On October 8th, 2024, I received a letter postmarked from California. With the letter was a postcard circa 1905 of the Mark Hopkins School that the sender had found in an antiques store out west. The sender is a 96-year-old man who has developed the hobby of finding old postcards and returning them “home” because “heritage is important.” He refers to this project of his as the “re-distribution of happiness.” His name is Lowell Joerg and in return for sending these parcels of happiness, he asks the recipient to cover the cost of the card and postage. Upon hearing his story many from the central office were motivated to support his efforts in hopes of spreading joy similar to that which we received.
On the card is a picture of the school and a handwritten note that says “This building has 20 classrooms, and all grades from kindergarten to ninth. The building at left is the gym. This is where I teach.” There is no signature to identify the teacher and as Mr. Joerg indicated there have been lots of changes since this historic photo was taken for this postcard. However, one of the things that has remained consistent in this community for decades is the commitment to supporting education.
Thank you to all of our North Adams citizens who expressed their point of view through their vote yesterday. Thank you to those who supported the MSBA-funded Greylock Elementary School building project. Yesterday clearly demonstrated that all those who voted remain committed to their community and the education of its children. I can understand and relate to not wanting change, but change is an inevitable part of life. Generations of North Adams students have benefitted from the education they have received here in this city. This will be the case for generations to come as they will be the recipients of an outstanding education in a facility designed to be safe, welcoming, and meet the needs of our youngest learners.
I wish to express my gratitude for the numerous hours of work from Mayor Macksey, the School Committee, the School Building Committee, the district and school leadership, the faculty and staff members, and our community partners on the City Council and in partnering agencies in creating this opportunity for the North Adams. So many people donated their time, talents, and expertise and I wish I could thank them all individually here. Please know that you are appreciated for believing in this project, believing in North Adams Public Schools, and believing in the future of the City of North Adams.
I will be sending a reply letter and donation to Mr. Lowell Joerg in support of his “re-distribution of happiness” project. I will also be donating the postcard and accompanying letter to the historical society. While some things change, North Adams’ commitment to education is enduring.
With gratitude and appreciation,
Barbara Malkas, Ed.D.