Berkley Public Schools is proud to announce that the Berkley Town Common Pedestrian Infrastructure and Safety Improvements Project has been awarded $850,000 through the FY26 Community Project Funding process, secured by Congressman Jake Auchincloss and recently signed into law as part of the federal appropriations package.
This milestone represents the culmination of a student-led civic action project that began four years ago in Mr. DeMello’s Grade 8 civics class at Berkley Middle School. What started as a proposal to create a safe walking path through the woods connecting the middle school to the Berkley Town Common has grown into a comprehensive town-wide safety improvement initiative. This grant will fully support the cost of constructing a safe walking path, ensuring the project is completed without expense to the Town.
Through research, public presentations, and sustained advocacy, Berkley students demonstrated the power of civic engagement, identifying a real community need and working collaboratively to advance a solution. Their efforts gained the support and investment of local leadership, including the Berkley Board of Selectmen, Town Administrator Matthew Chabot, former Police Chief Christopher Baker, Police Chief Arthur Newhook, and Fire Chief Jason Perry.
“This project is a powerful example of what happens when student voice is elevated and supported,” said Superintendent Melissa Ryan. “Our students identified a need, engaged in the civic process, and remained committed over time. This funding not only advances an important safety initiative for our town, but also reinforces for our students that their ideas can lead to meaningful, lasting change.”
As part of the continued progress of this initiative, five Berkley students, representing grades 7-11, recently met with representatives from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation on Thursday, April 2, to discuss the project and its next steps. Pictured (left to right): Scott DeMello, Civics Teacher; Bella Moniz, Somerset Berkley Regional High School grade 10; Cameron Coelho, Somerset Berkley Regional High School grade 11; Dominic Mele, Bristol Plymouth grade 9; Emma O’Connell, Berkley Middle School grade 8; and Emma Mursko, Berkley Middle School grade 7.
The Berkley Town Common Pedestrian Infrastructure and Safety Improvements Project will enhance safety and accessibility for students, families, and residents by improving pedestrian pathways and connections between key areas of the community.
Berkley Public Schools extends its sincere gratitude to Congressman Auchincloss for his advocacy and support, as well as to the many local leaders, educators, and community members who helped bring this student vision to life.
This achievement stands as a testament to the impact of civic education and the importance of empowering students to engage in their communities as informed, active citizens.