Here Today, Here Tomorrow
HERE TODAY – HERE TOMORROW! By: Barry Brensinger, Manchester Proud Coordinator What began in 2017 as a wondering about how to better engage community in our public schools has led to a community-driven strategic plan and a host of enabling community partnerships. Manchester Proud’s core purpose of facilitating systemic change
Manchester Proud brings on new members of Champion’s Council
Manchester Proud is adding new members to our Champion’s Council to expand capacity and increase community representation. Our Champion’s Council governs the mission and work of Manchester Proud and members also serve on various Work Groups. Several current Council members are nearing the end of their terms, making this the
Now is the Time
Reimagining The Places We Call “School” By Barry Brensinger, Manchester Proud Coordinator Many of us have vivid memories of February 20, 2020, the evening our Board of School Committee adopted “Our Community’s Plan For Manchester’s Future of Learning” as the Manchester School District’s strategic plan. That night, the seats were
Manchester Proud’s Champion’s Council Update
Manchester Proud has recently begun the process of adding to our Champion’s Council to expand capacity and increase community representation. Our Champion’s Council governs the mission and work of Manchester Proud and members also serve on various Work Groups. Several current Council members are nearing the end of their terms, making
Manchester Proud Brings on Community Communications Coordinator
Community Communications Coordinator - Manchester Proud Manchester Proud (MP) announces the hiring of a new Community Communications Coordinator, Lauren Boisvert. The creation of the position of Community Communications Coordinator reflects Manchester Proud’s determination to promote understanding and build community engagement in the making of great public schools. Manchester Proud will
Manchester Proud Now Hiring Communications Coordinator
Communications Coordinator - Manchester Proud Manchester Proud (MP) is seeking to hire a Communications Coordinator to co-develop, manage, and implement its community communications plan. The Communications Coordinator is a new part-time position, reporting to Manchester Proud’s Volunteer Coordinator and Community Partnerships Coordinator. The Communications Coordinator will work remotely, but local
Proud Connections: Power of Partnership with Fidelity
On September 13th nearly 30 employees from Fidelity Investments gathered in the library of Henry Wilson Elementary School to create welcome bags for close to 240 new staff members of the Manchester School District. These bags were then distributed by Fidelity staff members to each of the 21 schools! "It
School Spotlight: Smyth Road School
Q&A with Smyth Road School Principal, Jennifer Briggs What makes your school unique? We are the proud RoadRunners! We are known for having a school of staff and students with very deep roots in the community of Manchester. Teachers spend their full careers here, and many generations of families
Champion Spotlight: Sandra Almonte
Small Business Owner, MHT Resident, Parent & Manchester Proud Champions Council President. Tell us about what makes Manchester special to you? Manchester is special to me because as soon as I visited our Queen City for the first time back in 1998, I felt that this was the place I
Imagine the Schools of Our Dreams
By: Barry Brensinger, Manchester Proud Coordinator Great progress, the kind that reshapes our lives, often begins with bold imagination. Edison imagined safely lighting the darkness of night (1879). The Wright brothers studied the flight of birds, with curiosity and imagination (1903). Engineers at Bell Labs imagined portable, hand-held telephones, and
CelebratED MHT! A Festival of OUR Public Schools and Community
Come one and all to Manchester’s second annual festival of our public schools and community: CelebratED MHT!, presented by USI Insurance Services. The festivities will roll out on September 17th, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm at Veteran’s Memorial Park in Manchester, NH. It’s time to welcome back our students,
Celebrate with Purpose
By: Barry Brensinger, Manchester Proud Coordinator CelebratED 2022 is now only days away! We are looking forward to seeing you in Veteran’s Park on September 17th for a day-long festival to celebrate our public schools and community. If you enjoy great food, live entertainment, swelling pride, and the glowing
Manchester Proud Student Volunteer Award Winners!
