Mill Town Foundation, Pittsfield Public Schools Core Impact Awards

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Mill Town Foundation, in partnership with Pittsfield Public Schools, announced the return of the Core Impact Awards.
 
According to a press release, the district-wide initiative recognizes educators and school staff members who are making a "meaningful difference in student learning, innovation in education, and community engagement." 
 
Now in its second year, the Core Impact Awards will honor full-time teacher or staff member from each of the 14 schools in the Pittsfield Public School District. 
 
"The Core Impact Awards are about more than recognition — they're about building a culture where educators feel valued and supported," said Andy Wrba, program director at Mill Town Foundation. "While we celebrate individual honorees, the broader message is for every teacher and school employee across Pittsfield: your work matters, and this community recognizes the impact you have." 
 
Pittsfield Public Schools Assistant Superintendent Jennifer Stokes emphasized the importance of spotlighting educators' contributions. 
 
"Great teachers don't just teach lessons - they change lives," Stokes said. "The Core Impact Awards shine a light on the educators who make students feel seen, supported, and capable of more than they ever imagined. Watching last year's honorees experience that recognition — the pride, the joy, the emotion — was a powerful reminder of how important it is to celebrate the people who give so much of themselves every day." 
 
The nomination period will be open March 2-15, 2026. Community members, students, parents, and colleagues are invited to submit nominations highlighting an educator's:  
  • Student Impact: Evidence of inspiring or improving student outcomes. 
  • Innovation in Teaching: Creative approaches to instruction and learning. 
  • Community Engagement: Meaningful involvement within the school and broader community. 
  • Nomination Quality: Thoughtfulness and clarity of the submission. 
An independent community Selection Committee will review all nominations. 
 
Recipients will be announced in April and formally honored at a community celebration in May. Each honoree will receive a recognition package celebrating their contributions to education and the Pittsfield community. 
 
Nominations are open. They close on March 15. To submit a nomination, visit www.milltownfoundation.org

Tags: mill town,   Pittsfield Public Schools,   

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Two Pittsfield Homes Struck by Gunfire on Memorial Drive

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — On Sunday May 31 at approximately 1:19am, Pittsfield Police Department (PPD) officers responded to the intersection of Memorial Drive and Doyle Drive for a 13- round ShotSpotter Activation. 
 
At least two residences were struck by gunfire and investigators located 17 shell casings on scene. 
 
No injuries were reported.
 
This incident is currently under investigation and anyone who wishes to report information is asked to contact PPD at 413-448-9700. Information can also be provided anonymously by texting PITTIP and your message to TIP411 (847411.)
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