Pittsfield Saying 'Goodbye' to Morningside School With Celebration
PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The Pittsfield Public Schools will celebrate more than 50 years of Morningside's history as it approaches its last months in session.
Students, families, alumni, staff, neighbors, and the wider community are invited to a "Morningside on Parade" event on Thursday, June 11, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The open-concept community school on Burbank Street has been deemed insufficient for modern learning needs.
"This special evening will celebrate the incredible work, creativity, diversity, and spirit of the Morningside community," the Pittsfield Public Schools wrote in a communication.
"Guests will have the opportunity to explore student projects and classroom displays, enjoy a multicultural fair highlighting the many cultures represented within the school community, and participate in interactive demonstrations and activities hosted by Morningside's valued community partners."
Attendees can enjoy food trucks, music, family-friendly activities, and the evening will conclude with a neighborhood parade beginning at 7 p.m., weather permitting.
Anyone with old photographs of the school, its community, or the surrounding area can have them digitized and included in a commemorative slideshow by sending them to mcschoolpictures@gmail.com.
In April, the School Committee made an emotional decision to retire Morningside Community School at the end of the academic year. Officials identified the school's lack of classroom walls as the most significant obstacle, creating a difficult, noisy learning environment that is reflected in its accountability score.
Morningside, built in the 1970s, serves around 375 students in grades prekindergarten through 5, including a student population with 88.2 percent high-needs, 80.5 percent low-income, and 24.3 percent English learners. Its students will be reassigned to Allendale, Capeless, Egremont, and Williams elementary schools.
Mayor Peter Marchetti has voiced a commitment to using the building after it is no longer an elementary school. People have asked for a robust community center in its place rather than a police station, which the mayor has confirmed is one of the possible options.
The district is working on a transition plan for school assignment and transportation, physical space, and before and after-school programming.
Attendance zones will be redrawn around natural boundaries, meaning that children on the same streets will go to school together. They are expected to be complete by the first week of June so that families know where their children will attend in the fall.
"Morningside on Parade is an opportunity for our school community to come together and celebrate our students, our partnerships, and the many memories and accomplishments that make Morningside such a special place. We are excited to welcome the broader community to join us for an evening of joy, pride, and connection," PPS wrote.
"Community organizations, alumni, former staff members, and residents are encouraged to attend and help celebrate the lasting impact of Morningside Community School."
Tags: Morningside, school closures,