Congratulations to Our Student Volunteer Award Winners! Manchester Proud announced its first annual Student Volunteer Awards in Spring of 2022, in recognition of outstanding student volunteers who demonstrate a deep commitment to impacting the lives of others and the greater Manchester Community. Awards were granted to four amazing students that
Amplifying Our Essential Work in the Year Ahead
By: Barry Brensinger, Manchester Proud Coordinator Manchester Proud’s mission remains clear and compelling. We engage our community in the making of exceptional public schools. We are inspired by a fundamental truth that has been reaffirmed time and time again during the past four years of our work: Manchester’s public schools
Champion Spotlight: Edna Rays Ndayisaba, Manchester Proud Intern
Tell us about what makes Manchester special to you? Edna Rays Ndayisaba, Intern, Manchester Proud I moved to the United states in the September of 2014 and was welcomed into Manchester NH by the International Institute of New England, New Hampshire. This is the first of the United
Manchester Proud Establishes Student Volunteer Awards
Manchester Proud announces its first annual recognition of outstanding student volunteers. Manchester Proud has announced its first annual Student Volunteer Awards, in recognition of outstanding student volunteers who demonstrate a deep commitment to impacting the lives of others and the greater Manchester Community. Four awards will be granted, and
A Time to Make Our Schools Great!
By: Barry Brensinger, Manchester Proud Coordinator If our goal is to engage all of Manchester in the making of exceptional public schools….. Then we must communicate to inform, inspire, and hear all voices. And, if our communications are to inspire and instill a sense of purpose….. Then we
PROUD Connections: ORIS Programs for New Americans
ORIS Programs for New Americans By: Molly Stark, Food Access Coordinator, Organization for Refugee and Immigrant Success The Organization for Refugee and Immigrant Success (ORIS) is a non-profit based out of Manchester whose mission is to “aid in the resettlement of refugees and immigrants in New Hampshire byproviding assistance, training,
March with Manchester Proud at the St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 27, 2022!
On Sunday, Marth 27th, 2022, Manchester Proud's CelebratED Team will be marching in the Manchester St. Patrick's Day Parade! We'll be carrying a banner in support of this year's CelebratED! - a city-wide festival to celebrate our students, teachers, schools and community! Everyone is encouraged to march in the parade
PROUD Connections: Make an Impact & Use the Community Compass
By: Aimee Kereage, Community Partnerships Coordinator, Manchester Proud Manchester Proud is a community movement focused on the making of exceptional public schools. No longer is it solely the responsibility of public education to do this, but for our community to grow and prosper we must all support and help drive
Champion Spotlight: Kelly Espinola, Principal, Parker-Varney Elementary
Tell us about what makes Manchester special to you? Kelly Espinola, Principal, Parker-Varney Elementary School Manchester is special to me because this is where I was born and raised. The school district gave me so much as a student and now I get to give back in so
Nurturing Future Innovators and Entrepreneurs in Manchester High School
By: Shanthi Nair, EnCube Labs Innovators and entrepreneurs transform communities by creating jobs and wealth. Introducing school children to the required skills and mindset is essential to nurturing future problem solvers and job creators. The New Hampshire-based National Collaborative For Digital Equity (NCDE) and NH Tech Alliance (NHTA) will partner
Assurance of Continuity
By: Barry Brensinger, Manchester Proud Coordinator The resignation of Dr. Goldhardt, after a short two and one-half years as the superintendent of the Manchester School District, comes as a disappointment, but not a surprise. These are turbulent times in our public schools, with dramatic turnover of leadership across the country.
Elm Street Banner Thanks MSD Teachers and Staff
The supporters of Manchester Proud are thrilled to announce the hanging of our latest Elm Street Banner – a grateful community’s tribute to the teachers and staff of the Manchester School District. Today, teachers and staff representing the District gathered beneath the banner to accept our heartfelt Thank You! "The
PROUD Connections: Donors Choose
By: Aimee Kereage Connections, relationships, impacts. These are things that lift and strengthen us as human beings. Connections within our community, support of and from our “neighbors”, relationships that help us feel welcome and valued. Wanting to make an impact in our community looks different for each of us and
Champion Spotlight: Aimee Kereage, Community Partnerships Coordinator, Manchester Proud
Aimee Kereage, Community Partnerships Coordinator, Manchester Proud Tell us about what makes Manchester special to you? Manchester is a wealth of amazing diverse human beings, organizations, and institutions. I have had the pleasure of working directly with several families, students, and professionals across this great city in many
Growing Momentum and the Work Ahead
By: Barry Brensinger, Manchester Proud Coordinator ONWARD! has become Manchester Proud’s call to action. The essentiality of our purpose and the growing groundswell of community support for our students and schools compel us to move forward. On December 2nd, with these inspirations in mind, our Champion’s Council met to begin
Change IS Underway – Manchester School District
By: Barry Brensinger, Manchester Proud Coordinator Getting “school” right is the most impactful work we can do as a community. Manchester’s public schools are the source of our doers, builders, creators, caregivers, teachers, technicians, leaders, and informed citizenry – making our schools the place to face our challenges and build
A Reflection: Cause For Celebration and Celebration of a Cause
In September 2021, Manchester Proud and the Manchester School District partnered to champion the first ever, city-wide, festival of our public schools: CelebratED MHT! Everyone in Veteran’s Park that day wore a big smile! Bright sunshine, toe-tapping music, good food, and crowds of happy students, all free – the smiles
Champion Spotlight: Tina Philibotte, MSD Chief Equity Officer
Tina Philibotte, Chief Equity Officer, Manchester School District Tell us a little about yourself and your role in the community. What makes Manchester special to you? I joined the Manchester School District in July 2021 as the district’s first Chief Equity Officer. Previous to that, I spent 13
Manchester Proud Hires New Community Partnerships Coordinator
Aimee Kereage, Community Partnerships Coordinator, Manchester Proud Manchester Proud recently hired Aimee Kereage as its new Community Partnership Coordinator. The Community Partnerships Coordinator position was created by Manchester Proud’s Partnership Network Work Group in response to the need to build and align community partners and resources in support
CelebratED MHT!
