Woburn Memorial High School awarded $50,000 Innovation Pathways Implementation and Support Grant

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BOSTON – State Representative Richard M. Haggerty (D-Woburn) and State Senator Cindy F. Friedman (D-Arlington) announce that Woburn Memorial High School (WMHS) has been awarded a $50,000 Innovation Pathways Implementation and Support Grant from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).

Innovation Career Pathways (ICP) allows students to take courses and gain valuable hands-on experience in high-demand industries such as information technology, life sciences, advanced manufacturing, engineering, and healthcare. The targeted state grants provide resources to designated Innovation Career Pathways to support program implementation.

“I’m thrilled to see Woburn Memorial High School receive this grant award from the state to support their Innovation Career Pathways program,” said Representative Haggerty. “The program provides Woburn students, in and outside the classroom, the opportunity to gain real-world, hands-on work experience in partnership with industry. Congratulations to the administrators, educators, and partners who helped secure this grant award and for their hard work to make this program a reality for Woburn students.”

“This grant award comes at such a critical time for our young residents and our workforce,” said Senator Friedman. “Given the shortages of employees in critical areas like healthcare, as well as the rising cost of higher education, this grant will provide students with pathways that can lead to good-paying, high-quality, and innovative jobs. I am very proud to see DESE sponsoring this program at Woburn Memorial High School and look forward to seeing its success on display soon.”

WMHS received its ICP designation from DESE in 2020 for the approved pathways of Advanced Manufacturing and Environmental and Life Sciences. The funding will help support these programs by funding students taking advanced coursework of dual enrollment classes through higher education partners, in addition to enrichment opportunities outside of the classroom to include field trips and speakers. WMHS staff instructing ICP courses will also benefit from grant funding in the areas of a more robust curriculum, supplies, equipment, and compensated time for professional development.

The innovation pathways programs are based on five guiding principles including Equitable Access, Guided Academic Pathways, Enhanced Student Support, Connection to Career, and Effective Partnerships according to DESE. Through this program, schools develop and maintain strong partnerships with local employers to help enhance students’ career awareness and work-based experiences; offer a defined series of courses providing instruction in specific industries; and help guide students to post-secondary education and training.

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Reading Memorial High School awarded $75,000 Innovation Pathways Implementation and Support Grant

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BOSTON – House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading), State Representative Richard M. Haggerty (D-Woburn), and State Senator Jason M. Lewis (D-Winchester) joined with Reading school officials to announce that Reading Memorial High School (RMHS) has been awarded a $75,000 Innovation Pathways Implementation and Support Grant from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).

Innovation Career Pathways (ICP) allows students to take courses and gain valuable hands-on experience in high-demand industries such as information technology, engineering, healthcare, life sciences, and advanced manufacturing. The targeted state grants provide resources to designated Innovation Career Pathways to support program implementation.

Reading’s grant award comes just five months after RMHS received its official ICP designation from DESE in recognition of its approved pathways of Advanced Manufacturing (Engineering) and Information (Computer Science and Digital Media). The funding will help support these programs by funding students taking advanced coursework of dual enrollment classes through higher education partners such as UMass Lowell, and Advanced Placement assessments, in addition to enrichment opportunities outside of the classroom to include field trips and speakers. RMHS staff instructing ICP courses will also benefit from grant funding in the areas of more robust curriculum, supplies, equipment, and compensated time for professional development.

According to DESE, innovation pathways programs are based on five guiding principles, including Equitable Access, Guided Academic Pathways, Enhanced Student Support, Connection to Career, and Effective Partnerships. Through this program, schools develop and maintain strong partnerships with local employers to help enhance students’ career awareness and work-based experiences; offer a defined series of courses providing instruction in specific industries; and help guide students to post-secondary education and training.

“The Innovation Career Pathways program offers invaluable classroom instruction and hands-on learning opportunities for students to explore and evaluate their future career options,” said Representative Jones. “Congratulations to Superintendent Milaschewski, RMHS Interim Principal and Director of Academic Achievement Callanan, and the teaching staff at Reading Memorial High School for securing this grant award and for doing such an outstanding job to prepare students with the skills they will need to succeed in the workforce after graduation.”

