced on Facebook on Sunday that it is time for her to "fully embrace retirement and focus on family and new adventures."

"Thank you for the conversations, laughs, and friendships," she wrote. "Adams will always hold a special place in my heart."

View Full Story

More Adams Stories