The School Committee voted unanimously to accept a $20,000 competitive Hate Crimes Prevention Grant from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).

District administrators described the award as the fourth consecutive year the district has received the grant. The funding will be used to support evidence‑based curriculum, training and a standing collaboration with local organizations and the North Reading Police Department to prevent incidents of hate and bias.

"This is the fourth year that we received this award," a district presenter said, noting the work will follow the governor’s task force recommendations and the DESE prevention resource guide. School staff told the committee the proposal was prepared by district personnel and the police liaison; the committee expressed appreciation for staff time devoted to competitive grant writing.

The committee accepted the grant by voice vote (4–0). District staff said they will provide updates on program activities funded by the grant.