“I’m extremely pleased to see Reading Memorial High School receive this grant funding from the state to support their Innovation Pathways program,” said Representative Haggerty. “The program will open tremendous learning and career opportunities in the future for RMHS students by allowing them to gain firsthand, real-world skills and experiences. I commend the administrators, educators, and partners who worked hard to make this program a reality for Reading students and securing this grant funding.”

“After receiving their Innovation Career Pathway designation earlier this year, I’m pleased that the state will continue to support Reading Memorial High School with funding to help establish this new programming for students to explore and consider different career options,” said Senator Lewis. “I’m thrilled that we are able to provide students the opportunity to explore hands-on working experience in collaboration with industry partners.”

“As the Interim Principal and Director of Academic Achievement at Reading Memorial High School, I would like to extend my appreciation to the staff, higher education, and community partners that worked diligently throughout last school year to make earning DESE Innovation Career Pathway designations and grants possible, said Jessica B. Callanan. “Without the commitment and vision of this group, neither accomplishment would be possible.”

“We are thrilled about the receipt of a $75,000 Innovation Pathways Implementation and Support Grant,” said Reading Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Thomas Milaschewski. “Our continued development and implementation of innovation pathways will open doors of access and opportunities for so many students in our community. We truly appreciate the leadership at Reading Memorial High School, particularly RMHS Interim Principal Jess Callanan, in making innovation pathways a reality in our district. We are also deeply thankful for the continued support of our community and local leaders House Minority Leader Bradley Jones, Jr., State Representative Richard Haggerty, and State Senator Jason M. Lewis.”

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Rep. Haggerty Pleased with Additional Peak Service on MBTA’s Lowell Commuter Rail Line Starting October 2nd

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BOSTON – September 11, 2023 – State Representative Haggerty (D-Woburn) praised the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) and Keolis Commuter Services for increasing service on the Lowell Commuter Rail Line in the new Fall/Winter schedule, which takes effect October 2nd.

“I’m very pleased to see the MBTA adding more frequent service during the busiest travel times on the Lowell Line,” said Rep. Haggerty. “These changes will make a real difference for the hardworking commuters in our community who rely on the Lowell Line each day.”

As a result of the ridership continuing to increase on Commuter Rail, the MBTA and Keolis Commuter Services (Keolis), the agency’s operating partner for Commuter Rail added additional peak service to the Lowell Line, in order to meet the increased demand and reduce wait times and crowding. In the Fall/Winter schedule, inbound Lowell Line passengers will now have a train every 35 minutes or less between 6:25 AM and 8:40 AM, and in the evening between 3:55 PM and 6:20 PM, there will be outbound trains every 30 to 40 minutes.

Rep. Haggerty also commented on the ongoing service disruption on the Haverhill Line: “While the Haverhill Line service disruption is an inconvenience, I’m glad the MBTA has provided shuttle buses between Reading and other train lines to minimize the impact. The repairs being done now are necessary to ensure safe and reliable service in the long run. I encourage Haverhill Line riders to plan ahead and allow extra time during this period.”

The MBTA has added shuttle buses for the convenience of Reading residents during the Haverhill Line service disruption. Reading residents have the option of taking a shuttle bus to Anderson/Woburn to make the connection with Lowell and Haverhill line trains or to Oak Grove, where passengers can then make an Orange Line connection to North Station.

“Commuter rail is a lifeline for many in our community, connecting them to jobs, education, and opportunity in Boston,” Rep. Haggerty stated. “I will continue working at the State House to advocate for investments that improve reliability and expand access to public transit.” For more information on the service disruption, please visit MBTA Service Disruption September 9 to November 5 on Haverhill Commuter Rail Line | News | MBTA. All schedules will soon be available online at mbta.com/cr. The Fall/Winter schedule will continue the “clockface” service to offer more consistent service throughout the day.