September 17, 2022 - 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. - Veteran's Park, Manchester Schedule of Events Map Sponsors
School Board Award Evokes Positive Community Response
The New Hampshire School Boards Association has selected the Manchester Board of School Committee as its 2021 School Board of the Year. The announcement comes in the midst of a challenging year for schools, as districts have been forced to constantly shift approaches in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic.
GEAR UP! Providing Academic Support and College Prep for Students
GEAR UP, which stands for Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs, is a federal program funded by the U.S. Department of Education whose mission is to significantly increase the number of low-income middle and high school students who are prepared to enter and succeed in post-secondary education. The goals
Collaborative Manchester Meals Program Marks Major Milestone
Aimee Kereage of the Granite United Way, Steve Thiel of Southern New Hampshire University, Dr. Jenn Gillis of Manchester School District, and Jess Riendeau of the Granite YMCA pose for a photo with a proclamation from Mayor Joyce Craig recognizing the impact of the Fuel Our Families project. Kereage,
Erasing the Lines Between School and Community – April 2021 Update
By: Barry Brensinger, Manchester Proud; Aimee Kereage, Granite United Way; Steve Thiel, SNHU Great schools of the future will be fully integrated into the daily lives of their communities; vitalized by activities during and beyond traditional school hours. They will provide a diversity of services and supports for students and their
Senior Year In a Pandemic
By: MSD Student Allison Herman Central High School Senior, Allison Herman Taking a step back and looking at the world around you when feeling overwhelmed is something my mentors have always instilled in me. After the initial stride, you then take a deep breath and reflect. It is
Champion Spotlight: Kelly Jobel
Tell us a little about yourself and your role in the community. What makes Manchester special to you? Kelly Jobel, Teacher, Manchester School District This is my 21st year working in the Manchester School District. During this time I have had several different roles at Parker-Varney School and
ONWARD! Dashboard Progress Report
[Click here to enlarge graphic] ONWARD! “Excellence and Equity for ALL Learners” Progress Report by Manchester Proud’s Dashboard Work Group March 8, 2021 The exuberance of February 20, 2020, the day our Board of School Committee adopted our District’s new strategic plan, was still in our hearts and minds when
Champion Spotlight: Christina Bui
Tell us a little about yourself and your role in the community. What makes Manchester special to you? My name is Christina Bui. I am 16 years old and I am a junior in high school. I have been a part of Manchester Proud for about 3 years and have
A Sneak Peek: Year One Progress Report
Our Community’s Plan for Manchester’s Future of Learning – Excellence and Equity for ALL Learners Year One Progress Report Incredibly, it has been one year since the Board of School Committee adopted our district’s new strategic plan, “Our Community’s Plan for Manchester’s Future of Learning – Excellence and Equity for
MSD Receives Donation of 13,000 Resuable Water Bottles
Elizabeth Kirwan, EL Teacher, Manchester High School West & Manchester Proud Champions Council Member with Manchester West Students Manchester Proud Donates 13,000 Reusable Water Bottles to MSD Aramark Team uloading donated water bottles from delivery trucks The Manchester School District received a donation this January of
Champion Spotlight: Jeanine Tousignant
Tell us a little about yourself and your role in the community. What makes Manchester special to you? Jeanine Tousignant, President, Jeanine & Company. I’ve lived in Manchester for 20 years, and have always worked for and with nonprofit organizations. For the past 7 years through my consulting
The Unlimited Power of Partnership – January 2021 Update
The Unlimited Power of Partnership January 2021 Update By: Barry Brensinger, Manchester Proud; Robert McLaughlin, National Collaborative for Digital Equity; Mary Ford, SNHU School of Education Just days after the rousing adoption of our community’s new strategic plan for Manchester’s public schools, back on February 20, 2020, COVID-19 began to reshape our
Champion Spotlight: Damond T. Ford
Tell us a little about yourself and your role in the community. What makes Manchester special to you? MHT Proud Champion of the Month: Damond T. Ford I moved to Manchester 10 years ago to serve with City Year NH at Parker-Varney Elementary school. I am currently the
