BArT Gets Federal Grant for Restorative Practices, Student Support

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ADAMS, Mass. — Berkshire Arts and Technology Charter Public School has been awarded a $50,000 state grant through the Support Implementing of Updated Regulations Regarding Time-Out Practices initiative from the Healey-Driscoll Administration via the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).
 
The grant supports BArT's school-wide implementation of updated state regulations related to time-out practices, emphasizing restorative approaches that reduce exclusionary discipline, strengthen student belonging, and improve outcomes for students with disabilities. 
 
Funding will facilitate data collection and analysis through Panorama, restorative practice supports, and school-wide, high-quality professional development, as well as summer planning and incentives that reinforce positive behavior and engagement.
 
"This affirms BArT's commitment to creating a supportive, inclusive learning environment where all students can thrive," said Jonathan Igoe, Interim Executive Director. "By strengthening restorative practices and aligning with updated state guidance, BArT is reinforcing a learning environment where students feel supported, respected, and empowered to succeed."

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Adams Man in Wednesday's Stabbing Incident Arraigned on Assault Charges

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NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — An Adams man who called 911 on Tuesday night saying he had been stabbed was arraigned Friday on charges related to that incident and on outstanding warrants. 
 
Philip White, 25, is accused of stabbing himself and calling 911 posing as a "friend." According to the Berkshire District Attorney's Office, an officer responding to the scene at 31 Commercial St. fired his weapon when the White was "observed approaching the officer in a threatening manner with an object in his hand." He missed, and no one was further injured. 
 
White was initially held at Berkshire Medical Center in Pittsfield for a mental health evaluation and was reported in stable condition from his wounds, which were described as not life-threatening.
 
He was charged in Northern Berkshire District Court with assault with a dangerous weapon, to wit: cutting instrument, in connection with the Jan. 27 incident. He is being held without right to bail probation violation from charges of assault and battery, resisting arrest, and disorderly conduct from an incident on Sept. 12, 2025. 
 
White has three outstanding warrants which include three counts of trespass and one count of assault and battery on a family/household member. The court has additionally ordered an evaluation on his competence to stand trial and at the defense request, criminal responsibility.
 
A dangerousness hearing request is scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 4. 
 
District Attorney Timothy Shugrue said he will announce the findings of the full investigation into this incident, including the officer's discharge of his firearm, upon the conclusion of the investigation. The DA's Office said there would not be any additional comments at this time.
 
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