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Rep. Haggerty attends 9/11 Ceremony to Honor Victims and First Responders at Horn Pond

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WOBURN – State Representative Rich Haggerty (D-Woburn) attended the 9/11 remembrance ceremony at Lions Park (Horn Pond) in Woburn to commemorate the anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The somber ceremony paid tribute to the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives that day, including 206 Massachusetts residents or natives and more than 400 first responders. The ceremony also honored the over 70 Lions Club members who lost their lives that day.

In his remarks, Rep. Haggerty remembered the lives lost and hailed the bravery of first responders who rushed into danger that fateful day. “We honor more than 400 first responders, we remember the 206 people who were either residents or natives of our commonwealth, who lost their lives in the attacks – in total, almost 3000 innocent lives were taken that day. The bravery of the first responders who courageously rushed toward the blazing buildings to assist those in need and guide them to safety cannot be overstated,” he said.

Along with Rep. Haggerty, the ceremony was attended by Mayor Galvin, City Council President Mike Concannon, City Council members, and other local community leaders. The Representative thanked the Woburn Police and Fire Departments for safeguarding the community each and every day.

Rep. Haggerty also called on all Americans to remember the spirit of unity and compassion that emerged days and weeks after 9/11. “While two decades have passed, the emotions and memories of 9/11 are still vivid. We must summon the spirit of unity, compassion, and sacrifice we felt in the aftermath of that tragic day. Let us honor those we lost by recognizing that the true strength of America lies in its people. In unity, we find our strength – out of many, we are one. ” Rep. Haggerty stated.

The 9/11 remembrance ceremony is held annually at Lions Park. A memorial was erected in 2021, thanks to the fund-raising efforts of the current Lion Cubs who attend the Joyce Middle School. Rep. Haggerty thanked the Lions Club for holding the 9/11 ceremony, keeping the memory of 9/11 alive in the community, and bringing people together each year on the solemn anniversary.

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Jones, Haggerty honor former Reading-North Reading Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Lisa Egan with House citation

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READING – House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) and State Representative Richard M. Haggerty (D-Woburn) recently honored former Reading-North Reading Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Lisa Egan with a citation from the Massachusetts House of Representatives.

Jones and Haggerty presented Egan with the House citation acknowledging her nine years of dedicated service to the Chamber at the 15th Annual Reading Fall Street Faire, which took place on September 10. They were joined at the presentation by Egan’s parents, Rick and Kathy Ayers, as well as many longtime friends who turned out to support her.

“Lisa has left an indelible mark at the Reading-North Reading Chamber of Commerce,” said Jones. “During her tenure, she was instrumental in establishing North Reading’s Town Day and Reading’s Winterfest while helping to revitalize the Chamber and strengthen its role as an advocate for the local small business communities in both towns. She also deserves credit for helping to steer the Chamber through the many challenges imposed by the COVID-19 global pandemic. We wish her well as she begins a new chapter in her professional career.”

“Lisa has been an exceptional leader for the Reading-North Reading Chamber of Commerce and a tremendous asset for our local business community,” said Haggerty. “The Chamber has benefited enormously from her vision, dedication, and hard work over the years, especially during trying times like the COVID-19 pandemic. She has strengthened the organization and left a tremendous positive impact. While we will greatly miss her contributions and insight, we understand her desire to take on new challenges and wish her the very best.”

Egan left the Chamber on August 25 to accept a position at Bentley University’s Office of Strategy and Innovation. She is currently assisting the Chamber in its search for a new executive director.

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Representative Haggerty highlights Summer 2023 Interns

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BOSTON – State Representative Richard M. Haggerty (D-Woburn) welcomed two college students over the summer as interns at his State House Office.

Ruby Harris from Woburn and Will Adams from Reading spent the last two months working alongside, Rep. Haggerty and his staff, gaining hand-on hands-on experience in state government and the legislative process. They contributed in a variety of ways including policy research and constituent services.

