Winthrop School Committee accepts $1.52 million in state and federal grants

WINTHROP — December 1, 2025 — Winthrop School Committee unanimously accepted approximately $1.52 million in state and federal grants at its December 1 meeting. Superintendent Jennifer Powell walked the committee through the district's full grant portfolio, anchored by a $655,107 IDEA 240 special education award that funds 11 instructional aides, outside therapy contracts, and specialized equipment including iPads and hearing devices. Powell warned that any federal reduction to that grant would constitute "a significant hit to the school district," with at least $346,697 in staffing directly at risk. A pending earmark backed by state Sen. Lydia Edwards, approved but not yet received, is expected to fund Chromebook and touchscreen upgrades at the middle-high school. An arithmetic error in prepared materials required a live correction; the confirmed total is $1,519,866.