Learning Equity: How Covid-19 Enhanced Equitable Teaching Practice
By Joe Bowe and Jillian Corey Our schema was that teaching in a building with students coming to campus makes it possible to control the learning environment and the tools students use for skill and knowledge acquisition. Much of this can be done in an organic and sometimes casual fashion
November 2020 Update
Barry Brensinger,Design Principal at Lavallee Brensinger Architects; MHT Proud Coordinator By Barry Brensinger OUR EQUITY IMPERATIVE Equity is on our mind and centered in our work. Our increasing awareness of the need for Equity in our schools, community, and country is long overdue. Manchester Proud is determined to
Manchester Proud Endorses Ballot Question: Vote YES on Question 1!
Manchester voters will be presented with an important opportunity on November 3rd to ensure the future and success of our public schools is firmly in hands of the citizens of Manchester. That opportunity is to vote YES on Question 1. Voting YES on Question 1 empowers the citizens of Manchester
October 2020 Update
Teaming-up for Enhanced Communications The Greater Manchester Chamber has been an ardent supporter of Manchester Proud since the movement’s founding three years ago. And, Manchester Proud’s partnership with the Manchester School District continues to grow in depth and effectiveness as shared initiatives to realize the goals of the new strategic
Newsletter: School funding and “Giving Back”
Be bold and brave Manchester Proud added its voice to a call for more equitable school funding in its recent testimony to the state’s Commission to Study School Funding. The Commission, a group of six lawmakers and ten members of the public, is tasked with recommending changes to the state’s
Be Bold, Be Brave
Manchester Proud recently added its voice to a call for more equitable school funding in its testimony to the state’s Commission to Study School Funding. The Commission, a group of six lawmakers and ten members of the public, is tasked with recommending changes to the state’s funding of public schools
July Newsletter: Much to celebrate
July 22, 2020: Generous donor endorses plan $120,000 grant for School-Community Partnerships We are thrilled to announce that even in the face of current challenges, progress continues on Manchester School District’s new strategic plan, “Our Community’s Plan for Manchester’s Future of Learning; Excellence and Equity for all Learners." Working with the District’s leadership,
Donor funds key piece of strategic plan
Plan’s School-Community Partnerships move forward with $120,000 grant Even in the face of current challenges, progress on Manchester School District’s new strategic plan, “Our Community’s Plan for Manchester’s Future of Learning; Excellence and Equity for all Learners,” continues. Working with the District’s leadership, Manchester Proud has secured a $120,000 grant
Our schools are great when we work together
Last fall, Manchester Proud’s Coordinator, Barry Brensinger, was invited to deliver a TEDx Talk on the mission and work of Manchester Proud. The talk explores why our public schools are essential to our collective future and offers a vision of what they can be – if we work together to
Newsletter: School committed to ending systemic racism
June 19, 2020 Newsletter Breaking down structures of systemic racism Superintendent Dr. Goldhardt reiterated his commitment to ensuring equity for all students - in every classroom in a recent statement on the killing of George Floyd. He applauded students for organizing peaceful calls for racial justice but said that’s just
Help Manchester Celebrate – by lip-syncing
Media Youth Power wants your help making a music video. Sign up by June 12. This story is a collaboration between Manchester Proud and the Manchester Community Partnership group. In a time when media is consumed by upsetting and difficult events, Media Power Youth doesn’t want the Manchester community to
Newsletter: Team effort to feed our families
May 15, 2020 Newsletter We are excited to announce a new partnership with the Manchester School District, introduce our new Champions Council officers, tell you about a recent award, and ask for your help honoring our school employees. Celebrating our schools We are working with the school district to share
Keeping kids connected during remote learning
"What do you want to be when you grow up? This story is a new collaboration between Manchester Proud and the Manchester School District to share good news from our schools. In the Manchester School District, remote learning extends beyond the classroom. Elementary and middle school students