Both interns attended the Joint Legislative Intern Speaker Series run by the House Committee on Human Resources and Employee Engagement and the Senate Office of Education and Civic Engagement. The series features informative talks given by various state government officials, both elected and appointed, and provides opportunities for the interns to pose questions.

“It was a pleasure to host Ruby and Will at the State House office this summer,” said Rep. Haggerty. “Over the years, I have been honored to host and work with some talented, enthusiastic and dedicated interns, Ruby and Will being no exception. I hope they learned as much from us as we did from them. I wish them much luck in their incredibly bright futures.”

Ruby is a sophomore at the University of Massachusetts Amherst studying Political Science in the Honors College. She is a fellow in the International Scholars Program and an Executive Board Member of the Humanities and Fine Arts Student Leadership Board. She is passionate about public policy, environmental justice, human rights, and is interested in pursuing a career in state government or law.

“I had the opportunity to hear from many different individuals in the public service arena about their careers, which gave me a better understanding of the paths many Representatives, Senators, and other public servants have taken to end up where they are today,” said Ruby. “During my internship at Representative Haggerty’s office, I gained valuable insight into the daily operations of a public official’s office. I had the opportunity to interact with fellow interns who share similar interests, but also had the chance to meet representatives, senators, and state house staff who play significant roles in the functioning of our state government.”

Will Adams is a sophomore at Lafayette College where he is studying Government and Law, with a minor in Economics. He is a member of the Lafayette Investment Club and Lafayette College Democrats Club. His interests and passion lie in international politics, American foreign policy, political theory, and specifically sustainability and transit policy.

“What I found most interesting was the access the internship provided to the daily functions of government. Being able to attend public hearings, legislative meetings, informational sessions about bills and even a house session was amazing. The hands-on experience was extremely valuable and something that can’t be replicated in a classroom.” reflected Will. “I am now more attuned with the issues faced by people in my community and surrounding communities. Also, the speaker series was a great way to hear the perspectives of many different people’s experiences working in government.”

The internship program provides students and recent graduates the opportunity to be directly involved in the lawmaking process. Interns gain a deeper understanding of how state government works while getting hands-on experience in a fast-paced professional environment.

Woburn and Reading students who are interested in learning more about internship opportunities in Representative Haggerty’s office can contact his Legislative Aide, Nicole Redigan, at nicole.redigan@mahouse.gov. Internships are unpaid, but in some cases, there may be an opportunity to earn college credits.

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Rep. Haggerty Attends Volunteer Recognition Event at the Woburn Senior Center

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WOBURN, MA – August 22, 2023. Rep. Haggerty attended the Annual Volunteer Recognition Event at the Woburn Senior Center. The Representative was proud to be part of an event celebrating the many volunteers who generously give their time and talents in service of Woburn’s senior community.

“The invaluable work of both the volunteers and Senior Center staff makes a significant and positive impact in the lives of countless local seniors,” said Rep Haggerty. “From leading fun activities to providing rides and reaching out to those in need, they exemplify the spirit of giving back. Our community greatly benefits from their compassion and dedication.”

Furthermore, Council of Aging Director Marie Lingblom expressed her appreciation to Rep. Haggerty for his efforts in securing state funding in 2019 for a new transportation van. “I was proud to secure state funding that helped the Council of Aging in acquiring a new transportation van back in 2019,” Rep. Haggerty stated. “It was a great effort put forth from all involved.”

The event recognized volunteers with the Woburn Council on Aging and Friends Helping Seniors, an independent nonprofit that raises funds for the Senior Center. Their collective efforts underscore the importance of volunteerism in strengthening and supporting community service.

The Woburn Senior Center is continually looking for new volunteers. For more details about volunteering, please visit the following:           https://www.woburnma.gov/government/senior/

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Representative Haggerty Announces Fall 2023 Community Office Hours

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BOSTON – State Representative Richard M. Haggerty (D-Woburn) will be holding office hours, Friday, September 15, and Friday, October 27. There will be two sessions on each of the dates.

