What’s Happening?

The Proposal: Moving Pre-K and Grades 6-8

The Essex Westford School District has proposed relocating Pre-K and grades 6-8 from Westford Elementary School (WES) to Essex Middle School (EMS). This move is being considered as part of a cost-saving measure in the district’s budget.

If approved, this change would mean that:

Pre-K students would no longer begin their education in Westford

6th, 7th, and 8th graders would be moved out of WES earlier than expected and into EMS

Only K-5 students would remain at WES, potentially putting the school’s long-term future at risk

Why the District Says This Will Help

The school district argues that this move will:

  • Reduce costs by consolidating students into fewer buildings

  • Improve efficiency by using existing middle school resources instead of maintaining programs at WES

  • Create consistency by aligning Westford’s structure with other schools in the district

Why This is a Problem?

While the district frames this as a budget solution, this proposal has serious long-term consequences for Westford students, families, and the entire community.

  • By removing both the youngest (Pre-K) and oldest (6-8) students, WES’s enrollment would shrink significantly. A smaller student population makes WES more vulnerable to eventual closure, forcing all students to leave town for school.

  • Westford Elementary is more than just a school—it’s the heart of our town. A strong, local school keeps families invested in Westford and attracts new residents. If WES shrinks or closes, Westford could lose its identity as a family-friendly community.

  • Moving students out of WES would make life harder for parents:

    • More complicated logistics for families with multiple children in different schools.

    • Less accessibility for parent involvement, making it harder to attend events, volunteer, or meet with teachers.

    • Transportation concerns, especially in winter, with longer commutes for young children.

  • Consolidating students into fewer schools means bigger class sizes and fewer resources per student. This could lead to less individualized attention, more crowded classrooms, and a lower quality of education.

  • Changing schools at an earlier age disrupts friendships, learning environments, and social development.

    • Pre-K students won’t have the chance to start their education in Westford.

    • Middle schoolers will have to adjust earlier to a new school, new teachers, and a different community.

    • Younger students left at WES may feel the effects of a shrinking school, with fewer programs and staff.

  • The district claims this move will reduce costs, but key financial questions remain unanswered:

    • What are the actual cost savings vs. additional expenses (e.g., increased transportation costs, restructuring WES)?

    • Could alternative budget solutions be found that don’t remove students from WES?

    • Would this decision lead to higher long-term costs if Westford families leave the district?

What Can You Do?

Fill Out A Survey

Share your personal concerns or experiences. Your input is critical in showing the school board the impact this decision will have on families, students, and the community.

Volunteer

Join our advocacy team! Whether it’s spreading the word, organizing events, or helping with outreach, every contribution matters.

Show Up At Meetings

Attend school board and community meetings to voice your concerns and stand up for our school. Bring friends, family, and neighbors—it’s essential to show strong community support