Chelsea Public Schools honors Amanda Morgan and John Ruggiero with special awards

The Chelsea Public Schools School Committee meeting on March 27, 2025, highlighted significant achievements in education and addressed the upcoming school budget. The meeting began with the presentation of the Name, Strength, and Story Award, which honors educators who build strong relationships with students.

Amanda Morgan Grace, a high school science instructional coach, received the award for her impactful work in fostering collaboration among teachers and enhancing instructional practices. Jennifer Knight, who nominated Morgan, praised her strategic approach and commitment to improving student learning outcomes. Morgan's leadership in professional learning communities (PLCs) was noted as a key factor in creating a supportive environment for teachers.

Another award was presented to John Ruggiero, recognized for his dedication to students and his influence on their educational journeys. Former student Sofia Vasquez credited Ruggiero with inspiring her interest in the medical field, highlighting the lasting impact he has had on his students. Michelle, a former principal, shared her appreciation for Ruggiero's commitment, noting his willingness to go above and beyond for students.

Following the awards, the committee shifted focus to the school budget. A motion was made to prioritize the budget discussion, which proposed a total of $150,891,360 for the 2025-2026 school year. The committee acknowledged the importance of community feedback regarding the budget, although public comments could not be addressed during this portion of the meeting.

The meeting underscored the commitment of Chelsea Public Schools to recognize outstanding educators and engage with the community on critical budgetary matters, setting the stage for future discussions on educational funding and support.