Letter: Macksey Is the Experienced Leader North Adams Needs

To the Editor:

During this election season, it's important to reflect on the challenges faced both locally and beyond. Municipalities across the state are in need of much to sustain — increased affordable housing, repairs to infrastructure and ADA compliance; the creation, recruitment, or growth of businesses; increased tourism; and so much more. We need a leader who has years of municipal experience, dedication to the City of North Adams, and will unite us.

That experienced leader is Jennifer Macksey.

North Adams may be a small city by population, but it is clearly remarkably spirited. While all residents may not share the same views, it's important to recognize that we share a common vision: respecting the city as it currently stands, while remaining inspired and motivated for improvements to come. Mayor Macksey has the experience and understanding to continue moving our city forward.

Among her accomplishments as mayor, she has ensured grant funding for a host of projects, including crucial repair or replacement of sidewalks and other citywide projects ensuring ADA compliance. As a community oriented leader, Jennifer Macksey has also worked to bring engaging events and celebrations for all ages to our down street — this is in addition to the successfully established and well-loved North Adams Recreation Center. Mayor Macksey has also been exploring alternatives to the current digital network as reliable and affordable internet access is essential for our community.

I personally know Mayor Macksey: she is kind and cordial by nature. She cares about North Adams, and puts in the time and effort to prove it. You will always see her at sporting events, down street festivities, and community gatherings. Mayor Macksey is the experienced candidate we need in the corner office. I encourage you to cast your vote for Jennifer Macksey as continued mayor of North Adams.

Christa Sprague
North Adams, Mass.

Clarksburg Students Write in Support of Rural School Aid

By Tammy DanielsiBerkshires Staff
07:25AM / Sunday, March 15, 2026

Mason Langenback calculated that Clarksburg would get almost $1 million if the $60 million was allocated equally.

CLARKSBURG, Mass. — Eighth-graders at Clarksburg School took a lesson in civic advocacy this week, researching school funding and writing letters to Beacon Hill that call for fully funding rural school aid. 

 

The students focused on the hardships for small rural schools and their importance to the community — that they struggle with limited funding and teacher shortages, but offer safe and supportive spaces for learning and are a hub for community connections.

 

"They all address the main issue, the funding for rural schools, and how there's a gap, and there's the $4 million gap this year, and then it's about the $40 million next year, and that rural schools need that equitable funding," said social studies teacher Mark Karhan.

 

A rural schools report in 2022 found smaller school districts cost from nearly 17 percent to 23 percent more to operate, and recommended "at least" $60 million be appropriated annually for rural school aid. 

 

Gov. Maura Healey has filed for more Chapter 70 school aid, but that often is little help to small rural schools with declining or static enrollment. For fiscal 2027, she's budgeted $20 million for rural schools, up from around $13 million this year but still far below the hoped for $60 million. 

 

Karhan said the class was broken into four groups and the students were provided a submission letter from Rural Schools Advocacy. The students used the first paragraph, which laid out the funding facts, and then did research and wrote their own letters. 

 

They will submit those with a school picture to the governor.