Newsletter: Help a student, Meet our new Champions Council
April 2020 Newsletter Dear Manchester Proud Champions, In this challenging time, we want to share some encouraging news about our schools and introduce our new Champions Council. BOSC approves teacher contract In a unanimous vote, the Board of School Committee passed a three-year contract for teachers on Wednesday night that
School district’s amazing response to coronavirus
Manchester Proud Newsletter: March 19, 2020 Dear Manchester Proud Supporters, As our city, state, and nation work to keep all of us safe, we celebrate and thank our dedicated educators and school leaders for their commitment to our students in this most challenging time. We also want to update you
Our next steps
Manchester Proud looks ahead The Board of School Committee's 12-1 vote on Feb. 20, 2020 to "accept with gratitude" our community's plan for the future of our schools was a beginning - not an end. In early March, our Community Planning Group and Manchester Proud Champions Council had the first
Board of School Committee accepts community’s plan for future of our schools
Nearly 470 community members speak in support of our schools Following more than an hour of overwhelming public support for our students, schools, educators, and city, the Board of School Committee voted 12 to 1 Thursday, Feb. 20, to “accept with gratitude” the comprehensive plan our community created to ensure
You asked about the plan. We’ve got your answers.
In late January, we shared a draft of our community's plan for our future schools and asked for your questions. Thank you to everyone who responded. Below you will find the questions we received and the answers. If you haven't read the plan it's on our homepage. On Thursday, Feb.
Read the plan. Send your questions.
Draft plan shared with school board, community Manchester Proud delivered a draft of our community's plan for the future of our schools to the Board of School Committee Monday night, Jan. 27, 2020, to allow board members time to review the plan and seek additional information before Manchester Proud asks
Catch us on TV, radio
We've been busy the last few months asking the community how it defines successful schools, working with the Board of School Committee, and sharing our work on local radio and tv stations. Catch up on our community outreach via the links below. Community Visioning Forums We held three forums in
Manchester Proud Newsletter: Jan. 9, 2020
Show your support. Celebrate our schools. Happy New Year Champions. We’ve got lots of updates for you. Save the date. Show your support. We will present our plan to the Board of School Committee (BOSC) on Feb. 20, 2020 - and then ask the board to adopt it. Invite family
Vote! Your voice matters.
Miss our community forums? Weigh in on online. Manchester Proud believes the great work Manchester’s nonprofits are doing with kids and families, and the resources of our business and cultural communities, would be even more beneficial to our kids and schools if their services were better aligned and coordinated. That’s
The Manchester Inclusivity and Equity Committee seeks Committee Coordinator
NOW HIRING: Committee Coordinator, Manchester Inclusivity and Equity Committee Position Overview: The Manchester Inclusivity and Equity Committee seeks a Coordinator in order to build meaningful relationships with community members from groups historically underserved and underrepresented in citywide public and civic engagement initiatives. The Committee Coordinator will lead from behind by
New ideas for financing schools, electing school board
Can Manchester better finance schools, improve school board efficiency? How are Manchester schools identifying students for special education? Should the school board focus on policy decisions and leave district management to school administrators? These were some of the questions community members considered and voted on at a Manchester Proud forum
Voting is open
Help us choose the best ideas Should Manchester schools expand project-based learning or offer universal Pre-K? Is there value in limiting elementary classes to 20 students? These are a few of the questions community members and educators discussed and voted on at our first workshop to finalize our plan for
50 ideas for our future schools
Short list of ideas for rethinking education in our schools Below are our Community Planning Group's short list of ideas in five categories, in this order: Teaching and Learning, Finance, Governance, Community Partnerships, and Operational Effectiveness. Teaching & Learning Transform & Support Professional Learning Adopt a Restorative Justice Approach to
Come see our Plan! Give us feedback!
