Amherst School Committee Moves Sixth Grade to Academy
Amherst voted 5-0 to proceed with sixth grade relocation to Chestnut Street Academy in fall 2026. Committee member Bridget Hynes raised concerns about the plan's cost amid a projected $1.8 million structural deficit and estimated the academy would add more than $1 million annually, questioning the
Amherst School Committee Meeting · Meeting of October 13, 2026
Amherst voted 5-0 to proceed with sixth grade relocation to Chestnut Street Academy in fall 2026. Committee member Bridget Hynes raised concerns about the plan's cost amid a projected $1.8 million structural deficit and estimated the academy would add more than $1 million annually, questioning the sustainability of operating three schools while cutting more than 20 teachers. Superintendent Dr.
Xi emphasized that implementation was already underway with staffing plans, transportation logistics, and operational preparation in motion. Building principals outlined capacity constraints at both Amethyst Brook and Crocker Farm, noting specialist spaces and cafeteria service were fully programmed at current enrollment levels.
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Source: the Amherst School Committee Meeting meeting of October 13, 2026, compiled from the official minutes.
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