Public Schools

Over the past several years, Mayor Nicholson has made strategic investments to improve Gardner Public Schools, keeping more students in our district, attracting new students, and enhancing educational opportunities. These achievements would not be possible without our dedicated educators, staff, and community members. By continuing to invest in our schools, we are ensuring that Gardner remains a place where students thrive, achieve, and build bright futures.

Keeping Gardner Students in Gardner

In 2018, over 300 Gardner students were leaving the district for other schools. Since then, we have cut that number in half while increasing incoming students by 70%—bringing in new revenue and strengthening our budget. For the first time since 2013, more students are attending Gardner Public Schools than choosing to leave.

This progress reflects the improvements we’ve made to provide a more relevant, engaging, and high-quality education for all students.

Expanding Career Pathways & Early College

We are committed to preparing students for college and career success by expanding hands-on learning opportunities:

Early College Program: High school students can earn college credits, with some graduating with both a high school diploma and an associate’s degree.

Career Pathways in Automotive & Manufacturing: Partnering with Mount Wachusett Community College, students earn industry credentials while in high school.

Monty Tech Collaboration: A first-of-its-kind program where students alternate between academic classes in Gardner and shop classes at Monty Tech, earning trade certifications in electrical, carpentry, and, starting next year, plumbing.

Enhancing Curriculum & Student Experience

We have invested significantly in new curricula across English, Math, Science, Social Studies, Civics, and Social-emotional learning. Teachers receive professional development to create engaging, interactive lessons that motivate and support student success. Our commitment extends beyond academics:

Thriving Arts & Athletics: Over 500 students participated in sports last year, and one-third of students are involved in music programs across all grades.

Elementary & Middle School Upgrades: Hundreds of thousands of dollars have been invested in curriculum improvements and student support.

Growing Summer Recreation Programs: Our Summer Recreation Program has grown from serving 40 students in 2018 to over 400 in 2024. Now a full-day program for grades K-8, it offers two hot meals a day, Athletic clinics, Enrichment classes in art, drama, robotics, STEM, gardening, and nature