Politics
After an electoral shakeup, the council has already set a different tone in both legislation and decorum. Can they keep it up?
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The Shoestring
Education
Ten years after the state took over Holyoke's schools, the district is now back under local control. But educators say they're still without a...
Education
After 10 years under state control, officials have lauded the progress the district has made. But others have questioned the metrics the state has...
Community
“Transparency, accountability, and respect”: Foster youth advocate for a bill of rights of their own
Earlier this month, youth who have experienced the Massachusetts foster care system spoke out on Beacon Hill.
Education
After a decade of receivership, members of the Holyoke Teachers Association feel the state’s exit plan comes up short of justice for the predominantly...
Police
Lt. Alan Borowski had sued his superiors at the NPD over internal turmoil he said affected his career.
Education
Over 500 food workers at the private school have become the latest western Mass union members to secure their first contract.
Labor
In 2023, the workers became just the second of the book seller's stores to unionize. Now, they're among the first to ratify a first...
Police
Over the last several years, the department has purchased thousands of dollars worth of lethal and “less-lethal” weapons and accessories.
Education
Despite attempts to boost the state’s education funding, some cities and towns are facing big budget crunches. Local activists have started to fight for...
Education
Schools in Agawam, West Springfield, Springfield, and other western Mass cities have some of the highest exposure to toxic air hazards in the state,...
Investigations
The Shoestring spent months investigating the police crackdown on a pro-Palestine encampment last spring. Body-camera footage shows violent and derogatory police behavior toward protesters.