Press Release: 8/27/2025

Back-to-School Message from M.A.S.S. Executive Director Mary M. Bourque, Ed.D.

 

 August 26, 2025 |  Christopher Horan

 

 

August 22, 2025

Dear Colleagues,

As we begin this new school year together, I want to extend a heartfelt “welcome back” to each of you — our superintendents, assistant superintendents, and collaborative directors. We enter 2025–2026 as a collective force of 375 strong, united in our core values and in our commitment to public education. 

There is no question that district leaders are navigating an incredibly difficult period. At times, you may feel barraged by challenges – fiscal constraints, upheaval at the federal level, political conflict, threats to critical equity work, students’ mental health needs, and much more. Many of your students, families, staff, and community members are struggling with these issues, too, and are counting on you for steadfast leadership through it all. 

As I travel around the Commonwealth, I am reminded about the magnitude of the challenges facing our districts. However, I am also reminded about the tremendous assets that you bring to these circumstances. I am encouraged by the resilience, creativity, compassion, and determination that our members demonstrate in cities and towns across Massachusetts. During the most difficult times, I often remind myself and my colleagues to remain steady, strong, and strategic – anchored by the knowledge that public education is not just a system, but the very foundation of our democracy. 

When confronted by setbacks, obstacles, and dissent, it is tempting to focus on the negativity. Our time and energy can easily become consumed by the problems we must overcome. I encourage you to begin the new school year with a renewed commitment to accentuate the positive – never to lose sight of the remarkable privilege we have to create opportunities for students, offer support for families, and provide the tools and resources our staff need to excel. M.A.S.S. President Karen Crebase often reminds us to focus on moments of joy– those everyday examples of the profound impact our work can make on the lives of children and adults. I’ve always found that even the worst day can be transformed by a visit to schools and classrooms, to see great teaching and learning in action and remember what matters most.

All of us at M.A.S.S. are deeply grateful for the work that you and your teams do every day, and for the fortitude, wisdom, and heart you bring to your districts and to our association. We hope that you will turn to us and to your colleagues whenever you need encouragement, support, advice, or fellowship.  Together, we will continue to chart a course that ensures public education not only survives but thrives long into the future. Here’s to the year ahead — may it be one of courage, collaboration, and hope.

Sincerely,

Mary M. Bourque, Ed.D.

Executive Director