On September 15, the first will take place from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the Woburn Public Library in the historic artifacts room on the main floor, and the second from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM at the Reading Public Library conference room on the ground floor.

The October 27 office hours will take place from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the Woburn Senior Center, and Empower at 190 Haven Street, Reading from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM.

During these times, Representative Haggerty or a member of his staff will be on hand to meet with Woburn and Reading residents on a first-come, first-served basis. No appointment is necessary.

“Reading and Woburn residents are welcome to visit during our designated hours if they have any concerns or queries related to legislative matters and government services,” stated Representative Haggerty. “It’s always my pleasure to offer help and to serve the community in any way I can.”

If constituents are unable to attend any of these sessions, they can contact his office at (617) 722-7709 or email his Legislative Aide/District Coordinator, Zack Dhaliwal, at Zack.Dhaliwal@mahouse.gov. Representative Haggerty can also be reached directly at Richard.Haggerty@mahouse.gov.

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Representative Haggerty Releases Summer 2023 Legislative Update

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I hope this update finds you all well! With summer coming to an end, I hope you and your loved ones have been able to get outside and enjoy the weather and festivities. I want to provide you all with another update of some of the actions taken by my colleagues and myself at the state level as I continue to work on your behalf.

Highlights

Fall Community Office Hours
I am happy to announce that Fall community office hours will be held, Friday, September 15 and Friday, October 27. There will be two sessions on each of the dates. The first will take place at 10 AM at the Woburn Public Library in the program room, the second will be at the Reading Public Library at 11:30 AM. The October 27 office hours will take place from 10 AM to 11:00 AM at Woburn Senior Center, and Empower at 190 Haven Street, Reading from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM.

During these times, myself, or a member of my staff, will be available to speak with constituents on a first-come, first-serve basis and voice any questions or concerns they may have. I welcome Reading and Woburn residents to visit during our designated hours if they have any concerns or queries related to legislative matters and government services. It’s always our pleasure to offer help and to serve the community in any way I can. If constituents are unable to attend any of these sessions, they can contact my office by reaching out to Legislative Aide/District Coordinator, Zack Dhaliwal, directly at Zack.Dhaliwal@mahouse.gov or by calling (617) 722-2080.

Unrestricted Aid and Education (Chapter 70) Funding
Earlier this month, the Governor signed the FY24 budget. After strong advocacy in the House my colleagues and I passed the budget back in May. Funded at $55.9 billion, the budget continues my strong commitment to cities and towns, and included significant investments in health care, education, housing, and workforce development, among other priorities. This budget responds to the needs of residents and makes targeted investments to support families in the Commonwealth.

WOBURN Chapter 70: $13.590 million
Unrestricted Aid: $7.157 million

READING Chapter 70: $11.394 million
Unrestricted Aid: $3.875 million

I was also happy to announce further funding for Woburn and Reading in Fiscal Year 2024.

WOBURN – $100,000 for downtown improvements to the City of Woburn
– $175,000 to the Woburn Youth Hockey Association for improvements to the Ned O’Brien Ice Rink
– $100,000 to Social Capital Inc. for civic engagement initiatives for youth and for developing the next generation of leaders
– $120,000 to English at Large, Inc. for the purposes of English language tutoring and small group instruction

READING – $35,000 to hire a preservationist to repair and stabilize monuments within Laurel Hill Cemetery
– $50,000 for masonry repairs at Laurel Hill Cemetery in Reading
– $25,000 for a keyboard set for the Reading Memorial High School performing arts program

The FY24 budget provides historic levels of investment in education, housing, regional transportation, health care, workforce development, early education initiatives, food security and more local support, as part of a broad strategy to grow our state’s economy, better support working families, and make Massachusetts more affordable, inclusive, and competitive.

Remaining vigilant about the current economic environment, as well as our long-term fiscal health, the FY24 budget adheres to sound fiscal discipline and builds up available reserves for the state’s stabilization fund. The fund has grown to a record high of $7.16 billion and is projected to close FY24 at $9.5 billion, ensuring the Commonwealth will continue to have healthy reserves to maintain fiscal responsibility during a time of ongoing economic volatility.

