Letter: Macksey Is Doing the Work

To the Editor:

My career in public education spans over 32 years, including 18 years at the district office and 13 years as superintendent of schools for two communities. In that time, I have worked with several municipal leaders and each has brought their knowledge, expertise, and experience to the role of mayor. Because the education department is often the main agency connecting vulnerable families with services, schools serve a vital role in providing for the physical safety and emotional well-being of the children in the community.

The quality of education in a community impacts economic development and infrastructure, making the school
system important to all community stakeholders.

When Jennifer A. Macksey first became mayor for the city of North Adams, I must admit to initial apprehension of developing a working relationship with her. She was a longtime resident of the city and had served as a business official for a neighboring district in addition to her experience in municipal finance and higher education. Through her commitment to public education, I have found that Mayor Macksey is truly a collaborative educator at heart and her
passion to improve the opportunities and outcomes for children comes from a deep commitment to her city.

Mayor Macksey is an action-oriented woman who willingly interfaces with every stakeholder with integrity, professionalism, and compassion. Whether the issue was closing achievement gaps in a post-pandemic era, engaging with the community regarding facilities use, or providing one-on-one support for a struggling student, this mayor was actively engaged in decision-making and advocacy.

Administrators, teachers, and support staff feel heard, seen, and appreciated in negotiations, discussing contentious issues, or dealing with a crisis.

Despite the rhetoric and tactics of many political figures today, she is not given to the high drama, hyperbole, and disinformation as a campaign strategy. Mayor Macksey speaks clearly and directly, but does not make remarks with the intent of scoring points. She stands by her word.

I am proud of all that has been accomplished and continues to be accomplished each day in every classroom of the North Adams Public Schools with her leadership. I hope that the voters recognize the added value of Mayor Jennifer A. Macksey and re-elect her to continue doing the demanding work necessary for her city, because that is what she has been doing for North Adams. She is doing the work.

Barbara Malkas
Clarksburg, Mass.

Malkas is retired superintendent
of the North Adams Public Schools.

North Adams Council Recognizes Special Olympian, OKs Account Transfers

By Tammy DanielsiBerkshires Staff
11:20AM / Wednesday, July 29, 2026

Jenna Thomas has participated in the Special Olympics for more than 20 years, earning numerous medals. 

NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Special Olympian Jenna Thomas was recognized at City Council on Monday for her medal-winning performance at the 2026 games last month in Minnesota.

 

"I think it's so appropriate as I'm about to proclaim Disabilities Pride Month that we recognize and honor Jenna," said Mayor Jennifer Macksey, who had Thomas join her at the podium."

 

Thomas was one of nearly 3,000 athletes who participated in the 2026 Special Olympics, which brought nearly 3,000 athletes from across the country to celebrate the talents, determinations, and achievements of individuals with intellectual disabilities. She won bronze as a member of the Berkshire County Arc Titans bowling team, a fourth in doubles with teammate Katherine Meunier and placed in the top 10 for singles nationally.

 

She's been participating in Special Olympics since her teenage years, competing in cross country skiing, track and field since 2009. Thomas switched to bowling in 2019 and has won gold; she was recognized by the mayor in 2023 for her athletic accomplishments representing Massachusetts and North Adams. 

 

"Look at how beautiful that is — a bronze medal in bowling and placed fourth in the doubles competition, demonstrating her dedication, perseverance, and sportsmanship on the national stage," said the mayor. "She also got to meet the governor's partner, Joanna [Lydgate], who we went out with for ice cream. ...

 

"In returning home, she credited her participation to the friendships she's made and the joy of competing ... her accomplishments are a source of pride for the city of North Adams and should serve as an inspiration for the entire community."

 

The mayor also presented $730,741.06 in end-of-year transfers. These transfers are made from accounts with excess funds to accounts that have gone over. Every line with the exception of snow and ice must be balanced for the end of the year.