It's here and you're invited! After more than a year and a half of community outreach and research, we're ready to share our plan for remodeling education in the Manchester School District. We need one more thing before we present our ideas to the Board of School Committee in mid-February:
Manchester Proud shares emerging ideas with school committee members
Current and newly elected school committee members pick their top ideas MANCHESTER - Manchester Proud and its partner 2Revolutions held a two and a half hour session with current and new Board of School Committee members on Nov. 18, 2019 to share our early ideas for remodeling education in Manchester
We asked New Americans to define student success
New Americans: Manchester students should be team players, problem solvers Manchester Proud asked a group of Manchester New Americans how schools can best prepare students for success. Like many parents we’ve heard from, they want their children to be critical thinkers, team players, and problem solvers. They’d like our schools
We want to hear from New American families
An invite to Manchester's New American families Manchester Proud is inviting all New American families in Manchester to a conversation about education and student success. Please join us to share what you think students should know and be able to do to be successful. This free event will be held
Celebrations and other news
Manchester Proud Newsletter: October 25, 2019 Connecting with the school board Our first workshop with the Board of School Committee was well-received and well-attended. In our three-hour session, board members got their first look at our community engagement findings and school district research. In a Visioning Session with board members,
Manchester Proud shares findings with Board of School Committee
Manchester Proud shares findings with Board of School Committee October 16, 2019 Media contact: Barry Brensinger, Manchester Proud coordinator, 603-493-5201 MANCHESTER - Manchester Proud and its partners Reaching Higher NH and 2Revolutions held a three-hour workshop with the Board of School Committee last night to share findings from our partners’
Manchester schools get additional $15 million in new state budget
State budget gives Manchester schools an additional $15 million over two years The Manchester School District will receive an additional $15 million in the state budget signed today by Gov. Chris Sununu. The increase will be spread over two years. Manchester is slated to receive about $3.5 million more in
Manchester Chamber remains committed to Manchester Proud
Early survey responses We were back before the Manchester Chamber Board of Directors, one of our earliest supporters, this week with a progress update and an invite: We asked board members and their employees to complete a two-question survey that asks: What do students need to know and be able
How can afterschool providers and Manchester schools partner to help kids?
Strengthening the connection between our schools and Manchester's youth-serving agencies There are many nonprofits in Manchester supporting kids, but no easy way for parents, students, and teachers to know them all or what each agency offers. Hoping to change that, Manchester Proud recently asked staff at those non-profits how we
Got 2 minutes? Tell us what Manchester graduates need to be successful.
Wanted: Your opinion. What do you think our students should know and be able to do when they graduate? Your thoughts will help us create a plan that tells our city and school leaders what the people of Manchester want from their schools. Please give us your ideas in this
Our work is guided by local and state data
Manchester Proud has reviewed a number of local and state reports and other data sources to better understand the opportunities and challenges within the Manchester School District. Some of the most detailed resources are below. Community Engagement Research In order to authentically create community-driven plan to transform our schools, it
Are you getting our newsletter?
Manchester Proud Newsletter: August 22, 2019 News Back to school We are gearing up for the start of school in September. We plan to be at open houses across the city to welcome families and educators back to school. And, in an effort to include more parent voices in our
We’re proud to be part of Manchester’s Renewal.
Manchester is making news - for the right reasons. We were thrilled to be included in Business NH Magazine's recent story about Manchester's renewal, alongside the city's top-notch health care providers, innovative business start-ups, vibrant downtown, arts scene, and 11 colleges, universities, and trade schools. We encourage you to read
New to Manchester? Enroll your students this month.
Three chances to enroll new students before school starts The Manchester School District is enrolling new students this month on Aug. 13, Aug. 15, and Aug. 24. This is an opportunity to take care of enrollment before the first day of school, which is Sept. 4 for all but pre-school
We’ve updated our timeline. Check out what we’ve done.
Where we've been, where we're going The easiest way to get up to speed on our 13 months of work is to visit our updated timeline. We've added the story that started this work, links to news articles about us, evidence of our commitment to include all of Manchester in
Our international community shares its ideas for our future schools.
Concerns and hopes from our international community When we talked with former refugees and immigrants at the International Institute of New England in July, nearly 50 people attended and they participated in a variety of languages, including Swahili, Spanish, Arabic, and French. We asked attendees three questions: What do they
What have we done in 13 months? A lot and it’s all here.
Our Progress Report recounts our first 13 months It is fair to say that Manchester Proud’s work over the course of these 13 months has been an extraordinary mix of challenging, deeply meaningful, exhausting, and awesome fun — much as we all would hope it would be. Manchester Proud Progress
We asked what students need to be successful. We heard academics and team-building skills.