For a full summary of the FY24 budget, please follow this link: Legislature Passes Fiscal Year 2024 Budget | Rich Haggerty

Reading Home Rule Petitions
I was happy to sponsor two important pieces of legislation aimed towards Reading. H. 2072, ‘An Act relative to Board of Health in the Town of Reading’ was engrossed by the House and sent over to the Senate for further review, with the anticipation of Governor Healey signing it into law this fall. In addition, H.1341, ‘An Act authorizing the town of Reading to dissolve its Affordable Housing Trust Fund’ is still being reviewed by the Joint Committee on Housing.

District Paving
After advocating for roadway improvements to the Department of Transportation, Washington Street was paved from the Reading line (where state control begins) to Cedar Street just past Cummings Park. Thank you to Mass DOT District 4 for listening to our concerns and completing the work!

Local Roadway Improvements (Chapter 90 Funding)
I was very proud to have supported and secured funding that will assist both Woburn and Reading in completing vital infrastructure projects, including paving and sidewalk work.

WOBURN Chapter 90: $1,256,310

READING Chapter 90: $594,466

Tax Relief
In April, I was proud to support ‘An Act to improve the Commonwealth’s Competitiveness, Affordability, and Equity’. This tax relief legislation will put money in the hands of families, seniors, and renters. It will make our Commonwealth more competitive with other states, encourage economic growth, and supports job creation. Importantly, this legislation helps make our state more affordable, will help prevent families from being caught up in an estate tax structure that was unfair, and positions our state for long-term economic success. This legislation is still being worked on between the House and the Senate, but we set aside over $500 million in tax relief in the FY24 budget. I continue to advocate for this important legislation.

Other Local Aid Highlights

James L. McKewon Boys and Girls Club of Woburn will share in a $3 million dollar investment in the Massachusetts Alliance of Boys and Girls Clubs and receive over $68,000 in direct payments.

The Reading Burbank YMCA and the Woburn North Suburban YMCA will share in a $2.5 million dollar investment in the Alliance of Massachusetts YMCAs.

The Woburn and Reading Council on Aging and our senior centers will benefit from an increase in support from $12 per elder up to $14 per elder.
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Very special thank you to Ruby Harris of Woburn and Will Adams of Reading, who both joined my office this Summer to take part in the State House Internship Program. Ruby and Will, your hard work and dedication is very much appreciated! Good luck this year in school!

Updated Contact Information
My State House Office and phone moved back in March! For constituents looking to stop by, we are now located in Room 26. My new Office number is (617)-722-7709.

Final Thoughts
There is still plenty of work to be done, and my office stands ready to continue working hard on behalf of the residents of the 30th Middlesex District. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to my office by phone at (617) 722-7709 or email my Legislative Aide, Nicole Redigan, at Nicole.Redigan@mahouse.gov.

Rep. Haggerty Joins District Attorney Marian Ryan at the Boys & Girls Club to Promote Summer Safety

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WOBURN, MA – August 9, 2023. State Representative Rich Haggerty proudly joined District Attorney Marian Ryan to discuss summer safety with local youth. The Representative was thrilled to attend the event and support DA Ryan’s critical work to ensure the safety of our community.

During the visit, DA Ryan led an informative discussion on safe summer practices and played a round of summer safety Jeopardy with Club members. The Representative also had the opportunity to speak directly to the children about the tireless efforts of DA Ryan’s office to keep families across the district safe and secure.

“It was an honor to join DA Ryan at the Boys & Girls Club as she engaged local kids on the importance of staying safe during the summer months,” Representative Haggerty said. “Her office works diligently to protect our community day in and day out.”

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Woburn provides critical after-school and summer programming for local youth ages 6-18. The club offers a safe, positive environment for kids each year through enriched programs focused on education, health, leadership, and community service.

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