In response to the announcement at today’s Board of Elementary and Secondary Education meeting that UP Academy Holland would begin transitioning back to local control after spending more than 10 years in state receivership, AFT Massachusetts President Jessica Tang issued the following statement:
“Exiting receivership, planning for a sustainable transition, and improving working conditions for staff are steps in the right direction to ensure these students have the school and educators they deserve. Allowing more local input and collaboration is a step in the right direction to ensure the voices of parents and the community are heard as well.
“Nearly two years ago, educators at UP Academy Holland requested the ability to collaborate with the state as it looked to begin the transition process to exit receivership. This resulted in an active transition process that included educator, parent, and administration voices.
“We congratulate the entire school community, as well as the Dearborn Academy, on its achievements and progress to date, and believe this is a model for how all of our districts and schools in receivership can return to local control. The educators and staff at both schools are dedicated to the success of their students, and we look forward to seeing their continued achievements.”