What does the Future of Learning look like in Manchester? What should graduates of Manchester’s public schools know and be able to do when they graduate? Build relationships and resolve conflicts. Demonstrate a strong work ethic. Understand world history. These are a few of the hopes shared during a recent
Our new superintendent says all students deserve a quality education
Dr. John Goldhardt: Every Student Should Be Guaranteed a Quality Education We are thrilled our new superintendent, Dr. Goldhardt, has joined our Community Planning Group. We certainly share his views on education. Read what he has to say about education and Manchester Proud in a recent interview with the Union
Free books, ice cream, trivia and more! Manchester School District celebrates National Summer Learning Week
There's something for everyone during National Summer Learning Week in Manchester In case you missed it, the Manchester School District is celebrating National Summer Learning Week this week with a trivia contest, read-alouds, art activities at the Currier, a show at the Palace Theater and lots of visits by the
What is Manchester Proud?
Manchester Proud: What we do. Why we do it. As Manchester Proud moves ahead with its work, it seems like a good time for a quick look back. Earlier this year, Parenting New Hampshire took readers inside Manchester Proud, from the conversation that inspired it to the core belief that
Community members bring big ideas for the city’s schools to Visioning Sessions
From creating lifelong learners to redefining “student success,” nearly 100 parents, educators and community leaders brought their ideas for the city’s future schools to Manchester Proud’s two community Visioning Sessions. The first session was held May 23 at Northwest Elementary. The second session was held May 29 at Beech Street
Thank you to the city’s teachers and schools
A note of thanks on teacher appreciation day May 7, 2019 Manchester School District RE: Teacher Appreciation Day To Our Teachers and Schools: During the past year of Manchester Proud’s Community Engagement, we have met many of you and have experienced firsthand your hard work and dedication to our students.
You’re invited: May visioning sessions to design Manchester’s future schools
You've shared your feedback on the present. Now come design the future. Manchester’s many constituencies have shared their experiences, hopes and needs for our public schools in listening sessions, town halls, surveys and door-to-door visits. Manchester Proud needs the community’s input again, this time to help design a new vision
Meet Manchester Proud’s Community Planning Group
In February, Manchester Proud conducted a city-wide application process, seeking volunteers to join its new Community Planning Group. The work of this group will ensure the development of Manchester School District’s new strategic plan is driven by the community and responsive to its feedback. An independent Selection Committee was tasked
Join Manchester Proud’s Walk to End Hunger Team
Join Manchester Proud's Walk to End Hunger Team Manchester Proud invites you, your friends and family (and even your dog) to join its team for Families in Transition-New Horizons' annual Walk to End Hunger on May 19. The 5K walk though Manchester raises money to help Families in Transition-New Horizons
Manchester Proud wraps up listening sessions across the city
Manchester Proud recently wrapped up listening sessions across the city with a wide range of participants who wanted to have a voice in the effort to develop a new strategic plan for the Manchester School District. These sessions were crucial to the overall work of crafting a comprehensive and impactful
Manchester School District announces RFP for Superintendent Search Firm
Just passing along this information from the Manchester School District! The Manchester School District (MSD) through the Superintendent Search Committee (SSC) is seeking requests for proposals for a professional services firm to assist the district in a search for a Superintendent. Inquiries should be directed to Angela Carey by emailing
Here’s what happened at last week’s town hall
Last Wednesday, we held a town hall gathering at Memorial High School to update community members on what Manchester Proud has accomplished, introduce our new partner, 2Revolutions, and examine how the initiative’s next phase of work will unfold. Attendees were encouraged to ask questions and share their thoughts and perspectives.
Why do we need a Community Planning Group to support strategic plan development?
Now that Manchester Proud has selected 2Revolutions – our educational planning partner – to help design Manchester School District’s new strategic plan, we are focused on making certain that the planning process continues to be very connected to the community as a whole. To ensure that this is the case,
Community Planning Group Applications are Open Until Feb 5
Manchester Proud is a community movement working to better understand, appreciate, and support our public schools. Central to our mission is the creation of a new, comprehensive strategic plan for the Manchester School District. In order to ensure that the new strategic plan is truly by and for our
Manchester Proud Selects Partner for Design of School District Strategic Plan
After a rigorous, six-month search process, our Consultant Selection Work Group has chosen 2Revolutions, LLC as a partner to guide the next phase of work in creating an aspirational and achievable strategic plan for the Manchester School District. 2Revolutions is a national education design lab that has successfully led over
Thank you to our volunteers, donors, and supporters!
A big thank you to all of our volunteers, donors, and supporters who helped prepare and participate in walking with us in Manchester’s Annual Christmas Parade this weekend! The parade has been a long-standing tradition in the city for over ten years and is run by InTown Manchester, who selected us
Manchester Proud holds celebration to honor the donors, community partners, and volunteers who have joined their effort.
