School Merger Plan Overwhelmingly Passes

There was slight resistance, but in the end the voters of Acton and Boxborough got what they wanted.

In separate special town meetings on Monday night, the two communities decided overwhelmingly to approve a regionalization plan for a pre-K through grade 12 school system, breaking the school district that had been in place for more than 50 years.

Acton passed the article, 349-194; Boxborough by a 439-195 count.

"I believe it's a big victory for children and families in both towns for many years to come," Superintendent Stephen Mills said. "I was surprised at the size of the positive vote. I thought it was going to pass but I admit I thought it was going to be closer. As superintendent, I promise to continue a strong individual identity in each of the six elementary schools."

The Acton Finance Committee voted 5-4 against the plan, showing the only strong sign of resistance.

Boxborough's FINCOM and Board of Selectmen unanimously supported the merger.

The Acton Board of Selectmen voted 3-2 to recommend the pact.

Acton School Committee Chair Dennis Bruce argued that the regionalization plan will mean improved quality education for both towns as well as produce cost savings. Bruce said a merger would allow the school committee to "make tough choices" regarding resources and personnel.

Acton and Boxborough shared a school district that included R.J. Grey Junior High School and Acton-Boxborough Regional High School.

The new pact will also create a regional school district with Boxborough's Blanchard School and Acton's five elementary schools.

The vote was by balloting process which was required under state law, to ensure voters' privacy.

The agreement also calls for the creation of a new, single school committee for both communities, while dissolving the other three from Acton, Acton-Boxborough and Boxborough.

The pact will now be presented to state education commission.