Month: September 2025

An Unprecedented Threat to Public Education in Manchester

Federal funding that has supported college and career readiness programs for Manchester’s students is under direct attack. The U.S. Department of Education has abruptly halted grants that provide critical services to our youth—even though this funding was previously approved by Congress. This decision places more than $30 million in statewide education funding at risk and delivers a devastating blow to programs designed to help students who are low-income, first-generation college-goers, or living with disabilities.  And the cuts are effective September 30th.

These cuts are not just numbers on a budget sheet. They mean significant reductions in services for Manchester’s youth:

• Fewer mentoring and academic support opportunities
  
• Limited college and career planning and campus visits
  
• Reduced family engagement and financial literacy programming
  
• Less guidance for students who need it most to graduate and move forward
  

For years, GEAR UP and related initiatives have offered Manchester students a lifeline—helping them stay in school, plan for their futures, and overcome barriers that too often stand in the way of success. Losing this funding would reverse hard-won progress and deepen inequities across our city.

This is an attack on public education and on the belief that every student deserves access to opportunity. Manchester cannot afford to lose these supports.

What We Must Do Now

The fight is not over.  Appeals have been submitted to the federal government urging leaders to reconsider. Your voice matters. Contact Governor Ayotte and your elected officials to demand the restoration of these critical funds. Every call, every email, and every show of support strengthens the case for our students.

Manchester Proud stands firm with our public schools, educators, and families. We will continue to advocate fiercely for the resources our young people need to thrive. Our students’ futures are not negotiable.Contact Governor Kelly Ayotte: https://www.governor.nh.gov/contact-governor-ayotte

We are thrilled to share this proud moment with you — a photo of two dedicated Adult ESOL students alongside their inspiring teacher. Their hard work and commitment to learning truly shine, and we couldn’t be prouder of their achievements. 👩‍🏫

The classes are held at Beech Street Elementary on Tuesdays and Thursdays in partnership with the Manchester School District Community Schools and the International Institute of New England

Back in August, Smyth Road Elementary School received a bright and uplifting transformation thanks to the efforts of 50 dedicated volunteers from Fidelity, working in partnership with Boston Cares. Over the course of two days, the team rolled up their sleeves to refresh the school, bringing new energy and vibrancy to the space for students and staff.

Boston Cares provided the materials and expertise to guide the project, while Fidelity volunteers contributed enthusiasm, teamwork, and hard work. School leadership also played a vital role in welcoming and supporting the collaboration, making this a true community effort.

At Manchester Proud, we believe in the power of partnerships and connections — it’s our superpower. Projects like this remind us of what’s possible when organizations, volunteers, and schools come together with a shared goal: creating welcoming, inspiring environments where students can thrive.

The refreshed Smyth Road Elementary stands as a testament to what can be accomplished when our community works side by side for the success of Manchester’s children.

After distributing 550 backpacks at CelebratED and delivering over 1,000 more to district schools, the Gear Up for School team saw there was still a need at the Manchester School District Welcome Center.

This morning, they proudly delivered 250 additional backpacks, ensuring more students can start the year feeling confident and ready. Thanks to a new connection with Cradles to Crayons, even more school supplies will be available to families.

As Gear Up for School Lead Seneca Eldredge shared: “We are thrilled to partner with Manchester Proud and the Manchester School District and leverage our connections to meet local community needs.”

Together, we’re making sure every student has what they need to thrive.