The rain did not keep Manchester Proud supporters away on Tuesday, November 13 from their celebration at Veteran’s Park to honor donors, community partners, and volunteers who have joined the movement and are committed to the success of all public school students in the City of Manchester. Attendees included Mayor
Manchester Proud to hold listening sessions across the city
Manchester Proud wants to hear directly from you about your experiences in Manchester! We will be holding listening sessions across the city to hear from students, families, teachers, and district and support staff on what’s important to them, the challenges and opportunities they see, and
Fall Progress Report: What Manchester Proud has been up to in the last 90 days
Its been an amazing few months here at Manchester Proud! We are truly inspired by the community’s enthusiasm around working together and hearing each other’s experiences, needs, and hopes for the city and it’s schools. Just last week, over 65 Manchester organizations, including the Boys and Girls Club, the Manchester
Commitment to schools is key to maintaining city’s growth
Manchester Ink Link’s Ben Dion highlighted new businesses in the city in a recent column, all with the common mission of uniting the community and bringing people to Manchester. Like these businesses, investments in our public schools will help families, professionals, and new businesses make the decision to come to
Mayor Craig kicks off community office hours
Mayor Joyce Craig is holding community office hours where members of the public are invited to stop by for informal conversation and to share ideas about the city. Each event will include a department head from the city, who will also be available for conversation and to answer questions.
Board of School Committee accepts Manchester Proud’s offer to cover fee for district to join Council of the Great City Schools
The Manchester Board of School Committee accepted an offer from Manchester Proud to pay for the fee to join the Council of the Great City Schools, reported Paul Feely for the Union Leader:
Currier hosts educator workshop with artist Ethan Murrow
The Currier Museum of Art is hosting an educator workshop, “Making marvels: an interdisciplinary educator workshop with Ethan Murrow,” on Friday, October 18. The workshop is designed for K-12 art, science, history, and English teachers, though all teachers are welcome.
Manchester Young Professionals Network endorses Manchester Proud
The Manchester Young Professionals Network recently announced its endorsement of Manchester Proud in an email to their members:
Why we support Manchester Proud: A Principal’s Perspective
Bill Krantz, Principal of McLaughlin Middle School, and Scott Szuksta, Assistant Principal, recently joined Manchester Proud to canvass neighborhoods in their school district. Bill shared with us why he joined Manchester Proud and why he’s encouraging others to do the same.
Why we support Manchester Proud: A family perspective
We recently met Alicia Parker, a longtime resident of Manchester, and her daughter Kimiya, a student at West High School. They joined Manchester Proud last month to canvass their neighborhood. Below, they share about the experience, and why they are part of the Manchester Proud effort.
Mayor Joyce Craig highlights Manchester Proud’s efforts in Union Leader
Mayor Joyce Craig, who has been an ally to Manchester Proud’s efforts, highlighted the movement in a recent article for the Union Leader where she highlighted the effort’s dedication to the city:
Manchester Proud seeking multilingual volunteers to help with outreach efforts
Manchester Proud is seeking multilingual volunteers to help reach various communities in the city. We want to hear all voices–and we need your help!
Manchester Proud and City Year Launch Canvassing Effort With Over 150 Conversations
Manchester Proud – a citizen’s coalition committed to uniting Manchester behind an aspirational vision for our City’s schools – launched a month-long canvassing effort on Saturday, September 15 by knocking on over 500 doors and talking with over 150 Manchester residents. Volunteers went out to talk with residents about the
Manchester Proud hosts first town hall
Manchester Proud hosted its first town hall on Thursday, August 28 at the Manchester Public Library on Pine Street. Attendees learned more about Manchester Proud, the community-based movement led by the people of Manchester, and what comes next.
Support for Manchester Proud exceeds expectations
We are in awe of the energy and enthusiasm the Manchester community has shown in support of developing a community-driven strategic school district plan. Check out the latest coverage from the NH Business Review:
Manchester Proud seeks proposals for district assessment & implementation strategies
Manchester Proud is a community-based movement that brings together parents, students, educators, and community members to drive a collaborative strategic planning process for the city’s district and schools.
Manchester Board of School Committee endorses proposal from Manchester Proud
On May 14, 2018, the Manchester Board of School Committee voted unanimously to endorse a proposal from Manchester Proud to support a “community-centric” strategic planning effort for the city’s schools.