BArT Awarded State STEM Equipment and Professional Development Grant

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ADAMS, Mass. — Berkshire Arts and Technology Charter Public School (BArT) is the recipient of the Healey-Driscoll Administration's Massachusetts Life Science Center's (MLSC) STEM Equipment and Professional Development Grant Program. 
 
$60,515 has been awarded to BArT to expand life sciences education and enhance STEM career pathways for students. Plans underway include augmenting the AP science course offerings, upgrading lab equipment, and providing enhanced professional development for the science team.
 
"The life sciences are a cornerstone of our economy, and the industry's continued growth depends on cultivating the next generation of talent across every region of the Commonwealth," said Economic Development Secretary Eric Paley. "These grants strengthen the connection between STEM education and industry needs, ensuring Massachusetts remains a leader in life sciences workforce development for years to come."
 
The MLSC is awarding more than $3.3 million for 49 projects through the STEM Equipment and Professional Development Grant Program. This funding will serve nearly 56,000 students at 131 schools and provide professional development opportunities for more than 320 teachers. The program prepares students for life sciences careers by enabling schools to purchase lab equipment, materials, supplies, and technology, and provide teachers with professional development opportunities that support the implementation of advanced curricula and standards alignment.  

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Adams Community, Co-Op Becoming 'Trailmark Bank'

ADAMS, Mass. — The combined Adams Community Bank and Pittsfield Cooperative Bank will be known as Trailmark Bank, according to a joint statement issued on Wednesday. 
 
The new logo is the imprint of a hiking boot designed to reflect the unique character of the Berkshires, where a network of trails run throughout the entire county, connecting towns from Adams to Pittsfield to Great Barrington and linking communities across mountains, valleys, and scenic ridgelines. 
 
"The trails that weave through the Berkshires create shared experiences and remind us that every journey begins with a single step," said Julie Fallon Hughes, CEO of the combined institution. "Trailmark Bank reflects both where we come from and where we're headed. We are proud to be a bank built by people who believe in staying the course, investing in our communities, and helping our customers make their mark for years to come."
 
These paths — including the Appalachian Trail and countless local routes — have long served as both physical and symbolic connections across the region. They represent movement, resilience, and the shared experience of navigating forward together.
 
With nearly 300 years of combined service, Trailmark Bank will build on the legacies of Adams Community Bank and Pittsfield Cooperative Bank. The new name honors that shared history while signaling a forward-looking future — one rooted in local decision-making, strong relationships, and continued investment in the communities it serves.
 
"As someone who grew up in the Berkshires, this name resonates deeply," said Gregg Levante, president. "Trailmark Bank reflects the character of this region — hard-working, resilient, and grounded in the outdoors and community. These trails have connected our towns for generations, and in many ways, that's what we’re doing here — bringing people together and helping them navigate their financial journeys."
 
In a message to customers, Adams Community stated there will be no immediate changes to accounts, services, branch locations, online banking, or debit cards. The two banks will continue operating separately until the planned merger later this year. Bank officials say they will communicate any future changes well in advance.
 
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